Learn to Create Effective, Secure Networks

Available online and on campus, the Master of Science in Computer Information Systems concentration in Computer Networks at Boston University’s Metropolitan College (MET) is designed to immerse you in the fast-paced world of technological innovation—preparing you for IT leadership positions in all sectors.

Program at a Glance

  • Top 10 Online Program since 2014
  • Online and On Campus
  • Part-Time or Full-Time Study
  • STEM Designated
  • 40 Credits
  • 12–20 Months to Completion
  • 17 Core Faculty
  • No GRE/GMAT
  • Tuition & Fees Range—Part-Time Study*: $33,460–$35,140

*Based on 2023–2024 Boston University tuition and fees. Merit scholarship may reduce cost.

Advance Your Career with a Master’s in Computer Information Systems

Secure networks are fundamental to computer information systems in the context of the organization. Designed to empower you with extensive knowledge and hands-on experience, BU MET’s concentration in Computer Networks provides a broad foundation in information technology and an in-depth understanding of computer data communications and modern networking, enabling you to analyze, design, procure, manage, and implement cutting-edge computer networking solutions and technologies.

U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs - Grad Information Technology 2024

#8, Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology Programs

MET’s online master’s degrees in computer information technology are ranked #8 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 2024.

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CNSS

A National Center of Academic Excellence

Boston University has been designated a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense and Research by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security. Our information security programs are certified by the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS).

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Charles River Campus

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What Do My Career Options Look Like with a Master’s in Computer Science from BU’s Metropolitan College?

Computer Science Career Outlook

Top computer science careers in data science, software development, and other popular areas of IT.

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“I have benefited from excellent faculty and instructors throughout my time at MET. If I were to highlight a single faculty member, it would be none other than Professor Scott Arena. My first experience with Professor Arena was in a required class, Business Data Communication and Networks (MET CS 625). . . . Professor Arena kept the class engaged through humor, stories of professional life, and what I can only describe as the most eclectic power point slides I have ever seen. While Professor Arena required weekly deliverables, they were always applicable—not assignments for the sake of assignments.”Joe Kowalik, Lead Client Support Specialist, Boston University

Why BU’s Computer Information Systems Degree Has Been Top 10 since 2014

  • Recognized & Certified:Boston University is recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense and Research. BU MET’s information security programs are certified by the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS).
  • Active Learning Environment: BU MET’s Computer Information Systems courses introduce case studies and real-world projects that ensure you gain in-depth, practical experience with the latest technologies.
  • Career Counseling: MET’s Career Development office and BU’s Center for Career Development offer a variety of job-hunting resources, including one-on-one career counseling by appointment for both online and on-campus students.
  • Engaged Faculty: In BU MET’s Computer Information Systems master’s program, you benefit from working closely with highly qualified faculty and industry leaders who have extensive hands-on involvement in building secure networks, developing applications, and fighting cybercrime for the world’s top companies.
  • Extensive Network: Study information systems alongside peers with solid business experience, learn from faculty who have valuable IT contacts across several technology sectors, and benefit from an alumni community with strong professional connections.
  • STEM Designated: Eligible graduates on student visas have access to an Optional Practical Training (OPT) of 12 months and an extension for up to 24 additional months.
  • 15:1 Class Ratio: Enjoy an exceptional student-to-instructor ratio, ensuring close interaction with faculty and access to support.
  • Valuable Resources: Make use of Boston University’s extensive resources, including the Center for Career Development, Educational Resource Center, Fitness & Recreation Center, IT Help Centers, Mugar Memorial Library, Center for Antiracist Research, Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground, George Sherman Union, Rafik B. Hariri Institute for Computing and Computational Science & Engineering, and many others.
  • Flexible Options: Study at the pace that works for you, evenings on campus or fully online. Courses begin fall, spring, and summer; online courses have two starts per term.
  • Track Record: Learn from the best—BU MET’s Department of Computer Science was established in 1979 and is the longest-running computer science department at BU. Over its four decades, the department has played an important role in the emergence of IT at the University and throughout the region.
  • Merit Scholarships: US citizens and permanent residents are automatically considered during the application process and nominated based on eligibility. Learn more.

Master the Tools to Excel in Computer Information Systems

The Computer Networks concentration is part of BU MET’s Master of Science in Computer Information Systems (MSCIS). Starting with digital communications and local area (LAN), wide area (WAN), wireless, and other network technologies, and then moving on to databases, math for IT, strategic IT, software development, and systems analysis and design, the concentration provides a comprehensive understanding of network design and implementation, network performance analysis and management, network security, and the latest networking technologies.

BU MET’s Computer Information Systems master’s degree prepares you for jobs that are seeing faster-than-average growth and excellent salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer and information systems managers (for instance) is more than $146,000. And with seven concentrations, the Computer Information Systems master’s encompasses several other fast-growing and well-paid segments of the IT job market, providing the foundation for work as an application analyst, data analyst, data scientist, cybersecurity analyst, IT consultant, network and computer systems administrator, computer systems analyst, database administrator, and many other integral positions in an organization.

Graduate with Expertise

In addition to the learning outcomes derived from Metropolitan College’s Computer Information Systems master’s degree program, the concentration in Computer Networks will equip you with:

  • Advanced knowledge of data communication networks and protocols along with the ability to identify issues involved in multi-access media and devices as applied to wired and wireless networks; the ability to identify key areas for performance analysis and debugging of networks; and techniques for network management in small- to large-scale networks.
  • Proficiency in data communication protocols and networks, including such areas as: flow control, distributed synchronization, error detection and correction, and routing techniques, and where to implement them.
  • Competence sufficient to design, specify, and develop data transfer protocols for specific purposes; design, specify, plan, and define networks of any size; and analyze, evaluate, and select networking devices applicable to the network area that they are being implemented in, whether LAN, MAN, WAN, or wireless.

Certificate-to-Degree Pathway

You can also earn the master’s in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Computer Networks by completing the BU MET Graduate Certificate in Information Technology, plus either Information Structures with Java (MET CS 520) or Information Structures with Python (MET CS 521), and the Computer Networks degree concentration requirements. Students currently enrolled in a graduate certificate who are interested in transitioning into a master’s degree should contact their academic advisor to declare their interest in this pathway. A new master’s degree application is not required. Connect with a graduate admissions advisor at csadmissions@bu.edu to learn more about this option.


A total of 40 credits is required.

Students who are declaring an MSCIS concentration in Computer Networks must complete the core and required concentration courses.

Core Courses

(Five courses/20 credits)

And one of the following*:

*If a student chooses to take both MET CS 520 and MET CS 521, the first course completed will fulfill the core requirement and the second course completed will count as an elective.

Students who have completed courses on core curriculum subjects as part of their undergraduate degree program or have relevant work-related experience may request permission from the Department of Computer Science to replace the corresponding core courses with graduate-level computer information systems electives. Please refer to the MET CS Academic Policies Manual for further details.

Computer Networks Concentration Requirements

(Five courses/20 credits)

And one course selected from the following (some courses may not be available in the online format):



Computer Science Faculty

Learn more about the Department of Computer Science

Tuition & Financial Assistance

Competitive Tuition

Our part-time rates are substantially lower than those of the traditional, full-time residential programs yet provide access to the same high-quality BU education.

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Comprehensive Financial Assistance

Our services include scholarships, graduate loans, and payment plans.

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BU MET programs offer the flexibility of part-time or full-time study, either on campus or online. Tuition, fees, and total program cost are determined by enrollment status. If you enroll in 1–2 courses (4–8 credits) in a semester, you are charged the part-time per-credit rate. If you enroll in 3–4 courses (12–16 credits) in a semester, you are charged the full-time semester rate.

MS in Computer Information Systems, Computer Networks Concentration (Online and On Campus)

Enrollment Status Part Time Full Time
Courses per Semester 2 courses
(8 credits)
4 courses
(16 credits)
3 courses
(12 credits)
Time to Degree 5 semesters
(20 months)
3 semesters
(12-16 months)***
4 semesters
(16-20 months)***
Tuition* $535-$955
per credit**
$31,899
per semester
$31,899
per semester
Fees per Semester* $60 $457 $457
Total Degree Cost* $33,460–
$35,140
$72,412 $100,948

*Based on 2023–2024 Boston University tuition & fee rates.
**Cost per credit is determined by course number (100–599 = $535/credit, 600–999 = $955/credit).
***Summer semester enrollment is not required for international students to maintain F-1 visa status. Enrollment in summer semester coursework will expedite completion of program and reduce total program cost.

International students seeking an F-1 visa for on-campus study must enroll full time and demonstrate availability of funds to cover the Estimated Cost of Graduate Study; those who wish to study online may enroll part-time but are not eligible for a visa. Learn more about International Student Tuition & Fees.

Questions? Please contact us to hear from an Admissions Advisor who can help you determine the best enrollment pathway. For information regarding financial aid, visit BU MET’s Financial Aid page.

Get Started

Please visit the BU MET admissions page for details on how to apply, financial assistance, tuition and fees, requirements for international students, and more.

Apply Now

 

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