The Best Online MBA in Management Information Systems
Mar 13, 2020
TBS Staff
Are you ready to discover your college program?
As technology continues to develop, positions in information systems will expand. To this end, earning a higher degree, such as an online MBA in management information systems (MBA MIS), can give you an edge on the job market—whether you are entering the field of information systems or already working within it.
This page describes what an online MBA in management information systems will entail, including sample courses and potential careers. It also explores professional organizations that can help you start or advance your career. In order to help you make the most informed decision about your academic future, the best information systems programs are ranked below.
In a world highly dependent on technology, businesses seek qualified Management Information Systems (MIS) professionals to support their technological needs and implement information systems solutions. An online MBA in Management Information Systems (MBA MIS), prepares individuals to handle these tasks, while allowing them to earn their degree through flexible online scheduling and coursework.
The Best Online MBA in Management Information Systems
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1
Florida State University, Office of Distance Learning
The College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
Founded in 1950, the College of Business at Florida State University provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs built on years of experience and tradition in business education. The College of Business prepares students to emerge as qualified, well–rounded professionals through a commitment to engagement and impact, integrity, excellence, and community that runs through its many programs.
The College of Business benefits students through offering flexible online programs, a variety of student organizations, internship and scholarship opportunities, and exposure to outreach programs and research centers, including the Institute for Applied Business Research.
The curriculum blends a balanced MBA core with a comprehensive selection of specialized coursework in management information systems. Students engage in key topics such as project management, leadership models, and organizational issues, as well as systems analysis and design, database management, and business intelligence systems.
Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers, including chief executive, computer programmer, information systems manager, and more.
The online MBA Management Information Systems program requires 39 credit hours and includes the following specialization courses:
The Robert H. Smith School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
One of 12 colleges at the University of Maryland, the Robert H. Smith School of Business provides a variety of study options for business students at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. With a history dating back to 1921, the School of Business has plenty of experience offering quality business education. The School of Business houses numerous research centers, including the Center for Digital Innovation, Technology, and Strategy as well as the Center for Leadership, Innovation, and Change.
The curriculum covers key topics such as ethical decision–making, business in the global marketplace, and organizational management, as well as data analytics and digital business management. Students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in careers focusing in information systems and business analytics in a variety of professional settings, including corporate business, industry, finance, insurance, government, and more.
The MBA Information Systems and Business Analytics online program includes the following specialization courses:
Data Analytics
Managing Digital Businesses and Platforms
Social Media and Web Analytics
Students in the online MBA program must complete two residencies, including a capstone course and project. Students can complete the program in two years. The School of Business recommends students interested in the program should have at least two years of professional experience.
The Naveen Jindal School of Management is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
Part of the University of Texas system, UT Dallas enrolls over 27,000 students in a full array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. Its online MBA program includes an information systems concentration for busy professionals seeking a flexible path for advancement in the field.
Spanning 53 credits, the MBA management information systems program allows students to study and complete online courses at their own pace. The program blends core online MBA courses in areas such as global business, marketing management, and organizational behavior with concentration courses in topics such as data communications, business data warehousing, and system analysis and project management. Students earn the concentration from their choice of elective coursework, allowing them to tailor the experience to meet their specific professional needs.
Applicants to the online MBA program may submit a GMAT waiver.
The School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
The School of Business at Stevens Institute of Technology provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options in diverse fields of business, including management, economics, finance, and information systems. Adopting a student–centered and technology–focused approach, the School of Business prepares its graduates to pursue successful careers as leading professionals, with relevant, contemporary knowledge in the global business environment.
The School of Business meets the needs of students through residential and online programs, student organizations, corporate partnerships, internship and scholarship opportunities, career development services, and research centers such as the Center for Decision Technologies.
The School of Business’ online MBA degree program with an Information Systems concentration develops a strong foundation of general and specialized knowledge in the field. The program utilizes a comprehensive plan of core MBA coursework, including such topics as leadership models and practice, strategic management, critical thinking and decision making, and discovering entrepreneurial opportunities.
Students in the online MBA Information Systems program engage in important aspects of the information systems field, including the implementation of decision support systems, analysis of information systems, and process management.
Students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully pursue a variety of professional positions, including IT project manager, chief technology officer, data systems analyst, and more.
The online MBA in Information Systems program requires 48 credit hours and includes the following concentration courses:
The Kate Tiedemann College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
Established in 1965, the University of South Florida – St. Petersburg enrolls around 5,000 students in undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs. Among its programs, USF St. Petersburg offers an online MBA with an information systems management concentration.
This 36–credit MBA management information systems program blends core business administration concepts with niche coursework in the concentration area. Students engage with topics such as:
Data Analytics
Data Visualization
Global Business Environments
Managerial Analysis
Organizational Behavior
Predictive Analysis
Project Management
Students may complete the program on a full–time or part–time basis.
Applicants to the program must hold a bachelor’s degree with a 2.5 GPA. GMAT scores may be waived under certain conditions.
The College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
East Carolina University, a public university established in 1907, enrolls over 29,000 students in a wide selection of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree and certificate programs. The university’s offerings include an online MBA with an optional management information systems certificate.
The MBA management information systems program requires 46 credit hours. 33 of these credits are in the online MBA core and 12 of these credits are in the management information systems certificate. Students engage with key concepts, such as:
Accounting
Business Intelligence
Data Analytics
Management Science
Marketing Strategy
Organizational Behavior
Systems Management
Applicants to the program must hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree earned with a 2.7 GPA. Students may apply for a GMAT waiver.
The Martin Tuchman School of Management is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
The Martin Tuchman School of Management at the New Jersey Institute of Technology provides students with many undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options in management and related fields. With a dedicated focus to management theory and practice, the School of Management prepares students for professional success.
The School of Management offers students numerous development opportunities through student organizations, internships, professional development services, and a partnership with IBM.
The Martin Tuchman School of Management offers an MBA online degree program with a specialization in Management Information Systems for professionals seeking to occupy leadership roles in the management and organization of information systems. The program emphasizes a balance of practical and theoretical approaches to business administration through a comprehensive MBA core and specialization coursework.
The MBA MIS online program covers fundamental topics such as managerial economics, decision analysis, and international business, as well as specialized studies in data analysis, information systems, and more.
Students prepare to pursue or advance many careers, including chief executive, computer programmer, information systems manager, and more.
The online Management Information Systems MBA program requires 48 credit hours and includes the following specialization courses:
The Eller College of Management is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
The Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona, established in 1913, and experiencing significant growth and several name changes, has over a century of experience in offering a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree and non–degree programs, with over 6,000 students enrolled. The Eller College of Management represents a diverse array of fields of study in business across eight departments, including Marketing, Business Communication, and Management and Organizations. Home to several research and outreach centers and institutes, including the Center for the Management of Information, the Eller College of Management upholds a commitment to the advancement of education and discourse and the growth of students through educational and professional opportunities.
Through the UA Online platform, the Department of Management and Organizations offers an online MBA degree program with a Management Information Systems concentration that prepares students to advance professionally. The program emphasizes the development of key business administration knowledge and skills in addition to specialized knowledge pertaining to management information systems.
Students in the program engage in core coursework such as business strategy, leadership in organizations, and operations management, as well as specialized coursework in information security and data management systems.
Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers, such as chief technology executive, information systems director, network architect, and more.
The online MBA in Management Information Systems program requires 45 credit hours and includes the following concentration courses:
Information Security in Public and Private Sectors
The School of Business and Global Innovation at Marywood University provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options in a diverse array of fields, including accounting, aviation management, marketing, retail business management, and management information systems. Housed in the College of Professional Studies, the School maintains a strong commitment to Marywood University’s Catholic heritage, integrating Christian principles and values into its programs. Students in School of Business and Global Innovation programs benefit from access to internship, study abroad, and scholarship opportunities, student organizations, online program options, professional development services, and more.
The School of Business and Global Innovation offers an online MBA 2.0 degree program with a Management Information Systems concentration for students seeking to advance in a variety of business fields. The curriculum develops a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in business administration and management information systems through MBA core and specialized coursework. The program covers fundamental topics such as marketing, finance, ethics, and leadership strategies, and provides a wide selection of courses to study key aspects of Management Information Systems, including datamining, database management, and the role of the information professional.
Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers in positions such as information security analyst, information technology director, and network administrator.
The online MBA 2.0 Management Information Systems program requires 36 credit hours and includes a selection of the following concentration courses:
Business Venture and the Entrepreneur
Datamining and Warehousing
Leadership in the Information Age
Management Role of the Information Professional
Managing the Organization in the Marketspace
Systems Analysis and Design: Industrial Problem Solving
Web–based Marketing
Information Systems–Database Management
Students must complete a capstone project.
10
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
The Business School is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
The Business School at the University of Colorado, Denver provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs covering a range of areas of study in business, including marketing, information systems, and business administration. With a significant number of professional business partnerships, as well as internship, scholarship, and study abroad opportunities, the Business school offers students plenty of options for growth and advancement.
The Business School offers an online Professional MBA degree program with an Information Systems specialization for students seeking to pursue or advance careers in information systems in a variety of professional settings. The program utilizes a blend of theory, hands–on learning, class discussions, group projects, computer simulations, and case studies to develop a comprehensive foundation of knowledge in business administration and information systems.
Students enhance their ability to think analytically and strategically, communicate effectively, and successfully apply leadership methods and practices through core MBA coursework and Information Systems specialization courses.
Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers, including database administrator, technology executive, chief technology officer, software designer, system administrator, and business analyst.
The online MBA in Information Systems program requires 48 credit hours and includes a selection of the following specialization courses:
Analysis, Modeling, and Design
Business Process Management
Database Management Systems
Internet and Mobile Technologies
IT Project Management
11
University of New Hampshire
Durham, NH
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The University of New Hampshire is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
The Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
The Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics at the University of New Hampshire provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in diverse fields of business, including marketing, accounting, and information systems. With numerous scholarship, internship, and study abroad opportunities, career development services, student organization, competitions, outreach programs, and research centers, students in the College enjoy numerous benefits that aid in their growth and advancement.
The Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics offers an online MBA degree program with an Information Systems and Business Analytics specialization for students seeking to advance professionally. The program emphasizes a balance of theoretical and practical knowledge in business administration and the application of information systems. Students enhance their ability to adapt to and solve unique problems in business utilizing technology and data, to manage information systems and teams, and apply business analytics for growth and change.
Coursework includes an MBA core covering important topics in business administration, as well as a variety of information systems courses.
Students prepare to pursue careers such as chief technology officer, information systems director, network architect, and more.
The online MBA in Information Systems and Business Analytics program includes a selection of the following specialization courses:
Applied Financial Modeling and Analytics
Data Management and Visualization
Marketing Analytics
Predictive Analytics
Prescriptive Analytics
Courses in the online MBA program utilize an eight–week model.
The Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in diverse areas of business, including finance and accounting, informatics, entrepreneurship, and management. The College seeks to develop tomorrow’s business leaders through its commitment to instructional engagement, research and practice, service and community engagement, innovation and entrepreneurship, and service area and student populations.
Students in the College of Business and Entrepreneurship benefit from numerous internship and scholarship opportunities, student organizations and professional development services, outreach and community engagement programs, and access to centers such as the Management Development Center.
The Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship offers an online MBA degree program with a Management Information Systems concentration for students seeking to advance careers in the field. The program establishes fundamental knowledge and skills in business administration, combined with management information systems expertise.
Coursework for the program includes an MBA core covering topics such as marketing, finance, ethics, and leadership strategies, as well as a specialized coursework covering information systems, cyberspace law, and more.
Students enhance their ability to apply technical knowledge of information systems in a variety of business settings, including corporate business, technology, manufacturing, finance, and insurance.
The online MBA program requires 34 credit hours and includes a Management Information Systems elective, in addition to the following Management Information Systems concentration courses:
The School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
With a history dating back to bookkeeping classes for schoolteachers in 1868, the School of Business at Emporia State University displays a substantial history of growth and tradition as an institution. The School now offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options in diverse fields in business, including accounting, marketing, and information systems.
The School of Business serves the needs of students through residential and online programs, as well as internship and scholarship opportunities. The School also serves the community through outreach programs.
The School of Business offers an MBA online degree program with an Information Systems concentration for students seeking advancement in business professions requiring information systems expertise. The program emphasizes business administration fundamentals, such as organizational behavior, managerial economics, and leadership strategies and practices.
Students may select from a wide variety of courses to develop specializes knowledge in information systems, systems analysis and design, and knowledge management.
Students prepare to pursue careers such as technology executive, information systems manager, and network architect.
The online MBA in Information Systems program requires 36 credit hours and includes a selection of the following concentration courses:
Accounting Information for Management
Business Analytics
Business Intelligence
Electronic Commerce
Enterprise Resource Planning Fundamentals
Knowledge Management
Special Topics in Information Systems
Systems Analysis and Design
Students in the online MBA program must complete a capstone project.
The Batterman School of Business at Concordia University, Wisconsin provides students with a variety of program options at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. Dedicated to the Lutheran mission of the University, the Batterman School of Business designs its programs to accomplish seven core outcomes that reflect Christian principles and values, covering ethical, spiritual, professional, and personal development. The School serves students through residential and flexible online program options, internship and scholarship opportunities, professional development services, and more.
The Batterman School of Business offers an MBA online degree program with a concentration in Management Information Systems for students seeking to advance in a variety of business fields. The program enhances student’s abilities to analyze complex business scenarios and strategize solutions, apply in–depth information systems knowledge, utilize decision support systems, and implement projects utilizes information systems technology.
This online MBA MIS program includes an MBA core. This program covers corporate finance, ethical leadership, and other key topics, as well as a variety of specialization coursework in management information systems.
Students prepare to pursue professional positions such as information technology manager, information technology director, IT project manager, IT business analyst manager, and senior business analyst.
The online MIS MBA program requires 39 credit hours and includes a selection of the following concentration courses:
The Godbold School of Business at Gardner Webb University provides students with a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options for studying diverse fields in business. Dedicated to the motto, For God and Humanity Through Business the School emphasizes Christian principles and teachings at the core of its programs. The Godbold School of Business offers students plenty of internship and scholarship opportunities, student organizations, and access to the Center for Ethics and Entrepreneurship.
The Godbold School of Business offers an online MBA degree program with a Management Information Systems emphasis that prepares students to pursue or advance careers in a variety of professional settings. The curriculum develops a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in business administration and management information systems through core and specialized coursework. Students engage in key topics such as economics, finance, and marketing management, as well as information security, data organization, and more.
Students develop the skills necessary to succeed in management information systems careers such as network administrator, systems architect, and chief executive.
The online MBA in Management Information Systems program requires 30 credit hours and includes the following core courses:
Business Law and Ethics
Entrepreneurial Management
Managerial Accounting
Managerial Economics
Managerial Finance
Marketing Management
Organizational Behavior
Strategic Management
Students in this online MBA program may also complete and additional two classes (6 credit hours) for a concentration. All students must complete a capstone project.
The Collat School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
The Collat School of Business at the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options in a variety of business fields, including marketing, management, accounting, and information systems. With a variety of online programs available, the School of Business meets the needs of traditional and non–traditional students from diverse backgrounds. With numerous internship and scholarship opportunities, as well as professional development services, the Collat School of Business supplies students with plenty of opportunities for growth.
The Collat School of Business offers an online MBA degree program with a Management in Information Systems concentration for experienced business professionals as well as students without a background in business studies. The program utilizes an MBA core, covering topics such as organizational management and corporate finance, as well as management in information systems niche coursework. Students prepare to solve complex managerial problems through applying analytical techniques, an in–depth understanding of organizational behavior, and specialized technical knowledge.
The program prepares students to fill leadership roles in variety of professional settings, including business, industry, government, and social services.
The MBA in Management in Information Systems online program requires 36 credit hours and includes the following core courses:
Accounting and Finance for Managers
Economics for Managers
Information Technology and Business Strategy
Management and Organizations
Operations and Supply Chain Management
Quantitative Analysis for Business Managers
Strategic Cost Analysis and Decision Making
Topics in Corporate Finance
Students must complete a capstone project.
The online MBA program comes with two plans of study: a one–year full–time plan and a two–year part–time plan.
With a history dating back to 1928, the College of Business and Aviation at Delta State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in diverse fields of business and commercial aviation built on years of experience. Dedicated to career–readiness and professional development, the College of Business and Aviation serves students through residential and online programs, internship and scholarship opportunities, career development services, and more.
The College of Business and Aviation offers an online MBA degree program with an Information Systems Management emphasis designed for professionals and managers seeking to advance their careers. The program develops a strong foundation of knowledge in business administration and information systems management through a curriculum that centers on financial strategy, operational strategy, and strategic planning.
Coursework includes an MBA core, covering business fundamentals such as accounting and marketing, as well as emphasis–specific coursework in information systems management.
Students prepare to pursue or advance careers in information systems management in diverse professional settings, including corporate business, manufacturing, finance and insurance, and computer systems design.
The online MBA in Information Systems Management program requires 30 credit hours and includes the following emphasis courses:
The School of Business at Charleston Southern University provides students with a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options to study a diverse selection of business fields. The School of Business builds its program around a core mission of producing qualified industry leaders who reflect Christian principles in their business practices. School of Business Students benefit from internship and scholarship opportunities, a strong moral and ethical component in their education, flexible online programs, professional development services, and more.
In Collaboration with the Graduate School, the School of Business offers an online MBA degree program with an emphasis in Management Information Systems that prepares students for a variety of careers in diverse professional settings in business. The program develops a balanced foundation of business and technological knowledge.
The program includes core MBA coursework, covering key topics such as managerial accounting, strategic planning, and management theory and practice, in combination with specific coursework covering management information systems. Students prepare to pursue a variety of specialty and niche careers, including chief executive, computer programmer, information security analyst, and computer network architect.
The MBA Management Information Systems online program requires 33 credit hours and includes a selection of the following courses:
Data Security and Emerging Information Technologies
The College of Business Administration is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
About this school
Established in 1969, the College of Business Administration builds on years of tradition in business education, through undergraduate, graduate, and professional program options. Covering many fields, including marketing, accounting, and information systems, the College serves the needs of a diverse student population.
The College of Business Administration offers numerous internship opportunities, flexible online programs, access to outreach programs, and research centers, such as the Center for Insurance and Risk Management.
The College of Business Administration offers an MBA online degree program with a concentration in Information Management for students seeking to pursue or advance careers that require information management specialization. The program blends MBA core coursework with information management courses, developing a strong foundation of general and specialized knowledge. The program emphasizes key business knowledge and practices, such as strategic management, organizational behavior, and accounting, alongside courses engaging in information security and business intelligence.
Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers, including computer network architect, information systems manager, project manager, and systems specialist.
The online MBA in Information Management program requires 30 credit hours and includes a selection of the following Information Management concentration courses:
The School of Business at Park University provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, serving the needs of freshman and seasoned professionals. Dedicated to developing qualified professionals who can lead the current business landscape, the School of Business builds its programs around the knowledge and skills necessary to be competitive in the global market.
Students in the School of Business benefit from accelerated and online program options, access to outreach programs, professional partnerships, internship and scholarship opportunities, and more.
The School of Business’ online MBA degree program with a Management Information Systems concentration prepares students to effectively apply management information systems technology in diverse business settings. The program develops a balanced foundation of business practices, industry standards, and business administration theory.
Students engage in core MBA coursework covering topics such as marketing, law and ethics, and accounting, as well as specialized coursework in management information systems.
Students prepare to apply their knowledge as chief executives, systems administrators, systems architects, and analysts in competitive global enterprise settings.
The online MBA in Management Information Systems program requires 33 credit hours and includes a selection of the following concentration courses:
Management Information Systems
Strategic Information Systems
Systems Analysis and Design
Topics in Information Systems
Database Management Systems
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End of list, bravo!
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We selected the programs based on the quality of the program, the types of courses offered as well as the institution’s faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation. This includes the school’s reputation for effectively providing online degree programs.
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Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
What Is an MBA in Management Information Systems?
An MBA in management information systems combines an MBA core with a specialization in information systems management. In these programs, students develop the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for business administration as well as advanced knowledge pertaining to information systems.
MBA in management information systems programs explore database development and management, data mining and analytics, information and technology management, systems analysis and design, and project management. The programs typically also cover the procurement and implementation of new software and technologies. Most students engage in a capstone project in addition to coursework; sometimes, they pursue an internship or practicum.
An MBA MIS prepares students for careers that require them to assess business problems and then implement business technology, software, and information systems to solve the problems.
Pursuing an MIS MBA Online
Online courses for an online MBA in management information systems usually feature lectures and discussion via video chat or forum. They require students to complete assignments within certain deadlines. Some students find accelerated programs beneficial, as they can fit more courses into a shorter time period.
In distance learning, some courses are synchronous, meaning that you attend lectures and discussions at the same time as your classmates. Others are asynchronous, meaning you watch lectures and participate in discussions on your own time. Online programs benefit self–motivated students and are often beneficial for working professionals who need to fit classes around their existing schedules. Since online programs tend to be cheaper than traditional degrees, they are also a great fit for people trying to improve or change their career in an affordable manner.
Advantages of an MBA in Management Information Systems?
Earning an information systems MBA online gives you an edge over peers with lower level business degrees. An MBA marks a certain level of expertise; and when combined with work experience, it can lead to promotions and higher earning potential. Many of the best careers in the field, and especially those in the C–suite, might be out of your grasp without an MBA.
Continuing your education beyond the MBA is an option, especially if you want to go into research or teach at the university level. The table below provides possible earning potentials. Although, no degree can guarantee you a job or a certain salary.
Average Salary by Degree Level
Degree Level
Average Salary
Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems
What Can You Do with an MBA in Management Information Systems?
Students in MBA MIS degree programs learn to synthesize knowledge and skills from the fields of business administration and information technology in order to solve problems. These professionals can pursue careers in diverse industries. Here is some salary information for several possible careers:
This list has careers along with descriptions and links to salary information:
These officers lead efforts to protect an organization’s data from theft or manipulation. They implement protocols and direct the installation or development of new technology.
Salary based on experience:
These professionals direct research efforts to improve computer and information systems. They may work in the private, public, or nonprofit sectors studying abstract or concrete concepts.
Salary based on experience:
These managers direct teams within the IT department and may serve as department heads. They guide employees to implement technology and to prevent or respond to data breaches.
Salary based on experience:
These professionals evaluate organizations and find ways to help improve their efficiency and effectiveness. They must have a strong understanding of management best practices and tools.
Salary based on experience:
Entry Level: $78,000
Mid-Career: $89,000
Experienced: $99,000
Late Career: $78,000
Choosing an Online Management Information Systems MBA Program
Choosing where to earn an online MBA in management information systems involves many factors. For example, choosing to study in-state can reduce tuition costs, while online programs remove costs associated with room and board. Public universities are generally less expensive than private schools, but if a student is studying out–of–state, the difference is often less noticeable. The section below explores some of these factors.
What to Consider
Transfer Policies
Transferring credits from classes you have already completed can help save time and money. If you have already taken graduate–level courses, see if you can transfer any of them to help finish your degree.
School Size and Type
Most graduate programs feature smaller classes than their undergraduate equivalent, but these vary by school. Private schools are more likely to feature accelerated programs or cohort models, while public universities tend to lean more toward traditional program structures.
Program Length
You can complete a typical master’s degree in two years of full–time study, but many online programs offer accelerated options. In these programs you do the same amount of work in a shorter time period.
On–Campus Requirements
Some programs require students to visit campus either for classes or special events. These events can offer unique opportunities to learn, get hands–on experience, or network with others in the same field. If travel is difficult for you, this may be something to look into for each program.
Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements
Most master’s programs require some kind of final project or work experience wherein you synthesize what you have learned and apply that knowledge. The details of each project vary by program and knowing what you need to do for it can be an important deciding factor.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online MBA in Management Information Systems?
Full–time students can generally complete many of the program in two years, part–time students in three years, and students in an accelerated MBA program in one year or more.
Courses in an Online Management Information Systems MBA Program
Data Analysis
This course focuses on the qualitative and quantitative skills needed to make management decisions. You explore how to read and understand data so you can make informed decisions that benefit your organization. Some programs split this into courses on either qualitative or quantitative analysis.
Decision Modeling
A course like this explores how to use existing models and user-interfaces like spreadsheets to make sense of data and make the best possible decisions based on them.
Supply Chain Management
A course like this explores how supply chains work and how they impact data. You will also explore how to use information systems to manage, track, and improve supply chains.
Organizational Change
This course explores the psychology of change, organizational behavior, and the kinds of challenges that can make change difficult; this also includes models of change and the skills needed to enact that change.
Ethical Leadership
A course like this explores what actions leaders should take and how to ensure that their decisions are ethical even when data may point in another direction.
Accreditation for Online MBA Degrees
Accreditation boards review an institution to determine if it meets academic standards. Regional boards most often accredit public colleges or universities while national boards accredit many private and technical schools. Colleges that only offer classes online usually hold national accreditation, but it is important to check with each individual school.
Some programs also carry accreditation from a professional organization or another group. This indicates that the program has met additional criteria. Most degrees do not require programmatic accreditation, but information systems management boasts a variety of them. For instance, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accredits many business schools, including some that offer online courses and are generally responsible for MBAs. Organizations such as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology grant accreditation to computer science and other technology programs.
Management Information Systems Membership Associations
The following list contains information on and links to organizations for management information systems professionals.
IACIS promotes knowledge and skill among information systems academics through an annual conference and publications. Since 1960, IACIS has been promoting information systems education to help make the most of changing technology.
ACM works to advance computing as both a science and a profession. The largest such organization, ACM has been in operation for over 60 years. It maintains several journals and magazines, publishes books, and hosts conferences.
A global nonprofit organization, CMG focuses on transforming digital technology. Its members develop and study new trends and tools in information technology and promote best practices for using those tools.
IRMA focuses on research that promotes and improves the management of information resources. The association does this by bringing together members from across the world to share findings and pool their knowledge.
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