The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the University of Michigan both offer STEM information-focused master’s programs with substantial analytics, data and AI options. Neither is a narrow traditional IT-management degree, making them useful alternatives for students considering broader information careers.
| Factor | Illinois | Michigan |
|---|---|---|
| Degree | MS Information Management | Master of Science in Information |
| Length | 40 credits; typically 18–24 months | 48 credits; typically 2 years |
| Format | On campus | Full-time or part-time |
| STEM | Yes | Yes |
| AI Exposure | High | High |
| Testing | No GRE/GMAT requirement | GRE not required |
| Career evidence | School reports 96% receive a first offer within three months and about $109,000 average starting salary | 2026 report for 2025 graduates: $91,000 overall average salary and 88% employment rate among reported outcomes; outcomes known for 52% of graduates |
Curriculum difference
Illinois emphasizes flexible information management with data science/analytics, information architecture and human-centered systems options. Michigan organizes study around pathways such as Information & Data Analytics, Product Management, User-Centered Application Development and UX, with AI-related options including NLP, AI alignment and applied machine learning.
Cost comparison needs care
Illinois bills the 40-credit MSIM by credit-hour ranges and residency rather than a single fixed program price. Michigan’s profile currently uses published 2025–26 full-time term rates—$14,916 for Michigan residents and $30,076 for nonresidents—so applicants should recheck newer annual rates before making a final cost comparison.
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Comparison based on program data reviewed/verified by MSITM.com in September 2026.