UW MSIM: Online vs. residential modality

Home / Online vs. Residential

The UW MSIM program is offered in two modes: online and residential. Compare the two offerings to see which mode is most ideal for your lifestyle. Reminder: Once you are admitted to a program mode, either residential or online, you stay in that mode for the duration of the program.

	Online	Residential
Degree	Residential and online students earn the same MSIM degree.
Course delivery	Complete your coursework from anywhere. Complete most coursework asynchronously, with live online classes scheduled for 90 minutes each week.	Classes are held on the UW campus in Seattle, Washington. Attend in-person classes at specific dates and times (three to four hours a week); complete reading and assignments asynchronously.
Enrollment dates and application processes	Start in any quarter you choose. Enrollment takes place each winter, spring, summer and autumn. There are three review periods in each enrollment cycle.	One start date per year. Enrollment takes place each autumn. Application processes and timelines vary, and candidates should pay careful attention to the dates and details associated with their chosen program track.
To Apply	Apply Now
Application requirements	Application (same application elements and requirements for both modes) $85 application fee Statement of purpose Two letters of recommendation Resume or CV Transcripts GRE/GMAT (waived for eligible students) English language proficiency (for non-native English speakers)
Specializations	Business Intelligence Data Science Program/Product Management & Consulting	Business Intelligence Data Science Information Architecture Information & Cyber Security Program/Product Management & Consulting User Experience
Degree tracks	Early-Career, Early-Career Accelerated and Mid-Career options.
Curriculum	Residential and online students have the same requirements and take the same courses.
Pace	All students can complete their studies part time or full time.	Mid-Career students can complete their studies part time or full time. Early-Career and Early-Career Accelerated students are expected to be enrolled full time.
Student support	All MSIM students, regardless of their program mode, also have access to career services, academic advising, and career events and programming offered through the iSchool and the University of Washington Career and Internship Center. Dedicated student success coaches are assigned to online students throughout their studies.	All MSIM students, regardless of their program mode, also have access to career services, academic advising, and career events and programming offered through the iSchool and the University of Washington Career and Internship Center.
Campus resources	All UW students (online or residential) have access to campus resources (UW libraries, disability services, mental health support, student employment, athletic facilities, etc.) — though some campus resources cannot be delivered remotely.
Tuition & fees	Tuition and fees are the same for all students, regardless of citizenship or Washington state resident status. Residential and online modes share the same tuition rates, subject to change at the start of each academic year for both new and continuing students. A $250 non-refundable deposit is required to accept the offer of admission.
Scholarships	Applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon admission review. Applicants can apply for supplemental scholarship awards during the application process. Graduate assistantships and student employment opportunities are available.	Applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon admission review. Endowed scholarships are available in the second year of the MSIM program. Graduate assistantships and student employment opportunities are available.

Start your application for the MSIM program, offered online or residential.