Systems Analysis Specialization—IT Management (M.A.S.)
Learn how to design and analyze information technology systems to build new systems or improve the operation of existing systems.
Are you someone who loves taking something apart just to see how it works? Do you ponder how the inner workings of a machine or system work together to operate optimally? Do you already know the answer to the question, “What is systems analysis?”
If so, adding Illinois Institute of Technology’s systems analysis specialization to your master’s in information technology degree may be the right option for you. Choosing one of our IT management degree specializations allows you to focus on your interest and clarify your IT career path. Our IT systems analysis specialization offers a smart way to drill down into one of the fastest-growing areas in IT.
What is systems analysis?
Systems analysis in the IT arena is a problem-solving technique that breaks down an IT system into its component pieces. Systems analysis looks at how well the component parts work and interact to accomplish their purpose.
Systems analysis focuses on two primary functions in the IT world—developing new systems and analyzing and improving existing systems.
Developing new systems
In developing new IT systems, a strong systems analysis phase ensures that the system is functional, secure, and effective. A typical IT systems analysis project may include steps such as:
- Problem analysis and potential solutions
- Feasibility study or cost/benefit analysis
- Fact-finding to determine system requirements
- Determining the scope and required resources
- Previewing how end users would operate the system
Analyzing existing systems
Like any product or service, IT systems can develop problems, from security weaknesses to efficiency challenges and more. In some cases, IT systems are cobbled together using old technology, outdated software, or cost-cutting shortcuts. Systems analysis can be employed to document, modify, or improve existing systems rather than developing new systems. In some cases, IT systems that are no longer functional can be revived once their inner workings are analyzed and necessary upgrades are made.
Now that we’ve answered the question, “What is systems analysis?” let’s look at how you can enter this highly technical field.
What Is Illinois Tech’s Systems Analysis Specialization?
Illinois Tech’s IT systems analysis specialization offers you the opportunity to focus your IT studies on systems analysis to deepen your knowledge and develop strong insights into IT system design and operation. Our systems analysis specialization allows you to understand how IT systems work—and, maybe more importantly, how to keep them up and running. You’ll also delve into how best to accomplish a company’s or organization’s IT needs.
The curriculum for our IT systems analysis specialization blends theoretical content and practical application with projects and laboratory-based instruction. You’ll also gain deep insights and experience working on a cutting-edge, industry-sponsored project.
Systems Analysis Specialization Career Opportunities
Your master’s in IT degree with an IT systems analysis specialization will prepare you to succeed in any IT role in your career path. Career positions for IT graduates with a systems analysis specialization include:
- Data analyst
- Systems analyst
- Programmer analyst
- Digital systems architect
- Information systems and technology manager
- Systems administrator
Graduates of our IT management master’s program have obtained positions at companies such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, AT&T, KPMG, Chase, Deloitte, Alcatel-Lucent, and others.
Disclaimer for prospective students, please read.
IT Infrastructure Specialization Curriculum
Illinois Tech’s systems analysis specialization offers a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare you for a high-level career in IT. To earn the IT systems analysis specialization, you’ll complete 24 credit hours of coursework.
Required courses include:
- Object-Oriented Application Development
- Application Development Methodologies
- Human and Computer Interaction
- Software Testing and Maintenance
- Process Engineering for Information Technology Managers
- Object-Oriented System Analysis, Modeling, and Design
You’ll also select elective courses that will allow you to focus your studies based on your interests and career goals.
See the full course curriculum and course descriptions
Other Specializations in Our Information Technology and Management Degree Program
Our IT management master’s degree program allows you to select an area of specialization to gain deeper knowledge of and insights into a technology area. Our other specialization areas include:
- Computer and Information Security
- Data Analytics and Management
- Information Technology Infrastructure
- IT Management and Entrepreneurship
- Management Information Systems
- Smart Technology and Innovation
- Software Development
- Web Design and Application Development
All specializations can be completed online, except for Smart Technology and Innovation. Students electing not to complete a specialization must complete at least one course from each of the seven core subject topic areas.