Master of Science in Information Science

Acquire the knowledge and skills needed in Information Science to meet evolving IT challenges in integration, security, and business continuity. This STEM-designated program is designed for information technology professionals who want to move into a leadership or management position within the IT field.

• Work with local companies and faculty on research projects through the Big Data Lab, Do iT Lab, and Smart Systems Research Group.
• Pursue your degree at your own pace, completing in as little as two years if attending part-time.
• Complete full-time within 12-18 months.
• Become a part of the more than 750,000 Penn State alumni across the world.
• Courses taught by world-class faculty and industry experts.
• GRE not required.
• Program is STEM-designated.

Program Advantages

• Prepare for a career in data visualization, security, cloud computing and storage, and more.
• Learn essential technical and leadership skills.
• Partner with alumni and local employers on relevant projects while fostering industry connections, networking, and job opportunities.
• Navigate problems that span a variety of industries.
• Immerse yourself in small classes and develop meaningful relationships with faculty and classmates who are business professionals and managers in the private and public sectors.
• Engage with faculty actively involved in key research areas like blockchain, applied machine learning, Internet of
• Things (IoT), smart services, smart systems, cybersecurity, data mining, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Take advantage of Career Management Services, which offers a variety of programs, resources, and networking opportunities for students and graduates.
• Benefit from a STEM-designated program, allowing 36 months total of Optional Practical Training (OPT).

In U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 "Best Online Programs," Penn State Great Valley is ranked:

• #3 in Master’s in Engineering programs
• #10 (tie) in Master’s in Computer Information Technology programs

In U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 "Best Online Programs for Veterans," Penn State Great Valley is ranked:

• #1 in Master’s in Engineering

Flexibility

• Seven-week courses are delivered in an in-person/online hybrid format. Some courses may be delivered fully online.
• Ability to simultaneously pursue another degree as part of the concurrent degree program.

Penn State Great Valley brings the resources and reputation of one of the United States’ top research universities—the Pennsylvania State University—to the tech-savvy suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We offer STEM-designated master’s degrees in software engineering, engineering management, information science, data analytics, and finance.

Penn State Great Valley’s online engineering master’s programs have consistently been ranked #6 and above in U.S. News & World Report rankings. In 2023, they were ranked #3.

Our outstanding faculty members teach valuable practical skills, share cutting-edge knowledge, and work with corporate, government, and educational neighbors to address real-world problems and enhance employee performance.

Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and our management division is accredited by AACSB International.

Our full-time students benefit from a variety of programming including our Student Engagement Series, community arts and culture events, robust career services, and more. A variety of non-credit professional development programs such as Lean Six Sigma, project management, leadership development, and agile business analysis are also available.