Best Online MBA Programs in Information Systems

Learn more about the admissions requirements, career opportunities, and potential income for earning an online MBA in information systems.

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Today's business world revolves around technology. Companies everywhere need managers who understand the complexities of computer systems and how to collect and use information. In recent years, colleges and universities have expanded their MBA offerings to include a host of specialties in computer science, preparing students for the jobs of the future. These degrees give graduates the expertise to manage in the business world and a deep understanding of technology.

An MBA in information systems sets up graduates for a variety of exciting careers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), information systems managers are in high demand. The bureau projects above-average growth for these occupations. Read on to learn about the top online MBA programs in the field, including what to look for in these degrees, how to pay for them, and the kinds of careers graduates qualify for.

What Is an MBA in Information Systems?

MBAs in information systems prepare learners for management-level positions in the growing world of information technology (IT). Like other MBAs, this degree provides a foundation in the staples of business and management, including economics, finance, and leadership. It also offers an understanding of IT and how to leverage data to enhance business. Information systems courses cover fundamentals regarding the infrastructure of technology, including software, networks, and languages.

Students typically enter MBA in information systems programs with a background in business or computer science. They graduate with expertise in both camps, making them extremely valuable in the modern world. Information systems management degrees typically take about two years and pay for themselves quickly. Graduates earn an average annual salary of $92,000, according to PayScale.

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Why Should You Get an Online MBA in Information Systems?

An online MBA in information systems builds marketable skills in management and IT. With the steady march of technology, this sort of background only continues to grow in demand. Companies everywhere search for employees who can think critically, make decisions, communicate effectively, and solve problems, all skills developed in MBA programs. MBA in information systems online graduates qualify for lucrative positions in IT or business (or both). Salaries can range from $75,000-$150,000 or more.

The internet connects the business world and provides an ideal platform for earning an MBA in information systems. Online campuses allow learners to continue working while they learn. These degrees often require internships and practicums, which give students a foot in the door in information systems. Many who enroll in these programs already hold professional IT jobs, bringing expertise that enriches their course of study. Friendships and teamwork in these intensive programs can lead to valuable networking opportunities.

What Can You Do With an MBA in Information Systems?

Corporations, governments, and schools hire GIS analysts to obtain valuable data about the world. GIS analysts synthesize geographic data into useful maps, charts, and displays. Most work at computer stations, though some collect data in the field. GIS continues to grow as the demand for data increases, and analysts typically make $54,000 or more. They bring strong computer, analytical, communication, and data modeling skills to the job.

Systems analysts make sure their organizations' IT networks run optimally. They typically work for larger corporations and tech companies, configuring and maintaining systems and software. They synthesize information about IT operations, deliver reports to management, and make recommendations. Information systems analysts make a median annual salary of $65,000. They need IT skills, big-picture thinking, and analytical ability. The market remains healthy due to the prevalence and growth of digital system platforms.

HR systems analysts run the software that HR departments use at big companies. They develop and configure systems, ensure they run smoothly, and produce data for HR managers and executives. They often assist with payroll and enter data for new hires. These positions require IT expertise and an understanding of how personnel departments work. They pay as well as other system management jobs, with a median annual salary of $66,000.

Computer and information systems managers essentially run companies' IT departments. They direct and lead networks for their organizations and particular projects. As their title suggests, these professionals work at the management or executive level, depending on their company. Because of this responsibility, IT systems managers earn higher salaries than many IT professionals, bringing home about $140,000. These positions remain in high demand, growing at an above-average rate.

Computer network architects lay out and construct IT networks of all types (LAN, WAN, and intranet). They maintain networks, make recommendations to executives, decide on security protocols, and perform system upgrades. This job requires extensive IT knowledge, attention to detail, and organizational skills. Most make approximately $109,000 annually, and job growth remains about average.

Online MBA in Information Systems Curriculum

All online MBA in information systems programs combine business management and IT skills. Every school offers its own curriculum, and curricula vary widely. Most include classes like those listed below. Check with the colleges that interest you to see what their programs entail.

  • Information Systems

    In this course, students learn how to use information systems to make business decisions. Core subjects include networks, security, resource planning, electronic commerce, and privacy.
  • Managerial Finance

    This class focuses on managing a corporation's financial decisions. Students explore securities, risks, financial markets, and financial instruments. They also learn how to analyze financial data.
  • Database Management

    In this core class, distance learners develop skills for using databases in the business world. Topics include database design, implementation, and maintenance; data normalization; relational models; and the SQL language.

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How to Choose the Right Online MBA in Information Systems Program

So many colleges and universities now offer online MBA degrees in information systems, it can be difficult to choose between them. Some programs emphasize business administration, with curricula heavy in accounting, economics, and finance. Many offer the degree's tech component as a concentration. Others focus on IT classes, more resembling a master's in systems engineering than a business degree. Make sure to explore options closely.

Prospective learners should look carefully at schools' accreditation status, as well. All reputable programs carry regional accreditation. The best information systems MBA programs also hold accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Proper accreditation remains vitally important, and checking takes just a few clicks.

Most applicants prioritize cost when choosing a university. Online programs often offer great value, because they rarely require travel or room and board expenses. Some schools allow distance learners to pay in-state tuition, and students can typically continue working while earning their degree. Learners' work schedules affect their enrollment status, however, and they may need more time to finish their program if they attend part time.

Finally, look at prospective programs' business partnerships. Many schools work with major corporations to offer internships and fellowships. These can result in valuable work experience and useful connections when you graduate.

Scholarships for Information Systems MBA Programs

Students in MBA in information systems programs can take advantage of an array of scholarships and grants. Because of the dual nature of the degree, learners can submit applications for business and computer science scholarships, along with those that apply to all students.

Who Can Apply: Arma International sponsors several scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students in information management programs. Applications should demonstrate academic ability and enrollment in an information management program at an accredited institution.

Amount: Varies

Apply for Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Sponsored by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, these scholarships help students in computer science fields pay for undergraduate and graduate programs. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum 3.5 GPA and hold membership with AISES.

Amount: $10,000

Apply for Scholarship

Who Can Apply: AfterCollege welcomes applications from students currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programs in technology and computer science-related fields. Recipients must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and membership in AfterCollege.

Amount: $500

Apply for Scholarship

Who Can Apply: These funds support female students in computer science-related degree programs. Applicants must attend school full time and be in their third, fourth, or fifth year.

Amount: $1,000

Apply for Scholarship

Professional Organizations for Information Systems

Professional organizations bring together individuals working in the same industry so they can network and exchange the latest information. They often sponsor professional development and host forums, conferences, webinars, and other educational opportunities. These organizations publish research, conduct advocacy work on behalf of a profession, and feature job boards and other career services. Because of all this, they prove invaluable resources for new graduates of online MBA programs.

Association for Information Systems

One of the largest organizations of IT professionals, AIS offers an array of benefits to members. These include a conference, an e-library, a job index, and access to AIS communities across the country.

Association for Information Science and Technology

ASIS&T bridges the worlds of computer science and technology, offering training programs, research, publications, conferences, and ongoing educational opportunities. Members come from IT, management, academia, research, and government.

Information Systems Security Association International

One of the top information systems professional organizations, ISSA focuses on cybersecurity. The association provides peer interaction, public forums, and information exchanges on the big issues facing IT systems today.

Society for Information Management

SIM connects IT professionals, offering networking, publications, and an array of online resources. The society also sponsors an annual SIMposium and boasts regional forums and chapters around the country.

ISACA

Formerly known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association, ISACA unites a diverse range of IT professionals working in an array of industries. All share an interest in information systems, security, and data control.

Top Online MBA Programs in Information Systems

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How We Rank Online MBA Programs

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  1. University of Dallas
    Location

    Irving, TX

    Tuition

    $25609

    The University of Dallas in Irving, Texas, features an online MBA in information and technology management, which prepares graduates for lead IT teams in building and installing communication and information infrastructures. UD's curriculum emphasizes current technologies and hands-on learning.

    UD's nationally ranked, STEM-designated, 42-credit MBA program in information and technology management comprises 10 core business courses and four concentration courses in programming, strategy and management, project management, and enterprise architecture.

    This fully online MBA program typically takes working adults 2-3 years to complete. Students within commutable distance may complete the program through a blend of online and on-campus attendance. UD requires MBA applicants to submit resumes and transcripts. It does not require GMAT/GRE scores.

    Other Concentrations

  2. DeSales University
    Location

    Center Valley, PA

    Tuition

    $28244

    A private nonprofit school in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, DeSales University offers an online MBA concentration in information systems, which cultivates executive IT management skills by integrating business leadership preparation with information systems expertise.

    Top-ranked by U.S. News & World Report, DeSales' MBA programs comprise seven core courses, four concentration courses, and one capstone integration course in policy and strategy. Students can complete this part time, accelerated MBA program on campus, online, or through a hybrid format. DeSales' online courses may use synchronous, asynchronous, or blended formats.

    Core coursework covers topics including business computing, management, and accounting, and students choose concentration courses from DeSales' information systems courses in data analytics, cybersecurity, project management, and health information management. DeSales accepts students without prior business degrees, but students lacking requisite coursework take additional courses or demonstrate competency through testing.

    Applicants must hold accredited undergraduate degrees with 3.0 minimum GPAs. DeSales requires three professional references or recommendation letters, a personal statement, a resume, and GMAT scores, though some students qualify for GMAT waivers.

    Other Concentrations

  3. University of Illinois at Springfield
    Location

    Springfield, IL

    Tuition

    $10733

    The University of Illinois at Springfield's online graduate certificate in IT project management serves entry-level and experienced IT and business students and professionals. This program provides the foundational skills and knowledge for information systems management.

    This 36-credit program entails 24 credits of business core courses and 12 elective credits. Students lacking prior coursework in business may complete an additional 8-12 credits of prerequisite courses in accounting and economics. Business core courses include management accounting and finance, business strategy, and information technology management. Electives for the IT project management certificate include project and change management, systems analysis and design, and management information systems.

    Most core courses in this blended-format MBA meet on campus on weeknights, while electives may occur online or on campus. Students may enroll full time or part time.

    Applicants must submit official transcripts from accredited bachelor's degrees demonstrating a minimum 2.0 GPA (2.5 minimum preferred). Applicants also submit resumes and GMAT scores or waivers. UIS MBA students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. Students seeking tuition remission and stipends may pursue UIS's graduate public service internship program and graduate assistantships.

    Other Concentrations

  4. New Jersey Institute of Technology
    Location

    Newark, NJ

    Tuition

    $17855

    New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark, New Jersey features an online MBA with a management information systems specialization housed in the Martin Tuchman School of Management.

    Designed for current or aspiring technology-savvy managers, this cohort-based, interdisciplinary MBA emphasizes collaboration and networking and prepares graduates for success in today's technology-driven business environments.

    NJIT enhances students' decision-making and problem-solving skills through five thematic management skill areas including managing global hyper-competition, managing uncertainty and change, and managing in real time.

    Students can complete this eight-semester program entirely online in an asynchronous format. Applicants submit official transcripts, one letter of recommendation, and GMAT/GRE scores.

    Other Concentrations

  5. East Carolina University
    Location

    Greenville, NC

    Tuition

    $13746

    East Carolina University in Greenville features an online MBA with a certificate in management information systems (MIS). This program serves working adults from business or non-business backgrounds.

    ECU's 19-course, 57-credit online MBA with an MIS certificate includes seven foundation courses, eight "common body of knowledge" (CBK) courses, and four management information systems courses. Serving students with non-business undergraduate degrees, foundation courses provide essential coursework in financial management, marketing, quantitative methods, and government regulation. ECU usually waives these courses for students who demonstrate prior undergraduate equivalent coursework.

    Designed to cultivate soft skills and management toolkits, ECU's eight CBK courses include marketing strategy, organizational behavior, and management science. MIS certificate students also complete courses in data management, web technologies for business, enterprise infrastructure, and systems analysis and design.

    ECU's flexible, self-paced MBA allows students to take up to five courses per semester. Students can attend courses online or through a hybrid format.

    All applicants must hold accredited bachelor's degrees. They also need to demonstrate one of the following: a minimum 2.7 GPA, five or more years' professional experience, a graduate degree, or enrollment with a UNC graduate degree program. ECU's streamlined admissions process requires submission of official transcripts and GMAT scores, but it does not mandate letters of recommendation, personal statements, or interviews.

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  6. Florida State University
    Location

    Tallahassee, FL

    Tuition

    $13318

    Ranked by U.S. News as one of the best online programs of 2020, Florida State University's part-time online MBA offers a management information systems specialization for ambitious working adults seeking or advancing their MIS careers.

    This 39-credit program includes core business topics and skills in strategy, management, business law and policy, and analysis. Students specializing in MIS complete four electives, including corporate information security, systems analysis and design, and project management. Students can complete FSU's fully online MBA by attending part time for seven semesters, but FSU strongly encourages additional, preparatory courses for students lacking prior accounting coursework.

    All applicants must submit official transcripts demonstrating regionally accredited bachelor's degrees. FSU selects candidates based on prior academic performance, professional work experience, and standardized test scores. Application materials include resumes, personal statements, recommendation letters, and GMAT/GRE scores or waivers.

    Other Concentrations

  7. University of Utah
    Location

    Salt Lake City, UT

    Tuition

    $13460

    The David Eccles School of Business at The University of Utah in Salt Lake City features an online MBA with an optional graduate certificate in information systems. This degree helps working adults advance their careers in the information technology field. In fact, The U's MBA students report a 34% increase in their salaries and a 56% increase in promotion rates by graduation.

    This 48-credit program includes 33 credits of management coursework, including business communications, information technology, and ethics. An additional 15 elective credits in information systems cover software and systems architecture, IT security, and business intelligence and analytics.

    Part-time online MBA students usually finish the entire program in 24-26 months by taking two, 10-week courses each term. Most coursework takes place in an asynchronous online format, but students also participate in weekly web conference sessions and attend a three-day, on-campus residency during their first year. The U's online MBA students can take a global business elective, through which they prepare for and take a one-week capstone trip to an international city such as Shanghai, Buenos Aires, or Johannesburg.

    MBA applicants must hold accredited bachelor's degrees demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA. The U's application package does not require submission of GMAT/GRE scores.

    Other Concentrations

  8. University of Maryland-College Park
    Location

    College Park, MD

    Tuition

    $16790

    Based in College Park, Maryland, the University of Maryland's Robert H. School of Business offers an online MBA with a specialization in information systems and business analytics. This degree emphasizes student engagement. Focused on real-world problems, UMD's online MBA utilizes action-learning projects, residencies, and an optional global business immersion experience.

    This 54-credit MBA offers multiple two-credit, core business and concentration-related courses and four-credit action learning projects. The information systems and business analytics specialization covers social media and web analytics, managing digital business and platforms, and data mining and predictive analysis. UD's curriculum also includes a global study or international business course and two residencies.

    Most coursework takes place online through a blend of synchronous and asynchronous formats, including weekly live online class sessions. Students can complete this accelerated online MBA in as little as two years.

    Other Concentrations

  9. University of Michigan-Flint
    Location

    Flint, MI

    Tuition

    $12519

    The online MBA concentration in computer information systems (CIS) offered by the University of Michigan at Flint takes a group project-based approach, cultivating the decision-making, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills for successful CIS management careers.

    The 45-credit MBA in CIS curriculum includes 12 foundation credits, which UM-Flint usually waives for students with prior business coursework in accounting, economics, quantitative analysis, and organizational behavior. It also covers 24 credits of core management courses, including a three-credit strategic management capstone, and nine concentration credits in computer programming and contemporary CIS and IT industry issues.

    UM-Flint's flexible MBA allows students to complete coursework through a blend of on-campus and online learning. The hybrid program offers on-campus courses during two weekend residencies each semester. Students may also study on campus in evening classes during the fall and winter semesters.

    MBA applicants should hold accredited bachelor's degrees, including one year or more of advanced mathematics courses. Applicants submit official transcripts, resumes, recommendation letters, and statements of purpose. Students who do not qualify for GMAT/GRE waivers submit exam scores, as well.

    Other Concentrations

  10. Gardner-Webb University
    Location

    Boiling Springs, NC

    Tuition

    $19197

    Located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, Gardner-Webb University boasts an online MBA with an emphasis in management information systems. This program serves active professionals pursuing career advancement.

    Beyond prerequisite coursework, this accelerated online MBA requires 30 credits across 10 management courses covering marketing, strategy, entrepreneurship, and operations management. Gardner-Webb's program emphasizes leadership skills and realistic learning through simulations, interactions with business leaders, internships, and a strategic management capstone course.

    Students with required prerequisites can complete Gardner-Webb's accelerated, fully online MBA program in just 10 months by taking two eight-week courses for five terms.

    Eligible applicants submit resumes and official transcripts demonstrating accredited bachelor's degrees and MBA course prerequisites. Students who do not qualify for GMAT/GRE waivers must submit test scores.

    Other Concentrations

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