Students who have an aptitude for technology and enjoy studying management and business are a great fit for a bachelor’s degree in management information. This field is expected to grow at a higher-than-average rate of 16% through 2031. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information systems managers earn an average annual salary of $159,010.
Most bachelor’s degrees require 120-125 credit hours on average or roughly 40-42 classes. Tuition and required fees for bachelor’s degree programs in 2020-2021 averaged $25,910 for public schools and $45,920 for private schools. Full-time students can expect to complete their online bachelor’s degree in management information systems (MIS) in approximately four years.
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Program
Choose your area of study
Many students pursuing a bachelor’s in management information systems select a specialized concentration, such as systems administration, software engineering, and business systems analysis.
Some other areas of study to consider include:
- Cybersecurity
- Information technology (IT) operations research
- Computer network architecture
- Database management
- Digital forensics
In addition to the technical aspects of the field, MIS students must also study organizational leadership and business management. They will need to develop skills in communication strategies, principles of leadership, and conflict resolution. The most successful MIS students also have sharp problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Research schools and programs
An important factor is whether the school and the program you are considering have been accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This ensures a high standard of education, and it may impact what financial aid you can receive and the jobs or graduate programs for which you are qualified.
Many people find the flexibility of online degree programs appealing, but it may look different for each student. In your research, consider each program’s requirements around assignment deadlines, delivery format, and pacing (e.g., synchronous or asynchronous). You’ll also want to research each school’s learning management system and determine if you have access to all the digital tools required for the program.
It’s also important to speak to an admissions representative who can inform you of the resources available to online students. Admissions counselors have an intimate knowledge of their schools and can guide you through the application process and beyond.
Prepare for tests and applications
Most bachelor’s degree programs will request high school transcripts or General Educational Development (GED) test scores for admission. Some schools will also request test scores for the SAT or ACT. Every school has different requirements, but be prepared to offer recommendation letters, official transcripts, and an application essay or letter of intent.
Keep in mind that each application you submit will likely have an application fee. These fees can add up over time, so speak to an admissions representative about possible fee waivers or other financial assistance available to you.
Select your program
Many students choose online degree programs because they are juggling employment, family, and other obligations. Aside from the typical considerations, such as accreditation, cost, technology, and delivery format, online students may also need to consider additional variables in their selection process. These might include:
- Indirect costs such as childcare or elder care
- Work and family schedules
- Ability to set aside uninterrupted time for study
- Availability of online student support
- Availability of employer tuition reimbursement
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Many students begin their financial planning by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form helps students qualify for scholarships, grants, and affordable loans. The next step is to contact your school’s financial aid office. They can inform you of any additional assistance that may be available, such as work-study programs or payment plans.
Best 50 Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Programs
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How We Rank Schools
Our list focuses on undergraduate programs in management information systems, which cover how hardware and software operations affect an organization’s decision-making process. We exclusively looked at online programs, some of which may offer students the chance to specialize.
Many programs on this list are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education. Some of these programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (AACSB) because the MIS program falls under the university’s business school. Only about a quarter of business schools achieve AACSB, so it is a mark of high-quality education standards.
What Can You Expect from an Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Program?
As technology evolves, so too does the job scope of those who develop, implement, and operate technological systems. Students learning about management information systems develop an understanding of computer networks, algorithmic processes, data analysis, and programming. These courses prepare them for a wide range of careers in information technology management and systems administration.
Nearly every industry relies on its information technology to collect, store, and retrieve data. Graduates who understand the workings of these systems are in high demand – they can choose to work in private or public firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and just about any other institution imaginable.
Coursework in this program is multidisciplinary, integrating technology with business management. Most online bachelor’s in management information systems programs require at least 120 credit hours and will take four years to complete for full-time students. Part-time students can expect to take up to six years to finish their degrees.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online bachelor’s in management information systems degree program
- Digital Foundations. Students learn the commonly used software, apps, and web-based technologies of digital devices. Foundational concepts in informational literacy and database management are covered.
- Cybersecurity Principles. Students implement and audit the Critical Security Controls, which are a set of guidelines put in place by the Council on Cyber Security for prioritizing and protecting information technology.
- Networks and Security. Students examine topics related to network device security and wireless security. This course covers WiFi and Bluetooth technologies.
- Project Management. Students learn how to plan, execute, and control technical projects in business settings. Using Microsoft Project, students plan and track project performance in various areas, such as special event production, process improvement, and commercial real estate. Students learn to balance both the human and technical side of management.
Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online bachelor’s in management information systems degree program?
Every school has different application requirements, but since gathering all the necessary materials for each program can take some time, it’s best to start as soon as possible. The most commonly requested documents include official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores.
However, some schools may request additional documents that may not have crossed your mind. These include:
- Transfer or advanced placement credits
- Completed FAFSA
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Information about your extracurricular activities, internships, or volunteer work
- Personal statement or letter of intent
- Writing samples or application essays
How much does an online bachelor’s in management information systems degree program cost?
According to US News & World Report, an online bachelor’s in management information systems costs approximately $225 to $500 per credit for a total of $27,000 to $64,000.
Your school’s financial aid office can inform you of any additional fees you could be charged above the per-credit tuition cost. These include software or technology fees, library fees, and other student fees that may not be listed in your course catalog. Ask for an itemized list of your program’s fees so that you can account for these early in your financial planning process.
How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s in management information systems business degree?
Most bachelor’s degree programs require the completion of at least 120 credit hours, whether students attend full-time or part-time. Full-time students can expect to complete an online bachelor’s in management information systems within four years, while part-time students will likely need up to six years.
Some schools offer accelerated programs that condense coursework into shorter semesters, so if you are hoping to finish your degree in less time, speak to an admissions representative who can inform you of any non-traditional pathways that might be available.