Best Online Management Information Systems Programs

Learn more about what the best bachelor's in management information systems programs look like and what they have to offer professionally.
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Management Information Systems Bachelor's Degree

Almost every industry requires professionals who understand the workings of computer systems, networks, programming and algorithmic processes, and data analysis. The internet, digital photography, email, and open-source software exist because of computer science.

Management information systems help make data more accessible and useful for organizations. This technology can improve data collection, security, and analysis, which leads to more informed business decisions, less risk, and improved outcomes. Graduates with a bachelor's in management information systems possess the skills to develop, implement, protect, and operate these systems.

As organizations increasingly rely on data for various purposes, the demand for data professionals grows. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 25% growth for operations research analysts and 33% growth for information security analysts, over three and four times faster than the projected rate for all occupations, respectively.

To keep up with the demand, many of the top online schools offer programs that focus on information systems. While most bachelor's programs take four years to complete, online learning may offer accelerated pathways and more flexible schedules. Throughout this guide, we examine the online bachelor's in management information systems, along with some of the career opportunities available to graduates.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Management Information Systems Program?

The typical online bachelor's in management information systems requires 120 credits and four years of training. In addition to covering core business principles, the programs provide training in programming, storage, security, and networking. Students learn different analytical methods, while also developing their problem-solving, communication, and decision-making abilities.

While schools usually accept students from all backgrounds, learners with computer skills may receive preference. Most management information systems programs provide significant amounts of practical training via workshops, labs, and internships. Students earning an online bachelor's degree may get access to virtual labs and local practicum opportunities.

Prospective students may encounter different bachelor's in information management systems degree types, such as BA and BS degrees. These degrees mainly differ by the electives included, but they can also differ by focus. BA degrees, for example, may focus more on management approaches and applications, while BS degrees emphasize the technical aspects of the field.

While management information systems training can come as its own specialization within business or computer science degrees, some programs offer additional concentrations. Students may specialize in finance or management, for example. These tracks simply provide more training on specific management information systems applications within these subfields.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.

Popular Online Bachelor's in Computers & Technology Programs

Learn about MIS start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in MIS Programs

Is a bachelor's in management information systems worth it?

Yes. A bachelor's in management information systems can be incredibly worthwhile for students. These degrees offer flexible educational and professional postgraduate pathways, with graduates having access to many computer occupations and master's degree options.

The BLS projects 5% faster growth for computer occupations than the rate for all occupations. Furthermore, the median annual wage for this sector more than doubled the median annual wage for all occupations in May 2020.

There can be great value in an online degree as well. These highly accessible degrees give students more study options, which greatly increases their chances of finding a program that suits their unique needs.

What can I do with a bachelor's in management information systems?

A bachelor's in management information systems provides plenty of postgraduate opportunities. Graduates taking the career route can pursue several computer occupations, including information security and operations research analyst positions. They can also qualify for various computer and business management positions.

Another option is to continue their education. Graduates can advance their training with a master's degree in management information systems or move into a related computer or data science field. They can also choose an interdisciplinary route and take a business master's degree.

Are management information systems majors in demand?

Yes. Many organizations want professionals who can manage data and database systems. The BLS projects 13% growth in computer and information technology occupations between 2020 and 2030, 5% faster than the projected growth rate for all occupations.

Many of the specific data-focused careers also have promising career outlooks. For example, the BLS projects 25% growth for operations research analysts, 22% growth for market research analysts, and 14% for management analysts between 2020 and 2030.

How much money can I make with a bachelor's in management information systems?

The computer occupations available to graduates with a bachelor's in management information systems bring with them some substantial financial rewards. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations in May 2020 was $91,250. That sits nearly $50,000 higher than the median annual wages for all occupations in that period.

Among some of the most direct career pathways available, market research analysts made some of the lowest median annual wages in May 2020 at $65,810. Operations research analysts made median annual wages of $86,200 during the same timeframe.

What are the highest paying jobs with a bachelor's in management information systems?

The highest available wages for graduates with a bachelor's in management information systems depends on several factors. In general, computer and information systems managers made the highest median annual wages in May 2020 at $151,150. The highest 10% of earners in that field made more than $208,000.

Some other high-paying positions and their respective median annual wages in May 2020 include computer network architects at $116,780, information security analysts at $103,590, and software developers at $110,140.

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Management Information Systems Program?

Business Statistics

Students in this course learn to use statistics to tackle some of the most common business problems. They explore probability, hypothesis testing methods, and analysis techniques.

Database Management

This course teaches students how to use databases and database management systems. Students also learn how to oversee databases, including maintaining, securing, and using the data.

Systems Analysis and Design

In this course, students learn how to plan and develop information systems for specific organizations. They also learn how to communicate those plans in the proper proposal format.

Cybersecurity

Students in this course learn to identify and protect against computer systems and data threats. They examine the latest security software and techniques and explore how attackers target certain organizations.

Project Management

This course teaches students how to effectively plan a project, starting with laying out the project scope, budget, and schedule. They also learn some common management principles and practices.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Management Information Systems Program?

The admission requirements for an online bachelor's in management information systems are unlikely to differ from most programs at this level. Some schools may require specific computing or business prerequisites, and online learners usually need to meet the technological requirements. Below, we highlight the typical application requirements prospective students will see.

Application

Every college application looks a little different, and the specific requirements can vary considerably. The next entries and our undergraduate application guide detail some of the most common components of an application. Additionally, prospective students need to provide personal details and identify their program of interest.

Test Scores

College entrance exams, such as the SAT and ACT, help school and program admission professionals compare applicants. During the COVID-19 pandemic, however, many schools have provided test waivers for applicants.

Letters of Recommendation

College applications typically require prospective students to provide three letters of recommendation within their application. These documents usually come from former teachers and employers who can provide insight about the applicant's aptitude and potential. When asking for letters of recommendation, prospective students should choose the most relevant referrals and begin the process as early as possible.

Essays

College application essays can take different formats. Prospective bachelor's students often address their personal and academic journeys, providing the schools with some insight into who they are. Some applications may pose specific questions to be answered, which can help candidates focus their responses.

Official Transcripts

Official transcripts include every course the prospective student has completed. They show the schools what type of student the candidate is, highlighting their GPA and completed prerequisites. For students transferring from community college to university, transcripts can lead to transfer credits and reduced study times and costs.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in MIS Degree?

Career Outlook

A blend of two of the most popular college majors in business and information sciences, a bachelor's in management information systems has a very appealing postgraduate outlook. For instance, graduates can access many computer and information technology occupations, a sector the BLS projects will add more than 665,000 positions between 2020 and 2030.

More specifically, graduates qualify for information security analyst positions, one of the fastest-growing fields in the country, according to the BLS. Other accessible roles include operations research analysts and market research analysts, occupations with projected growth rates that exceed the rates for all occupations by more than 14% between 2020 and 2030.

Find out about the professional opportunities for graduates with a bachelor's in management information systems. Learn more about data science careers.

Career Paths

Operations Research Analyst

These professionals use data analytics to improve organizational operations and decision-making. They apply research methods, statistical analysis, and observation to identify issues and opportunities. They then advise managers on ways to improve in various areas, including budgeting, supply chain optimization, and scheduling.

Median Annual Salary: $86,200

Information Security Analyst

These professionals look at the information security measures of an organization, searching for improvements and vulnerabilities. They test for weaknesses, monitor suspicious activities, and research and implement upgrades. They also advise and train IT professionals how to handle future incidents and overcome challenges.

Median Annual Salary: $103,590

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts help organizations determine the consumer appetite for a product or service. They analyze market data on consumer demands, the competition, and pricing targets. They then present their findings to management to help them understand the market conditions, risks, and opportunities.

Median Annual Salary: $65,810

Computer Systems Analyst

These professionals look at an organization's computer systems to spot inefficiencies and improvement opportunities. They first identify the organization's needs and then analyze the functionality and operations and speak with users to determine where the systems fall short. They also help implement upgrades whenever necessary.

Median Annual Salary: $93,730

Computer and Information Systems Managers

These professionals may manage an organization's information systems, entire IT department, or a single management system. They regularly look for ways to improve information systems and technological output. They are also responsible for providing input regarding technological requirements and capabilities during organizational management meetings.

Median Annual Salary: $151,150

Management Information Systems Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing Education

Graduates with a bachelor's in management information systems have many continuing education pathways available to them. They can continue their studies in management information systems at the graduate level or pursue a master's in data science or a master's in computer science. They can also target a business-related degree, such as a master's in organizational leadership or an MBA.

For graduates who do not wish to go through another full degree, various certificates and certifications are available. These condensed programs can help professionals expand their skill sets or even specialize. Choosing an industry certification or a vendor-specific program might help graduates qualify for positions with certain employers.

How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Management Information Systems Program?

Cost

Cost weighs heavily in the considerations for most prospective students, but it's the true program cost that can be most revealing. This calculation requires learners to identify all costs associated with the program in addition to tuition, as well as any losses in income that might occur when studying. Applicants should also compare online and on-campus program costs, in-state and out-of-state program costs, and public and private school costs.

Program Format

Prospective students need to find the right program format for their schedule and learning needs. They should, for example, know the differences between full-time vs. part-time programs. Online learners should also compare synchronous vs. asynchronous delivery. Learners with flexible schedules who need to graduate more quickly might want to research the top online accelerated bachelor's degrees.

Location

Regardless if they want to attend college online or on-campus, prospective students need to consider location. For on-campus learners, location impacts where they will live and study for the majority of the next several years. If an online program has on-campus requirements, online learners also need to pick a school in a suitable location.

Accreditation

Prospective students should always ensure their desired school has proper accreditation. As per our online college accreditation guide, accreditation can impact student financial aid, employment, and transfer credits. Programmatic accreditation is not required for bachelor's in management information systems programs, but some may hold accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Student Support

The type of student services a school and program provides can make a big difference on the educational experience and outcome. Having access to career services, academic support, and college mentors can lead to student success. For distance learners, online student services provide the same benefits. Check out our guide to internships to learn about the benefits of these specific program additions.

Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Management Information Systems Programs

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Best Online Bachelor's in Management Information Systems Programs

  1. Colorado State University Global Campus
    Location

    Greenwood Village, CO

    Tuition

    $15212

    The first independent, fully online institution in the U.S., Colorado State University Global Campus oversees dozens of online graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs in 10 different fields. Each of CSU-Global's programs offers monthly start dates and accelerated, asynchronous course delivery.

    CSU-Global's online bachelor's in management information systems and business analytics program includes core courses like basic programming, information systems design and management, and web analytics. The program culminates in a capstone course. Students can choose from specializations in cybersecurity, computer programming, and digital marketing.

    Approximately 93% of the university's graduates find employment in their degree field. CSU-Global offers fixed per-credit tuition rates, regardless of residency.

  2. Western Governors University
    Location

    Salt Lake City, UT

    Tuition

    $6670

    Styling itself as a student-centric university, WGU oversees more than 60 undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like healthcare, business, teacher education, and information technology.

    WGU offers an information technology management degree as a specialization within its online business administration program. The curriculum consists of 40 courses that cover topics like networks and security, business, and management and leadership. The curriculum includes required business core, general education, and IT coursework, culminating in an IT management capstone.

    The program delivers all coursework asynchronously. WGU offers monthly start dates, accelerated course options, and flat tuition rates that do not consider residency. WGU's business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

  3. Minot State University
    Location

    Minot, ND

    Tuition

    $10153

    A member of the North Dakota University System, MSU enrolls nearly 3,000 students on campus and online. Learners choose from dozens of graduate and undergraduate programs in areas like business, education and health sciences, and the arts and sciences. The school also offers more than 20 online degrees and certificates.

    Students who earn MSU's online bachelor's degree in management information systems complete general education, business core, and major coursework. Students explore topics like IT infrastructure, technology management, and e-commerce. The program culminates in a final project.

    Incoming students may begin the program in the fall, spring, or summer. This management information systems program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.

  4. Bellevue University
    Location

    Bellevue, NE

    Tuition

    $9635

    BU serves nearly 9,000 students each year at its main campus eastern Nebraska, at satellite campuses in four states, and online. Students may choose from more than 80 programs, most of which are available online.

    Bellevue's online bachelor's in management information systems program operates as a degree completion pathway. Major courses include negotiating in business, future trends in management information systems, and project management. Additionally, students must complete BU's Kirkpatrick Signature Series, which includes courses in tradition and change, American vision and values, and freedom and responsibility.

    Admission requirements include an associate degree or at least 60 credits of college coursework and at least three years of relevant work experience. BU charges all learners the same tuition rate.

  5. University of Minnesota Crookston
    Location

    Crookston, MN

    Tuition

    $12135

    With five campuses across the state and an online division, UMC serves approximately 1,800 students. UMC's students can choose from dozens of graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs across four major schools, including more than 25 online programs.

    UMC's 120-credit bachelor's in information technology management includes core courses like introduction to information management systems, information assurance and systems security, and legal environment in business. This online program culminates in a supervised internship at an IT or networking agency.

    Students must complete a one-credit orientation course in online learning prior to beginning the program. More than 93% of graduates find employment in their chosen field within six months of earning their degree.

  6. Regis University
    Location

    Denver, CO

    Tuition

    $26273

    Regis serves more than 10,000 students online and at its campus in Denver, Colorado. The university helped pioneer the distance learning movement by launching one of the first online MBA programs in 1997. Today, students at Regis can choose from more than 130 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs.

    Regis's online bachelor's in computer information systems explores topics such as systems analysis and design, foundations of programming, and enterprise systems architecture. The 120-credit curriculum offers a business track and a healthcare track. The program culminates in a senior capstone. Each online course lasts eight weeks.

    Regis offers six start dates per year. All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate, regardless of residency.

  7. LeTourneau University
    Location

    Longview, TX

    Tuition

    $23386

    One of the nation's only Christian polytechnic institutions, LETU enrolls more than 3,000 students — including about 850 online learners. The university offers more than 140 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs across eight major academic schools.

    LETU's online bachelor's in computer information systems explores topics like software engineering, database management, and programming for information systems. The 129-credit curriculum includes computer science and general education coursework, with additional requirements in business and theology. Each course in this accelerated program lasts five weeks.

    All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate, regardless of residency. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. They must also submit ACT or SAT scores.

  8. University of Houston-Downtown
    Location

    Houston, TX

    Tuition

    $7883

    One of four schools in the city's university system, UHD enrolls more than 14,000 students on campus and through UHD Online. The university's students can choose from more than 50 bachelor's and master's offerings, including more than 15 online programs.

    UHD's online bachelor of business administration includes an emphasis in management information systems. The program requires 120 credits and includes core courses like foundations of information systems, web technologies, and systems analysis and design. Students may complete a field experience as an elective course. Most students graduate in four years.

    Online learners may join business and IT organizations through UHD, including Beta Gamma Sigma, the Business Administration Council, and the CompTIA Association of IT Professionals. UHD's business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

  9. University of Illinois Springfield
    Location

    Springfield, IL

    Tuition

    $10733

    UIS serves roughly 4,000 students, including more than 1,400 online learners. The university oversees about 50 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs.

    UIS offers a hybrid bachelor's in management information systems through its College of Business and Management. The curriculum combines general education and MIS core courses. Students complete core courses through blended learning. Select classes include computer programming concepts, project management and practice, and networks and telecommunications in organizations.

    The program culminates in a strategic management and leadership course. UIS supports distance learners by offering career counseling and student advising services. The school's management information systems program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

  10. Ottawa University
    Location

    Brookfield, WI

    Tuition

    $11976

    OU is a Christian school with campuses in Wisconsin, Arizona, and Kansas. It also oversees an online division. Students may choose from more than 40 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs.

    OU's online bachelor's degree in management information systems offers concentrations in entrepreneurship, communication, management, and leadership and management. The curriculum includes major courses that cover topics like systems analysis and design, foundations of information technology, and accounting for business operations.

    Students can bring in up to 80 transfer credits, and the program accepts applications throughout the year. OU charges distance learners the same per-credit tuition rate, no matter where they live.

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