Students who complete an online master’s in information systems and technology program will learn the skills needed to attain a senior-level position within the IT field. Because these online programs typically take 30 to 36 credits, full-time students can complete all the necessary coursework within two years, and select accelerated programs are available that allow you to earn your degree in only one year.
According to U.S. News & World Report, this online degree costs $13,000 to $54,000 in total tuition. Once students graduate, they may qualify for high-paying occupations such as computer research scientist, which has an average salary of $136,620.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology Program
Choose your area of study
This degree is typically available as a Master of Science (MS), though some programs offer a Master of Professional Studies (MPS). MS degrees emphasize technical skills and research, while MPS degrees are more oriented to practical applications of knowledge.
Depending on the program, students may be able to choose a specialty area of study. These concentrations typically include information security, data analytics, smart technology, IT management, and web design and application. While all of the online programs will provide students with a strong foundation of knowledge regarding information systems and technology, these specific areas of study can help students customize their education and better prepare themselves for a particular career after graduation. When selecting a program, you should always try to find the best match for your career goals.
Research schools and programs
There is a wide array of online master’s in information systems and technology degree programs available, so students must develop specific criteria to determine which schools they are likely to apply to.
You should only consider 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.
Ideally, your master’s in information systems and technology program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). This programmatic accrediting organization has particularly high standards for technology education.
Another concern is cost — if students wish to avoid graduating with lots of debt, they should focus on programs that are reasonably within their budget. Beyond these criteria, students may want to focus on programs that offer the schedule flexibility they need to succeed in their remote coursework.
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
Application requirements vary by school and program. For example, some online master’s in information systems and technology programs require students to submit GRE test scores. It’s essential to discover whether these test scores are needed and, if so, what the minimum score requirements are for each section. Students who haven’t taken the GRE before should know they may need up to three months to study for it and may have to wait up to 15 days before receiving test results.
Additionally, students should review the application to determine if other paperwork may be required, such as undergraduate transcripts, a personal statement, or letters of recommendation. Before submitting an application, always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Students may wish to apply to multiple online master’s in information systems and technology programs, but it’s still important to be selective.
To determine which schools to apply to, students should consider the cost and whether they can afford the program. Students may also consider other factors, including the program’s job placement rate and the school’s reputation within the IT industry. Students may focus on programs taught by influential figures in the field. Such professors may offer a better education, and they can also help students establish a professional network.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Are you only interested in 100% online programs, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a few 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
Students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year. By filling out this application, most students will automatically qualify for federal student loans, and the FAFSA is sometimes a prerequisite for other forms of aid. These aid forms include most grants and select scholarships, though both are harder to obtain for graduate students. Beyond this, students should contact the school’s financial aid office to inquire about extra aid available through either the state or the school. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits as well.
Best 50 Accredited Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology Programs
Discover More Options
How We Rank Schools
Since information systems is a STEM field, advanced degrees in the subject are typically Master of Science (MS) degrees. However, you can also earn a Master of Professional Studies (MPS). All of the programs we reviewed are regionally accredited schools to ensure the quality of the programs.
We reviewed both 100% online and hybrid programs. To determine our rankings, we evaluated each program’s cost, course strength, reputation, faculty, and flexibility and gave them an Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology Program?
Students earning an online master’s in information systems and technology degree can expect coursework emphasizing collaborative projects in which they work closely with fellow students. The courses build on students’ computer and IT knowledge while providing them with the knowledge and experience necessary to attain a senior-level position within the industry upon graduation.
Some programs will require students to complete a capstone course that helps to demonstrate their readiness to enter the workforce in a leadership position. Fortunately for remote students, most of these programs do not require any on-campus labs.
If students can attend such a program full-time, they should be able to complete all of the necessary coursework in two years, and part-time students should expect to take three years. Students who enroll in an accelerated program can complete the coursework in just one year.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in information systems and technology degree program
- Advanced Database Management Systems. This course builds on existing database management systems knowledge and helps students learn more about skills such as cover indexing, concurrency control, information modeling, database security, and transaction and locking.
- Information Systems Development. This course covers the development life cycle as a whole, all while providing hands-on practice with specific methodologies and techniques relevant to the field, including agile and structured analysis.
- Analyzing Big Data. This course helps students learn how to analyze big data in order to discover information relevant to specific business interests. To do this, the class uses numerous examples from real business cases, allowing students to learn the most effective analytical tools and techniques.
- Data Visualization & Reporting. This course walks students through using popular data visualization tools such as Tableau and Python Bokeh.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology?
Career outlook
The field of information systems and technology is at the forefront of driving innovation, efficiency, and security in the digital age. Earning an online master’s degree in information systems and technology equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and manage cutting-edge technology solutions for organizations.
As organizations increasingly rely on technology to streamline operations, enhance cybersecurity, and stay competitive, there is a growing demand for professionals who can navigate the complexities of information systems. An online master’s degree in information systems and technology opens the door to various career paths, each contributing to the advancement of technology and its strategic application in organizations. Here are some common career options:
- Information systems manager — Assess an organization’s technology needs, plan IT projects, and hire and supervise IT staff.
- Median annual salary: $164,070
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 15%
- New job openings projected: 46,900 annually
- Information security analyst — Monitor networks, identify vulnerabilities, train staff on how to prevent security breaches, and recommend security upgrades.
- Median annual salary: $112,000
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 32%
- New job openings projected: 16,800 annually
- Computer network architect — Design, implement, and upgrade data communication networks.
- Median annual salary: $126,900
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 4%
- New job openings projected: 10,200 annually
Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s in information systems and technology degree program?
Students can apply to an online master’s in information systems and technology program by accessing the application on the university website. The application should specify the requirements, including undergraduate transcripts, GRE scores, and a cover letter. Some applications may require students to submit letters of recommendation and application essays.
To verify that the application is complete, students should strongly consider contacting the admissions office for the school(s) they are interested in. The counselor who answers should be able to handle any additional questions regarding the application or the school.
How much does an online master’s in information systems and technology degree cost?
According to U.S. News & World Report, the cost of this online degree ranges from $13,000 to $54,000 in total tuition. Generally, private schools will be more expensive than public schools. At public schools, out-of-state students will almost always have to pay more than in-state students. And the exact cost of a degree may be affected by other factors, including how long the student takes to complete classes and how many credit hours the degree requires.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in information systems and technology degree?
Students attending full-time can usually complete their online master’s in information systems and technology degree program in two years. Part-time students may need about three years to complete everything. Students may be able to find accelerated programs that are designed to be completed in one year, which are a good fit for those trying to finish the degree quickly.
Ultimately, students need to be honest about how much time they can devote to their studies and choose the appropriate program. That way, the student won’t have to worry about accidentally falling behind in their studies.
Is an online master's in information systems and technology worth it?
Graduates with a master’s in information systems and technology have the opportunity to play pivotal roles in shaping the technological landscape of organizations. Their expertise is essential in driving innovation, ensuring cybersecurity, and leveraging technology for strategic advantage. The diverse career paths in this field offer opportunities for professionals to contribute to the success and efficiency of organizations across various industries.
Many positions in IT are growing at rates that far outpace the economy as a whole, and these occupations often offer exceptionally high salaries as well.
There are many benefits to earning your master’s in information systems and technology degree online. Online programs offer a higher level of flexibility and can be an excellent choice for adult learners who have other personal or professional commitments. Also, this learning format attracts a diverse pool of motivated students, enhancing networking opportunities and connecting students with peers, professors, and industry professionals worldwide.