If you aspire to work in information technology, one way to achieve this is by enrolling in a degree program offered by the best schools for information systems management. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that a bachelor’s degree is the minimum education required to work in many entry-level positions in information systems career paths.
Attending one of the best information systems management colleges can help you gain an advanced degree such as a master’s or doctorate program. You’ll gain the technical experience and strong research skills necessary to work in managerial, research, and teaching professions.
Information systems management degrees teach students a combination of education courses, including technology and business. Business schools and technical schools teach programs in information systems management. This article covers everything you need to know about the best information systems management universities and colleges.
Best Information Systems Management College and University Rankings: Top 10 Information Systems Management Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon University | PA | On-campus | 25 |
| Florida State University | FL | Online, on-campus | 55 |
| Indiana University | IN | Online, on-campus | 68 |
| Pennsylvania State University | PA | On-campus | 63 |
| Temple University | PA | On-campus | 103 |
| University of Arizona | AZ | On-campus | 103 |
| University of Maryland | MD | 59 | |
| University of Michigan | MI | Online, on-campus | 31 |
| University of Minnesota | MN | On-campus | 68 |
| University of Texas | TX | On-campus | 38 |
Information Systems Management School Rankings: Best Information Systems Management Colleges and Universities
There are a ton of schools on the Internet claiming to provide premier education services. This can make your school search tedious when browsing for your ideal campus programs. Individual universities have common core courses as well as unique courses in their digital technology programs.
When applying, most universities require a minimum GPA, official transcripts, an application fee, and letters of recommendation. We’ve narrowed down a list of the best information systems management colleges and universities.
Carnegie Mellon University is a highly ranked academic and research institution. The US News & World Report rankings place Carnegie Mellon at number 25 among the best universities in the country. This 115-year-old institution is best known for its computer science and arts programs.
Carnegie Mellon University Overview
- School Type: Private School
- Acceptance Rate: 14%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 25
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 21
Best Carnegie Mellon University Information Systems Management Programs
- Information Systems. This undergraduate degree program combines the technical aspects of computer science, information technology, human-computer interaction, and business management. This management information systems program will equip you with skills to solve problems in business.
- Master of Information Systems Management (MISM). This 12 to 16-month program equips students with leadership skills. It gives students advanced skills and the technical knowledge necessary to transform organizations through technology.
Carnegie Mellon University Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
Carnegie Mellon University is a top-tier academic institution known for its computer science-related programs. Consider this school if you want to enroll in a prestigious private university.
Florida State University is one of the oldest public academic institutions in Florida. Founded in 1851, this institution has risen to gain recognition in the sciences, humanities, arts, and technology programs.
Florida State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 37%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 55
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 173
Best Florida State University Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelors in Management Information Systems. This program provides students with the business and technical skills necessary for designing and developing system-related solutions for organizations.
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS). This online program is highly ranked by the US News & World Report rankings. It provides technical, management, and analytical skills from a world-class curriculum.
Florida State University Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
Florida State University is known for its academic excellence. To enroll in the best information systems management universities, you’ll need a strong application with good grades, as this school has a fairly low acceptance rate.
Founded in 1820, Indiana University is one of the oldest universities in America. This institution is also highly ranked among the nation’s best universities by the US News & World Report Rankings. This school’s faculty have been awarded every major international and national prize, including an Oscar award, an Emmy Award, and the Nobel Prize.
Indiana University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 68
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 138
Best Indiana University Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Business with a Concentration in Management Information Systems. This 120-credit-program prepares students for various roles, none more important than the role of an MIS professional. Credits of core coursework include the computer in business, marketing management, operations management, and programming.
- Master of Science in Information Systems. This program allows you to gain core skills in business information systems and technology. You’ll be well-versed in management strategy and project management techniques by the end of this program.
Indiana University Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
Indiana University is a highly ranked academic and research institution famed for its numerous research centers. There’s a decent chance you’ll gain admission to this school with a strong application, as this school has a high acceptance rate.
Simply known as Penn State, Pennsylvania State University is a top-ranked academic and research university. With over 150 years of operation under this school’s name, Penn State University also features as one of the oldest academic institutions in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 63
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 141
Best Pennsylvania State University Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. This major focuses on technology, including programming, database management, management of information resources, and network management. Consider this program if your career interests lie in business and technology.
- Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems. This program delves into information technology techniques and methods for collecting, organizing, processing, and reporting data to inform business decisions.
- Master of Science in Information Systems. This program equips students with managerial and technical skills to design and implement successful IT-based initiatives in organizations.
Pennsylvania State University Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
You can study these programs on any Penn State campus, including University Park. Penn State University has 100,000 students over 24 campuses, including online students.
Temple University is a public academic institution with about 37,365 enrolled students. This university offers over 150 undergraduate programs from 17 different schools and colleges. According to the US News & World Report rankings, Temple University is among the nation's top 50 public schools among American universities.
Temple University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Accreditation: The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 103
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 166
Best Temple University Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems. This program produces digital leaders who lead information technology-based initiatives. These techniques utilize analytics and user experience to arrive at favorable business outcomes.
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems. One of the key outcomes of this program is to equip students with the managerial and technical skills necessary to lead and develop solutions in the MIS field.
Temple University Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
Temple University is one of the best universities on the East Coast. This school is known for its excellent business and technology programs.
This Arizona-based public institution offers more than 300 majors. At the time of writing, the University of Arizona had 46,932 students, with 36,503 undergraduates. Although this institution is famed for its astronomy programs and research facilities, it also offers exceptional business and technology programs.
University of Arizona Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 103
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 131
Best University of Arizona Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Management Information Systems. This program covers topics in computer technology, and administrative and quantitative techniques to prepare students for information processing in organizations.
- Masters in Management Information Systems. This 33-credit program gives students many choices in elective courses. These courses include security and information assurance, business intelligence and analytics, or managing business operations. Graduate students get professional experiences enabling them to solve challenges in the tech-driven business world.
University of Arizona Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
The University of Arizona has many top-tier programs, most of which are among the nation’s best. A strong application with high grades will get you admission into this public school.
The University of Maryland is a public institution with about 41,200 enrolled students. This school offers 102 bachelor’s degree programs, 115 master's programs, and 84 doctoral programs.
University of Maryland Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 59
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 80
Best University of Maryland Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer, Data and Information Sciences. This four-year degree allows you to major in information systems. The program has a 120-credit requirement and teaches students to be effective in planning, using, and managing technology systems.
- Master of Science in Information Systems. This program gives students data science, managerial and analytical skills to become an impactful liaison between data analysts and business leadership.
University of Maryland Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
The University of Maryland is a large state research-intensive academic institution. Famous alumni include Jim Henson, Gayle King, and Connie Chung.
The University of Michigan-Dearborn is a public university with approximately 8,331 students. This school offers 100 majors, 70 minors, 60 graduate programs, and certificates. The University of Michigan has four colleges, namely, the College of Business, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Arts, Sciences and Letters, and lastly the College of Education, Health and Human Services.
University of Michigan Dearborn Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 31 (Regional Universities, Midwest)
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 401-500
Best University of Michigan Dearborn Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration-Information Systems Management. This program teaches students business principles alongside developing, running, programming, and maintaining computer systems. The required courses include networking and collaborative computing, business applications programming, and database systems.
- Master of Science-Information Systems. This 30-credit graduate program gives students the skill to manage IT projects and develop IT-business strategies within organizations.
- Information Systems and Technology. This graduate program requires students to have a bachelor’s degree in physical science, computer science, engineering business, or mathematics. You can take the 30-credit degree online or on-campus.
University of Michigan Dearborn Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
The University of Michigan-Dearborn is known for its business programs. You’ll need high grades to get admission into this school, as the average GPA of incoming first-year students is 3.66.
The University of Minnesota is one of the largest public institutions in America. Home to over 50,000 students, this school offers more than 150 undergraduate degree programs, 200 graduate programs, and 100 doctoral programs.
University of Minnesota Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 68
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 114
Best University of Minnesota Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelors in Management Information Systems. This 120-credit program prepares students for a wide range of skills, including planning, designing, and managing digital assets for organizations.
- Master of Business Administration-Information Systems Specialization. This graduate program places a strong emphasis on information and communication technologies and how they affect business and society.
University of Minnesota Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
The University of Minnesota is a highly ranked university that features in the top 100 best schools in the nation, according to US News & World Report rankings. This school is also known for offering comprehensive scholarships and world-class research facilities.
Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin is one of the oldest in Texas. Over 50,000 students are enrolled in this school, with the majority of these students enrolled in undergraduate programs.
University of Texas at Austin Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 29%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- US News Ranking: 38
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 60
Best University of Texas at Austin Information Systems Management Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration-Management Information Systems Major. This major emphasizes the relationship between business and technology. By the end of this program, you’ll have the technical and managerial skills to solve business problems in finance, accounting, and inventory control, to mention a few.
- Master of Science in Information Technology & Management. This 10-month program will teach you disruptive, innovative, and emerging technologies, including deep learning and blockchain.
University of Texas Information Systems Management Key Takeaway
The University of Texas at Austin only admits students with high GPA scores. With a strong application and excellent GPA scores, you can gain admission into this school.
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Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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The Best Schools for Information Systems Management: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
There are various types of information systems management programs offered by colleges and universities. These programs include certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and graduate degree programs. Below is a brief overview of college degrees and university programs.
Information systems management community college certificates prepare students to use information technology techniques to solve real-world business problems. You’ll understand the role the database plays in the business environment by the end of this program. You’ll also delve deeper into project management.
An information systems management associate degree is a two-year program typically offered by community colleges. This program teaches students how to solve business problems using information systems techniques and methods. It's an affordable program that prepares students for entry-level positions in this field. However, you can use this degree to transfer credits that contribute to earning a bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Management Information Systems prepare students for entry-level positions in the information technology field. A typical bachelor’s degree can take full-time students between three and four years to complete.
A Master’s Degree in Management Information Systems takes 10 to 24 months to complete. During this time, you’ll gain managerial, technical, and analytical skills to improve your marketability, putting you in a better position to land high-paying jobs.
These programs are for professionals who want to acquire specific management information systems skills. Available options for those pursuing such certificates include business intelligence, business analytics, and systems development technologies.
Most institutions provide this program to professionals who've not had any prior MIS education and want to learn about particular technologies in business.
A doctoral program continues to teach students about the technical and organizational aspects of information systems management. The core curriculum centers around coursework and preliminary papers. The time allowed to complete your PhD in Information Systems Management depends on each university, as it might range between seven and eight years.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Information Systems Management Schools: Other Information Systems Management University Rankings
There are many programs in information systems management offered by different technology schools. We’ve narrowed your college choice to the three best information systems management schools for each program. Our information systems management university rankings cover the best online options, undergraduate options, accelerated programs, and more.
Best Online Information Systems Management Schools
- Florida State University. Florida State University is a good school known for its academic excellence. According to the US News & World Report rankings, this school has the 22nd best online master’s education program in the nation.
- Southern New Hampshire University. Known as SNHU, Southern New Hampshire University is one of the most popular online schools. According to this school’s official web page, SNHU has over 135,000 online students.
- University of Maryland Global Campus. UMGC offers flexible and affordable online programs taught by a faculty of experienced professionals. This school has replaced nearly all textbooks with no-cost digital course materials.
Best Community Colleges for Information Systems Management
- Georgia Military College. The college offers an Associate in Information Systems Management in-person and online. The information systems management program transfers to a four-year degree.
- Harford Community College. This private institution sits on over 350 acres near Bel Air. Harford community college offers more than 80 programs, including an Associate Degree in Information Systems Management which transfers to a bachelor’s degree.
- Hawkeye Community College. One of the main reasons you should consider this college’s MIS degree program is because of this school’s recognition as a Cisco Regional Academy. This means that you may receive Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) and CompTIA certifications upon completion.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Information Systems Management
- Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon University is one of the top universities in the country. You’ll have access to a world-class curriculum covering artificial intelligence, deep learning, machine learning, database management, and blockchain.
- University of Michigan. According to the US News & World Report Rankings, the University of Michigan is ranked as the 23rd best university in the country. Enrolling in this school means learning from a world-class faculty.
- University of Texas. The University of Texas is known for its academic excellence and commitment to research. Enrolling in this school’s management information systems degree will provide you with a solid foundation in integrating software, hardware, and networking with business functional analysis for business systems.
Best Graduate Schools for Information Systems Management
- Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon University is highly ranked, and so are most of its graduate programs. Other than its world-class curriculum, you’ll enjoy various learning schedules, which can see you complete your graduate program within 12 or 16 months.
- Florida State University. Florida State University’s Master of Science in Management Information Systems is the 11th best among public schools in the 2022 US News & World Report. You can complete this program online within 24 months.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). MIT’s System Design and Management program is one of the best programs in the country. Although it doesn’t focus on the core business concepts as much as other graduate schools, it integrates advanced engineering and management sciences studies.
Best Information Systems Management Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- Auburn University | Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Information Systems. Auburn University is among the nation’s top 100 national universities, according to the US News & World Report Rankings. This graduate program will give you the skill necessary to lead teams in analyzing, designing, developing, and maintaining information systems.
- University of Arizona | Masters in Management Information Systems (MIS)/Masters in Business Administration (MBA). The University of Arizona is known for its excellent academic programs. By the end of this program, you’ll have earned an MIS and an MBA.
- University of Michigan | Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Information Systems. This 56 to 57 credit program simultaneously earns students an MBA and an MS in Information Systems.
Best Schools With Accelerated Information Systems Management Programs
- Carnegie Mellon University-Heinz College | Masters in Information Systems. This accelerated program from Carnegie Mellon University saves time and tuition costs. You can earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years instead of the traditional six.
- Northwestern University | Accelerated Masters in Information Systems. This part-time program is offered exclusively to this school’s alumni. One of the main reasons to consider this program is because it was designed in collaboration with IBM. Students have access to a wide range of IBM resources.
- University of Arizona | Master of Science in Management Information Systems. This program allows students to earn their bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees in five years.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Information Systems Management Worth It?
Yes, graduate school for information systems management is worth it. You’ll pick up managerial, technical, and analytical skills to spearhead an organization’s IT initiatives. A master’s degree from a graduate school gives you a competitive edge in a highly competitive job market.
What Jobs Can You Do With an Information Systems Management Degree?
The jobs you can do with an information systems management degree are computer systems analyst, database administrator, database manager, operations research analyst, and computer and information systems manager.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Information Systems Management?
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Management, you can earn around $84,000 annually. This figure goes up with advancements in higher education. According to PayScale, you can earn an average of $91,000 per year with a Master’s Degree in Information Systems Management.
Highest-Paying Information Systems Management Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $159,010 |
| Senior Director Of Information and Technology | Bachelor’s degree | $136,555 |
| Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $110,140 |
| Information Technology Infrastructure Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $108,331 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $99,270 |
| Database Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $98,860 |
| Business Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $93,000 |
| Operations Research Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $82,360 |
| Information Technology Consultant | Bachelor’s degree | $62,394 |
| Database Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $59,204 |
Best Jobs With an Information Systems Management Degree
The best jobs with an information systems management degree are a computer and information systems administrator and computer systems analyst. The highest paying jobs in this field would be systems manager jobs which typically require a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
The best information systems management associate degree jobs include computer support specialists, data entry clerks, and computer operators. Associate degrees are stepping stones for four-year undergraduate and two-year graduate degree programs.
Top Information Systems Management Careers With an Associate Degree
- Computer Support Specialist: $57,910
- Data entry Clerk: $37,450
- Computer Operator: $18.87/hour
The best information systems management bachelor’s degree jobs include software developers, operations research analysts, security analysts, and business analysts. A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Management gives you the skills to work in many different entry-level positions.
Top Information Systems Management Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree
The best information systems management master’s degree jobs include computer and information systems managers and information technology infrastructure managers. Graduate programs in information systems management prepare students for managerial positions in the IT field.
Top Information Systems Management Careers With a Master’s Degree
The best information systems management doctorate degree jobs include professors, senior directors of information and technology, computer network architects, and lead research analysts. Doctoral programs prepare professionals for research and teaching opportunities.
Top Information Systems Management Careers With a PhD
The best internships for information systems management students are typically offered by companies in finance, information technology, and software development. Many companies also offer a summer internship opportunity.
Top Information Systems Management Internships
How Can I Pay for Information Systems Management School?
You can pay for information systems management school by using scholarships and federal and university-sponsored programs. Students use a few payment options to pay for information management school.
- Grants. Grants are similar to scholarships as they are financial aid options that don’t need to be repaid. Federal funding and non-profit groups typically offer grants.
- Scholarships. Many organizations offer scholarships for information systems management, including foundations, private companies, universities, and professional groups.
- Private loans. Private organizations such as Ascent and Climb offer private loans. They partially cover the cost of education.
- Federal loans. The federal government offers federal loans. It would be in your best interest to apply for FAFSA to stand a chance of getting these loans.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Information Systems Management School for You
To choose the best information systems management school for you, there are some factors you should consider. The three most important factors include specialization programs, the curriculum, and program offerings.
In-Demand Specialization Program
It would be in your best interest to consider those degree programs with in-demand specialization options. This means that you’ll gain employable and in-demand skills. Many graduate programs offer several concentration options so students can focus on the specific skills they need.
School Curriculum
Academic reputation is a major consideration when deciding between different MIS programs. For this reason, consider an interdisciplinary program with education courses that feature practical lessons, internships, and professional experience in addition to theoretical classes. This will give you valuable academic experience, but it will also allow you to build a vitally essential portfolio.
Program Offerings
Consider the access to campus resources like libraries and laboratories. Look at student organizations, school clubs, sports clubs, gym facilities, campus activities, and career services when choosing between different programs.
Career services will help you through interview processes and help you with your career goals. Some schools feature partner programs with companies making it easier to gain employment after graduating.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Information Systems Management?
Yes, it does matter which college you go to for information systems management. You should only consider accredited institutions, as employers only hire professionals with credentials from accredited colleges and universities. The quality of the curriculum is also vital, so consider colleges that have highly rated degree programs and research facilities.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Information Systems Management University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Information Systems Management
We ranked the best information systems management schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our information systems management university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of information systems management degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Information Systems Management
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Best Information Systems Management Schools FAQ
Yes, management information systems is a good degree, especially for those aspiring to work in the IT-business field or any other computer and information technology field. BLS states that bachelor’s degrees are the minimum academic requirement to work in entry-level positions. Enrolling in the best information systems management colleges increases your chances of finding employment in this field.
Yes, a Master’s in MIS is worth it, especially for students aspiring to work in managerial positions. This graduate program equips students with cutting-edge managerial, analytical, and technical skills to help them drive solutions in the business information systems field. You will also learn soft skills like communication skills. This is vital in a managerial position.
It is quite hard to get an information systems degree. An information systems degree features courses in arts, math, and technology. The difficulty of this program will depend on your aptitude for math, information technology, and computer science.
Yes, most information systems degrees feature programming and database management courses. You might work on a few programming projects as you pursue your degree in this field.
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