The Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) is designed to provide advanced managerial and technology knowledge and skill sets that graduates need to meet this demand for highly skilled information technology and systems (IT/IS) professionals in Hawai’i and elsewhere. IS professionals contribute to business, not-for-profit, and government enterprises in Hawai’i, all of which require employees who are innovative, agile, technology-adept and responsive to today’s technology-powered economy. The knowledge and skill sets that graduates acquire through the program will in turn provide them enhanced professional job and income opportunities in the Hawai’i economy.

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Due to increased global dependency and rapid advancements in information technology, an increasing demand for information systems and application software, and evolving complexity of cyber security threats, employment of information technology and systems related occupations is growing faster. The program will help students be prepared for career positions like business/computer system analyst, application developer, IS analyst, and IS manager. It also provides students knowledge and skills that are necessary for advancing to positions such as chief information officer (CIO) and chief technology officer (CTO).

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The University of Hawai’i strategic initiatives speak to the fact that the “effective use of technology is inherently linked to the value of sustainability and the growth of community. ‘Smart’ technologies will allow us to emerge as a stronger and more organizationally sustainable campus and will expand our connections locally and globally.” An educated and trained IS professional workforce is needed for Hawai’i to reach its goals in effective use of information technology to support sustainability initiatives.

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The MSIS program at Shider of University of Hawaii, aligned with Hawai’i Graduation Initiative (HGI) Action Strategy 3, responds directly to the strong and immediate need for a skilled IT workforce of the local community statewide, nationally and globally. It targets knowledge areas in STEM, data science, and cyber security. With the proposed program, the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa will be able to educate IS professionals that meets the current and growing demands, while keeping the state of Hawai’i competitive in the IT market.