UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 96%Alumni receive first job offer within 3 months of graduation
- $109,000Average starting salary for alumni
- 40 credit hoursTotal coursework required
- 18-24 monthsTypical completion time
- STEM-designated programProgram focus
- Flexible curriculum with specialized pathwaysStudy options
The Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is designed to equip students with the advanced technical skills and organizational understanding needed to manage and analyze information effectively. This STEM-designated program focuses on the intersection of people, information, and technology, preparing graduates to develop impactful information solutions. The MSIM curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies through course groupings and electives that align with specific career pathways. Whether you aim to become a data scientist, business analyst, IT professional, or product manager, the program provides the knowledge and experience to excel in a variety of roles within the information landscape. Graduates are well-prepared for a dynamic job market, with a strong emphasis on real-world application and problem-solving. The program's rigorous academic standards, combined with its career-oriented approach, ensure that students are ready to contribute meaningfully to organizations and address complex societal challenges related to information.
Curriculum
The MSIM program requires 40 credit hours of coursework and can be completed on campus within 18-24 months. The curriculum is highly flexible, allowing students to customize their degree to match their career aspirations. Students must complete three core courses: Information Modeling (IS 515) or Database Design and Prototyping (IS 455), Data, Statistical Models, and Information (IS 507), and Sociotechnical Information Systems (IS 504). An additional programming course may be required depending on a student's background.
- Year 1
- Information Modeling or Database Design and PrototypingIS 515 or IS 455
- Data, Statistical Models, and InformationIS 507
- Sociotechnical Information SystemsIS 504
- Elective courses based on chosen pathway
- Year 2
- Advanced electives and pathway specialization
Careers
Graduates of the MSIM program are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the rapidly evolving field of information management. The program's emphasis on technical skills, analytical thinking, and organizational understanding allows alumni to pursue diverse career paths and make significant contributions in their chosen fields.
- Analyst / Analytics (Data Analyst, Strategy & Transactions Analyst)
- Software Engineer or Developer
- Data Scientist
- Data Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Business Process Analyst
- Competitive Intelligence Analyst
- IT Professional (Technology Lead, Data Manager, Digital Transformation Manager, Integration Specialist)
- Product Manager
- Technical Product Manager
- Product Specialist
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the typical career outcomes for MSIM graduates?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Software Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, IT Professional, and Product Manager. The program also offers specialized pathways in Data Science and Analytics, Knowledge Management and Information Consulting, and Human-Centered Systems Design & Development.
- How long does the MSIM program typically take to complete?
- The MSIM program requires 40 credit hours and can usually be completed on campus within 18 to 24 months.
- What are the core courses in the MSIM program?
- Students must complete three core courses: Information Modeling (or Database Design and Prototyping), Data, Statistical Models, and Information, and Sociotechnical Information Systems. An additional programming course may be required based on your background.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants typically need a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 96 or an IELTS score of 6.5. Proof of financial support is also required for visa purposes.
- When is the application deadline for the MSIM program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is typically in early January. Admission decisions are usually released in the spring following the application deadline.
- What is the estimated tuition and fee structure for the MSIM program?
- Prospective students should refer to the University's official tuition and fees schedule for the most current rates, as tuition is typically charged per credit hour.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. While a specific undergraduate major is not mandated, a strong foundation in computing, information, or a related quantitative field is recommended.
TOEFLMinimum score of 96 for the iBT (Internet-based Test)
IELTSMinimum score of 6.5 overall
International applicants must demonstrate the ability to self-support during their studies to obtain a visa. The Graduate College requires proof of funding before processing applications. Outside employment for students or spouses is not a reliable source of funding.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University's official tuition and fees schedule for the most current rates. Tuition is typically charged per credit hour.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University's official tuition and fees schedule for the most current rates.
LivingEstimated living costs vary. International students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for the duration of their studies.
All admitted international candidates must be prepared to demonstrate that they can fully support themselves during the period of their studies in order to obtain a visa for entry into the United States. The University’s Graduate College will not process your application until funding documents have been received.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the MSIM program's specific admission criteria, curriculum, and degree requirements.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and English proficiency scores if applicable.
3. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the University of Illinois Graduate College admissions portal. Pay the application fee.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload transcripts and any other required documents directly to the application system. Request that official test scores (GRE, TOEFL/IELTS) be sent to the university.
5. Demonstrate Financial SupportInternational applicants must provide documentation proving sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for the duration of their studies.
6. Await Admission DecisionThe Graduate College and the iSchool will review your application. Decisions are typically released within a specific timeframe after the application deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What are the typical career outcomes for MSIM graduates?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Software Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, IT Professional, and Product Manager. The program also offers specialized pathways in Data Science and Analytics, Knowledge Management and Information Consulting, and Human-Centered Systems Design & Development.
How long does the MSIM program typically take to complete?
+
The MSIM program requires 40 credit hours and can usually be completed on campus within 18 to 24 months.
What are the core courses in the MSIM program?
+
Students must complete three core courses: Information Modeling (or Database Design and Prototyping), Data, Statistical Models, and Information, and Sociotechnical Information Systems. An additional programming course may be required based on your background.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants typically need a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 96 or an IELTS score of 6.5. Proof of financial support is also required for visa purposes.
When is the application deadline for the MSIM program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is typically in early January. Admission decisions are usually released in the spring following the application deadline.
What is the estimated tuition and fee structure for the MSIM program?
+
Prospective students should refer to the University's official tuition and fees schedule for the most current rates, as tuition is typically charged per credit hour.