Is A Management Information Systems Degree Worth Pursuing?

What is a Management Information Systems Degree?

Management Information Systems is a degree program focused on using technology to solve business challenges. It’s usually a mix of both hard and soft skills. This means you will learn technical programming languages as well as interpersonal communication and organizational management strategies. Courses will cover topics like system design, database implementation, project management, web development, cybersecurity, and more.

A lot of schools in the US offer MIS, and the demand for it is constantly increasing. In recent years, the number of jobs available has grown exponentially due to businesses becoming more digitized and tech-savvy.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Management Information Systems Degree?

A bachelor’s degree in MIS generally takes four years to complete. This is an undergraduate program and can be completed in roughly two years if you choose to attend school full-time or four years if you are attending part-time. Additionally, many universities offer accelerated programs that allow students to obtain their degrees at a faster pace.

Career Path and Job Market Demand For Management Information Systems Degree Graduates

General Score for Career Path and Job Market Demand: 10/10

Those who graduate with an MIS degree can expect to have a wide range of career options. Many graduates find employment in the IT departments of large corporations, while others may pursue independent consulting or entrepreneurship. Additionally, many universities offer internships that allow students to gain real-world experience and make connections with potential employers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for MIS graduates is growing at an impressive rate. In fact, demand is expected to increase by 8% from 2018 to 2028. This growth is attributed to businesses needing more tech-savvy professionals who can help them keep up with the latest technological advancements.

Overall, a degree in Management Information Systems can provide graduates with a broad range of opportunities. The job market for MIS graduates is strong, and the potential to make a comfortable living is high. This degree can open doors in many industries and provide you with the skills needed to succeed in today’s tech-driven world. It’s certainly worth looking into if you’re considering pursuing an MIS degree.

Graduates of Management Information Systems have a competitive advantage in the labor market due to their skills in data analysis using data analytics tools, knowledge of complex computer databases, and, most of all, critical thinking, which is highly needed in many organizations.

What Jobs Can You Get With A Management Information Systems Degree?

Like Software Engineering and Computer Science degrees, the Management Information Systems program prepares its graduates for a job market that is constantly hiring MIS students for their excellent training in systems analysis, data management, data collection, and technology. Here are some of the jobs that any graduate of MIIS adept with computer-based information systems can land:

Information Security Manager

An information security manager is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of a company’s sensitive data. This can include developing strategies and protocols to protect against cyber-attacks, monitoring network activity to detect any malicious activities, and implementing measures to prevent unauthorized access to confidential information. They must also stay up-to-date on the latest security threats and keep the company informed.

Systems Analyst

A systems analyst is responsible for designing and implementing computer-based information systems that can improve business processes and increase efficiency. They interpret data, analyze existing systems, identify areas of improvement, and develop solutions that are tailored to a company’s needs. Additionally, they must be comfortable with problem-solving and technical writing.

Database Administrator

A database administrator is responsible for creating, managing, and maintaining databases. This can include designing data storage structures, developing backup procedures, automating maintenance tasks, and ensuring security protocols are in place. They must also be able to troubleshoot any issues and provide technical support when necessary.

Business Analyst

A business analyst is responsible for analyzing an organization’s current processes, identifying areas of improvement, and developing strategies to increase productivity. They research trends in the industry, develop models and simulations to test solutions, and create detailed reports outlining their findings. Business analysts must be well-versed in data analysis techniques and have strong problem-solving skills.

Operations Research Analyst

An operations research analyst is responsible for analyzing and evaluating complex systems, algorithms, and processes. They use mathematical and statistical models to develop solutions that can improve the efficiency of a business or organization. Additionally, they must be able to explain their findings in an easy-to-understand manner.

These are just some of the many career options available for Management Information Systems graduates. With this degree, students can gain skills that can open doors in various industries and help them succeed in today’s tech-driven world.

Job Outlook After Completing the Management Information Systems Degree

General Score for Job Outlook: 10/10

If you intend to take Management Information Systems degree in college, know that the job outlook for MIS professionals is promising. The general education courses, coupled with the MIS core courses on information systems and technical skills, give them an ace to make it big in the job market. I collated the data below from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics to support this claim:

Occupation	Job Outlook (2021-2031)
Software Developers	26%
Computer and Information Systems Managers	16%
Management Analysts	11%
Computer Occupations	10%
Computer Systems Analysts	9%

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, this growth will contribute to an estimated half million new jobs, making Management Information Systems a great degree choice with promising job prospects.

How Much Do Management Information System Graduates Earn?

General Score for Salary: 9.5/10

The salary you can earn with a Management Information Systems (MIS) degree depends on the occupation. The most common and highly paid MIS jobs include software developers, computer and information systems managers, management analysts, computer system analysts, and database administrators.

Technically, the MIS is categorized under Computer and Information Technology Degree by the BLS. As shown in the data above, jobs under this category have a median salary of $85,000, way higher compared to the $60,000 median salary of other occupations.

Let’s now take a look at the median salaries enjoyed by management information systems degree graduates, as reflected on Glassdoor. Let’s start with how much an Information Security Manager makes in the US:

An Information Security Manager in the San Jose, CA area can earn an estimated $174,677 per year. This average is based on salaries collected from our users and represents the midpoint of our Total Pay Estimate model. On top of their base salary, they could also receive an estimated $46,405 per year in additional pay, which includes bonuses, commission, tips, and profit sharing. With these impressive numbers, it’s clear that a career in information security management can be a lucrative and rewarding choice.

How about a Systems Analyst? Here’s what Glassdoor gathered:

Looking to become a System Analyst in the Big Apple? You can expect an estimated total pay of $96,588 per year, with an average salary of $89,171 per year. And that’s not all – there’s also estimated additional pay of $7,416, which could come in the form of bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing. This data is based on salaries collected from our users and represents the median value, which is the midpoint of the range from Glassdoor’s proprietary Total Pay Estimate model.

From these two examples alone, it’s clear that having a career in the Management Information Systems field can be incredibly rewarding, both financially and professionally. So if you’re looking for an exciting career with great potential for growth, MIS is definitely the degree to pursue.

Are Management Information Systems Graduates Happy and Satisfied At Work?

General Score for Job Satisfaction: 8/10

What can a well-paying job be if you are unsatisfied at work? Such is not the case for graduates of Management Information Systems.

42% of MIS majors who manage any organization’s computer systems for optimum business operations feel satisfied about the work that they do. That is according to Payscale’s College Salary Report, as reflected above.

Aside from the salary, one consideration you need to look at is job satisfaction amongst those MIS graduates who are currently employed. MIS majors thrive in professional organizations not only because of the good pay, but also because they feel doing the job is rewarding. While projected growth rates are indeed tempting, job satisfaction is one thing you really need to consider.

Real-World Examples: How Do Management Information Systems Degree Graduates Fare In The Real World?

Looking at numbers and statistics can be a bit overwhelming. So let’s take a look at some real-world examples to get a better sense of how MIS degree graduates fare in the workplace.

Education to Employment

One common experience by MIS graduates was how easy for some to land entry-level jobs right after graduation, as evidenced by Reddit users below:

Another Reddit user has this to say:

The Need For Internship

One Reddit user said that while there’s a high demand for MIS graduates in the job market, it is essential that they have to fortify their credentials by applying for internships before taking into entry-level jobs.

One Reddit user also mentioned about getting certifications alongside the management information systems degree to prove your expertise in other fields like project management, systems analysis, information technology, business administration or systems analysis and design.

One Reddit user took a coding BootCamp to boost his credential. The business skills he got from the business courses of MIS helped him solve business problems. Students pursuing viable career paths after graduation can learn from this Reddit user:

Students majoring in specialized fields can also help. Other MIS students are advised on concentrating with majors and electives at college to help in boosting their credentials post-graduation, like this MIS graduate:

Torn Between A Management Information Systems Degree and Computer Science Degree?

Take this advice from a Reddit user:

Overall, a Management Information Systems degree is an ideal choice for those who want to land jobs in the tech industry. With its combination of business and technology, MIS graduates can get well-paying and rewarding jobs right out of college. It also allows you to develop your skills further by taking on internships or additional certifications and degrees.

Is Management Information Systems Degree For You?

I highly encourage you to weigh your options better whether to take an MIS Degree for college or not. To help you decide, here’s a decision matrix I want you to download. The download link is provided after the table below:

CONSIDERATIONS	YES	NO
Interest in Technology Do you have a genuine interest in technology and its impact on businesses?
Job Opportunities Check the job market and demand for MIS professionals in your region to ensure that there are enough job opportunities after graduation. Are there plenty of job opportunities?
Skills and Abilities Analytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to understand business processes and communicate effectively are necessary for an MIS career. Do you have these skills?
Course Curriculum Review the course curriculum to ensure that it aligns with your interests and career aspirations. Is the curriculum aligned with your interests and career aspirations?
Program Accreditation Choose an MIS program accredited by relevant bodies to ensure that it meets industry standards. Is your chosen program accredited?
Faculty and Facilities Research the faculty and facilities of the college and department to determine if they have the necessary expertise and resources to deliver a quality education. Are the faculty and facilities good?
Internship and Work Experience Look for programs that offer internships and work experience opportunities as they can provide valuable practical experience and networking opportunities. Are there internships available?
Cost and Financial Aid Consider the cost of the program and explore financial aid options to determine if it is affordable for you. Are there any financial aid for your schooling?
Career Path Explore the various career paths available to MIS graduates and ensure that they align with your long-term goals. Is there a viable career path?
Industry Connections Check if the program has industry connections or business partnerships that can offer internship and job opportunities. Is your chosen school established partnerships with industry leaders?

Choosing The Best School Offering Management Information Systems Degree

If you have already decided to take MIS Degree for college, here are my tips on how to choose the best school that offers MIS:

Reputation

Consider the reputation of the college and its MIS department to determine if it has a good track record in terms of graduate outcomes.

Accreditation

Research the accreditation status of the program to ensure that it meets industry standards.

Faculty and Facilities

Examine the faculty and facilities of the school to determine if they can deliver quality education.

Pros and Cons of Management Information Systems Degree

As a way of review, here are the pros and cons of MIS:

Pros:

• You can get an in-depth understanding of the latest advancements in information systems, technology and their application to businesses.

• You’ll gain a strong background in both business and computer science principles.

• A MIS degree is applicable across various industries, including engineering, finance, healthcare , and retail.

• You’ll be able to develop skills in data analysis, problem-solving, technical support, system design and development, project management, and more.

Cons:

• The time it takes to complete an MIS program can vary greatly depending on the institution or the student’s educational goals .

• MIS degrees can be expensive, especially if you are not eligible for financial aid.

• You may need to complete an internship in order to gain practical experience and a better understanding of the field.

• The job market is competitive, so it can be difficult to secure a position with your MIS degree.

• You may need to complete additional certifications and training in order to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.

Overall, an MIS degree can provide students with a wide range of skills that are applicable across various industries. With the right planning and dedication, this type of degree can open doors to a wide range of career paths. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision about whether or not an MIS degree is right for you.

FAQs about Management Information Systems Degree

Q: What can I do with a degree in MIS?

A: With a degree in MIS, you will be able to pursue any number of careers, including computer systems analyst, database manager, software engineer, web developer, and more. You can also use your skills and knowledge to work in various industries like finance, healthcare, retail, engineering, and more.

Q: How long does it take to complete a degree in MIS?

A: The time it takes to complete an MIS program can vary greatly depending on the school or the student’s educational goals. Generally, you can expect to spend two to four years completing your undergraduate degree and another one or two years for a master’s degree.

Q: What type of certifications do I need to get a job in MIS?

A: Depending on the job you are looking for, you may need additional certifications such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). You should also keep up with the latest trends and developments in the field to make sure you stay relevant.

Q: Does an MIS degree qualify for financial aid?

A: Yes, depending on your institution or country of residence, you may be eligible for financial aid such as grants, loans, and scholarships. It is best to check with your school’s financial aid office to see what types of assistance you may qualify for.

Final Verdict for Management Information Systems Degree

Using my Subjective Degree Ranker, here’s my final verdict for the Management Information Systems Degree:

Salary: 9.5

The good salary prospects for people with a degree in MIS make it a great choice for anyone looking to enter the field. The median salary that is enjoyed by MIS graduates in the market today is something to consider.

Satisfaction: 8

The level of satisfaction that MIS graduates enjoy in their profession is very high. All of the skills, projects and challenges associated with the degree make for a fulfilling career and can be extremely rewarding for those who are successful.

Demand: 8.5

Riding on the demand for MIS graduates has been steadily increasing over the past few years, making it an attractive option for those looking to enter the job market. With so many industries relying on technology and data-driven solutions, MIS graduates have a lot of options when it comes to finding employment.

X-Factor: 11

The X-factor for this degree is the fact that it provides students with a wide range of skills applicable to any industry. This means that MIS graduates are in high demand and have the ability to transition from one field to another easily, making them a desirable asset in the job market.

Alternatives To Management Information Systems Degree

What are your alternatives if you decide not to pursue Management Information Systems Degree? I listed some which you can take:

Computer Science Degree

The computer science degree focuses on the fundamentals of computer programming and coding, as well as technical aspects such as databases and networks.

Business Management Degree

With a business administration or management degree you can learn how to manage a business efficiently and strategize accordingly, while understanding the different roles within a company.

Software Engineering Degree

This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of the engineering processes used to create software systems.

Pursue Online Certifications

If you want to get an edge in the tech industry, you can pursue online certifications. These are offered by some of the biggest companies, such as Google and Microsoft, and they can teach you the skills needed for a more specialized role.

No matter what you choose, taking the time to research and consider all of your options is important when it comes to making a decision about your career path. With the right amount of dedication, you can make sure that you are on the right track for success. As what I always say: Go where the opportunity is!