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Master of Science in Information Technology Leadership

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At a Glance

Earn your master’s degree online in just 20 months.

Summer, Fall and Spring Start Dates

20 Months
30 Units
$925
May 6, 2025
March 7, 2025

Quick Facts

Program consists of five semesters: two courses per semester, and seven weeks per course (taken one at a time).

level up your it career

LEAD THE WAY IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGy

The University of San Diego’s online master’s in Information Technology Leadership program is dedicated to developing leaders who can be more than technical specialists in today’s digital world. Companies are looking for experienced professionals who understand business processes, can develop integrated solutions to meet strategic objectives, and effectively communicate issues and solutions to non-technical stakeholders.  

If you’re looking to advance your IT career, you need to progress beyond specializing in a particular skill set or acquiring specific technical knowledge. Too often, graduates of IT programs are trained in skills that allow them to succeed within their specialization, but not in the practices and perspectives that allow them to excel as leaders. If you want a career at the higher levels of information technology, then you must have the ability to analyze, rethink, redesign and automate complex IT systems to achieve an organization’s strategic goals. 

USD’s MS in IT Leadership degree program is designed to prepare current and future IT leaders to effectively understand and manage complex systems. No matter the industry or organization, as a graduate of our program you’ll be able to develop and articulate comprehensive solutions to large scale information technology challenges.


WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR?

The MS-ITL program is designed around the philosophy that IT leadership is a position of earned influence. This means that effective IT leaders possess:

This program is designed to serve professionals from all IT workforces, including database administrators and architects, computer systems analysts and network and computer systems administrators. 

15%

Job growth for computer and information systems managers is projected much faster than average at 15% from 2022-2032.

$169,510

The most recent median annual salary for computer and information systems managers was $169,510 (data from August 2024).

15

The average number of years USD Master’s in IT Leadership students have worked in information technology positions.

Statistics sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 


LEARNING OUTCOMES

We aim to provide IT professionals with the knowledge, skills and training to excel as IT leaders and managers. As a graduate of the MS-ITL program, you will be able to:

USD MS-ITL is open to all IT professionals. Get a closer look at the application process with detailed instructions on how to apply for this unique program designed to grow your career as an information technology leader.


ADVANCED CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Information Technology Leadership is a 30-unit project-based program designed to be completed in 20 months over five semesters.

The program is offered 100% online using the Canvas learning management system and requires students to take two seven-week-long courses each semester, including a culminating three-unit capstone course that focuses on developing a proposal for an IT infrastructure initiative.

The MS-ITL program is designed around the following themes and topics:

  • Fundamentals for IT Leadership
  • Networking
  • DevOps
  • IT Service Management
  • The IT Profession
  • Project, Vendor and Construction Management
  • Server Operations
  • Cybersecurity
  • Enterprise Applications, Data Management and Reporting
Capstone Project

The three unit capstone project requires students to develop a proposal for a significant IT infrastructure initiative. Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze a proposed course of action, make clear recommendations to non-technical stakeholders and generate a deep understanding of an organization’s mission, resources and constraints. 

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EXPERT FACULTY

Our MS-ITL faculty has extensive experience in the IT industry — and many continue to work in the field as well as in higher education. Every faculty member is dedicated to teaching the fundamental knowledge and leadership skills required for successful IT leadership. Together, they bring a diverse set of experiences, skills and backgrounds to the program. 


accreditation

Accreditation is an important quality indicator for college and university degree programs, generally regarded as a stamp of approval that ensures you will be able to apply for financial aid and transfer your credits if you decide to switch schools. Most state universities and private non-profit universities will have a regional accreditation. The University of San Diego has earned both regional and national accreditations.

Accreditations include:

Regionally accredited by WASC

The WASC Senior College and University Commission – WASC is a regional accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as certifying institutional eligibility for federal funding in a number of programs, including student access to federal financial aid. Learn more about the importance of selecting a regionally accredited program.


How to Apply

For details on specific requirements needed for admission, please visit our Admissions page.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an undergraduate degree in IT or a related field?

MS-ITL applicants don’t need an IT degree, but they must have a bachelor’s degree (BS or BA) from an accredited institution. It is preferable to have at least two years of work experience in the information technology field.

How many units is the MS-ITL program?

The online MS-ITL program is a total of 30 units. Students will enroll in 2 courses each semester for a total of 6 semester units. The program can be completed in as few as 5 semesters.

What kind of IT experience do you need to have for this program?

Applicants should have at least two years of experience in an IT-related field, such as network and systems support, server operations, DevOps, etc. Examples of relevant experience can include computer user support specialists, database administrators and architects, computer systems analysts, and network and computer systems administrators.

What are the benefits of the priority application deadline?

Applying to our master’s program by the priority deadline offers you significant advantages:

  • Early Consideration: Be among the first to have your application reviewed and receive your admission decision sooner, giving you more time to prepare for your next academic journey.
  • Increased Admission Chances: Secure your spot in the program while more seats are available, enhancing your chances of acceptance.
  • Stress-Free Planning: Eliminate the last-minute rush by submitting your application early, allowing you to focus on the next steps.
  • Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your dedication and preparedness by applying early, making a strong impression on our admissions committee.

Don’t wait—take the first step toward your future today by submitting your application by the priority deadline!

How much is my tuition?

Tuition for the MS-ITL program is $925 per unit. With a total of 30 units, the full cost of tuition for the program is $27,750.

Tuition amounts shown on this website, or in other university publications or web pages, represent tuition and fees as currently approved. However, the University of San Diego reserves the right to increase or modify tuition and fees without prior notice and to make such modifications applicable to students enrolled at USD at that time as well as to incoming students. In addition, all tuition amounts and fees are subject to change at any time for correction of errors. Please note that the displayed tuition covers only the cost of courses, and additional expenses such as books and other fees are not included.

 

Is a GRE required for admission?

Candidates who have a GPA above 2.75 are not required to take a GRE; however, a standardized test such as GRE is recommended for applicants with a GPA under 2.75.

Does the program have to be completed within 20 months?

No. Students have a total of 5 years to finish the full course. The curriculum schedule functions on a rotational system, meaning that if a student skips a course they will have to wait for the rotation to complete before jumping back in. We encourage individuals who are interested in the program to speak with an enrollment advisor or to work with their program coordinator, who is available to help every step of the way.

Does USD offer career development/advising support?

The University of San Diego is committed to steering you on a path toward educational and professional success. From the start, you’ll receive support and guidance from experienced University of San Diego advisors who are invested in helping you achieve your education goals!

Are You Asking The Right Questions For Your IT Career?

Finding the right master’s program in IT Leadership can be the key to your future success. Use our free eBook as a guide to ask the most important questions that will advance your career.

Are-You-Asking-the-Right-Question-for-Your-IT-Career?