Brandeis Online
A chat with Bruce Rains, the Chair of IT Management at Brandeis Online
Date xx, 2026
Brandeis Online's new MS in Information Technology Management is launching this fall. Hear from program chair Bruce Rains about some of the programs key differentiators.
What is your current job title? How would you describe your role?
I am the program chair for the Information Technology Management master’s program at Brandeis online. I also serve as a technology executive at a global organization where I oversee engineering and operations activities pertaining to enterprise networks, servers, cloud infrastructure, voice systems, and other critical technologies that support day-to-day business operations.
Why did you decide to get involved in the leadership of the Information Technology Management program at Brandeis Online?
With nearly 25 years in the IT industry, I’ve developed a strong passion for continuous learning and giving back to the profession. Over that time, I’ve seen the technology landscape evolve dramatically — not just in terms of tools and platforms, but in how global, integrated, and business-critical IT has become.
I was drawn to this role because it provides an opportunity to help shape a program that equips professionals with the modern technical and managerial skills required to succeed in today’s environment. Having worked across multiple domains throughout my career, I’m excited to bring that experience into building a curriculum that prepares future technology leaders — particularly in areas like cloud, AI, and cybersecurity.
“Students don’t just learn concepts — they apply them in areas such as cloud automation, security and compliance, and data engineering. ”
What makes Brandeis Online’s IT management program unique?
This program is intentionally designed to reflect real-world, current technology and business needs. A key differentiator is our focus on how emerging technologies — especially AI — are actively shaping modern IT environments. We combine hands-on technical depth with strategic leadership development.
Students don’t just learn concepts — they apply them in areas such as cloud automation, security and compliance, and data engineering. At the same time, they build the skills needed to lead: developing strategy, driving innovation, managing risk, and aligning technology decisions with business outcomes.
What courses in the IT management program are important to highlight and why?
Each course plays a critical role in building a comprehensive skill set, so the answer often depends on a student’s career goals. That said, I tend to highlight two courses: Enterprise Cloud Architecture and Scalable Systems Design and Cybersecurty Governance, Risk, and Enterprise Security Strategy because of their immediate relevance in today’s business environment.
Why is pursuing a master’s in Information Technology Management important now?
Technology is evolving rapidly, and AI is now influencing nearly every aspect of business. As a result, IT leaders are expected to do more than manage systems — they must drive innovation and strategy. This program is designed to reflect that reality. It prepares students not only to understand emerging technologies, but to apply them effectively while balancing technical depth with leadership and strategic thinking.
“Technology is evolving rapidly, and AI is now influencing nearly every aspect of business. As a result, IT leaders are expected to do more than manage systems — they must drive innovation and strategy. ”
What skills do IT management graduates gain that will make them competitive in the workforce?
This program is designed to develop hybrid technical–strategic leaders, not just specialists or managers. Students build a broad and practical skill set that ranges from automation scripting to strategic planning.
What career paths could MS in Information Technology Management graduates pursue?
Graduates are well-positioned for both technical and leadership roles across a wide range of areas, including digital transformation and technology strategy, product management, enterprise architecture and systems design, cloud automation, site reliability engineering, data science, cybersecurity, governance, risk, and compliance (GRC), technical program management, and AI strategy and implementation.
What types of students would do well in Brandeis Online’s Information Technology Management degree?
Typically mid-level professionals with around five or more years of industry experience, though that can vary. It is especially well-suited for individuals looking to advance their technical capabilities, transition into leadership roles, and/or apply their skills to real-world enterprise challenges. Students who want to design, secure, automate, and operate integrated technology solutions — and see the direct business impact of their work — will benefit the most.
“Students who want to design, secure, automate, and operate integrated technology solutions — and see the direct business impact of their work — will benefit the most. ”
What are you most looking forward to about this program?
I’m most excited to see the program come to life — particularly during the first fall term — and to observe how students engage with the material. At its core, this is about teaching and learning, and I’m looking forward to connecting with students, understanding their goals, and supporting them throughout their journey.
To learn more about the MS in Information Technology Management or IT management master’s certificates at Brandeis Online, visit the program page or email Bruce at brucerains@brandeis.edu.