Professional Master's Programs

What is a Professional Master's Degree?

The "PSM degree is the MBA of the science world," the Chicago Tribune declares in an article in the newspaper's special Education Today section, focusing on Professional Science Masters degrees offered by Illinois Institute of Technology, with comments from PSM Program Manager Elizabeth Friedman.
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The Professional Science Master's (PSM) is designed to prepare students for science careers in business, government, and non-profit organizations. Intended as a terminal degree, the PSM gives students an alternative to the traditional Ph.D. track. Students are able to complete advanced graduate education in science while developing business and management skills.

This multidisciplinary approach cultivates graduates with real world experience. Additionally, advisory boards offer guidance on current industry demands and future trends allowing our programs to adapt to the ever-changing needs of the industry. Typically, PSM programs consist of two years of academic training.

The PSM offers more science than a Master of Business Administration while incorporating more professional skills than a Master of Science. Graduates are able to seek interdisciplinary careers and excel in professional environments.

Working professionals are able to complete programs on a part-time basis while seeking career advancement. IIT offers online classes, adding the opportunity to study anytime or anywhere.

Degrees Offered

Analytical Chemistry
Applied Mathematics (New program starting Fall 2013)
Biology
Computer Science
Data Science (New program starting Fall 2013)
Health Physics
Materials Chemistry
Mathematical Finance

Additional Information

Certificate Programs
Student Testimonials
Where our Students and Graduates Work!
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For more information on the National Professional Science Master's Association please visit the NPSMA.

Professional Master's News

S.Y. Chen Named Director of Professional Master of Health Physics Program

The College of Science and Letters at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) welcomes S.Y. Chen, Ph.D., CHP, as the new director of the Professional Master of Health Physics program.

Chen, who comes to IIT from Argonne National Laboratory, has a rich history in the field of health physics. In his most recent position as senior environmental engineer and strategic area manager in the Environmental Science Division at Argonne, he developed an integrated risk assessment program to address federal risk-based policies. More >

S.Y. Chen, from Argonne National Laboratory, accepts directorship of IIT's Professional Master of Health Physics program. The announcement of his new position has received coverage in the Chicago Tribune, the Los Angeles Times, and the Baltimore Sun.

Professional Master's Programs Director Elizabeth Friedman Speaks at NPSMA National Conference

Elizabeth Friedman, director of professional master's programs for the College of Science and Letters, presented in two sessions at the National Professional Science Master's Association's (NPSMA) 3rd National Conference, November 7-9 in Denver, Colo. Friedman was a founding member of the NPSMA (2005-2007) and served six years on the board in various positions including president (2010). More >