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 systems (MIS). This field is expected to grow at a higher-than-average rate of 15% through 2032. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information systems managers earn an average annual salary of $169,510.
Most bachelor’s degrees require 120-125 credit hours on average, or roughly 40-42 courses. Tuition and required fees for undergraduate programs average $7,998 per year for public schools and $34,923 per year for private schools. Full-time students can expect to complete their online bachelor’s degree in management information systems in approximately four years.
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Program
Choose your area of study
This degree is typically offered as a Bachelor of Science. Many programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as systems administration, software engineering, or business systems analysis.
Some other areas of study to consider include:
- Cybersecurity
- Information technology (IT) operations research
- Computer network architecture
- Database management
- Digital forensics
If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
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 letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and an application essay or personal statement. And you should always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding program requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
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. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits as well.
Best 31 Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Programs
Institution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
East Carolina University
Intelligent Score: 99.01In-state: $4,452
Out-of-state: $20,729
In-state: $4,749
Out-of-state: $4,749
SAT: 1020-1170
ACT: 19-24
In-State: $204
Out-of-State: $883
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Maryville University
Intelligent Score: 98.41In-state: $24,766
Out-of-state: $24,766
In-state: $14,346
Out-of-state: $14,346
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$540
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
128
CSU Global
Intelligent Score: 98.02In-state: $9,426
Out-of-state: $28,147
In-state: $10,520
Out-of-state: $10,520
SAT: 1070-1280
ACT: 23-29
$350
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
120
Minot State University
Intelligent Score: 97.09In-state: $6,691
Out-of-state: $6,691
In-state: $8,731
Out-of-state: $8,731
SAT: 880-1070
ACT: 18-24
$354
Online, On-Campus
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
120
Washington State University
Intelligent Score: 95.81In-state: $10,202
Out-of-state: $25,145
In-state: $11,781
Out-of-state: $11,781
SAT: 1020-1210
ACT: 20-26
Resident: $567
Non-Resident: $632
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
120
Old Dominion University
Intelligent Score: 95.34In-state: $7,029
Out-of-state: $26,664
In-state: $10,207
Out-of-state: $10,207
SAT: 960-1170
ACT: 18-25
Resident: $393
Non-Resident: $1,073
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
125
Bellevue University
Intelligent Score: 95.31In-state: $7,176
Out-of-state: $7,176
In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $10,710
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$449
Online
Higher Learning Commission
127
Indiana State University
Intelligent Score: 94.94In-state: $9,186
Out-of-state: $20,290
In-state: $7,668
Out-of-state: $7,668
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $322
Non-Resident: $418
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
UAB Collat School of Business
Intelligent Score: 93.03In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $30,250
In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $10,780
SAT: 1070-1330
ACT: 23-31
$667
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Amridge University
Intelligent Score: 91.83In-state: $9,000
Out-of-state: $9,000
In-state: $11,700
Out-of-state: $11,700
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$395
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
128
Simpson College
Intelligent Score: 91.59In-state: $41,466
Out-of-state: $41,466
In-state: $8,758
Out-of-state: $8,758
SAT: 1070-1200
ACT: 20-26
$425
Online, Hybrid
Higher Learning Commission
128
University of Memphis
Intelligent Score: 91.23In-state: $8,208
Out-of-state: $12,048
In-state: $9,216
Out-of-state: $9,216
SAT: 990-1200
ACT: 19-26
$431
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Park University
Intelligent Score: 90.89In-state: $8,251
Out-of-state: $8,251
In-state: $6,224
Out-of-state: $6,224
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$575
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
120
Keiser University
Intelligent Score: 90.32In-state: $19,808
Out-of-state: $19,808
In-state: $27,162
Out-of-state: $27,162
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$979 - $1,469
Online, On-Campus, Hybrid
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
126
Northern Kentucky University
Intelligent Score: 89.54In-state: $9,912
Out-of-state: $19,872
In-state: $11,034
Out-of-state: $11,034
SAT: 960-1190
ACT: 20-26
$473
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
University of Houston - Downtown
Intelligent Score: 88.93In-state: $8,449
Out-of-state: $20,665
In-state: $8,539
Out-of-state: $8,539
SAT: 1120-1310
ACT: 22-28
Resident: $258
Non-Resident: $665
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Champlain College
Intelligent Score: 88.63In-state: $64,010
Out-of-state: $68,575
In-state: $19,635
Out-of-state: $19,635
SAT: 1224
ACT: 28
$335
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
120
Regent University
Intelligent Score: 88.59In-state: $17,220
Out-of-state: $17,220
In-state: $15,552
Out-of-state: $15,552
SAT: 940-1220
ACT: 21-29
$395
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online bachelor’s in management information systems degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online bachelor’s in management information systems degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
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 earn 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 software like 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.
What Can I Do With an Online Management Information Systems Degree?
Career outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is expected to grow at a much faster-than-average pace from now until 2032. An online management information systems degree is a versatile degree that qualifies graduates for many different types of jobs within the field.
Many graduates with this degree pursue entry-level positions as computer network architects, programmers, systems or database administrators, or software developers and testers. The jobs available to students post-graduation often depend on the student’s area of specialization.
Advanced degrees, such as an MBA in information systems management, can prepare students for executive roles, like chief technology officer. Meanwhile, a master’s in computer science helps students develop advanced research abilities.
- Computer systems analyst — Study an organization’s current computer systems and procedures and design improvements to help the organization operate more efficiently. Other responsibilities include testing systems to ensure that they work as expected and training the systems’ end users.
- Median annual salary: $103,800
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 10%
- New jobs projected: 37,600 per year
- Database administrator or architect — Create or organize systems to store and secure a variety of data, such as financial information and customer shipping records, and ensure that data are available to authorized users.
- Median annual salary: $117,450
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 8%
- New jobs projected: 10,200 per year
- Information systems manager — Assess an organization’s technology needs, plan IT projects, and hire and supervise IT staff.
- Median annual salary: $169,510
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 15%
- New job projected: 46,900 per year
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:
How much does an online bachelor’s in management information systems degree program cost?
According to U.S. News & World Report, an online bachelor’s in management information systems costs approximately $225 to $500 per credit for a total tuition of $27,000 to $64,000.
In addition to tuition, there could be 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 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.
Is an online management information systems degree worth it?
Despite facing challenges within the last few years, the tech industry continues to grow and provide new opportunities for individuals with knowledge of computers and information technology. An online degree in management information systems helps students develop a range of skills that can be beneficial not just in the tech industry but in any of the many sectors that now rely on technology to operate, including finance, healthcare, communications, and more.
Earning a degree in management information systems also has financial benefits. The median annual wage for workers in computer and IT occupations is $104,420, more than double the median annual wage for all occupations of $48,060.