Master’s in Information Systems – Guide to Choosing a Program
By Kat Campise, Data Scientist, Ph.D.
If you have a keen interest in the internal systems (e.g., hardware and software) and processes used to collect and deliver information within an organization, then pursuing a master’s in information systems degree might be the perfect fit for you. With the continual technological innovations occurring at a rapid pace, and the ever-increasing amount of data flooding enterprises from a myriad of data sources, information systems must also evolve. Thus, the demand for high-quality information systems managers will persist over the next 8 years.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for Computer and Information Systems Managers (CISM) is expected to grow faster than average (16%) through 2031. As of May 2021, the median yearly pay for CISMs is $159,010, with a majority holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in information systems, computer science, and/or mathematics.
For comparison, the outlook for data scientists is higher (36%) than for CISMs, but the median yearly compensation is $100,910 — roughly $58,000 less per annum. Data scientists still have a lot of potential earning power, but their educational requirements are heavily focused on graduate level math with varying doses of computer programming. Ph.D.s tend to be the priority for employers seeking data scientists (this may change — but, still stands true for now).
Frequently, a background in business via several years of experience in a given industry or completing a Master’s in Business Administration is an additional requirement for many employers advertising for an information systems expert. So, the information systems discipline combines knowledge of internal and external business logic with designing and implementing information architecture; this often includes database design. As a result, many (but not all) Master’s in Information Systems degree programs are housed within a university’s business school for the reasons stated above.
Why Information Systems?
The significant difference between an IS degree and, say, a computer science or data science degree is the amount of math and programming required. Granted, each university or college will have a different minimum math requirement, and a majority of MIS programs (in the U.S.) expect students to have experience with an object-oriented programming language (notably Java or Python) either before enrolling or during the completion of the Master’s level degree.
For the most part, careers involving information systems will place you as the intermediary between all of the stakeholders within an enterprise: programmers, end users, other management and departments, and C-level executives. Consequently, you’ll need to be comfortable communicating with each participant (whether on a group or at an individual level) and understand how IS decisions impact their interaction with the enterprise.
While you may never be tasked with sitting down and programming software or building a predictive model, it’s highly likely that you’ll need to understand — to some extent — how such projects are carried out. As a matter of fact, if your objective is to enter Management of Information Systems, or you perform your job so well that you’re quickly elevated to a management position, you’ll be involved in project management in some capacity.
Depending on your Master’s program of choice — several universities offer “tracks” that combine information systems with cybersecurity, data analytics, data science or software engineering — a Master’s in Information Systems is perfect for those techies who either don’t have the time to sit through hours of advanced math and engineering courses or for those who want to stay in the tech field but don’t wish to move beyond an undergraduate Calculus course.
Indeed, there are programs where only college-level algebra is the minimum standard for entry. Such Master’s degrees are designed to give a high-level entry into a more tech-intensive role and tend to focus on students who are entering the field from other disciplines (e.g., healthcare, education, government, etc.). There is a caveat with regard to essential background knowledge: admission requirements often include achieving a baseline score on the GMAT or GRE — both exams have quantitative sections which consist of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis (or some form of applied problem solving using math).
Which Master’s in Information Systems Program is Right for Me?
To be forthright, only you can decide which IS Master’s program fits your personal and professional goals. And the “right fit” is further dependent upon the amount of time and money you are able to dedicate to completing the coursework. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to choose from, both online and in-person. The list below is a snapshot of the available online programs for a Master’s in Information Systems or a Master’s in Information Technology. There is an additional caveat that bears explaining.
Many schools list Information Technology or Management of Information Systems as opposed to MIS. The central differential between information technology (IT) and information systems is that IT focuses explicitly on the hardware and software — it can be considered a subsector of IS.
On the other hand, while IS incorporates hardware and software, it can include any type of information system (e.g., when speaking with someone in person, you become the information system); in our age of all things digital, we tend to automatically assume that an information system is always computerized. Moreover, a Master’s in Management of Information Systems provides specific business-oriented managerial processes and leans much more towards an MBA-type of learning trajectory.
Almost every U.S. university offers on-campus Master’s in Information Systems or Master’s in Information Technology options. Thus, if you’re residing in the U.S. check with your local university to determine admission requirements and tuition rates. Other online MIS or MIT programs do exist, and several additional Ivy League schools have finally embraced the reality that online degrees don’t necessarily devalue their Ivy League status.
If you’re not entirely sure that a Master’s degree is something you want to commit to — the maximum commitment is 24 months with several programs having fast-track options for completing the degree in 12 months — then earning a certification might be the best decision; it will give you the opportunity to “dip your toe” into the subject matter. Coursera and edX have certification tracks in IT Fundamentals, Database Fundamentals, Health Care It, Cybersecurity and other short courses (4 to 6 weeks) that are related to individual courses you would take within a Master’s degree program.
Conclusion
Whichever approach you choose, the job outlook for information systems and information technology experts is currently increasing and isn’t expected to level off any time soon. Compared to the other more time and math-intensive degrees in technology and their expected median salaries, an MIS or MIT degree (along with industry experience) is an equally worthwhile investment of time and money – one that could lead to a higher paying role as a CTO, CIO, or other C-level position.
School Listings
Arizona State University – Tempe, Arizona
MS in Information Systems Management (MSIM)
This 12-month, on-campus program in Information Systems Management is STEM-certified. Courses are delivered sequentially so that each class builds on the next and culminates in a capstone project that focuses on emerging technologies. The capstone pairs students to work on an industry project in their chosen area, which they must then incorporate knowledge from each of their previous classes. Students complete 10 classes throughout 12 months. Students may also pursue information management internships as well as workshops that include Data Visualization, Advanced SQL, Python, and SAP.
Program Length: 12 months
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE:Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $31,300 per program (Arizona Resident), $52,800 per program (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
Bentley University– Waltham, Massachusetts
Master in Information Technology
In 10 required courses, students must complete 18 credits of Information Technology Core, 3 credits of CS Electives, 3 credits of Information Systems and Technology Electives, and 6 credits of Unrestricted Electives. Classes are delivered on-campus. Please note, the GRE is required for admission.
Program Length: 10 Courses
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $4,620 per course
Course Offerings
Boston University – Boston, Massachusetts
Master of Science in Computer Information Systems
Boston University offers flexibility with classes delivered on-campus, online, or in a blended format. Concentrations in the program include Computer Networks, Data Analytics, Database Management and Business Intelligence, Health Informatics, IT Project Management, Security, and Web Application Development. Students must complete 5 courses/20 credits of core curriculum, 1 course/4 credits of required courses, and 4 courses/16 credits of general electives. Students may also pursue the thesis option for 8 credits if they complete at least 7 courses and have a GPA of at least 3.7 as well as find a thesis advisor and a principal reader within the department.
Program Length: 20 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus, Online or Blended
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $26,408 per semester
Course Offerings
Brigham Young University-Provo – Provo, Utah
Master of Information Systems Management
In this MISM program, students must complete 33.5 credits in 2 or 3 semesters. Coursework thoroughly studies business analytics, security and forensics, development, IT architecture, and business strategy. Students must also take 18 hours of elective courses. Students have the option of choosing from specialized tracks which include Business Intelligence and Analytics, Security and Forensics, Development, Healthcare, and Pre-PhD.
Program Length: 33.5 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: GMAT Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $2,730 per semester (LDS), $3,540 per semester (Non-LDS)
Course Offerings
California State University-Fullerton – Fullerton, California
Information Systems Management, M.S.
This STEM-designated program offers concentrations in generalist, business analytics, and decision sciences. Students must complete 30 units of coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.0. At least 21 out of the 30 units must be at the 500 level. Admission requirements include GMAT or GRE, professional resume, statement of purpose, leadership or creativity statement, official transcripts, and TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE for international students.
Program Length: 30 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $31,300 per program (Arizona Resident), $52,800 per program (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
Carnegie Mellon University – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
MS in Information Systems Management (MISM)
Carnegie Mellon offers excellent flexibility with 5 pathways: 16-month and 12-month programs in Pittsburgh, Business Intelligence and Data Analytics program in 16-month and 12-month formats, and the dual-city intercontinental option in Adelaide, Australia. The MISM 16-month program is completed in 3 semesters and includes optional concentrations in Managing AI and Robotics, Digital Marketing and Commerce, Business Intelligence, IT Strategy and Management, and Health Care Informatics.
Program Length: 162 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $24,100 per semester
Course Offerings
Claremont Graduate University – Claremont, California
Masters of Science in Information Systems & Technology
At a glance, Claremont’s MSIST program consists of 36 units and can be completed in 1.5 years (full-time) or 3 years (part-time). Areas of concentration include Data Science and Analytics, Cybersecurity and Networking, IT Strategy and Innovation, Geographic Information Systems, and Health Informatics. Claremont partners with Esri to offer students scholarships for Esri employees, opportunities to teach and develop applications in the Advanced GIS lab, and GIS training and recognition via an annual Esri-sponsored achievement award.
Program Length: 36 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE:Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $1,940 per unit
Course Offerings
DePaul University – Chicago, Illinois
MS in Information Systems Management
Through the 60 required credit hours, students may pursue any of 5 concentrations: Standard, IT Project Management, Database Administration, Business Intelligence, and Business Analysis/Systems Analysis. The program requires 4 Foundation courses, 7 Major Elective courses, 1 CDM Open Elective course, and the Information Systems Policies and Strategies Capstone course. Students who graduate with a GPA of 3.9 or higher will graduate from DePaul with distinction.
Program Length: 60 Credit hours
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $850 per semester
Course Offerings
Drexel University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
MS in Information Systems
Drexel’s recently revised curriculum requires 45 credit hours and can be completed full-time, part-time, on-campus, or online. Required courses include Software Development, Perspectives on Information Systems, Web Systems and Architecture, Database Management Systems, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Systems Analysis and Design, Information Systems Management, Requirements Engineering and Management, and Software Project Management. Students must also complete 12 credits of the Distribution Requirements as well as 6 credits of Free Electives.
Program Length: 45 Credit Hours
Delivery Method: Campus and Online
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $1,265 per credit hour
Course Offerings
George Washington University – Washington, D.C.
Master of Information Systems Technology
At the Berkeley School of Information, students must complete 48 units in the 2-year full-time MIST program. The first year of study involves the core curriculum while the second year involves additional electives, specialization courses, and a final project. Students are strongly encouraged to partake in a summer internship at the organization of the student’s choosing.
Program Length: 33 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus or Online
GRE: Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $1,890 per credit
Course Offerings
Georgia Institute of Technology – Atlanta, Georgia
Master of Business Administration – Information Technology Management
The MBA program begins with core courses consisting of 21 semester hours (12 courses). Students then customize their education by choosing one of the academic areas. In the ITM area, students begin with the Core Course titled Managing Information Resources (1.5 credit hours). Following the core course, elective courses (3 credit hours each) include Database Development and Applications, Electronic Commerce, Business Process Analysis and Design, IT Practicum, Emerging Technologies, Data Analytics in Business, Project Management, Business Intelligence and Analytics, and Business Analytics Practicum.
Program Length: 54 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $12,740 per year (Resident), $29, 134 per year (Non- resident)
Course Offerings
Georgia State University– Atlanta, Georgia
Master of Science in Information Systems
At the J. Mack Robinson College of Business, students advance their career path by concentrating in Big Data Management and Analytics, Enterprise Systems, or Cybersecurity. Boot camps, evening courses for working professionals, industry engagement, and internships give students the education they need to gain a 100% salary increase upon graduation. In 30 credits, students can graduate in 12 to 24 months with a full-time or part-time option. Classes are held in a cohort format for team-based learning.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $41,100 per program (Georgia Resident), $46,000 per program (Non- resident)
Course Offerings
Indiana University-Bloomington – Bloomington, Indiana
Masters of Science in Information Systems
At the Kelley School of Business, core courses in the MSIS program include 10 courses plus a final project. Students may specialize their degree with 1 of 3 concentrations: Business Intelligence and Analytics, Digital Enterprise Systems, and Enterprise Security and Risk Management. Students may also add a co-concentration of Business Intelligence, Enterprise Security, or Enterprise Systems. The capstone project requires client interviews, market research, and the translation of client needs into an informative document. Case competitions throughout the program hone soft skills through presentations, client engagement, and teamwork. In the required internship, students must participate in at least 1 IS/IT-related project and must return to campus for at least 1 semester afterward.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $20,688 per program (Illinois Resident), $38,596 (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
Iowa State University– Ames, Iowa
Masters of Science in Information Systems
At the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business, the MSIS program requires a minimum of 30 credits completed within 7 years, so working professionals can take classes at their own pace. Required curriculum includes 9 credits of Foundation Courses, 9 credits of MIS Courses, 9 credits of Electives Courses, and 3 credits of the Creative Component or 6 credits of the Thesis. MSIS students may also pursue opportunities in an MSIS/MBA double-major or business-related minors and certificates.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $3,870 per semester (Iowa Resident), $11,850 per semester (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, Maryland
Masters of Science in Information Systems
The Carey Business School MSIS program requires the completion of 36 credits in 1 year, breaking down to 12 credits of Business Foundations, 12 credits of Functional Core, and 12 credits of Information Systems Electives. Academic advisers consult with students to ensure courses are taken in the correct order. This STEM-certified program offers OPT extensions for full-time students.
Program Length: 36 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $68,900 per year
Course Offerings
Loyola University-Chicago – Chicago, Illinois
Master of Science in Information Systems Management
The Quinlan School of Business MSISM program is STEM-designated with OPT Extensions available for international students. Classes are held on weekday evenings and online for the convenience of working professionals. In the 10-week quarter system, students will complete a total of 12 courses. The program includes one prerequisite course of ISSCM 491 or its equivalent.
Program Length: 36 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $4,488 per course
Course Offerings
Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Cambridge, Massachusetts
Master’s in System Design & Management (SDM)
The SDM program offers a customizable curriculum in which the program director assists in tailoring the program to follow the career goals of each student. Regarding matriculation options, the high option allows students to earn their degree in 12 months while the low and commuter option will enable students to complete their degree in 21 months while working and meeting family commitments. All students must attend a 2-week on-campus August orientation and three to six 1-week seminars on-campus in the middle of each term. Students must complete a minimum of 92 subject units and a thesis.
Program Length: 92 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $25,760 per semester
Course Offerings
Middle Tennessee State University – Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Master of Science in Information Systems
In this MSIS program, students complete between 10 and 17 courses in a 50/50 learning format. 4 available concentrations include the IS General Concentration, the Business Intelligence and Analytics Concentration, the Information Security and Assurance Concentration, and the IT Project Management Concentration. The degree requires 30 semester hours, broken down into 12 required course hours and 18 elective hours. No foreign language or thesis is required to graduate.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus or Online
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $9,594 per year (Tennessee Resident) $22,860 per year (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
Mississippi State University – Starkville, Mississippi
Master of Science in Information Systems
This MSIS 30-credit program offers the flexibility of on-campus or online courses. Students in the program must complete the following foundation courses with a grade of C or better: Survey of Accounting, Statistical Analysis for Business Decision Making, Survey of Management, Survey of Economics, Financial Management, Principles of Marketing, Principles of Financial Accounting, Principles of Managerial Accounting, Business Statistical Methods I & II, Principles of Management and Production, Principles of Macroeconomics, and Principles of Microeconomics. Highly qualified students are encouraged to apply to the Accelerated Program in which they may earn up to 9 hours of graduate-level courses and earn both undergraduate and graduate credit simultaneously.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus or Online
GRE: Required or GMAT (preferred)
2020-2021 Tuition: $456 per credit (Mississippi Resident), $1,155 per credit (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
New York University – New York, New York
Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)
The MSIS degree at New York University requires 13 courses (39 credits) – 5 courses from the Stern School of Business, 5 courses from Computer Science, and 2 free electives from either Stern or CS. Students must also complete the Information Technology Project course, which provides real-world experience in solving IT issues while working with local corporations, non-profits, and government agencies. Students may complete a maximum of 21 credits at Stern.
Program Length: 39 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $1,723 per credit
Course Offerings
Norwich University – Northfield, Vermont
Master of Science in Information Systems
With InfoSys jobs expected to grow 12% by 2028, Norwich graduates stand out with specialized concentrations in business intelligence and data analytics, refined in 15-student-maximum class sizes that guarantee one-on-one feedback from expert faculty. With four yearly start dates and a 1-week residency, you can complete your master’s in as few as 18 months equipped for roles like systems analyst, information architect, or database administrator, and management-level titles like chief information officer, project manager, or webmaster. The MSIS positions students to meet career goals in corporate, private, and governmental settings, hirable in evergreen industries ranging from healthcare and education to manufacturing and technology.
Program Length: 33 Units
Delivery Method: Online
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $850 per credit
Course Offerings
Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Master of Science in Information Systems
The MSIS program at Nova Southeastern is a 30-credit hour program delivered online and on-campus in South Florida. Concentrations include Business Intelligence/Data Analytics, Information Assurance and Cybersecurity Management, and User Experience (UX)/Human-Computer Interaction. The Security concentration is recognized by the U.S. National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. Full-time students can earn the degree in 14 months while part-time students can earn the degree in 16 to 24 months while remaining working professionals.
Program Length: 36 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus or Online
GRE: Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $820 per credit
Course Offerings
Pace University – New York, New York
Master of Science in Information Systems
Students of the Pace Master of Science in Information Systems program will select a 9-credit area of specialization in either Security and Information Assurance, Telecommunications Management and Technologies, or Database Management and Technologies. Students must complete 15 credits of Foundation Courses, 9 credits from the suggested career paths, and 15 credits of recommended electives. Before graduating, students must complete the capstone course.
Program Length: 30 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $1,267 per credit
Course Offerings
Pennsylvania State University-Harrisburg– Middletown, Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Information Systems
Penn State’s MSIS program combines the technical content of information science and the managerial aspect of information systems. The program requires 30 credits in total with 9 credits of prescribed courses, 15 credits of Information Systems courses, and 6 credits of electives. The Data Analytics track is available and includes Business Analytics and Decision Modeling, Data Management Systems, Data Warehousing, Intelligent Systems in Business, Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery, and Web Enabled Technologies.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $10,770 per semester (Pennsylvania resident), $18,487 per year (Non-Resident)
Course Offerings
Santa Clara University – Santa Clara University
MS Information Systems
At the Leavey School of Business, students in the MSIS program can complete the degree in 18 to 27 months through evening and Saturday classes. This program is STEM-approved for international students looking for OPT extensions. Students must complete 18 credits of Core Information Systems Knowledge courses and 9 credits of Core Business Knowledge courses plus up to 5 electives for specialization. Students are encouraged to pursue a specialization track in Business Intelligence/Analytics, Enterprise Computing, Mobile Programming, Computer Security, Supply Chain Management, or IT Management. Lastly, students must complete a Major Application Project which requires 4 courses.
Program Length: 51 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE:Required or GMAT
2020-2021Tuition: $1,068 per unit
Course Offerings
Stanford University – Stanford, California
Master of Science in Computer Science – Systems Specialization
As the only specialization that can be completed entirely remotely, Stanford offers flexibility in this MSCS program specialization. The program provides most of the hard-core programming classes in the computer science industry. Contact the Honors Co-op (HCP) for more information.
Program Length: 45 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE:Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $18,005 per quarter
Course Offerings
Steven Institute of Technology – Hoboken, New Jersey
Master of Science in Information Systems
Steven’s MSIS program includes concentrations that specify a student’s education, which include Business Intelligence and Analytics, Business Process Management and Service Innovation, Cybersecurity Risk Management, Project Management, and Software Engineering. Overall, core curriculum includes Project Management Fundamentals, Financial Decision Making, Organizational Behavior and Design, Analysis and Development of Info Systems, Data Management, Digital Innovation, Process Innovation and Management, Integrating Info System Technologies, and Info Tech Strategy. To apply for the program, students must submit academic transcripts, a professional resume, GMAT/GRE score, letters of recommendation, and attend interviews.
Program Length: 36 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $16,664 per semester
Course Offerings
University of Arkansas– Fayetteville, Arkansas
Master of Information Systems
At Walton College, students may concentrate in 1 of 4 areas: Information Technology Management, Enterprise Resource Planning Management, Enterprise Systems Management, or Software Engineering. In the Global Technology and Analytics course, students spend time abroad to gain skills in IT management from a global perspective. The program is 1 year in length and requires GMAT or GRE scores.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: GMAT required
2020-2021 Tuition: $642 per credit (Arkansas Resident), $16,964 per year (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of California-Berkeley – Berkeley, California
Master of Information Management and Systems
At the Berkeley School of Information, the MIMS program is 2 years in length (when conducted full-time) and requires 48 credits. The first year of study consists of a core curriculum while the second year consists of further study, additional electives, and a final project conducted with an advisor. The summer internship opportunity is highly encouraged to practice new skills in real-world scenarios.
Program Length: 48 Units
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE:Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $5,721 per semester
Course Offerings
University of Delaware – Newark, Delaware
Information Systems & Technology Management, MS and MBA/MS
At the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics, the Information Systems and Technology Management program requires 36 credits of study. This includes 3 Foundation courses and 9 Core courses. Students will gain knowledge in technology-mediated interruptions and performance, decision making, virtual teams, statistic modeling, computer ethics, and more.
Program Length: 36 Units/60 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE:Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $13,680 per year (Delaware Residents) $34,310 per year (Non-residents)
Course Offerings – MS
Course Offerings – Dual Degree
University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
Master of Science in Information Systems and Operations Management (ISOM)
At the Warrington College of Business, the MS in Information Systems and Operations Management is STEM-accredited, so students gain top-notch knowledge to help organizations utilize data for growth. The program requires 36 credits with courses delivered on-campus in a modular system. 3 track options include Business Intelligence and Analytics, Information Technology, and Supply Chain Management.
Program Length: 36 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $12,740 per year (Resident), $29, 134 per year (Non- resident)
Course Offerings
University of Illinois-Chicago – Chicago, Illinois
Master of Science in Management Information Systems
The UIC Business Liautaud Graduate School MSMIS program is a 32-credit hour degree program that can be completed in 1 year of full-time study. A part-time option is available. Students in the program may specialize in Service Operations and Supply Chain Management Enterprise Information Technology and Technology Project Management or Data Mining. The program concludes with a capstone project experience after 2 core knowledge courses have been completed.
Program Length: 32 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $5,830 per semester (Illinois Resident), $11,950 (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of Illinois-Springfield – Springfield, Illinois
Master of Science in Management Information Systems
At UIS, the MIS program delivers an even balance of technical knowledge and organizational practices. The program requires 36 credit hours. At completing 10 core courses, students must complete the MIS elective Data Mining for Business Analytics or Information Security. The Closure Requirement includes either Thesis and Seminar or the Graduate Project and Seminar or the Capstone Project.
Program Length: 36 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Not required
2020-2021 Tuition: $5,264 per semester (Illinois Resident), $10,800 (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, Illinois
MS in Information Management
With the flexibility of online or on-campus, the 40-credit MS/IM program also lets students create their education with various course options, practical experiences, and research opportunities. An advisor guides you toward the best path for your career goals. Courses lead you down the path of data science and analytics or privacy, trust, security, and ethics. Students may also choose a career path in information architecture and design or knowledge management and information consulting.
Program Length: 40 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus or Online
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $12,266 per year (Illinois Resident), $26,502 (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of Maine – Orono, Maine
Masters of Science in Information Systems
UMaine offers an MS/IS program that is available on-campus or 100% online in only 30 credits. Course work consists of five 3-credit required core courses and at least 15 credits of approved elective courses, which students may choose based on their career goals and discipline. Elective courses range in discipline from business to computer science, digital curation to education, electrical and computer engineering to interdisciplinary, and intermedia to spatial information science and engineering. Up to 2 courses may be taken at another university by distance method.
Program Length: 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus or Online
GRE: Required
2020-2021 Tuition: $439 per credit (Maine Resident), $1,430 per credit (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Master of Business Administration – Information Systems Specialization
At the Carlson School of Management, the MBA Information Systems Specialization program requires a total of 65 credits completed within 2 academic years. Course sequence is customizable to individual career paths. Students in this specialization will build a skill set for an increasingly compliance and security intensive environment.
Program Length: 65 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $38,208 per program (Minnesota Resident), $48,936 per program (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of Nevada-Reno – Reno, Nevada
Master of Science in Information Systems – Data Analytics Tract
Master of Science in Information Systems – IS Management Tract
The College of Business offers this Data Analytics Track in the MS/IS program with 30 required credits in an on-campus delivery. This tract focuses on massive data sets which will be used in an organization for significant decision-making. This program requires a Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) score of 500 or better.
The College of Business offers this IS Management Track in the MS/IS program with 30 required credits in an on-campus delivery. This track focuses on managing systems of information and building a deeper understanding of exactly how to manage tech-based systems as a strategic resource within an organization. This program requires a Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) score of 500 or better.
Program Length: 30 Credits/ 30 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: GMAT required
2020-2021 Tuition: $5,653 (Resident), $20,124 per credit (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
Course Offerings
University of Oklahoma-Norman – Norman, Oklahoma
Master of Science in Management Information Technology
The Price College of Business/Gene Rainbolt Graduate School of Business offers an intense program in Management Information Systems with an Analytics Core. The program requires a minimum of 32 graduate-level hours which can be completed in 3 semesters or up to 5 years. Evening courses are available for students wishing to pursue the degree on a part-time basis while working. The course breakdown consists of 6 hours of MIT required coursework, 26 hours of MIT required elective coursework, and 13 hours of graduate-level MIT elective options.
Program Length: 32 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $11,762 per year (Resident) $27,144 per year ( Non-Resident)
Course Offerings
University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Master of Business Administration – Operation, Information and Decisions Specialty Information Systems Track
At Penn, the OID major requires 5 CUs from any courses offered by the OID department. Up to 1 CU of coursework can be taken on a pass/fail basis. Students may take up to 1 CU of independent study projects to count towards the OID major. The Information Systems Track requires 3 courses: Information Technology and Business Transformation, Enabling Technologies, and Decision Support Systems.
Program Length: 19 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $78,948 per program
Course Offerings
University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
BSBA – and MS Information Systems Track
At the College of Business Administration, students earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree and a Master of Science in Management Information Systems simultaneously in 4 years. Through this accelerated program, students gain an in-depth knowledge of managerial issues in information systems faster than earning a BSBA and an MS/MIS separately. The program is open to highly motivated students who are willing to 57 credits of course work.
Program Length: 57 Credits
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $30,376 per year
Course Offerings
University of Texas – Austin, Texas
Master of Science in Information Technology and Management
At the McCombs School of Business, students spend 10 months in this STEM-designated degree program with opportunities to specialize in Blockchain and FinTech. Students receive one-on-one career coaching with mock interviews and industry visits. The degree requires 36 credit hours and a capstone course.
Program Length: 10 Months
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $43,000 per program (Texas Resident) $48,000 per program (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of Utah – Provo, Utah
Master of Information Systems Management
At the David Eccles School of Business, The MISM program requires 30 credit hours in either full-time or part-time study. Students must complete 18 credit hours of core courses and 12 credit hours of elective courses. Students must also complete a capstone project as a culmination of their degree. Available areas of specialization include Business Intelligence and Analytics, Software and Systems Architecture, Product and Process Management, and IT Security.
Program Length: 30 Credit Hours
Delivery Method: Campus or Online
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $ 28,400 per program (Utah resident), $45,500 per program (Non-resident)
Course Offerings
University of Washington-Seattle – Seattle, Washington
Master of Science in Information Systems
At the Foster School of Business, the MS/IS program is a 1-year, work-compatible, accelerated program for current working professionals. Classes are available in evenings and on weekends. The program focuses on IT and business curriculum. The university is flexible with working students needing to travel and possibly missing classes.
Program Length: 12 months
Delivery Method: Campus
GRE: Required or GMAT
2020-2021 Tuition: $38,000 per program
Course Offerings
2021 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for CISMs and data scientists reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2023.
