Why This Matters

  • BY 2025, CYBERCRIME WILL COST $10.5 TRILLION PER YEAR GLOBALLY

    With the interconnection of networks and devices, cybercriminals are expanding from harming computers to potentially disrupting power grids and planes.

  • THE U.S. NEEDS MORE THAN 48,000 MIS GRADS BY 2029

    The increasing trend of working from home along with rising cybersecurity needs is leading to a 10% increase in the need for MIS professionals.

  • EARN MORE THAN $150,000 ANNUALLY

    High-level positions, such as computer and information systems managers or computer network architects, earn approximately $150,000 or more per year.

Our Research

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 that’s 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.

  • 64 hours to write this article
  • 138 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 174 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems Programs

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What You Should Know About This Degree

It’s important to understand that a bachelor’s in computer information systems (CIS) is not the same as an MIS. The CIS degree is about how people and computers work to interpret data and analysis. The MIS degree is about learning to mix technology management, efficiency, and relationships.

Professional credentials for MIS aren’t required, but you need to ensure that your school is properly accredited by a national or regional organization that’s recognized by the Department of Education, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

Bachelor’s graduates who have some experience can earn vendor-specific certifications in high-demand fields, such as software development. That sector has a strong job outlook and will need more than 300,000 new workers.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in management information systems programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? While each school has its own specific requirements, students must have at least a high school diploma or GED. They may also need to take standardized tests, such as the ACT or SAT, in addition to submitting their school transcripts and an essay.
  • Are courses offered synchronously or asynchronously? Online courses are mostly asynchronous, allowing students to complete class assignments and lectures on their own time. Some programs may require synchronous courses, which involve attending live lectures through teleconferencing software.

When researching programs, make sure to check the school’s accreditation information, which should be on its site. As you get ready to apply, have your application materials ready and start a spreadsheet to keep track of deadlines.