Five Things to Know About the Online Master of IT Management Program

No matter the industry, information technology (IT) is the backbone of organizational success. 

As businesses increasingly rely on technology to drive innovation and efficiency, the demand for skilled IT leaders has never been higher. In a 2024 survey of more than 2,400 chief information officers (CIOs), 83% reported they struggle to find IT leaders who can manage technology and align it with business strategy. 

If you’re looking to bridge that gap between technical knowledge and business acumen, Wake Forest School of Professional Studies (SPS) has a way. 

Introducing the Master of Information Technology Management, launching in January 2026. 

The curriculum for this 100% online graduate degree goes beyond managing technology. While IT is a science, creativity and communication are essential components of a successful digital initiative. By mastering the art of strategic IT planning, you’ll learn to align organizational goals with effective, efficient digital transformations. 

Industry experts, such as Markus M. Hill, CIO of Rodgers Builders, Inc., built out the curriculum alongside faculty to reflect the ultimate goal of transforming IT professionals into strategic leaders. 

“Leadership is a consistent thread across the program. It’s not limited to one course; it is built into how students engage with communication, collaboration, and accountability throughout,” explained Markus. 

Here’s what you can expect from the exciting new program.

1. Learn with Future-Oriented Tech 

It’s a non-negotiable for IT professionals to have a foundational understanding of disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), cloud computing, cybersecurity, and the Internet of Things (IoT). 

What sets an individual apart is their ability to strategically lead the adoption of these technologies at their organization. 

The Master of IT Management program addresses this through hands-on projects, case studies, and live sessions with industry experts to help students gain practical experience in integrating these technologies into existing IT infrastructures. Our team regularly updates the curriculum to reflect latest advancements and ensure graduates are prepared to lead innovation. 

FUN FACT: Technical electives, such as Cloud Security or Python Programming Fundamentals, are available for students to specialize in areas aligned with their career goals.

2. Focus on Business-Centric Cybersecurity and Risk

In today’s world, cybersecurity is a business imperative. However, IT best practices and cybersecurity strategies are most impactful when they align with organizational objectives. 

Markus explained that in the industry, two trends became clear:

• Technologists being promoted into leadership roles without formal business training.
• A growing expectation for business leaders to understand cybersecurity, data, and infrastructure well enough to lead technical teams. 

The Master of IT Management was built to meet these two needs. 

“Leaders need skills to navigate AI, remote work, and digital risk responsibly,” said Markus. “At the same time, technical experts need to know how to manage people, budgets, and cross-functional strategy.” 

3. Experience Strategy-Focused Curriculum

Traditional IT programs focus primarily on technical skills. Wake Forest SPS ensures students have a strong foundational knowledge of concepts, frameworks, and tools. However, in today’s world, theory is not enough.

“Students need to be able to  lead conversations and respond to changing threats without slowing down the organization,” said Markus. “These skills allow leaders to make informed, practical decisions in real-world environments.”

The program uses case studies, simulations, and a cumulative capstone project to help students learn how to implement an IT strategy that aligns with business objectives and helps drive organizational success. 

4. Explore Leadership and Change Management 

The Master of IT Management curriculum was built to help students cultivate leadership competencies essential for the digital age. 

This includes knowing how to:

• Solve problems in real time
• Work effectively in teams
• Interpret data
• Manage projects
• Coordinate across teams 

“The program isn’t about teaching leadership through a set of frameworks. Instead, it’s more about developing practical skills that can be applied within any framework or organizational setting,” explained Markus.

This is done throughout the curriculum but specifically in courses such as Strategic Communications, Leadership and Change Management, and Foundations in Cybersecurity Leadership. 

DID YOU KNOW: With Wake Forest SPS’s open elective policy, students can choose electives from any program to further their leadership development in courses like Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Project Management Essentials, and Human Resources Management and Organizational Development.

5. Fast Facts 

Format: Online
Average time to complete: 2 years
Courses: 10 (seven core with three electives)
Tuition: $37,620
One core course we’re excited about: IS Strategy & Governance

“I encourage all IT professionals to develop a skill set that crosses traditional boundaries. Do not limit yourself to either the business side or the technical side. Learn to speak both languages and understand how they connect,” said Markus. “The Master of IT Management at Wake Forest is designed to help students build that kind of range.”

Visit the Master of IT Management page to learn more about this new program. Request more information today.