Best Online Master's Degree in Information Systems

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Contents

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER’S DEGREE IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS?

OUR RANKING CRITERIA

10 Best Online Masters Information Systems

OTHER NOTABLE INFORMATION SYSTEMS PROGRAMS

We live in the digital era. It’s smart to go back to school and get an education focused on some kind of computer science.

One of the best choices you can make? Earning a Master of Science in Information Science (MSIS) degree.

This MS in Information Systems degree is an interesting specialization to say the least. It combines business understanding with programming knowledge of traditional computer science pathways.

Information systems experts need to be able to organize and translate vast amounts of data. They must parse how different computer systems integrate and operate with each other.

Information systems specialists can improve businesses, manage entire networks of computer systems, or protect a complex computer system from security threats. In many cases, MSIS degree-holders affect these changes. They do this by taking charge of a small group of people.

There are very few large-scale business projects that happen as a result of one person. Being able to head a team of IT professionals is critical for success in the private sector. MSIS degrees also prepare students to lead teams of like-minded individuals to get real results. There’s an element of people skills required to excel with an MSIS degree.

The field also demands an understanding of information technology and computer science. This is at a level higher than that of the average person.

MSIS professionals don’t just focus on small-scale information technology issues or specialize in any type of programming. Instead, they often have a great understanding of computer systems on a holistic scale. They can see how smaller computer systems interact with one another. They observe how they have large impacts on businesses or entire economic sectors.

An MSIS degree is somewhat generalized. Yet it’s a bit specialized at the same time.

There are many career opportunities for people who hold an MSIS degree. This is what makes it attractive! It allows for some flexibility and versatility.

You’ll still spend a lot of time interacting with code and thinking about programming. However, there’s a broader aspect of the field that attracts many business-oriented professionals as well as tech-heads.

As a result, your coworkers are more likely to be from diverse academic backgrounds. Because it’s more interdisciplinary than other specialized master’s degrees, an MSIS degree has coursework that draws from both IT and business frameworks. Classes are mixed in most programs. You don’t spend too long focusing on just one aspect of the degree.

Core courses vary depending on the information systems degree you choose. However, most include core courses in topics such as:

Business intelligence
Project management
Management information systems
Information systems programs
Data science
Computer and information science
Data science
Database management
Information security/information assurance
Cloud computing
Big data
Information systems security
Software development
Application development
Systems analysis and design
Data analytics
Information technology
Software engineering
Risk management
Business strategy
Cyber security
Business data and database systems
Information systems analysis
Geographic information systems
Information systems law
Data warehousing
Operating systems

The courses you take in your computer and information systems degree will prepare you to work in all kinds of roles. You could start your own. business in information systems security. Or you could even go on to work for a top-tier organization like the National Security Agency. The options are endless when you complete a degree in information and database management.

This versatility allows for most universities to offer dual MBA options. Students can combine a focus on information systems with business or business analysis to be more attractive to employers after graduation. These degrees don’t take too long to complete. That’s compared to their single-degree counterparts. They’re a good choice for dedicated professionals who want a leg up against the competition from fellow graduates.

What can you do with a degree in information systems analysis? The options are endless. After the successful completion of a graduate degree or graduate certification in information systems, information systems professionals go on to careers in some of the following roles:

Data warehouse managers
Information systems managers
Positions with homeland security
Human computer interaction
Object oriented programming
Risk management
Software engineering
Application development
Health informatics
Project management
Information security
Web developer
Business intelligence
Data analyst
Systems analysis and design

Studying information systems at an accredited college is a great way to gain an advanced knowledge in the subject and to meet professional goals of all kinds.

Not sure which of these is the best information systems degree for your needs? Consider which core courses you’re most interested in taking, as well as which of these programs will give you the practical experience you need to be successful.

Do you want to pursue a concentration in a topic like database security or cloud computing? Are you more interested in a general information systems security program? Is data visualization or data mining more your thing? Think carefully about which program will help you meet your goals through core and elective courses. Not all online degrees are the same, after all.

In addition to the outstanding, hands-on programs we’ve covered in this post, other top degrees include those offered by schools like:

Florida State University
Boston University
Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona
The University of West Texas
Colorado State University

Each has different degree requirements and core and elective courses, so make sure you do your research to find the accredited college that’s right for you before you take the next steps.

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

What’s required to earn an MSIS degree? What kind of application materials do you need to submit?

You’ll need to have an undergrad degree in a related field. That’s mandatory to even qualify for the vast majority of master’s programs designed for aspiring information systems managers.

It’s true that there are a few master’s programs in information systems that will accept an applicant before he or she has earned a bachelor’s in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a similar field. However, these are few and far between. Your best bet is to focus on completing your undergraduate degree before applying to a master’s program.

The undergraduate degree will prepare you for all of the core knowledge needed to complete an MSIS curriculum. It will ensure that you have a solid foundation in computer science and programming before you dip into more complex topics.

Master’s MSIS and information technology programs have demanding application requirements. Many universities want at least two or three years of work experience before considering a particular candidate for a master’s program position.

That’s because these information technology programs are competitive. The limited number of slots per semester must be filled with the best possible candidates.

Other master’s programs in information technology require certificates or other proof of knowledge of certain programming or mathematical skills. This depends on their focus or the stated purpose for their graduates.

More generalized MSIS master’s programs may not have these particular requirements. Candidates must also have a high GPA in their bachelor’s work.

While this GPA minimum will vary by the university, most require a minimum of 3.0 or higher to be considered. If you don’t have a GPA this high and have completed an undergraduate degree, you can always take an additional class or two to boost your overall GPA.

Most master’s programs, not just MSIS programs, require applicants to submit at least two letters of recommendation. These should be from teachers or employers. These letters don’t need to be very complex. They are vouching for your character and studiousness, so the program knows you are worth the spot.

You’ll also need to take the GRE for the majority of MSIS programs. The Graduate Record Examination is a test taken on the computer. It is mostly multiple-choice. Studying for this is recommended. Passing the GRE is often not enough for many master’s programs. Lots of universities have minimum GRE score requirements for all program applicants.

Many standard MSIS programs have 32 to 48 credits. This will vary by the university. They often take between around one to three years to complete. Many online programs allow students to complete their degrees in a shorter amount of time if they take on more classes in a given semester.

Due to the rigor of the coursework, some universities may only allow students to take a set number of classes at a time. Many MSIS programs, like other master’s programs, have limited start dates relative to the ones you may expect from a bachelor’s program.

Lots of schools only have master’s start dates in the fall. That’s rather than the fall or spring. Keep these dates in mind if you want to apply for a master’s program beginning soon. Application dates are usually six to eight months prior to the semester start.

Don’t forget that you may be asked to pay an application fee by the college or university to which you are applying, too. Although the application fee is sometimes waived by online degrees, this is not always the case. If you want to earn a master’s, be prepared to pay the application fee. It isn’t usually much, but it’s smart to narrow down your list of potential online degrees before you start applying. That way, you won’t find yourself paying a hefty application fee to every single college or university you come across!

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

Master’s degrees can be expensive. Two full years of study at a college or university are cheaper than four years, sure. However, many credit hours in master’s programs are more expensive than their bachelor counterparts.

This can add up to a lot of money. The good news is that there are financial aid options available. As with bachelor’s degrees, you should always apply to the FAFSA prior to any new school year. The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a great resource for federal financial aid, state financial aid, and even school-based financial assistance.

The FAFSA compiles your information for government review of what kind of financial assistance you might qualify for. It can let you know if you qualify for any of the most common government grants or loans. This is the only way to access a wide range of financial aid programs, like the Pell Grant. It’s also the way to receive subsidized loans from an entity as trustworthy as the U.S. government.

You’ll also want to check with any school to which you are thinking of applying. See if it has any program-specific scholarships or grant opportunities. Ask about other school or federal financial aid you might not be aware of for your graduate degree.

Lots of programs are tied directly to their subsidiary school. For example, this might be a particular university’s School of Engineering.

These grants are excellent sources of financial aid. You’re not competing with the student body as a whole. Many programs have small contests. These require you to write an essay or provide proof of your talent for cash prizes. You can put these toward your studies.

Many universities have their own scholarships and grants for anyone studying either on-campus or online. Schools receive donations from alumni and many other sources. They will funnel this revenue into scholarship programs, among other things. These grants and loans aren’t often very much. Many students, through careful planning, are able to pay for all or most of their computer systems education. They combine many small grants each semester.

Don’t neglect the internet. There are plenty of other organizations beyond your home university. These offer financial aid opportunities to struggling management information systems students.

Computer science classes and information systems programs are often filled with working professionals. They focus on post-graduation employment opportunities more than many other types of programs.

As information systems programs often come from engineering or business schools, this is also true for you. Work-study programs in information technology often ask students to work either as a teaching assistant (in a teacher assistantship) or for a business associated with the university.

While you work, you study and complete your education. You’ll have some or all of your costs paid for by the university or your employer. The details of each program vary. They are often quite worthwhile. These programs are also quite competitive. Many of them award a small stipend to help students cover their living costs. You’ll need to balance your studies with working between 15 and 20 hours each week at your job or assistantship.

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER’S DEGREE IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS?

There has been a rapid expansion of the computer and digital industries. The need for skilled workers in all types of computer science is greater than ever before.

Earning a graduate degree in information systems, as opposed to just a bachelor’s, is a surefire way to earn more money. That’s true both now and over your lifetime as an information technology professional.

MSIS degrees prepare students for both more technical computer science work. They prepare them for better data analysis that is more valuable to the private sector and government operations. They also prepare them to manage smaller teams. Managers, in particular, often make much more than independent workers or contractors. They have great job security with more responsibility wherever they are employed.

The real money and opportunity come in management. This is what your MSIS degree will prepare you for. Computer and information systems managers make close to $159,010 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Also according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics is the fact that these jobs are growing at a rate of 16% per year. This is much faster than average.

These managers coordinate other computer science experts and manage plans for growth or optimization. It’s clear from the data that there are jobs for those with expertise and a solid education. These jobs are lucrative. They aren’t going to go away anytime soon. The nature of the work isn’t at risk of being replaced by automation.

There are unlimited job opportunities in this field. That’s both a subjective opinion as well as a fact from data aggregated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These jobs are in massive demand and are on the cutting edge of innovation.

Why? Both the U.S. government and the private sector are employing more information systems experts than ever before. The government has many defense and economic projects. There are lots of things to do in many businesses across multiple sectors. You don’t even have to work for a computer science firm. Almost every business has an online or digital component these days.

An MSIS degree will be technical and specialized. Yet your opportunities for actual employment are as varied as someone with a generalized business degree.

Earn a master’s in information and database security and systems, and you’ll be well on your way to a wide range of rewarding careers in technological innovation and data management.

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Check out our ranking of the top 10 best online Master’s Programs in Information Systems!

10 Best Online Masters Information Systems

#1. UNIVERSITY OF UTAH

ONLINE MASTER’S IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SYSTEMS

You’ll find one of the best online MSIS degrees at the University of Utah.

The University of Utah has a proud tradition of team sports. Online students can’t take advantage of this aspect of the school. However, they can benefit from the diverse faculty and student body that provide a variety of viewpoints and new experiences. That’s true no matter how they finish their education!

This school opened in 1850 as the University of Deseret. The University of Utah is the state’s oldest institution of higher education. It produced many world-famous alumni, including several Nobel Prize winners and Turing Award winners.

Utah’s program is one of the few that accepts applicants who have not yet completed undergraduate training. These students must complete a 3-credit hour prerequisite class. It’s called Introduction to Information Systems. This course covers cutting edge topics and gives you the base technical skills you need to begin the core courses in your online program.

The University of Utah also requires students to submit a one-minute video recording to introduce themselves to both their peers and their teachers. This is a required part of the application process to earn a master’s here. Start dates are available in both the fall and spring semesters.

In this program, you will study topics such as:

Business intelligence
Project management
Computer information system technology
Information assurance
Cloud computing
Data science
Information systems security
Big data
Software development
Application development
Management systems

Students can enroll in the MSIS and information technology program full- or part-time. This is depending on their schedule. The online format allows for ultimate flexibility for part-time students and full-time students alike. It is open 24/7, so students can make their studies work around any schedule and enroll in the next term available.

This flexibility is bolstered by a structured curriculum. It follows the same template and timeline as the on-campus version of the program. Students can take advantage of one-on-one virtual career coaching at any time to add to their more theoretical work. This can be helpful if a student is struggling with their course load. It’s also helpful if they decide against finishing the information technology degree.

This program will prepare you for just about any career path by giving you technical skills and practical experience in information and database security. You’ll work closely with faculty members to develop these technical skills and find the core courses that match your career goals.

UOnline is the university’s interactive system for completing courses delivered in an electronic format. Many assignments rely on peer reviews and forum-based posting. There are also several guided online discussions. There are even online office hours for each class. The program requires students to complete a capstone project. This capstone project provides valuable hands-on experience in a specific area. It gives graduates something real to use to demonstrate their expertise to future employers. This project, plus all of the credits earned for the classes, add up to a typical total of 30 credit hours.

#2. AUBURN UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SYSTEMS

Another one of the best online master’s information systems degrees can be found at Auburn University.

This school began as East Alabama Male College. However, Auburn has evolved far past its initial charter. It was first a liberal arts school with a heavy religious focus. It has since become a public university. It was the first coeducational school in Alabama. The name was changed in 1960 to reflect the university’s greater diversity and the inclusion of a wider variety of programs and classes. This extends beyond the original liberal arts focus. The campus is located in the town of the same name. Today, it employs more than 1300 full-time faculty. They handle over 30,000 students each year. Many of these teachers specialize in online education. Even the digital programs are up to a higher standard than others.

Auburn’s MSIS program consists of 30 credit hours of coursework. This is earned across ten courses worth three credit hours each. There are three required courses that all students must take. That’s plus a final project course that includes completing a capstone project to improve students’ skills and knowledge.

There’s a good degree of freedom built into the capstone project. Students can solve a particular problem in their specialization or area of interest in information technology.

The program’s schedule is flexible. Most students complete work in two years or less. The university allows three years or more if a student requires some extra time if needed.

Students work with a faculty advisor who helps to determine an ideal scheduling system. Students and advisors (again, all of whom are full time faculty members) plan out all information technology courses for the entire year in advance. This is even before a student commits to the program. This is an excellent system for helping students make the most of their time.

Auburn also offers a dual MBA program that can be completed online. This combines information systems expertise with another topic. Options include industrial and systems engineering or finance. Both of these are phenomenal options for specializing in the engineering sector or in the world of finance. You can study topics like business intelligence, project management, information assurance, and much more.

With this option, a student’s final degree is a Master of Science in Business Administration. Those who choose to pursue a dual MBA program extend their studies to three years. The same schedule flexibility remains.

Auburn’s information technology program includes a host of career services for new graduates. Auburn can help students network following graduation. It provides one-on-one career coaching, including mock interviews and assistance with social networking skills. Developing as an information technology professional is made easy thanks to the faculty’s expertise.

#3. IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SYSTEMS

Iowa State University is home to another one of the best online masters information systems programs.

This school only just launched an online MSIS degree. This was after decades of offering the program only in person. The Ivy College of Business offers this degree at Iowa State University. It opened in 1984. It is one of the newest colleges developed for this type of information technology program. But the college’s relative youth has helped it stay relevant for modern students.

Iowa State University is a school with a lot of accolades. And for good reason! The curriculum is rigorous but fair. It offers a balanced focus on science and business. It’s among the top 16% of AACSB-accredited programs. That’s according to U.S. News & World Report. It was also ranked among the public U.S. MBA programs.

Iowa State University has a curriculum that is taught by information technology faculty members who are experienced in the fields of information systems and business analytics. It runs the MSIS program to emphasize the benefits of understanding large-scale information systems. You’ll learn how to apply that knowledge to help businesses run themselves in a more efficient manner. That way, they can generate greater profits.

The program has 30 or 33 credit hours. This depends on students’ elective choices. A core curriculum of five specific courses is required of all students. They may choose from among four courses for the last three.

You can take classes such as:

Business intelligence
Computer and information system technology
Project management
Information assurance
Database management
Data science
Computer information systems
Software development
Cloud computing

Any student accepted into the program has up to seven years to complete all coursework. Completing it in the standard two years is possible if one maintains a rigorous schedule. There’s also an MSIS/MBA double major program available for information technology students who would like to improve their employment opportunities or salary cap.

Iowa State University also offers plenty of certificates. These can be used to secure positions in associated fields or to qualify for higher responsibility positions in information technology. These certificates include:

finance
business analytics
supply chain management
entrepreneurship and innovation
enterprise cybersecurity management

Anyone concerned about job placement after graduation would do well to look at this computer and information systems online program. It boasts a 100% employment rate within six months after graduation. The information systems program also offers a special one-time scholarship of $5000 for Iowa residents who enroll. Iowa State has plenty of graduate business career services for students to explore. The comprehensive career management services in this computer and information systems online program are specialized for those who graduate from the business school and to have master’s degree programs. They work on getting graduates into jobs that are worthy of their expertise and degrees.

Iowa State has partnerships with various employment recruiters and hiring managers. This gives students a foot in the door in some of the best companies in America, including Google. Outstanding graduates are more likely to be hired by top employers as a result of these career services. There are also opportunities for internships, thanks to this employment network.

#4. UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS

ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Another one of the best online MSIS programs can be found at the University of Arkansas.

This school opened in 1871. The University of Arkansas is the most important school in the state’s higher education system. It has a student body of about 27,000. It offers a whopping 210 academic programs. Most of the students attend school in person. That means that the university’s online programs often have small class sizes. This allows instructors to focus more on individual educational needs. U of A has a full-time faculty of 1401 teachers. This offers a quite low student-to-teacher ratio.

Admission to the computer information systems program is extremely competitive. It is critical that prospective students apply early. You’ll need to make sure your application is as airtight and impressive as possible.

The computer information systems program also has an odd start date. Rather than beginning in the fall, as most other master’s programs do, this full-time computer and information systems program begins in the summer. There is an application deadline of Nov. 1 of the previous year for these information technology programs.

The computer information systems program takes just one year to complete if a student is enrolled full-time. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to jump into their next career as fast as possible. A part-time computer information systems program option for working professionals is also available. It takes less than two years to complete.

The University of Arkansas’ information systems program is one of the fastest, in terms of typical completion times. This is a 30-credit hour computer information systems program. It offers four areas of concentration.

Students can specialize in multiple areas in the information systems program. These include:

enterprise resource planning
management blockchain enterprise systems
software engineering
information technology management

These are ideal if they want to lead their own teams in the future. The curriculum focuses on how to manage and understand information technology systems and problems from a global perspective. This prepares students for information technology careers anywhere in the world.

Both the full- and part-time information systems programs ask students to meet with their professors online on certain days of the week. The part-time program is a little more relaxed in this respect. It requires students to meet with the rest of their class and/or instructor one Saturday per month.

Students can also take the part-time program blended online or in-person format. This hybrid option is ideal if they live near the university campus. The part-time program has a GRE waiver during the application for applicants who have at least five years of quality work experience. This information technology program’s overseers also work with professional employers to seek out tuition reimbursement programs.

The program curriculum at this state university is intense and effective. Many graduates go on to work for important companies. These include FedEx, Hewlett-Packard, or Intel. That’s thanks to the U of A’s strong networking opportunities. It also has a strong focus on combining business sense with IT knowledge.

Career fairs are offered twice per year. Students can seek out future employers and make connections to springboard into a lucrative information technology profession as soon as they graduate.

The part-time degree in information systems is flexible when it comes to its application requirements and scheduling. This makes it one of the best programs for working adults or professionals who cannot take too much time off each month.

#5. DREXEL UNIVERSITY

MS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Drexel University is home to another stellar online master information systems degree.

Drexel offers a large number of online degrees. It has a well-vetted online master’s program for just about any degree a person can imagine. Its instructors are well-versed in online teaching techniques. Most of the faculty hold degrees in whatever field they are teaching.

This is a university focused on new horizons and new technological offerings. Drexel was the first school to require that new students have microcomputers starting in 1983. It’s offered accredited online bachelor’s and master’s degrees since 1996! That’s much earlier than many competing universities. It is just another example of how Drexel has led the way toward new means of perfecting the e-learning experience. This school allows anyone to earn a degree from anywhere in the world.

Drexel’s degree in information systems has been ranked among the best online graduate computer information technology programs by U.S. News & World Report.

Perhaps because of this standard, admissions requirements are strict. A 3.2 GPA is required. This is a little higher than the 3.0 students will recall from many other master’s programs’ admissions requirements. However, the degree in information systems does accept students with lower GPAs. This is only if they have work experience that can showcase their aptitude for the program (this work experience doesn’t always have to be full time, so be sure to check in about what the requirements are for distance learners).

The degree in information systems has four start dates. There is one for each season of the year. This makes it easy to jump in regardless of when a student discovers it and has a handle on the admissions requirements.

The university’s online interface is intuitive and easy to use. For testing, predetermined windows are set up on certain days of the week. This allows students to take exams using proctored software that measures their progress and ensures that everyone completes the task in a fair, even way. Aside from these testing dates, students can often complete all of their work at their own pace.

The university offers several extra tools to its students. For example, there is 24/7 tech support and the award-winning online W.W. Hagerty Library. The library has a career center where students can network with future employers and other students. There is also a writing center where they can receive one-on-one tutoring and assistance with essays and everyday writing.

The information technology program has a regimented curriculum. Yet it also has a flexible pace. Students can complete just one course per term. Or they can opt for a full-time load of nine or more credits per quarter. Classes are organized into four 10-week quarters per year. By the end of the program, students have completed 45 credit hours of study. Despite this higher credit hour requirement, most students can complete the degree in information systems in two years or less.

There’s also flexibility when it comes to choosing classes. Students do have to follow a required course list that includes nine required classes. However, there are more than 20 classes from which each student chooses four additional courses in information technology. This allows for specialization and a focus on what interests the student. Everyone can tailor their education to something that will suit their future career upon graduation.

#6. MARIST COLLEGE

MS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

You might be surprised at how much the online masters of information systems at Marist College has to offer.

Marist is a smaller than average school. Yet that doesn’t lessen its overall quality or importance. It’s ranked among the top regional universities for the northern United States. That’s according to U.S. News & World Report. It only has about 1400 graduate students. Many of the online courses have a small teacher-to-student ratio. This gives students a quality, personal education. That’s as opposed to the crowded programs found elsewhere. Its accolades continue in the Princeton Review. This publication named it one of the best colleges in the country. Money magazine named Marist one of the best colleges in the nation, as well.

Marist has both lighter and more restrictive admission requirements than several competing universities. Its GPA requirement is not as high as many other schools’. However, Marist does require applicants to have completed a prerequisite course in statistics before applying. Marist also requests that students specify any programming languages they already know. That way, the admissions team can better decide if the applicant is a good fit for the degree in information systems.

Marist offers several financial aid opportunities to its students. There are a number of graduate-specific scholarships for students in this particular master’s degree in information systems. There’s also an alumni tuition benefit.

Marist is also home to several corporate and organizational partnerships. These can lead to internships after graduation. There are also work-study programs depending on the company you work with. Check Marist’s financial aid page to learn more about other grants and loans.

Marist’s degree in information systems teaches students all they need to know to balance both managerial skills and technical IT knowledge. It places a strong emphasis on the managerial aspects of businesses that rely on technology. This makes it a most satisfying program for students who know they want to become managers of their own companies or team leaders for other firms at some point in the future.

Many of the classes reflect this focus. Lots of them are real-client based. That means they use scenarios or examples from real-world cases to show students the best possible path forward in a variety of business situations. These classes are excellent for helping students get as close to hands-on experience as possible.

The master’s degree in information systems includes three concentrations. Students can tailor their degree to suit their career goals or interests. These are:

information systems management
business analytics
computer networks and security

The first concentration is the most business-oriented of the three. It is one of the foundational paths forward for anyone who wants to become a chief information officer someday.

The second pathway, business analytics, helps students see the broader ramifications of technological decisions. It helps them enact change throughout an entire organization through smart IT applications. The courses in this concentration provide hands-on experience with software tools and analytical methods.

The computer networks and security concentration is ideal for students who want to focus on security professions. They learn how to assess infrastructure for a large, IT-dense company. They also have the chance to use some of the technology in a state-of-the-art networking lab.

The master’s degree in information systems is flexible. There is also a focus offered through the three pathways. Therefore, students’ credit hour requirements vary. Most students have earned about 36 credit hours by the time they graduate.

#7. UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN – DEARBORN

MS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

The MSIS online at the University of Michigan – Dearborn is another one of the best in the world.

University of Michigan at Dearborn is an excellent place to earn an MSIS degree. It is ranked as a top online MBA program in Michigan by U.S. News & World Report. This school has a master’s degree in information systems that balances rigor and customization.

The information systems program is a hybrid of online and on-campus learning in information security. It is only a good fit for students in the Dearborn area. The hybrid aspects of the master’s in information systems bring the personal touch of an in-person classroom and the flexibility of online learning together. Hybrid programs are even rarer than online-only programs. However, this might be a great fit for a student who needs a little extra flexibility but has trouble staying focused during online-only programs.

The Dearborn campus is beautiful. It is packed with lots of resources students should take advantage of to succeed. There are multiple networking opportunities and career fairs throughout the year. There is also a dedicated internship and career management center. These can help with finding employment after graduation. Or they can smooth the process of setting up a work-study program to help finance one’s education.

Students come from all across the U.S. and many foreign countries. The student body is diverse and involved. It boasts 130 student organizations. The College of Business is home to eight of these. There are also several competitions held each year. Students can enter these to make their name known. Or they can become involved in the community. These are great places to meet new friends and interact with potential future workmates.

The information systems program is much more flexible than a traditional, campus-only degree. Students can enroll full- or part-time during the fall semester and winter semester. The fall admission period is when most of the courses are offered. There are also a few courses offered during the summer. If you take advantage of this window, it may allow you to complete the master’s in information systems in less than one year of study.

Prospective graduate students can get a jump start on the master’s in information systems if they are an undergrad at the university. You just apply to the master’s in information systems before graduation. Some of the graduate credits can be taken during the final semester of the undergraduate program, in this case.

You may take specialized courses in topics such as:

Information security
Database management systems
Business intelligence
Health informatics
Project Management
Database security
Data mining
Big Data
Software design
Systems analysis and design

This management systems degree will prepare you for just about any role in the information technology field.

The information systems program requires 30 credit hours. 21 of these come from core courses. The University of Michigan’s information systems program focuses most on the IT half of the degree. However, it does offer some courses in business intelligence and analysis. It’s a great master’s in information systems for those whose interest is in the computer science aspect of the field, rather than the business side.

Financial aid is available for this cutting edge graduate degree as well.

#8. NEW JERSEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS

The New Jersey Institute of Technology is the state’s only public polytechnic university. It’s also one of the best places to pursue a master information systems online.

It services about 11,000 students each year. Its online educational programs are robust and intuitive. The management information systems programs are bolstered by several industry internships. NJIT is a school well-known for providing more prosperous futures for students from all types of backgrounds.

The New York Times ranks the university as one of the best in the country for students’ upward economic mobility. There are also more than 130 student clubs and plenty of community service projects to join. Students can meet people from a diverse array of ethnic and economic backgrounds.

NJIT offers two degrees in the general area of information systems. The first is a traditional MSIS degree. It has a core curriculum focusing on business analytics and mining. It also emphasizes the understanding of systems design. Students can bring their IT knowledge to bear on business problems to help businesses evolve and improve over time.

Students in this track take several courses that help them make user interfaces more efficient and intuitive. They choose from among four electives to create areas of specialization.

The second path is a Master of Science in Business and Information Systems. This is still a STEM degree at heart. However, it places more of an emphasis on understanding business systems and developing managerial sense. This an excellent choice for students who want to focus on government or nonprofit organizations. It’s also a good choice for those who are more interested in the managerial aspects of the degree.

The management information systems classes cover topics such as:

accounting
finance
marketing
business operations
some IT-focused courses

This path also offers four specializations so students can tailor their degree to their interests or future plans.

Both degrees are interdisciplinary. Because of this, applicants from any field are welcome to apply. You’ll just need to hold some kind of bachelor’s degree. NJIT offers several “bridge courses” for students who need to shore up any core knowledge before proceeding into the management information systems program’s main curriculum. It is possible to have a Bachelor of Arts degree, take a few bridging courses, and then move into the main MSIS program. That kind of flexibility is difficult to find at most other universities. All degrees include 30 credit hours of study.

Students can further enhance the MSIS degree with a professional management option. This option adds an additional six credits to the study plan. These credits will be taken up by a capstone project, a two-semester MS thesis, or a co-op experience in a real work environment. The purpose of these extra credits is to provide students with managerial experience before they graduate. This can improve their readiness to take on a team-leading position once they have earned the degree.

This is an excellent choice for students who are returning to school in hopes of taking on a higher position in the company they already work for. Financial aid is available.

#9. LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Liberty University offers a standard information systems masters degree online. It takes advantage of a healthy online curriculum and well-studied faculty to give graduate students exactly what they need to succeed.

It offers a wide variety of advantages that make it one of the most flexible and easy to appreciate online study experiences. Liberty is an ideal choice for those who have an awkward schedule or who must constantly juggle multiple responsibilities.

This is a 100% online management information systems program. It offers 8-week courses. It takes most students about one and a half years to complete the full 36 credit hours. Students can always truncate this timespan by transferring in up to 50% of the degree total. This is a much higher proportion of transferable credits than many other universities allow.

There are eight start dates throughout the year. This makes it one of the easiest information and database management systems programs to jump into whenever it is convenient. Classes also feature no set log in times. There are not any face-to-face meetings needed for graduation. The degree can be finished on a student’s own schedule and in their own time.

The coursework prepares students to bring information-related training to business problems. It helps them develop a broad perspective to solve those issues for companies, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations. Students choose between two specializations.

The first specialization is information assurance. This focus helps students develop data security strategies. It prepares them to work in IT security professions. Students learn about managing security teams and solving problems with small groups of people.

The other specialization is in technology management. It focuses on teaching students to understand how to coordinate larger development teams. It also teaches them how to manage programming tasks.

Neither path requires a thesis. Both do require students to complete a capstone course. This calls for developing and finishing research projects to demonstrate student expertise.

One thing that separates Liberty University from its counterparts is its Christian focus. Its religious, ethical framework is present in most of the coursework. You’ll find this whenever the classes deal with ethical issues. Legal questions or social issues are presented in ways that adhere to traditional biblical ethical ideals.

As a result, the community tends to be religious and close-knit. Students and faculty share a common interest in their faith. This makes it easier to network and find friends or mentors for life.

As a result, Liberty has a wide variety of scholarships and other financial aid opportunities that anyone may take advantage of. There are several grants related to specific geographical locations. Some regard certain churches. There are others that students can apply for with an essay. All students should be sure to check out the university’s financial aid page to see what aid they may qualify for.

#10. UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER/ANSCHUTZ MEDICAL CAMPUS

MS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Another excellent information systems masters online can be found at CU Denver.

CU Denver educates more than 15,000 students per year. It has a profound impact on all kinds of business sectors worldwide. The Master of Science in information systems is no exception.

It has a diverse student body. Aside from the Master of Science in Information Systems, it offers more than 100 degree programs. The Business School, which oversees the MSIS program, also has strong connections with over 300 businesses. It’s a great information and database management systems program for those who want ample opportunities for employment after graduation.

This management information systems program requires students to complete at least 30 credit hours of work. The final total may be slightly more if prerequisite courses or an extra class or two are required for specialization. The program permits both full- and part-time schedules. It is delivered all online. There are three start dates. These are in the fall, spring, and summer. They provide plenty of opportunities to jump in whenever it is convenient.

The information systems management program offers eight specializations. Only three are available 100% online. This is above and beyond the number of specializations offered by most other MSIS programs.

This is a great information systems management program for someone attending school with a specific career in mind after graduation. No matter which specialization a student chooses, each offers hands-on software projects. This is a great advantage when it comes to learning the details of IT work and business analysis.

The three specializations that can be completed entirely online are:

business intelligence
web and mobile computing
enterprise technology management

There is also a dual-degree option that pairs a Master of Science in Information System with a degree in Business Analytics. The degrees complement each other well. They can be completed without adding too much time to a student’s class schedule.

This Master of Science in Information Systems is also an excellent way to prepare for taking a job in the private sector. It can also prepare you for leading a team as a Chief Intelligence Officer.

Students have access to the university’s Business Career Connections team for the rest of their lives. This team of professional advisors has more than 10 years of recruiting and advising experience. They have connections to hundreds of businesses. They can help students network to find their next job opportunity. They’ll put them in touch with industry leaders as they advance in their careers.

Career events are scheduled throughout the year for students in the Master of Science in Information Systems. Students can take advantage of career workshops to make their social media presence more attractive or perfect their resumes. The team will even email students job announcements every month. This keeps students abreast of new developments and pathways to greater success.

The university has strong internship connections with several important companies. These include DaVita, Newmont Mining, and Vizient. These internship opportunities can translate to credit toward a degree. This allows students to complete the information systems management program in a shorter amount of time.

There are financial aid options available for this Master of Science in Information Systems, as well. Current students can apply for specific scholarships every semester. In theory, your education could become less expensive with each passing term. The information systems management program offers specific scholarships and awards, too.