Jumpstart Your Tech Career
MSIS Accelerate is a focused Spring-quarter program designed for working professionals ready to transition into Foster’s MS in Information Systems (MSIS). Created to provide a strong foundation in essential tech skills, Accelerate equips you to confidently step into the MSIS curriculum. Participants gain early access to Foster’s career resources and Seattle’s network of industry leaders, ensuring you’re fully prepared for advanced coursework and positioned to thrive in a dynamic and high-demand field.
If you’re a driven professional aiming to pivot into technology or enhance your expertise, MSIS Accelerate is the perfect starting point. Begin in the Spring, and enter the MSIS program with confidence, practical experience, and a clear path to tech leadership.
JUMP TO:
Admissions
MSIS welcomes a diverse cohort every year and we know that technology leaders come from many backgrounds. Historically many of our students have a non-technical bachelor’s degree. Applicants are selected not only for their potential to benefit from the program and additional technical training but also for the experience and knowledge they can contribute to the class.
All applicants are required to hold the minimum equivalent of a four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S. or its equivalent. You can review our full admission requirements on the MSIS Admissions webpage.
Application Deadlines
Priority
November 1, 2024 (11:59 PM PST)
Round 1
*December 6, 2024 (11:59 PM PST)
Round 2
**January 3, 2025 (11:59 PM PST)
*The MSIS program encourages new F-1 Visa seeking international students to apply by Round 1 for sufficient visa processing time
**Late applications considered on a case-by-case basis. Contact us at for more information
Fees
MSIS tuition is paid quarterly. Full tuition information can be found here. Details for how to pay tuition are available on the Tuition Payment website.
Admitted international applicants are required to show proof of adequate financial support. Learn more about the financial ability requirement from the UW Graduate School.
Accelerate Curriculum
Throughout the 11-week Spring quarter, students sharpen their technical skills through coursework in Python, SQL, and data-networking. Students benefit from small classes taught by dedicated information systems faculty and industry practitioners. After completing Spring Accelerate, students join the core MSIS program starting Summer quarter.
SQL
Students will learn fundamentals of database design, development, and administration with an emphasis on SQL use to prepare them to succeed in MSIS’ databases and data-warehouses coursework.
Executive Leadership
Students supplement their technical learning with connections to industry through the MSIS Leadership Lecture Series, an opportunity to convert theory into practice and develop leadership principles and strategy.
Local Study Tour
The MSIS Local Study Tour expands student learning from the classroom to real-world practice. By visiting local technology companies and learning directly from senior leadership, students gain insider knowledge in technology and business strategy.
Python
Students will learn fundamental Python programming skills to prepare them to excel in MSIS’ fast-paced machine learning and analytics coursework.
Data Networking
Students will learn fundamentals of data communications, network architectures, cryptography, and more to prepare them for a deeper understanding in MSIS’ information security and cybersecurity coursework.
Career Services
Students receive access to Foster’s full suite of career services through the EY Center for Career Advancement, including career coaching, resume review, professional networking events, and more.
Curriculum Timeline
March – June
Students in Spring quarter take foundational courses in basic IT infrastructure and leadership:
- Fundamentals of Application Programming
- Database Management
- Networks & Cybersecurity
- MSIS Leadership Series
Spring - Accelerate
June – August
Core Curriculum begins
- Information Technology and Organizational Strategy
- Business Data Analysis
- Operations and Business Process Management
- Business Decision Models
- MSIS Leadership Series
Summer
September – December
- Introduction to Data Mining & Analytics
- Information Security in a Networked World
- Advanced Database Systems and Data Warehouse(s)
- MSIS Leadership Series
Autumn
January – March
- Information Technology & Marketing in the New Economy
- Advanced Business Data Mining
- Cyber Security Policy, Management, and Compliance
- Managing in the Era of Cloud Computing
- MSIS Leadership Series
Winter
March – June
- Digital Transformation of Organizations
- Managing Information Technology Projects
- Enterprise Systems & Integration
- MSIS Leadership Series
- One elective from available offerings
Spring
Frequently Asked Questions
Stay Informed
Thank you for your interest in MSIS Accelerate! With the Spring quarter Accelerate opportunity, students with limited technical experience gain the foundational technology skills needed to succeed in the MSIS core coursework.
Are you trying to determine if Accelerate is right for you? Do you have questions about the admissions requirements or application process? We are here to help!
We will get back to you as soon as possible so you can continue taking the next steps in achieving your personal and professional goals! In the meantime, feel free to visit our website or attend one of our upcoming events.
Contact
MSIS Accelerate
Master of Science in Information Systems
Michael G. Foster School of Business
University of Washington
Box 353226
Seattle, WA 98195-3226
Tel: 206-543-4587
Email: [email protected]