Frequently Asked Questions
Admission
The priority application deadline for the day MSIM is February 1. The priority application deadline for the Executive MSIM is May 1. Applications for the Executive MSIM program received after May 1 will be considered on a space-available basis. The recommended application deadline for international MSIM applicants (to either program option) who require a student (F-1) visa is November 1.
Based on the tuition rates for the 2007-2008 academic year, the total cost of the program comes to approximately $32,000 for either the Day or Executive option. Tuition rates may change slightly, and are provided solely for planning purposes for prospective students.
All applications will be reviewed within six weeks following the domestic applicant priority deadline (February 15th for day MSIM; May 1st for Executive MSIM). Applicants should receive notification within two months. Early application is encouraged to ensure that all application materials are received by the deadline.
For admissions considerations, no preference is given to one test over another. Students should take the test that best suits their background, strengths and interests.
- The code for the MSIM program (both full-time Day and part-time Executive) for both the GRE and the GMAT is 4767.
There is no pre–defined minimum required score. All aspects of the application are considered.
You must take the GRE or GMAT prior to the application deadline for your program option, Day or Executive. If you have not received the official scores before the deadline for your program, you may temporarily submit unofficial scores. Official scores must be received before the first day of autumn quarter classes.
We accept GRE or GMAT scores of any “age,” but we require written documentation of the score from an official source: either an official score sheet from Educational Testing Service (ETS) or a score sheet or letter from a previous university on official letterhead.
Program Delivery
In Autumn 2005, the Day MSIM program was launched for full-time students. The Day MSIM is offered during traditional daytime hours on Monday through Friday.
Generally, the Day program is designed for the "traditional" student who is able to attend school fulltime and during the day. Day students need not have professional work experience in information management or information technology. The Executive program is designed for professionals who are currently working in the information science or technology fields and who wish to expand their knowledge and skills to advance their careers. Executive program students will attend classes on Friday evenings and Saturdays.
Other differences in the two tracks are outlined below:
Day Program
|
Executive Program
|
| Local, national, and international applicants are encouraged to apply |
Students who are currently employed in the Pacific Northwest are encouraged to apply |
| No work experience required for admission |
At least three years of professional work experience required for admission |
| Internship credits required for graduation |
Internship credits optional for graduation |
Technology
It is strongly recommended that you own a home computer (PC based) and have a fast Internet connection (56K modem minimal, DSL or Cable modem preferred). Some students bring laptops to class, but that is not required. Software requirements vary depending on the class. All software is available in the iSchool's computer lab. Software changes rapidly so we cannot anticipate in advance precise products and versions. In our courses, the iSchool tends to offer and use the most current version of the software available.
General
A student who successfully completes this program will be exposed to the technologies and management theories necessary to understand and lead an organization’s information management initiatives. Graduates will excel in the following areas:
- Knowledge Organization—organizing knowledge assets for more effective retrieval and use;
- Systems Analysis, Development, and Integration—developing and managing information systems informed by user and organizational needs;
- Leadership and Change Management—using techniques for initiating and leading change, communicating effectively, and promoting teamwork; and
- Strategic Alignment of IT and Business Goals—considering the competitive and regulatory environment of their organizations when making IT decisions.
The part-time, Executive program is particularly designed with professionals in the Pacific Northwest in mind. Many current students are working locally in IT and management positions while pursuing the degree. Current MSIM students have stated that they chose to pursue this degree to refine skills and fill in gaps in their previous education or professional experiences.
The full-time, Day program is designed for students from any location, national or international. Day students do not need to have experience in the information science and technology fields, and may have diverse educational backgrounds, including science, business, or liberal arts.
If you want to increase your knowledge and advance your skills with information technology, management, and knowledge organization theory and practice – all from a human–centered perspective, then you should consider pursuing the MSIM.