Student Success Center
MS in Information Technology Leadership
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Welcome!
As an online student, most of your interactions with the university will be done through various websites. For example:
- You’ll use your USD Email Address for all university-related communications.
- You’ll use Canvasfor all of your coursework and assignments. See Canvas Tips and Tricks page.
- You’ll use your MySanDiego Portal for tuition payments and to access most campus resources.
- You’ll use this site, your Student Success Center, to get specific information about textbook information, deadlines, and more!
Stay Connected with your Program
(619) 260-4643
COMPLETE YOUR MANDATORY NEW STUDENT CHECKLIST
Our number one priority is you! Our team has prepared a checklist of items that will set you up for success and clarify all action items as a new student. After you are enrolled for your first term and receive a confirmation email from a member of our team, please complete and review all of the following before classes start.
1. View Your Mandatory New Student Welcome Webinar
This webinar will go over a comprehensive look at your program and what to expect as an online learner including resources and tips for success. Each webinar should last around 30-40 minutes. Once you have been registered for classes and receive a confirmation email from our team, you will be emailed the link to schedule your welcome webinar to your @sandiego.edu email address.
2. Schedule Your New Student Check-in Call
In this call, you’ll “meet” a member of your Student Success Team for your program. This will be a chance for us to answer any additional questions you have before you start your first term. Please be sure to have any Canvas-related, program-related, or finance-related questions prepared. After attending the Welcome Webinar, you will be prompted to schedule your call using a scheduling link.
3. Complete Your Canvas Orientation Course - Due January 3, 2025
Once you have been registered in your classes, you will be able to access your New Student Orientation Course on Canvas within 4 hours. When accessing Canvas, please make sure to use Firefox or Chrome as your browser.
The New Student Orientation course is designed to help you navigate your way around Canvas prior to beginning your first class. You will learn where to find the syllabus, course schedule, assignments, and discussion boards.
Your Orientation is mandatory, and must be completed before the first day of class—so we encourage you to get started! Please plan to spend about 8 hours completing the Orientation course. You can move through the Orientation at your own pace, so schedule your time accordingly.
Looking for assistance?
4. Finalize Your Tuition Payment Plan
We recommend that students start this planning early as some funding sources can take some time to process. Tuition payments should be completed in full by the first day of the semester. Visit the "Tuition and Payment Methods" section for more information.
5. Review your Student Handbook
Please make sure to review your student handbook prior to the first day of class, and reference it as needed throughout your program. The handbook is where you can find information on academic expectations, drop and refund policy, technology requirements, curriculum, frequently asked questions, and more.
IMPORTANT DATES
Below is a list of significant dates regarding the registration process, payment deadlines, and other important academic and program deadlines.
Fall 2025 Dates and Deadlines
| Important Dates | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | June 30, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | August 1, 2025 |
| Registration Deadline | August 15, 2025 |
| Orientation Course Due Date | August 29, 2025 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | September 1, 2025 |
| Payment Due Date | September 2, 2025 |
| Semester Begins | September 2, 2025 |
| First Course Start Date | September 2, 2025 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | September 5, 2025 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | September 29, 2025 |
| First Course End Date | October 20, 2025 |
| Second Course Start Date | October 21, 2025 |
| First Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | November 3, 2025 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | November 17, 2025 |
| Second Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | December 22, 2025 |
| Semester Ends | December 8, 2025 |
Spring 2025 Dates and Deadlines
| Important Dates | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | November 1, 2024 |
| Application Deadline | December 2, 2024 |
| Registration Deadline | December 16, 2024 |
| Orientation Course Due Date | January 3, 2025 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | January 6, 2025 |
| Payment Due Date | January 7, 2025 |
| Semester Begins | January 7, 2025 |
| First Course Start Date | January 7, 2025 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | January 10, 2025 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | February 3, 2025 |
| First Course End Date | February 24, 2025 |
| Second Course Start Date | February 25, 2025 |
| First Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | March 10, 2025 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | March 24, 2025 |
| Second Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | April 28, 2025 |
| Semester Ends | April 14, 2025 |
Summer 2025 Dates and Deadlines
| Important Dates | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | March 3, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | April 4, 2025 |
| Registration Deadline | April 18, 2025 |
| Orientation Course Due Date | May 2, 2025 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | May 5, 2025 |
| Payment Due Date | May 6, 2025 |
| Semester Begins | May 6, 2025 |
| First Course Start Date | May 6, 2025 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | May 9, 2025 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | June 2, 2025 |
| First Course End Date | June 23, 2025 |
| Second Course Start Date | June 24, 2025 |
| First Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | July 7, 2025 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | July 21, 2025 |
| Second Course Final Grade Submission Due Date | August 25, 2025 |
| Semester Ends | August 11, 2025 |
Download a pdf of your academic calendar
Class Registration Directions
You have most likely already filled out an Enrollment Agreement, which enables our team to register you for classes each term. No further action is required on your part.
If you are not able to register for both of your courses in a given term, please contact your program coordinator immediately. This often happens for students who need to take a leave of absence.
Textbook information
Students are required to have their textbooks on hand by the first day of class. Unless otherwise specified, students may select any vendor they prefer (such as Amazon.com, Half.com, Alibris.com, etc.) to purchase their course materials. In the event a specific vendor is required, it will be specified in the course materials list. The best way to ensure that you have the correct book is to search by the ISBN number(s) listed on the book list.
Physical copies of books are not on hand at the USD Torero Store. The USD Torero online store does offer price comparisons for different online vendors for some books.
Although all textbooks for all courses are listed, students only need to purchase the items for the classes they are taking for the semester.
Digital Inclusive Access (IA) - Integrated VitalSource Textbooks
If your course is indicated to have a "Digital Inclusive Access" textbook, you do have the option to use the integrated Vitalsource e-textbook without needing to purchase a textbook through an outside vendor. For more information, view the "Digital Inclusive Access" FAQs document.
- Students are able to access the e-textbook directly in the course without worrying about purchasing the wrong version or textbook!
- If your course is indicated as using “Digital Inclusive Access” on the textbook list, please note that you must opt-out within the first 7 days of each course to avoid being charged for the guaranteed-lowest price textbook.
- If you do intend to use “Digital Inclusive Access”, no further action is required after you create a Vitalsource account.
- No refunds can be issued once the textbook charge has been assessed.
By using Vitalsource e-Textbooks, students are able to use study tools in Bookshelf such as highlighting, printing limited pages/chapters, sharing notes, and using the Bookshelf CoachMe tool to test their learning while they read.
PAYing for your program
Tuition at USD is billed per semester, not per course. Payment (or enrollment in an official USD payment plan) is always due by the first day of the semester. Students may not carry balances from one semester to the next.
Accounts with outstanding balances after the official payment due date may be subject to course cancellations/removal or a student account hold during the semester; related holds can prevent upcoming registration, graduation, or obtaining transcripts.
Remember: tuition is always due by the first day of each semester.
Program Tuition
Once you have been registered for your courses, your student account will reflect the appropriate tuition costs according to your program. Your program’s tuition is the following:
- Per Unit (classes are typically 3-units) = $925
- Per Semester (assuming 6-units per semester) = $5,550
- Total Program Cost (including 5 semesters) = $27,750
Students who need to re-take or withdraw from a course may need to pay additional fees according to the Refund/Drop Deadline policies listed in your Student Handbook.
If you have any questions about your Student Account, please reach out to the Torero Hub by submitting their inquiry form or phone at 619-260-2700. All costs and fees are subject to change and are based on the academic year of enrollment.
ENROLLMENT DEPOSIT
Please note that students in USD’s MS in IT Leadership program are required to submit a one-time 5% non-refundable deposit. The payment will automatically be applied to your first-semester tuition.
Refund Policy
Students will be registered for their prescribed courses each semester. All courses must be dropped prior to the first day of the semester to receive a 100% tuition refund and within the first three days of the start date of the semester to receive a 95% tuition refund. No refund (reversal of tuition) will be provided after the third day of the semester for any class.
DEGREE PROGRESS and COMMENCEMENT
DegreeWorks
You can track your progress toward earning your degree using the Degree Works feature in your MySanDiego student portal. Degree Works shows you which courses you have completed, grades, cumulative GPA, any outstanding graduation requirements, and more!
To access Degree Works:
- Log in to your MySanDiego student portal.
- Under the “Torero Hub” tab, click on “My Academics.”
- On the right-hand side under “My Academic Resources”, click on “Degree Works.”
Petition to Graduate
Submitting your petition to graduate is a requirement for every student. About a semester before your final term, you will be reminded by your Program Coordinator to submit your petition to graduate. Once completed, your Academic Coordinator will review your academic record and contact you if there are any outstanding requirements or issues.
Commencement timing
If you are planning on participating in the commencement ceremony (which means walking in your cap and gown here on campus), you will be invited to come to the University of San Diego to participate in the ceremony. Commencement details and information will be sent from your Student Success Team around the month of February.
- There is only one commencement ceremony each academic year in May.
- Fall and Spring graduates will be invited to the commencement ceremony the May after they graduate.
- Summer graduates will be invited to the commencement ceremony the May before they graduate.
Diploma Details
The Registrar will process their final audit of the degrees 6-8 weeks after grades are posted for your final semester. Once the degree is conferred in the system, the Registrar will order your diploma from the vendor and the vendor will send it to you directly to the address that was listed on your petition to graduate.
If your mailing address changes after you submit your Petition to Graduate, please notify the Graduate Records office at (619) 260-2217 or [email protected].
You will receive a digital diploma to your @sandiego.edu email address once your degree has been officially conferred.
You will also receive a physical diploma. Mailing time is an additional 6-8 weeks from the date of order, and you will likely receive your diploma in the mail in 3-4 months after you have completed your degree requirements.
Course Details
program requirements
The 30-unit program will consist of ten courses. Courses will be offered year-round with three semesters every year; Spring, Summer, and Fall. Each semester will last 14 weeks. Students will take two courses per semester. Courses will run for seven weeks each with a one or two-week break in between semesters. This intensive format will allow students to focus on one course at a time and to still complete the degree program in 20 months.
Course Titles and Descriptions
ITL 501: Fundamentals for IT Leadership
Introduction to the IT leadership program. Spotlights on fundamental financial management concepts: expense, capital, depreciation, budgets, etc. Understanding an organization's (your own or a customer's) mission, resources, and constraints. Introduction to communicating effectively with non-technical executive leadership: verbally, through email and other written forms of communication, and through presentations. IT governance models.
ITL 502: Project, Vendor, and Construction Management
Project Management is the application of knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to project-oriented activities to meet project requirements. In today’s fast paced business environment, now more than ever, organizations are faced with competing aggressively with one another, and so the demand for operational effectiveness and efficiency becomes essential to organizational success.
ITL 520: Data and Voice Networking
This course covers the role of wired and wireless networking in the architecture, deployment, and management of large-scale information technology environments. Includes advanced topics such as networking in cloud environments (e.g. AWS), edge data, and private wireless networks.
ITL 525: Server Operations
Server operations with emphasis on design and deployment of large-scale computing environments using cloud services (e.g., Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Azure, Oracle Cloud), Topics include hyperconverged infrastructure and AWS networking. The course includes hands-on experience in a sandbox environment in which students configure a computing environment and deploy services using the infrastructure as code (IaC) paradigm.
ITL 530: DevOps
The role of IT in the continuous process of software development (engineering), staging (QA), and production deployment (IT operations). Incorporates web development, app development and integration, and how to avoid a failed development project. Case study spotlight: USD MySDMobile app.
ITL 535: Cybersecurity
This course will feature a comprehensive overview of concepts and tools essential to cybersecurity for IT professionals. Students will learn to view information as an asset to the organization, discover types of cybersecurity attacks, what threat actors are, the various roles of a cyber professional, and the beginnings of designing a cybersecurity program. Students will also identify different threats to information and the infrastructure and operators that support it. This course will also cover the risk management practices and principles that pertain to the cyber domain, as well as risk mitigation strategies, risk calculation, and communication and training for a cybersecurity program.
ITL 540: IT Service Management
IT Service Management (ITSM) is the set of activities by which IT organizations manage the end-to-end delivery of IT services to customers. ITL 540 covers the principles and practices of ITSM using industry standards and best practices, such as ITIL. Course topics include comprehensive coverage of Incident Management, Problem Management, Service Request Management, Change Control, Service Catalog Management, Portfolio Management, Service Level Management, Service Continuity Management (Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity), Knowledge Management, and IT Asset Management and Service Configuration Management. This course emphasizes developing practical skills and preparing graduates to effectively lead IT service teams.
ITL 545: Enterprise Applications, Data Management, and Reporting
This course covers topics including overviews of major enterprise applications such as SalesForce, WorkDay, Oracle Financials, and SAP, with a particular emphasis on implementation projects; reporting tools, data warehousing, and organizational dynamics (politics) of data access. Case studies will spotlight USD WorkDay implementation and Honeywell. This course includes hands-on experience in a sandbox environment where students implement business processes by configuring the application.
ITL 590: The IT Profession
This course focuses on a big-picture overview of the economic and social role of IT professionals. IT professionals are a strategic workforce in the US and in every other technologically developed economy but do not have a strong sense of collective professional identity. How have other technical professions (e.g. mechanical, chemical, and electrical engineers) historically developed a collective sense of professional identity and obligation, and in what ways are IT workers similar to and different from them? In what ways are IT professionals designers, and what does this imply about their broader social and professional obligations?
ITL 595: Capstone
The program capstone focuses on developing a proposal for a significant IT infrastructure initiative, e.g., implementation of a new enterprise application, or migration of a service into the cloud. Students should demonstrate the ability to analyze the proposed course of action and communicate a clear recommendation to non-technical organizational leadership. Students should also demonstrate the ability to assess options and make sound recommendations in areas in which they are not themselves technical subject matter experts. The recommendation should reflect a deep understanding of the customer organization's mission, resources, and constraints.
Student Resources
This list is helpful resources that will set you up for success. Haven’t written in APA formatting since your undergraduate program? We’ve got you covered! Want to know what type of computer you will need? No problem. We have listed helpful resources below.
Technical Requirements
You must own or have unrestricted access to a computer for this program. A fast Internet connection is also mandatory.
Courses will utilize a variety of technologies and multimedia. To complete course activities and to access course content, please verify that you have the following technologies and plug-ins available:
- Browser Plug-ins – Windows Media Player, QuickTime, Shockwave, Adobe Reader, and Java.
- Mozilla Firefox is the recommended browser.
- Microsoft Office is required. If you are using Office 2003 or earlier, download and install the Microsoft Office Compatibility pack.
- Speakers or headset – to listen to multimedia.
- Webcam – for recording video.
- Email – To contact your faculty.
- High-speed internet connection strongly encouraged (DSL or better)
For some courses within your MSITL program, access to the Microsoft Project is needed. Please follow the directions below to create your account or access the directions here with step-by-step images:
- Clear the cache and cookies of the browser you are using.
- Use InPrivate or Incognito browser.
- Go to https://signup.azure.com/studentverification?offerType=3.
- Enter your email address and password then hit ‘Next’.
- Upon signing in, you may be asked to agree to the terms and conditions and the Academic/Student verification (for first time users). If not, you should be routed to the Education | Overview page.
- To see software available, please click ‘Software tab’, search for the software needed, click on ‘View Key’ to get the Product key, and ‘Download’ to download the software.
- If you need further assistance with downloading Microsoft Project/Azure, please submit a help ticket with Microsoft. USD's ITS Helpdesk is not able to assist with installation or troubleshooting as they are not familiar with this system.
Graduate Writing Expectations and Tips
All writing assignments must be formatted according to APA standards. Discussion posts must contain the appropriate APA citations. If you want additional writing support, we recommend Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL@Purdue). In addition to general writing support, the website includes a special section dedicated to APA formatting guidelines.
Another helpful writing resource is the School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) Graduate Student Writing Center. Enrolled students can submit assignments for review by a writing professional.
Download Microsoft Office 365 (Free for USD Students)
Students at the University of San Diego are able to download Microsoft Office 365 for free! If you don’t have it already, you can download the Microsoft Office 365 suite using your USD student email.
TimelyCare – Telehealth for USD Students
TimelyCare is a provider of 24/7, no-cost telehealth services for USD students to address common conditions that can be safely diagnosed and treated remotely. TimelyCare services are available at no cost to the student. Services include:
- Live and on-demand self-care sessions (yoga, breathing, stretching)
- Access to on-demand counselors for emotional health support
- Access to schedule a session with a licensed counselor (up to 12 times per year)
- View the Nurturing Balance Webinar Recording to learn about more resources
MS-ITL Student Handbook
The handbook is where you can find information on academic expectations, drop and refund policy, technology requirements, curriculum, frequently asked questions, and more.
External Tutoring Resource
USD does not offer subject-specific tutoring resources, so students who are looking for tutoring support are encouraged to identify a tutor using Wyzant.com. Please note that Wyzant is not a USD-managed resource, so use them at your own discretion.
Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities for Graduate Students
It is the policy of the University of San Diego to adhere to the rules and regulations as announced in this brochure or other University Publications. The University nevertheless hereby gives notice that it reserves the right to expand or delete or otherwise modify this online publication whenever such changes are adjudged by it to be desirable or necessary. Changes will be made periodically as needed.
USD Economic Resources List
USD's Case Management team has compiled a list of on-campus (local to San Diego) and national economic resources to help students find assistance with a variety of life aspects such as housing, food, mental health, parenting, etc. If you have a need or concern that isn’t addressed by the resources included in this list, please reach out to your Program Coordinator for further assistance. Based on the support, we may refer you to schedule an appointment with a case manager.
First-Generation Student Resources
USD welcomes first-generation college and first-generation graduate students. Please view the resources below to connect with your first-gen peers!
- Visit the USD First-Generation website.
- Free & Virtual First-Generation Graduate Student Symposium.
- Instagram accounts: @usd_fgsa and @usdfirstgen.
- Contact the First-Gen Action Team at [email protected]
- View the USD First-Generation Student Guide.
- Sign up for the First-Gen Network Newsletter (sign up here).
- Facebook account: USD First-Generation Students.
Military Student Resources
USD provides student-focused services to all USD military-connected students, including student veterans, active-duty, dependent children, and spouses.
- Get started by requesting your Request to Certify each semester.
- Explore Military Scholarship Opportunities.
- Join the Student Veteran Organization .
- Leverage the partnership between USD and 50strong that brings together employers and veterans.
- Upon graduation, connect with the Alumni Veteran Network
USD Campus Partner Email Opt-Out
Get too many emails? Follow our email opt-out guide to optimize your USD email experience.
DACA/Undocumented Student Resources
Please view the USD information trifold for current and prospective students. It is also available in Spanish.
Review the Higher Ed Immigation Portal website which includes some useful information and connections to the undocumented student community, state and national policies, information on graduate and professional school access, retention and success. It is a living document that will be updated regularly and include any new resources that campuses and organizations develop.
Student Parent Resources
Many students who attend USD are also parents. USD offers the following resources:
- Join the Parenting Student listserv: [email protected]
- Pregnancy Resources: Several USD Centers are available to accompany pregnant students as they navigate pregnancy while a student at USD.
- Financial Aid: The university’s Financial Aid Offices can help you qualify for additional loans to cover medical expenses and child care.
- Childcare Solutions: USD supports many resources for finding infant and child care to meet your family’s needs.
- View a recording of our Student Parent Time Management webinar.
Academic Standards for Artificial Intelligence (AI)
With the rise of AI writing assistants, students must ensure that they use this new technology ethically and honestly. Consult this document for guidance.
University of San Diego Campus Resources
The USD Campus is available to all of our students and includes these additional resources.
Canvas @ USD
In your program, you can think of Canvas as your virtual tool to share information with professors and peers. You will use Canvas to access your course content, find course syllabi, review your assignments, and more. Be sure to use your USD credentials to log in. If you have any difficulty logging into your course, be sure to contact ITS at (619) 260-7900 or [email protected].
Netiquette Guidelines
The concept of netiquette covers proper communication online. Read our guidelines to help cultivate a supportive and productive online environment.
your partners toward success
At USD, you join a community of individuals who are all committed to one common goal: your success. As you familiarize yourself with your team, take the opportunity to virtually meet and connect with the resources available to you as a student. Click on the profiles below to learn more about each office or staff member and watch a brief video about their role in supporting you through graduation.
USD Quick Links
- USD Directory (For Faculty or Staff Contact Information)
- Torero Hub (formerly the One Stop Student Center)
- Health and Wellness
- SOLES Graduate Writing Center
- Military and Veterans Program Center
- Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center
- Copley Library
- Career Development Center
- Campus Recreation (Remote and On-Campus Classes Offered)
Career and professional resources
Whether you're hoping to find a new job or earn a promotion, USD has a wealth of resources available to prepare you for your dream role.