The MCIS program requires the successful completion of a minimum of 36 credits. This includes completion of a six-course core (18 credits), at least five elective courses (15 credits) of context/processes area options, one capstone seminar (3 credits), and participating in one MCIS colloquia for each course taken (0 credits).

The degree typically requires three terms of full-time study: 12 credits per term is the maximum course load. Study is frequently pursued on a part-time basis. Although nearly all courses are scheduled during the evening hours, the completion of the program may require attendance during the day in order to obtain the full range of program offerings. Up to 6 credits may be applied from another program. Students may transfer up to 6 credits of graduate coursework toward the degree, if credits were earned within the past 3 years, if the coursework translates directly to the students development and preparation in the MCIS program, and only if the student achieve a grade of A in this coursework. In all cases, however, each degree student must earn 30 credits within the program. There are no language or mathematics requirements for this degree.