Applied Information Technology (M.S.)

Why Study Applied Information Technology?

Applied information technology (AIT) is the study, design, development, implementation and support of information systems to solve the major challenges in today's work environment. Graduate students in the applied information technology master’s degree program can update and enhance their skills in a full range of areas, including systems development, IT project management and business analysis.

Students complete the requirements for one or more graduate certificates as they work toward completing their degrees. These graduate certificate programs are applied programs that focus on the most relevant and timely topics in the field, including:

• computer forensics (*) — understand and be able to apply protocols related to incident response to cyberattacks, and forensic analysis methods for computational, mobile devices, and networks
• database management systems — design and develop database systems and learn to manage a large database system
• health information technology (*) — design,  develop, and manage IT systems in the healthcare domain based on an understanding of industry practices and legal standards
• information security and assurance — implement and support computer-based information systems with a focus on securing information
• information systems management — learn information systems processes and understand the central function of technology in managing organizational processes and achieving objectives
• internet application development — create and apply the latest information systems capabilities for the Internet
• networking technologies — develop and implement the design requirements of a successful networked environment
• software engineering (*) — study, design, develop, implement and support computer-based information systems

(*) Three graduate certificates require some in-person courses. The other five graduate certificates may be completed 100% online. For more information about in-person courses or creating a plan to complete the degree online, please review the Course Schedule. 

Build Your Degree

Students can complete requirements for one of eight graduate certificates and can take an additional six graduate-level courses to complete the M.S. in applied information technology. The AIT curriculum is designed to train students in the most current information technology needs and practices. Its certificates can be earned in a year, increasing the marketability of students immediately. Students also can gain work experience with information technology companies through a graduate assistantship program.

Admission and Degree Requirements

View admission requirements and deadlines to apply to the program. View degree requirements and course descriptions in the Graduate Catalog.

Online Options

This program may be completed 100% online or in a hybrid format. 

Advance Your Career

Students who hold bachelor’s degrees in other areas but are already working in information technology, those seeking additional coursework for professional growth and career advancement, and students who want to enter the fast-paced world of information technology are all encouraged to enroll.

Learn from Leaders

Build your IT expertise as you learn from nationally recognized faculty who bring both strong academic reputations and years of practical experience to the classroom. Course content and schedules are geared to working professionals. Courses are offered during the fall, spring and summer semesters at Towson University’s suburban Baltimore campus in the evening and online.