Masters in Information Systems (MIS) | A comprehensive guide

Masters in Information systems deal with business tactics and technology

Like most students, you probably know how an MS or an MBA will help you succeed, but you might be unsure about the Masters Information Systems (MIS) program, as it is a completely new study area. You might have heard a variety of definitions, but they all boil down to this simplified explanation- an MIS is somewhere between a master’s degree and an MBA.

We’ve written this blog to dispel the myths surrounding the MIS program and assist you in determining whether this is the degree for you.

Before we get into the specifics, let’s give you an overview 

Simply put, you should pursue this degree if

• You enjoy working with technology but cannot spend the rest of your life writing code.
• You have a natural affinity for technology but have a penchant for high-impact business and need help choosing between the two.

Is this something you can identify with?

So, continue reading to understand the course, curriculum, and prospects. 

Basics of MIS

What is a Masters in Information Systems?

Master in information systems (MIS) is applying computer-related technology to managerial programs. With a Master’s in IS, you will gain foundational business knowledge through Information Systems-focused courses.

An MIS program is designed to teach you skills related to the intersection of IT and business.

You will be prepared for jobs that require you to identify problems and use technology to develop solutions for business problems once you graduate.

Due to the impact of information technology on businesses, IT systems and their management is considered a business function. Business schools offer MIS courses at various universities. Schools also provide specific information courses.

To put it another way, it’s a core business program with engineering electives. Most programs take 18-24 months to complete and require 33 credit hours of coursework. Some universities may require you to write a thesis for your degree program.

Other integrative courses that combine technology and business, such as the Master’s in IS, are available.

• MEM (MS in Engineering Management)
• MIM (MS in Information Management)
• MSIS (MS in Information Systems)
• MSTM (MS in Technology Management)
• MSEM (MS in Engineering Management)

These courses have similar curricula and are simply variations of courses offered under different names in different schools.

What does the MIS curriculum comprise?

The Information Systems program provides students with foundation knowledge on organizations and Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

While the curriculum varies, most universities offer the following courses

• System Analysis and Design
• Database Management
• Enterprise architecture
• Information Security and Compliance
• E-Commerce and Internet-based Applications
• Data Warehousing
• Business Process Design
• Business Intelligence Applications
• Information Systems Strategy and Governance
• Project Management

There are also programs within the Management Information System world that are more suitable for students with a strong background in information technology who want to advance to a management position. Other programs are available for business professionals who want to use information technology in their management practices.

When considering different schools, look through their course curriculum to see if they strongly emphasize information technology or business.

Career prospects for MIS

What do you do after an MIS?

MIS professionals serve as a ‘bridge’ between business needs and technology. They are in high demand in today’s competitive world. A top-tier MIS degree can be your ticket to the rewarding job you’ve always wanted, rewarding both in terms of job satisfaction and financial advantages.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of computer and information systems managers in 2014 was USD127,640, with the middle 50% earning between USD99,320 and USD161,520.

Among the companies that hire MIS graduates are

• The Big 4 (Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, EY)
• Banks such as Citi, JP Morgan, and Bank of America
• Technology companies such as Microsoft, Adobe, and Facebook

Job roles for MIS degree holders

• Information Systems Manager
• Business Analyst
• Computer Systems Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Systems Analyst
• Business Application Developer
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• IT Development Project Leader or Project Manager

Top US schools for studying MIS

The program is available at several universities in the United States. Both business schools and information studies schools teach MIS.

The following are the top ten Masters in Information Systems (MIS) programs in the United States-

• Carnegie Mellon University (Heinz College)
• University of Arizona (Eller College of Business)
• Texas A & M University (Mays Business School)
• Indiana University (Kelley School of Business)
• Oklahoma State University (Spears School of Business)
• University at Buffalo–SUNY (School of Management)
• New York University (Stern)
• University of California, Berkeley
• Syracuse University
• University of Maryland

Steps for enrolling in the MIS program

Check eligibility

MIS is interdisciplinary, and the eligibility net may be wider than other purely technical or business courses. Some schools may require you to have an undergraduate degree in information technology. Even if you do not have a background in IT, it is still acceptable in some other schools.

Take the GRE or the GMAT

A GRE or GMAT score is required for admission to a top MIS program. Check the school’s website for information on the tests the school accepts and the average accepted score.

Take a standardized language test

Most schools require you to take a language course, such as TOEFL or IELTS. Under certain conditions, TOEFL test scores are accepted for Tier 4 student visas in the United Kingdom. Universities and employers accept IELTS in various countries, including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Find out whether your undergrad GPA meets the school requirements

International business schools use your GPA to assess your academic performance (GPA). Graduate-level admission to international B-Schools requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an internationally recognized institution.

Write a great SOP

Your statement of purpose (SOP) is essential for getting admission. Make sure that it highlights your experience, abilities, and qualifications in the field. Highlight your career objectives and reasons for enrolling in an MIS program.

Craft a sharp resume

Your resume provides information about qualifications with more data-driven information than your SOP does. In a concise and presentable format, a good resume will discuss your educational qualifications, extracurricular activities, and professional experience.

Get recommendations from the right people

A recommendation letter provides information about your job or academics and your personality and character. It demonstrates the abilities that will be useful in your academic course.

Ace your interview

After the university or college selects your application, almost all schools will interview the candidate. Do some preliminary research on the types of questions to be asked and the expected responses in preparation for the interview.

Key takeaways

• The Masters in Information Systems course includes a combination of core business knowledge with technical courses based on Information Systems and provides a real-world view to the students.
• A Master in Information Systems (MIS) entails applying computer technology to management programs. After completing a Master’s in IS, you will gain foundational business knowledge through courses focusing on Information Systems.
• MIS professionals fill the gap between business needs and technology. An MIS degree from a renowned college can help you get the kind of job you’ve always wanted, rewarding job satisfaction and financial advantages.

Did you find this blog informative? If so, please share your thoughts in the comments section below. Click here to contact us for more information on Masters in Information Systems (MIS). We would be happy to assist you with your queries.

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FAQs

Q1. Does MS in information systems require coding?

Ans- Degrees in information systems do not typically require coding, though prior experience writing or testing code may be beneficial. Instead of covering specific coding languages, information systems coursework focuses on the big picture of networks and businesses.

Q2. Can I do a Master’s in Information Systems without GMAT?

Ans- You cannot get admission to a top college without GMAT or GRE scores, but several colleges offer MIS programs without GMAT.

Q3. Which is better, MS or MIS?

Ans- A MIS program will prepare you for a career in business and industry, whereas an MS in CS will prepare you to be a Software Engineer. With an MIS degree, you will focus on the business side of information and management to maximize the organization’s profit.