Best Online MBA in Management Information Systems

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Updated October 19, 2023

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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 Programs

  1. University of Maryland-College Park
    Location

    College Park, MD

    Tuition

    $16790

    A public university founded in 1856, UMD offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in information systems and business analytics. Students complete courses online with two required residencies.

    Students complete business courses such as corporate finance, marketing management, and supply chain management before moving on to concentration courses. Notable courses include data mining and predictive analytics, social media and web analytics, and managing digital businesses and platforms.

    Students need a bachelor's degree and GMAT or GRE records to qualify for admission.

  2. University of Utah
    Location

    Salt Lake City, UT

    Tuition

    $13460

    Founded in 1850 and serving over 32,000 students, the U offers an online master of business administration with a graduate certificate in information systems. Students complete coursework in eight-week formats with one required residency.

    Business coursework includes managing and leading organizations and competitive strategy. From there, students complete 18 credits in information systems to earn the additional certificate.

    The school accepts applications on a rolling basis. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 to qualify for admission. Students without the required GPA may apply with competitive GRE or GMAT scores.

  3. Florida Atlantic University
    Location

    Boca Raton, FL

    Tuition

    $9486

    A public university founded in 1961, FAU offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in management information systems. Students complete courses online with no residency requirements.

    Learners take required business courses before beginning the concentration coursework. Notable courses in management information systems include web-based business development, enterprise information technology service management, and information technology project and change management.

    Applicants need a bachelor's degree in any discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credits of coursework and four years of work experience to qualify for admission. Students must also submit GMAT or GRE scores.

  4. West Texas A & M University
    Location

    Canyon, TX

    Tuition

    $13325

    A public university founded in 1910, WTAMU offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in computer information systems.

    Students complete business courses before moving on to concentration courses. Notable options include business intelligence and support systems, social network and media analysis, networking management and information security, and data mining methods.

    Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and GMAT scores to qualify for admission. Students with ten years of work experience can apply for a standardized test waiver.

  5. Central Michigan University
    Location

    Mount Pleasant, MI

    Tuition

    $14372

    A public university founded in 1892, CMU offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in information systems. Courses happen 100% online with no residency requirements.

    Students complete courses in business before moving on to concentration courses. Course topics include enterprise systems for management using SAP software, ABAP programming for enterprise systems, and enterprise system configuration using SAP software.

    Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.7 to qualify for admission. Students do not need to submit standardized test scores.

  6. Saint Francis University
    Location

    Loretto, PA

    A private Catholic university founded in 1847, Saint Francis offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in information systems and project management. Students complete 36 credits entirely online.

    Students finish business core coursework such as financial decision-making, managerial accounting, and strategic marketing for the global economy. Required concentration courses include management information systems and IS project management.

    Applicants without a business undergraduate degree must finish business prerequisites before program entry. Potential students need a minimum GPA of 3.0 and GMAT scores to apply.

  7. Concordia University-Wisconsin
    Location

    Mequon, WI

    Founded in 1974, CUW offers an online master of business administration in management information systems. Students complete 39 courses online, including the required series for the concentration.

    Students begin with business courses such as managerial economics, ethics and organizational leadership, corporate finance, and management science and analytics. Learners then choose five courses from information systems electives. Notable courses include management information systems, systems and analysis design, and Oracle business applications.

    Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 to qualify for admission. Students do not need to submit standardized test scores.

  8. Fort Hays State University
    Location

    Hays, KS

    Tuition

    $12420

    Founded in 1902, FHSU offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in management information systems. Students complete 34 credits online with no residency requirements.

    Business courses include advanced managerial accounting, information systems for management, business research and quantitative methods, and strategic finance. Students then take one elective and two courses to finish the concentration: information systems design and development and the law of cyberspace.

    Applicants need a bachelor's degree in any discipline and official GMAT or GRE scores to apply for the program.

  9. Lamar University
    Location

    Beaumont, TX

    Tuition

    $11510

    Founded in 1923, Lamar offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in management information systems. Students complete all coursework online with no residency requirements.

    Students take online business courses such as managerial accounting, financial management, and strategic management, as well as any leveling courses. Concentration courses include electives such as database management systems, information assurance and security, and cybersecurity management.

    Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and GMAT scores to qualify for admission.

  10. Wayne State University
    Location

    Detroit, MI

    Tuition

    $14366

    A public university founded in 1868, WSU offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in information systems management.

    Students begin with business core coursework such as corporate financial management, strategic management, and managing organizational behavior. To complete the concentration, students choose from courses such as information systems design, business analytics, and societal and ethical issues in the information age.

    Applicants need GMAT, LSAT, or GRE scores and an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.2 (3.0 for business undergraduates) to qualify for admission.

    Wayne State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Best Online Programs

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

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Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

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Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

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Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

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Featured Online MBA in Management Information Systems Programs

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 $76,000
MBA in Management Information Systems $95,000
Source: PayScale

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:

Chief Information Security Officer

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.

Entry Level: $117,000 Experienced: $157,000 Mid-Career: $124,000 Late Career: $181,000

Computer and Information Research Scientist

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.

Entry Level: $124,000 Experienced: $168,000 Mid-Career: $137,000 Late Career: $86,000

Information Systems Manager

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.

Entry Level: $108,000 Experienced: $140,000 Mid-Career: $125,000 Late Career: $62,000

Management Consultant

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.

Entry Level: $78,000 Experienced: $99,000 Mid-Career: $89,000 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.

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

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.

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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