The study of operating systems can cover multiple aspects of computer networking and systems analysis. Curriculums may begin with core classes to teach foundational concepts and later branch out into tracks that are more specialized. Students might pursue focus areas such as software production, local networking or network security.

Master-level studies involve specialized study in a field of research or an area of professional practice. Earning a master’s degree demonstrates a higher level of mastery of the subject.
Earning a master’s degree can take anywhere from a year to three or four years. Before you can graduate, you usually must write and defend a thesis, a long paper that is the culmination of your specialized research.