The field of management information systems offers lucrative salary packages and strong career prospects. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees are offered in this field. Those who obtain a master’s degree find better job opportunities.
What Is Management Information Systems?
Management Information Systems (MIS) is the study of organizations, technology, people, and the relationship between them. People working in this field help organizations gain maximum benefits from their investment in equipment, business processes, and personnel. It is a field that revolves around people and serving them through technology. Those who are interested in technology and its working are recommended to pursue a career in this field.
What Can You Do with A Degree in Management Information Systems?
A management information systems degree prepares students for various career paths. The skills developed during these programs help students work as a leader. They shape the company’s information technology strategy and implement it. These graduates are required to know how to translate complex concepts for customers and clients who do not have the same level of expertise. All the career options in this field require candidates to have strong analytical and technical skills.
The following are some of the career options available for MIS degree graduates.
Database Administrators
Database administrators use various software to organize and store data which includes customer and financial information. These professionals make sure of the availability of the data to the users and its security.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $93,750 | 9% | $96,110 | California | 13,530 |
| New Jersey | $115,600 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Computer Network Architects
Computer network architects build and design data communication networks, including wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), and intranets. They manage networks and troubleshoot issues that may arise. These professionals predict future needs as well.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $112,690 | 5% | $115,110 | California | 18,210 |
| Virginia | $128,530 |
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Also known as IT managers, computer and information systems managers, direct, plan, and coordinate computer-related activities. They figure out the IT goals of a firm and implement computer systems in the best possible way to meet those goals. The duties of these professionals differ with the size of an organization.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $146,360 | 11% | $156,390 | California | 75,700 |
| New York | $190,390 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Expect from A Management Information Systems Degree?
Multiple colleges offer a degree in MIS. Each college may have a different requirement and a different program format. For example, some programs have a set list of courses that are to be taken by all students, while others allow you to choose your courses. Courses offered during these programs include basic programming, data mining, database concepts, cloud computing, and big data, information management, systems design, systems analysis, etc.
How to Choose A Management Information Systems Degree?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program:
- Choose a recognized program
- Consider the program format that is offered
- Check if scholarships are offered
- Consider the cost and length of the program
- Check if they are offering any specialization
- Check if it is an online or campus-based program
Management Information Systems Degree Admission Requirements
To obtain a bachelor’s degree in MIS, students need to have a high school diploma and a minimum GPA. However, they should have a bachelor’s degree and a good GPA to get enrolled in a master’s program. Some programs may have requirements like GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, etc.