Degrees and Awards

Metropolitan State University
Inverhills Community and Technical College Programs
Minneapolis Community and Technical College Programs

Metropolitan State University

Metropolitan State University offers an extensive array of degrees and certificate programs in a number of areas - information assurance, security, information and computer sciences, and information systems management. In addition MSU has a number of articulation agreements with two-year colleges that support a seamless transition from associate degree programs into MSU's undergraduate degree programs. Here is a summary of these programs. Please address questions or other requests related to these programs directly to the respective colleges and departments.

College of Management degrees and certificate programs

Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Assurance

Metropolitan State University offers a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in information assurance (IA). Metropolitan State University has had its curriculum certified by the National Security Agency (NSA) in pursuit of a designation as an Academic Center of Excellence. The Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education Programs are intended to promote higher education opportunities in information assurance to produce more professionals with information assurance expertise in various disciplines.

The information assurance program is a part of the College of Management and is offered as a major.

Program Details

Information Assurance and Security Graduate Certificate

Metropolitan State University’s new graduate IT Information Assurance (IA) Security Certificate is an exciting new program that offers students not only an excellent education in this critical area of IT, but also gives them a great head start toward moving into a masters degree.

The IA Certificate program is designed to:

meet the fast-moving needs of security professionals from a managerial perspective.
make new information sharing technologies valuable.
meet national standards for the NSA's Information Assurance Directorate providing information assurance solutions that will keep our information systems safe from harm.
provide you with information and training on how to respond to cyber threats or cybercriminals.
educate you on developing and deploying policies and other safeguards of information assets.

Program Details

Management of Information Systems, B.S. and Minor

The MIS major provides the basic knowledge to help students succeed in a professional environment. The management and application of information to decision making in organizations represents a critically important challenge for managers in every function in every organization. This major provides undergraduate courses in management information systems (MIS) related to the management of technology and information.

The management information systems program is a part of the College of Management and is offered as a Major, and a Minor. Contact College of Management Advising Center: 612-659-7269

Program Details

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Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS)

The Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS) represents an important state-of-the-art concept of graduate education in the field of management information systems (MIS). Merging management and technology education, it is designed to help both technical information technology (IT) professionals and professionals from other fields gain expertise in the management of information systems in modern organizations. The MMIS promotes Metropolitan State's well-known ability to tie theory to practice, with a cutting-edge MIS education designed to have a "shelf life" that outlasts successive generations of hardware and software. The program core gives a strong background in management and information technology areas. Flexibility in elective courses, plus applications emphasis throughout courses, internships and the final integrative project give you a strong base for the future.

[Program Overview] [Program Outcomes] [Curriculum] [Admission Requirements] [Transfer Credits] [Application Deadlines] [Academic Standing] [Time to Completion] [Affiliation] [Accreditation] [Contact Information]

MIS Graduate Certificate

Metropolitan State University offers graduate certificate programs designed to meet the rapidly-evolving needs of information systems and business professionals in the field of management information systems (MIS).

There are two certificates offered. The Generalist Certificate is designed to give a thorough overview in current basic areas of MIS. The Systems Analysis and Design Certificate is tailored more to the needs of the information systems professional interested in upgrading skills within the field. Each certificate consists of five courses, which may be used as a first step in working towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS) degree.

If you are a general business graduate with workplace experience in information systems or an MIS technical professional, the MIS Generalist Certificate brings you up to speed on important MIS management issues. The program helps you understand new MIS technologies and how to manage them and be aware of important new strategies for managing distributed computing environments, including Internet, intranets, extranets, VPNs and many others. You also learn project management skills that are crucial in the MIS environment and in great demand in the marketplace, and how to integrate many new MIS and management models.

The Systems Analysis and Design Certificate has similar goals and outcomes to the MIS Generalist Certificate, but is tailored more towards MIS technical and technical management audiences. Emphasis is placed on components of new systems design and decision-support concepts and techniques. By completing this certificate, you are better prepared to use new system design methodologies to improve the systems in your organization and to oversee development projects in traditional systems, client/server systems and distributed systems, including Internet and web technologies.

[Program Outcomes] [Curriculum] [Admission Requirements] [Transfer Credits] [Application Deadlines] [Academic Standing] [Time to Completion] [Accreditation] [Contact Information]

Project Management Graduate Certificate

Project management is one of the fastest growing career fields in business. Organizations are increasingly using projects as a means of achieving their strategic objectives.

In response to this need, the College of Management is offering a Graduate Certificate and Concentration in Project Management. The required courses prepare students for the challenging field of Project Management by providing them with tools, skills, and knowledge necessary to initiate, plan, and implement projects successfully. Some of the major skills areas covered include:

Systematic approaches to risk identification, risk modeling, risk impact assessment, respond planning, and documentation.
Project planning, implementation, and control
Request for Proposal (RFP) formulation
Earned Value Analysis
Computer-aided problem solving and decision making methodologies
Techniques in data mining and visual display of quantitative data
Team building, negotiation, and conflict resolution in projects
Project management organizational options

[Program Overview] [Program Outcomes] [Curriculum] [Admission Requirements] [Transfer Credits] [Application Deadlines] [Academic Standing] [Time to Completion] [Accreditation] [Contact Information]

College of Arts and Sciences - Information and Computer Science Department degrees and certificate programs

Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Forensics (Major)

This program prepares students with the knowledge in computer science, information assurance, computer incident investigation, cyberspace ethics, and computer laws. Graduates will work in the computer technology and related fields in supporting companies and organizations to protect their interests or in helping law firms to deal with civil litigations. Whenever it is needed, graduates can also assist law enforcement to fight against cyber terrorism and crimes.

The Computer Forensics program is a part of the College of Arts & Sciences and is offered as a major. To contact the Information and Computer Sciences Department, please call 651-793-1471.

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Computer Forensics Minor

The computer forensics minor is designed for students who are interested in the field of computer forensics and includes core courses that allow for depth of study in the field. The computer forensics minor is intended for students who are pursuing majors in other disciplines, or an individualized degree, and who wish to develop a minor within their program. The minor's required courses are supported by three courses (11 semester credits) of electives.

Computer Forensics Minor Homepage

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems

etropolitan State's computer information system (CIS) major prepares students to be information systems professionals. This major provides a foundation of both theoretical and practical knowledge in the many aspects of information sciences. Course work to develop effective communication as well as analytical and problem-solving skills is complemented by hands-on courses in Metropolitan State's state-of-the-art computer labs. An emphasis on Web and other Internet technologies is an integral part of the major. A minimum of 20 semester credits of major requirements must be completed at Metropolitan State.

The CIS major enables students to become developers, designers or information system analysts who can deploy appropriate technology to solve problems in businesses and organizations. Individuals with strong backgrounds of technical and analytical skills, effective communication abilities, and project development knowledge are in demand as the information needs of the world continue to grow. CIS majors can go on to pursue careers as Web analysts, systems analysts, computer support analysts, database designers and analysts, technical managers, and application programmers.

The Computer Information Systems program is a part of the College of Arts & Sciences and is offered as a major. To contact the Information and Computer Sciences Department, please call 651-793-1471

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Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The computer science major is a solid, flexible program, focused on establishing a firm foundation in the theory of computing, the development of effective problem-solving and mathematical skills, and the systematic application of theory to the design and development of software. This program also provides preparation for graduate school in computer science. A minimum of 16 semester credits of major requirements must be completed at Metropolitan State.

Competence in standard programming practices is essential to an in-depth study of the science of computing. Although many of the activities of computer professions are not programming-related, the language of computing is founded on programming. In addition, computer science has its roots in the discipline of mathematics. At a minimum, computer science students must have an understanding of discrete math and calculus in order to explore the theoretical foundations of computing. Additional mathematical study is highly recommended. Math and programming prerequisites should be completed early in the major.

The Computer Science program is a part of the College of Arts & Sciences and is offered as a major. To contact the Information and Computer Sciences Department, please call 651-793-1471.

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Master of Science in Computer Science

Metropolitan State University's innovative Computer Science Master of Science program is designed to deepen your technical knowledge so you can solve complex problems. The program also prepares you for a career in the growing areas of a computing, such as cyber security.

The program will also:

Provide a good balance between theory and practice, so you have the foundational knowledge to respond to rapid technological changes.
Prepare you in the key areas in modern computing—distributed systems and computer security.
Allow you to customize your program with electives to meet your career goals, while offering you flexible scheduling with evening and online classes available.
Enable you to work independently on a design project, if you enjoy applied work, or a thesis, if you enjoy research.

Program Overview
Program Outcomes
Curriculum
Admission Requirements
Transfer Credits
Application Deadlines

Academic Standing
Accreditation
Career Options
Faculty
Applying to the Program
Contact Information

Contact Information:

Applicants may call Dr. Brahma Dathan, Director of the Computer Science Graduate Program, at 651-793-1475 , or e-mail him with questions at mscs@metrostate.edu

Inverhills Community and Technical College Programs

Associate in Applied Science in Network Technology and Security (60 credits)

This program prepares students for rewarding careers in the dynamic field of computer networking and security. The continued growth of the Internet, wide area networks (WANs) and local area networks (LANs) requires people with the broad knowledge and skills needed to design, manage, secure and troubleshoot sophisticated information storage, retrieval and presentation systems.

This is a rigorous educational program that covers the workings of networks from an end-user’s desktop to a remote server that could be located anywhere in the world. The curriculum has been designed to encompass many of the same competencies that are covered by several recognized industry certifications, for example Comp TIA’s A+, Server+, Network+, Linux+ and Security+; Cisco CCNA, Cisco Security; and Microsoft Certified System Administrator, so students will gain the knowledge and skills that are recognized as important for employment in the field.

AAS in Network Technology and Security home page

Network Security Certificate (18 credits)

This program provides comprehensive knowledge and skills needed for I.T. professionals who have network security and information assurance responsibilities. Courses cover the objectives encompassed by industry standards including Security+, Cisco IOS and PIX firewalls, ethical hacking, VPNs, intrusion detection, incident response and overall security policy and practices. Participants must have CCNA certification or three years of experience as a network technician, administrator or analyst in a Cisco environment

Network Security Certificate home page

Advanced Network Technology Certificate (18 credits)

This program provides I.T. employees with knowledge and skills needed to assume additional or higher level responsibilities for a large networked environment. The curriculum includes essential security concepts that are critical for all I.T. team members and provides flexibility for various levels of current competence and areas of emphasis. Participants must have CCNA certification or three years of experience as a network technician, administrator or analyst in a Cisco environment.

Advanced Network Technology Certificate home page

Minneapolis Community and Technical College Programs

Informational Assurance Professional Diploma (articulated with MSU's BAS in Information Assurance)

Information Assurance Professional Diploma

This is a 47-credit diploma within the Associate in Applied Science degree in Computer Support and Network Administration program (see below). Curriculum includes information technology courses and courses on information security covering objectives of the Security+ and CISSP certifications. Students can complete the diploma and proceed to complete the AAS and/or transfer all 47 credits to Metropolitan State University’s BAS in Information Assurance degree program.

MCTC IA Diploma - MSU BAS in IA Articulation Agreement

College Catalog Class Schedule (choose Information Technology as subject)

Associate in Applied Science in Computer Support and Network Administration

MCTC's Information Technology Program has three A.A.S. awards: Computer Support and Network Administration, Software Development, and Computer Forensics; and a number of diplomas and certificates.

MCTC's Computer Support and Network Administration Degree provides a comprehensive, industry-focused training on network support and Internet technologies. You will learn how to install, configure, and maintain computer hardware, protocols, operating systems, software and Internetworking devices, with special emphasis on developing troubleshooting skills.

Instructors with business and industry experience lead classes and cover key topics such as network administration, client/server installation and support, Web server management, database implementation, and network security.

In addition, you will have the chance to work in groups with other class members to learn valuable teamwork and communication skills that reflect the real-world soft-skill requirements. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in various student club activities, technology competitions and industry events. Many of the Information Technology courses are geared toward vendor-based and vendor-neutral industry standard certifications such as those from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA.

As a student you will also have the opportunity to participate in valuable learning activities such as internships, student learning experiences and the Information Technology Club. Upon completion of the program, you will have gained strong problem solving, interpersonal, and communication skills that will be useful as you enter the workforce.

Computer Support & Network Administration Homepage College Catalog Class Schedule (choose Information Technology as subject

Associate in Applied Science in Computer Forensics

MCTC's Computer Forensics A.A.S is a unique degree program that combines knowledge and skills of a number of areas including information technology, information security, computer forensics, criminal justice, law, investigation and ethics. Computer forensics professionals are primarily employed by governmental and legal agencies that specialize in cyber crime investigations. Instructors with business and industry experience lead classes and cover the various program areas.

You will have the chance to work in groups with other class members to learn valuable teamwork and communication skills that reflect the real-world soft-skill requirements. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in various student club activities, technology competitions and industry events.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to participate in valuable learning activities such as internships, student learning experiences and the Information Technology Club. Upon completion of the program, you will have gained strong technical problem solving, interpersonal, and communication skills that will be useful as you enter the workforce.

MCTC has articulation agreements with Metropolitan State University, Minnesota State University - Moorhead, St. Mary's University and St. Scholastica for students who wish to pursue a four-year degree. If you wish to attend MSU's BAS program review the MCTC AAS in CF – MSU BAS in CF Articulation agreement and review MSU requirements.

Computer Forensics Homepage College Catalog Class Schedule (choose Information Technology as subject)

Associate in Applied Science in Software Development

MCTC's Software Development Degree will empower you to systematically analyze problems and create software solutions for business, scientific fields, and government. You will learn how to create and maintain computer programs using a variety of computer programming languages. You will also study client/server architecture, data communications, data process principles, computer business applications, graphical user interfaces, Web development, and e-business/e-commerce concepts.

To prepare programs for implementation, you will learn to design and develop in multiple programming languages. You'll also test and maintain programs to verify proper operation with data and reliability testing, including debugging to correct errors that are encountered. Many of the Information Technology courses are geared toward vendor-based and vendor-neutral industry standard certifications such as those from Microsoft, Sun, and CompTIA.

As a student you will have the opportunity to participate in valuable learning activities such as internships, student learning experiences and the Information Technology Club. Upon completion of the program, you will have gained strong problem solving, interpersonal, and communication skills that will be useful as you enter the workforce.

MCTC has articulation agreements with Metropolitan State University, Minnesota State University, Moorehead, St. Mary's University and St. Scholastica for students who wish to pursue a four-year degree.

Computer Software Development Homepage College Catalog Class Schedule (choose Information Technology as subject)