An MIS degree can help you kick off a career in technology, which is one of the most lucrative and fastest-growing job sectors today.
Compared to other technology degrees, a management information systems (MIS) degree offers well-rounded training.
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If you’re also interested in analyzing business decisions and collaborating with diverse teams, then an MIS degree might match up with your career aspirations.
Online MIS Degrees
Management information systems (MIS) is an interdisciplinary field that studies both business and technology. It specializes in using data, analytics, and computer-based systems to meet the needs of businesses and improve performance.
Management information systems majors are trained to take on a big-picture view, seeing how technology fits into the overall context of an organization. Instead of focusing on the details of building a specific software, MIS looks at the whole end-to-end process.
An MIS degree provides training in:
- Understanding the goals, problems, and operations of organizations
- Creating and implementing technology-based solutions
- Designing, overseeing, and testing information systems
- Communicating with developers, managers, and stakeholders
- Helping business leaders make stronger decisions based on data analysis
These are diverse tasks that require firsthand knowledge of technology along with project management and business intelligence skills. Because a bachelor in MIS has such a wide scope, graduates can be found in various technology careers. For instance, some work as project leads, database managers, network architects, or system analysts.
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Since MIS skills are also widely applicable in other fields, this degree can be an asset in any career that involves strategic business thinking and familiarity with technology. To earn an MIS degree, you’ll take classes that span computer science topics, such as programming and databases, along with foundational business classes.
There’s often a strong practical component as well, with students creating software systems and taking on a capstone project or internship.
Management Information System Careers & Salaries
A management information systems bachelor’s degree can lead to a wide range of possible career paths. It’s common for graduates to take on technology-heavy, entry-level jobs and then eventually move on to managerial roles where they can oversee entire projects.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology jobs are in-demand. Since the field is rapidly evolving, new job titles and roles are emerging every year. Below are the median salaries of some common MIS-related careers.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $159,010 |
| Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analysts | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analysts |
$99,270 |
| Database Administrators and Architects | $98,860 |
| Computer Programmers | $93,000 |
| Management Analysts | $93,000 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $82,360 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $80,600 |
| Web Developers and Digital Designers | $77,200 |
All of the careers listed above have salaries that are much higher than average. Many of these positions also have positive job outlooks, with more companies opening up technology-related positions. Many information systems management graduates work as developers, data analysts, network or database administrators, and information security analysts.
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Aside from these technical roles, some may get involved in more business-oriented careers, such as management and consulting. It’s also possible for graduates to branch out to other jobs that still involve technology, such as UX design, social media, and digital marketing.
BS in Management Information Systems Curriculum & Courses
For a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems program, you’ll take a mix of technology and business courses. The curriculum usually features courses similar to the following:
- Basic Programming: This course tackles how to design, create, and test programs. You’ll learn the fundamentals of at least one modern coding language.
- Information Security Principles: This course delves into how to protect hardware, software, and networks against malware and cyberattacks, covering topics like disaster management and cryptography.
- Database Design: You’ll get hands-on experience with building and managing database systems, from data modeling using diagrams to application integration.
- Introduction to Web Development: You’ll delve into the whole process of launching a website, which includes making prototypes and adding back-end functionalities.
- Systems Analysis and Design: This course explores several frameworks for analyzing and designing information systems with the ultimate goal of making businesses more effective.
- Project Management: You’ll study how to take projects from planning to completion, with a special focus on product development. This includes leading a team as well as managing errors and bugs in the software.
- Financial Accounting: You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to monitor and assess a company’s cash flow and how to interpret financial statements.
- Principles of Microeconomics: This course explores price theory, consumer behavior, and the impact of various market conditions on businesses.
- Principles of Management: You’ll get to know the functions and responsibilities of managers while learning about topics such as organizational change and team dynamics.
- Principles of Marketing: This course gives a practical overview of marketing, from aligning with customer needs and desires to launching marketing campaigns through both traditional and digital channels.
Some programs even offer specializations, such as data science, IT leadership, and cybersecurity.
How to Know If a Degree in MIS Is Right for Me
These questions may help you determine if an MIS degree is a good fit:
- Are you looking to pursue a career in technology?
- Do you enjoy working with people and taking projects from start to finish?
- Are you interested in using problem-solving to improve business processes?
An MIS degree is one of the most interdisciplinary technology degrees. If you answered “yes” to only one or two of the questions above, then you might want to consider other majors that are more specialized before committing to an MIS program.
How to Choose an Online Degree in MIS Program
Here are some factors to consider when choosing an online MIS program:
- Syllabus. Does the program offer classes in your areas of interest? What specializations are available?
- Faculty. What are the credentials, career interests, and achievements of the faculty?
- Format. Does the schedule of classes fit well with your other commitments?
- Resources. Some programs have linkages with different schools and companies, making it easier to get additional experience.
On top of these, you may also want to compare tuition and financial aid options across various programs.
Admissions Requirements
When you’re applying for an MIS degree, you’ll typically have to submit documents like the following:
- High school transcripts. Schools will generally want to make sure that you’ve graduated from high school or obtained a GED diploma.
- Essay. You might be asked to submit an essay or personal statement about why you’re interested in an MIS degree.
- Test scores (only some schools require them). Some schools require a minimum SAT or ACT score for acceptance.
Other possible requirements include recommendation letters and a resume. Admission requirements can vary from school to school.
Accreditation
Aside from the program syllabus, you may also want to check if the school is accredited. According to the US Department of Education, more than 85% of colleges in the US have regional accreditation. For a college to be regionally accredited, it has to prove to official accrediting organizations that it offers high-quality education.
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If you’re pursuing an online program, then it’s especially important to double check a school’s accreditation status. Some employers prefer degrees from accredited institutions, and federal or state financial aid is usually only available for accredited schools. You can search for accredited schools on the US Department of Education’s website.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
To see if you can save on tuition for your MIS degree, you may want to look into financial aid options and scholarships.
As a potential undergraduate student, you can start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Even though it’s only one application, it can help determine your eligibility for various forms of government assistance, including loans and federal grants. There might also be work-study programs available so you can work part-time while taking your degree.
Another resource is private funding or scholarships. Most school websites have a list of these, with some scholarships only applicable to students of that school. There are also degree-specific scholarships that are geared toward STEM majors.
What Is an MIS Degree?
A management information system (MIS) degree is an undergraduate degree that focuses on using technology-based systems to improve how organizations work.
It combines a strong foundation in programming and system analysis with an understanding of business operations and processes. In an MIS degree program, you are trained to analyze business problems, propose solutions that incorporate technology, and show cross-functional leadership.
Many of the courses are technical, but an MIS degree is typically considered a business degree. For a thesis or capstone project, students often have to design an information system for a real-life business situation.
Is MIS a Good Major?
Yes, MIS is a good major for many undergraduate students. One advantage of getting an MIS degree is that both management and technology jobs are on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology careers have a median annual wage of $97,430, while the median for management careers is $102,450.
Because MIS is an interdisciplinary degree, there’s also flexibility in terms of career paths, from software development and cybersecurity to product management. With practically every industry turning to digital processes, an MIS degree can lead to more job prospects.
What Can You Do with an MIS Degree?
An MIS degree lies at the intersection of communication, technology, and business operations—all three of which are very valuable in today’s career world.
Since getting an MIS degree involves learning a variety of skills, there are multiple career paths available. Many MIS graduates become software developers, information security analysts, business operations managers, and product managers.
They may work across diverse industries—not only information technology but also eCommerce, marketing, healthcare, finance, and government organizations. Some MIS graduates even start their own businesses.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Management Information Systems Online?
An online MIS degree usually takes 4 years to complete if you’re studying full-time. This is because most undergraduate degrees require around 120 credit hours. Still, the schedule for information systems degree online programs tends to be more flexible.
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Some schools might even have accelerated options. If you’re enrolled continuously year-round with shorter, 8 week semesters, you might be able to finish your degree in less time. On the other hand, it can take longer with a part-time schedule.
What’s the Difference Between a CIS vs. MIS Major?
A computer information systems (CIS) major and a management information systems (MIS) major might sound similar, but there are several key differences between the two.
| CIS | MIS |
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Top CIS careers involve software engineering and system administration, while MIS roles tend to be more management-oriented.
What’s the Difference Between a Computer Science vs. Management Information Systems Degree?
Here are some of the most striking differences between a computer science (CS) and a management information systems (MIS) degree.
| CS | MIS |
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Although there is some overlap, CS is considered a math or engineering degree, while MIS is considered a business degree.
Is a Management Information System Degree Worth It?
Yes, a management information systems degree is worth it for many students. Getting this degree can help you develop unique skills in business and technology. Being able to understand both is more essential than ever as companies are increasingly turning to technology for their day-to-day operations.
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In fact, jobs for computer and information technology are estimated to grow by 13% over the next ten years, which is faster than average (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Graduates may also venture into diverse technology-based roles that intersect with areas like finance, design, and marketing.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Management Information Systems Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. To graduate, students must complete 127 credit hours. All qualifying credits from an associate degree may be transferred into the program. To be eligible for the program, applicants must submit official high school transcripts or GED certificates with their application.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Champlain College offers an online program for a Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Classes are 7 weeks long. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and submit short answer essays, a resume, and official transcripts.
Champlain College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Colorado State University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours. The program can be completed online. New classes start each month. Applicants must submit official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT test scores and have two years of professional experience.
Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
East Carolina University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Management Information Systems. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours. Applicants interested in the program may submit an application online along with copies of their official high school transcripts.
East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Indiana State University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 and need to submit official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores.
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Maryville University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. Students must complete 128 credit hours in 4 years to graduate. The program offers an early access option to those interested in a master’s degree in the field. Applicants must submit an online application along with copies of their official transcripts.
Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Minot State University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. To graduate, students must complete a total of 123 credit hours, including a final project. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have an associate’s degree in the field. An online application may be submitted through the school’s website.
Minot State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Ottawa University offers a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. A concentration in Economics, Finance, ITS, or Leadership and Management may be added to the degree. Students must complete a total of 124 credit hours to graduate. Those interested in the program must submit an online application along with official transcripts.
Ottawa University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Regent University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology. The online program requires students to complete 120 credit hours with a GPA of 2.0 or higher to graduate. Applicants must submit an online application along with an admissions questionnaire and transcripts from all previously attended schools.
Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Simpson College offers an online program for an undergraduate degree in management information systems. The program is designed for adult learners and requires students to complete a final capstone project to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must submit an online application along with official transcripts and ACT or SAT scores.
Simpson College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Southern New Hampshire University offers a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems with a concentration in Business. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours. All courses are 8 weeks long. Those interested in the program may apply online anytime and speak with an admissions counselor.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Houston Downtown offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Applicants may apply online with copies of their official transcripts and ACT or SAT scores.
The University of Houston – Downtown is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Illinois—Springfield offers a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. The program can be completed online and requires the completion of 123 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.0 to graduate. Applicants may submit an application online along with copies of their official transcripts.
UIS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Washington State University offers a Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems. All classes are 7 weeks long. Students are required to complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Those interested in the program must apply online with official high school transcripts or GED certificates and a current resume.
WSU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Western Governors University offers a Bachelor of Science Business Administration in IT Management. The program can be completed online and consists of 40 courses and a capstone project. Applicants must submit an online application along with copies of their official transcripts. An interview with an enrollment counselor is also required.
Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Getting Your Bachelors in MIS Degree Online
If pursuing an MIS degree sounds intriguing, then you can look into several options. Aside from traditional schools and universities, there are also online schools that offer full-fledged MIS degree programs that are rigorous and credible. A growing number of traditional colleges have also begun offering online degree options.
Technology is one of the most popular job sectors today, and it’s likely to keep on growing, with more innovative roles to come. Earning an MIS degree can expose you to several possible fields of study and can help you qualify for positions in the lucrative sectors of business and technology. You can get started on your educational journey by researching and applying to accredited MIS programs!
