Le Moyne’s MS in Information Systems (MSIS) Program Receives STEM OPT Designation
In a move that will benefit both current and prospective graduate international students, Le Moyne’s Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) has officially been recognized as a STEM OPT eligible program. This designation will allow international students to gain two additional years in practical training after graduation.
“There are many benefits that a STEM OPT designation can provide,” said Shin-jeng Lin, professor of information systems and director of Le Moyne’s MSIS program. “The recent decision by Micron to build a semiconductor facility in Onondaga County has prompted the College to consider ways we can become even more attractive to global companies who seek our graduates. The STEM OPT designation is great news for the MSIS program as we are actively recruiting international students and interest is expected to continue to grow.”
What is STEM OPT?
Qualifying international students who are F-1 visa holders and receive science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) degrees may apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT), meaning they can receive two extra years of visa-free work in the U.S. upon graduation. This extension occurs after the completion of 12 months of OPT.
Le Moyne’s MSIS program, which is part of the Madden School of Business, is designed to develop highly educated computer information professionals, responsible for information systems development and management and data analytics professionals responsible for analyzing data to generate business insights. The program serves a diverse student body, including those with an undergraduate major in information systems and related STEM disciplines (e.g. computer science, software engineering, cybersecurity, math, etc.) or in various fields of business (e.g. finance, accounting, analytics, marketing, risk management, management, etc.), those with related professional experience, as well as individuals who seek to enter the field without previous knowledge about information systems. Students can choose from concentrations in Business Intelligence or Artificial Intelligence or sample from ample electives to tailor the program to meet their professional interests without concentration.
By providing international students with additional time in the workforce following graduation, the STEM OPT designation will allow MSIS graduates to broaden and diversify their experience and skills. Current (eligible) international students in the MSIS Program can utilize the STEM OPT. They can contact Amy Kennedy, assistant director of global education at Le Moyne, to discuss their applications at kennedal@lemoyne.edu.
The MSIS Program appeals to many majors and disciplines. Many students who have not taken coursework in Information Systems before can gain a foundational knowledge through prerequisite coursework and apply for full admission. Prospective students should contact the Office of Graduate Admission at GradAdmission@lemoyne.edu for assistance.
