Program overview

Effective technical leadership in a modern enterprise relies on a combination of technical knowledge and an understanding of basic business concepts and processes. The master of science in networking and systems administration enables students to study, develop, and become proficient in the practices, methodologies, and techniques used in the management of a modern IT networking infrastructures. The focus is on enterprise-scale problems and solutions, addressing the needs of a medium to large organization.

Curriculum

The program consists of seven required core courses, four elective courses (chosen from an approved list of electives), and a four-credit capstone thesis or project. Two quarters of cooperative education experience are optional.

Networking and system administration, MS degree, typical course sequence (quarters)

Admission requirements

To be considered for admission to the MS program in networking and systems administration, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

• Hold a baccalaureate (or equivalent) degree from an accredited institution,
• Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (B)*,
• Submit official transcripts (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work,
• Submit two professional recommendations, and
• Complete a graduate application.
• International applicants, whose native language is not English, must submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Minimum scores of 570 (paper-based) or 88 (Internet-based) are required. Applicants with a lower TOEFL score may be admitted conditionally, but will be required to complete a prescribed program in English preparation study along with a reduced program course load. Applicants from foreign universities also must submit Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Visa forms cannot be issued by RIT for part-time or distance education.

* The GRE is recommended for those applicant's whose undergraduate grade point average is less than 3.0.

Additional information

Bridge course

Students wishing to enter the program must have a solid educational or employment record in networking and in systems administration. If a student does not have the necessary background, bridge courses will be required to help students to meet these prerequisites. Formal acceptance into the master’s program may be possible even though the applicant must complete bridge program courses.

Students whose undergraduate preparation or industrial experience does not satisfy the technical prerequisites of this degree can make up this deficiency through study, taking one or more of the following RIT courses, as prescribed by the graduate program director:

Technical prerequisites

4050-211 C++ for Networking and Systems Administration
4055-721 PERL for System Administration OR 4050-302 Scripting in Perl
4055-761 Principles of System Administration
4055-746 Telecommunications Network Protocols

Bridge courses are not part of the 48 credit hours required for the master’s degree. Grades for these courses are not included in a student’s graduate GPA, if the courses are taken before matriculation; courses competed after matriculation are included.

Bridge course work can be designed in a variety of ways. Other courses can be substituted, or courses at other colleges can be applied. Contact the graduate program director for approval.

Study options

This program is designed for full- or part-time study through on-campus instruction or through online learning. Students who take at least three courses per quarter are considered full-time and may be able to complete their course work in one year. Part-time students may take as few as one course per quarter, and may take approximately four years to complete the program.

Maximum time limit

University policy requires that gradaute programs be completed within seven years of the student's initial registration for courses in the program. Bridge courses are excluded.