What are some of the specializations within this degree program?

• Computer and Information Systems Managers: These are the general managers that coordinate the work of IT workers and the use of technology within an organization. They manage computer support workers, software engineers, and computer programmers to keep their work in line with the larger goals of the organization.
• Chief Technology Officers: CTOs are in charge of bringing new technologies into a company, and implementing them in a way that makes the company's workers more efficient or productive.
• Information Technology Directors/Management Information Systems Directors: IT and MIS directors manage the computing and technology resources of a firm. They ensure that the technology is correctly allocated within the company, and that it is in secure, working order.
• IT Project Managers: These managers are in charge of defined IT projects within a company. They develop a timeline for the project, distribute the work, and procure any resources that may be needed to finish the project.

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What degree levels are available?

• Associate Degree: 2 years to complete
• Bachelor's Degree: 4 years to complete
• Postgraduate Certificate: 1 year to complete
• Master's Degree: 1-2 years to complete

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What are the educational and certification requirements?

Like many IT fields, a computer-related bachelor's degree is usually the required educational background for a career in information systems. Common undergraduate majors are computer science, software engineering, information systems, statistics, or math. Courses in networking, programming, databases, business, management, and systems design are good preparation for this career.

While a bachelor's degree is generally sufficient for finding a job, some employers prefer applicants with a relevant master's degree. This can be a master's in information systems, which combines business topics with IT, or a master's degree in business administration with technology coursework. Individuals with professional experience who are interested in a shorter program could look into the postgraduate certificate in information systems, which provides a briefer introduction to the same subject matter that is included in the master's degree. (BLS)

Voluntary certifications in IT and business can both be helpful for information systems, which sits at the intersection of these two industries. Information management credentials are commonly offered by IT product manufacturers, and are specific to that company's products. Cisco, Microsoft, and Oracle are three product vendors which offer a number of IT credentials in a variety of professional levels. A number of nonprofit business trade organizations offer management certifications. For example, the Institute for Certified Professional Managers offers a general business credential.

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What kinds of classes will I be expected to take?

Advanced degrees in information systems can be viewed as hybrids of advanced information technology degrees and programs in business. Students in these programs learn how to use their knowledge of computer systems to advance the goals of an organization. The coursework in degree programs in information systems usually revolves around information systems topics, business management skills, and computer science classes.

General classes in information systems and business skills make up the foundation of these degrees. For example, the introductory course Managing the Digital Business discusses how managers can find technology-based solutions for their firms, as well as the obstacles that can arise when selling a digital product. Business classes, such as Managing Organizations or Marketing Concepts, cover the basic topics that leaders in any type of firm need to know, in order to get a big-picture idea of where that organization is headed, and what it will need to get there.

Advanced computer science and specialized information systems classes build on top of the broad knowledge that students learn in the degree's introductory survey courses. Computer science courses like Data Communications and Network Security discuss the ways that IT managers can strengthen their firm's computer systems, in order to improve the flow of information and prevent data breaches. Information systems classes, such as Development of Web-based Systems, discuss how computer science skills like programming and web development can be applied to business organizations.

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If I pursue this program online, will I be required to complete any on-site training?

Generally not. These relatively short professional programs are geared towards helping current business workers gain the skills to create information-based solutions for the professional world; the course work is largely computer-based, and designed to be flexible for the working professional. Students who already have some familiarity with IT systems are best-suited for distance learning information systems master's programs, due to the advanced nature of the degree.

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What are some other degrees that are related to this program?

A degree in network administration will prepare students to manage businesses' wired and wireless computer networks and keep them running properly. They troubleshoot communications problems and implement measures to ensure that the firm's data is secure. Strong job opportunities should be available for network administrators in the coming years.

Computer programmers are the professionals who turn computer software engineers' designs into actual code that the computer can interpret. They are often employed under information systems managers. Programmers with professional experience and management skills could possibly advance to information systems management positions.

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