The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) has joined Shorelight, and is accepting international graduate student applications through UIS Global. Students can apply now for STEM-designated degree programs for the first UIS Global cohort (Fall 2022) and beyond. With more than 50 years of empowering leaders, UIS offers pathways to global careers in computer science, data analytics, and management information systems.
Opportunity and Excellence at the University of Illinois Springfield
Located in the vibrant capital of Illinois, the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) hosts approximately 4,000 new students each year and is ranked #4 among top public schools in the Midwest (U.S. News & World Report, 2022). It is one of three universities in the world-renowned University of Illinois System.
With UIS Global, international graduate students can enroll in high-value master’s programs within the College of Business and Management (management information systems) or the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (computer science, data analytics).
UIS provides a uniquely student-centered educational experience, both in and out of the classroom, through active learning, meaningful research, and impactful civic engagement that prepares graduates to contribute fully to a global society.
Through UIS Global, international students can access dedicated support services, such as advice on choosing the right degree program, help with completing and submitting an application, assistance when applying for a student visa, and guidance on transitioning to campus.
Let’s take a closer look at how you can develop in-demand skills with UIS Global’s specialized graduate programs.
Explore STEM-Eligible Graduate Degree Programs Available Through UIS Global
Master of Science in Computer Science — College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Master of Science in Computer Science program focuses on software engineering and data analytics and is most appropriate for students interested in the design, analysis, and implementation of software systems. Students learn how to approach modern challenges in computing and develop a broad range of problem-solving skills that can be applied to computing systems across multiple industries.
“The department prides itself on small class sizes and distinguished faculty dedicated to research and teaching,” says Dr. Svet Braynov, computer science department chair. “Our programs are well-known for their comprehensive course content, student-centered learning, cutting-edge computational environment, close relationship to industry and government, and for producing well-prepared graduates for both professional careers and graduate school.”
UIS is a designated National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technological Education (ATE) partner, and has received a multimillion dollar grant to support the National Resource Center for Systems Security and Information Assurance. With access to robust funding and cutting-edge facilities, UIS computer science graduate students gain invaluable preparation for one of the highest-demand fields in the world. (The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects computer science employment to grow 22% from 2020 to 2030.)
U.S. News & World Report ranked the UIS Computer Science master’s program #8 in the nation for Student Service & Technology and #21 for Teaching Practices & Student Engagement. The computer science department has also been designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
Master of Science in Data Analytics — College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Master’s degree in Data Analytics program provides a hands-on approach that empowers students to tackle real world problems through publicly available datasets. Graduates will be qualified for jobs such as data scientist, survey researcher, management analyst, statistician, and more.
The curriculum covers how to use data to boost productivity, manage resources, reduce risk, raise transparency, get new insights, and support businesses in developing competitive advantages. Technology-based learning to store, analyze, and display massive datasets is a key component of the degree program, as is gaining expertise with data storage and analysis in commercial cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services.
Various data analytics-related research opportunities are available in collaboration with faculty experts and peers. Topics include big data, data mining, machine learning, statistics, and more.
Both programs in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offer a combination of both online and in-person instructional formats. International students who enroll through UIS Global will be based on campus, with classes held both in person and online.
Master of Science in Management Information Systems — College of Business and Management
Learn about complex computing systems in data-driven businesses and how you can leverage your new expertise to drive organizational strategy with UIS’ Master of Science in Management Information Systems. Develop technical expertise with managerial knowledge and apply information technology to solve business problems.
In 2021, U.S. News & World Report ranked the UIS Management Information Systems online master’s degree #53 in the non-MBA business category.
Discover Careers in Tech in Springfield and Beyond
As the capital of Illinois, Springfield offers a variety of career-building opportunities, especially for those interested in technology and business. With your graduate degree from UIS, you will stand out to top employers in the city, including BUNN, LRS, Memorial Health, and more. And because careers in technology require transferable skills that can be applied to different roles across multiple industries, you can look forward to diverse and flexible career paths at global organizations.
Looking beyond Springfield, Chicago is a three-hour drive away. The city is ranked #8 in the US for net tech employment and offers career opportunities with world-renowned organizations such as Avant, Google, LinkedIn, Lyft, Salesforce, and many more.
St. Louis, Missouri, just 90 minutes from Springfield, is another great option to consider for a future career in the US. With its state government investing heavily in the tech industry and a rapid growth rate (23.3%), St. Louis is viewed as an up-and-coming tech hotspot.
UIS’ Graduate Public Service Internship (GPSI) Program connects students with internships at state agencies and nonprofit organizations in Illinois. Select programs may provide tuition remission and a monthly living allowance.
Additionally, you may also be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), where you can develop valuable skills and hands-on experience while working with US companies. Speak with your Designated School Official (DSO) and program advisor to see if you are eligible and to learn which organizations are interested in hiring international students like you.
Beyond career opportunities, UIS Global offers many ways to have an unforgettable study in the USA experience.
Grow and Thrive with UIS Global
UIS is committed to offering all students a world-class education where you can grow as a scholar, a professional, and an individual. International students benefit from experiential learning opportunities that combine academic knowledge with hands-on experience to develop key skills.
Studying at UIS allows you to:
Make meaningful connections — With a student-professor ratio of 13:1 in UIS classes, lecturers provide individualized attention and personalized support.
Enjoy campus life — UIS is a safe and beautiful campus with hundreds of events, extracurricular activities, and student organizations. Getting involved on campus creates lifelong friendships, while also developing your skills in leadership, advocacy, sustainability, and much more.
Explore research opportunities — Graduate students are encouraged to share labs and projects with professors, and to publish and present alongside them. UIS is home to research institutes such as the Center for State Policy and Leadership and owns research facilities such as the Emiquon Field Station, giving you the chance to work with industry professionals.
Through UIS Global’s programs and opportunities, alongside dedicated support from Shorelight, you can explore your potential in specialized technology careers and work toward your dream role.
Learn more about the University of Illinois Springfield >
