What Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology Program?

Online master’s in information systems and technology programs provide the same academic quality standards as a traditional, on-campus program in a much more convenient format. By eliminating the need to commute to campus, online programs give you more time for work, family, and other responsibilities outside of school. Before choosing a distance learning program, you should carefully review your options to find the best match for your personal needs and professional goals.

Available concentrations

If you already know exactly what role you would like to have in this field after you graduate, look for a program that allows you to focus your studies on this specialty. Some of the most common concentration options for a master’s in information systems and technology include:

  • IT Project Management: Focuses on standard project management principles as they apply to IT work, including financial planning, resource delegation, and risk management.
  • Data Analytics: Provides an overview of data collection, data visualization, data mining, and probability theory.
  • Information Security: Examines current and future threats to digital security, with a focus on risk management, biometric systems, and cryptography. Students learn how to identify cybersecurity threats and develop solutions and preventive measures.

Common degree curriculum

Some master’s in information systems and technology programs are 100% online, while others are offered in a hybrid format with a few on-campus requirements. If you’re not willing to relocate, you’ll need to find either a 100% online program or a hybrid program in your area.

While the exact curriculum depends on which school you attend and whether you pursue a concentration, some topics are covered in just about every master’s in information systems and technology program, such as:

  • Enterprise Data Management: Students learn about the value of data as a resource and how to manage data for an organization.
  • Computing Legal and Ethical Issues: Explores IT professionals’ responsibilities regarding privacy concerns, intellectual property, and other issues.
  • IT Financial Management: Learn how to calculate return on investment, use financial planning tools, and make financial decisions.
  • Software and Security: Examine the potential security weaknesses of software and how to overcome such shortcomings.

Certification and license preparation

In addition to your master’s degree, you should consider earning professional certifications to bolster your resume further and advance your career. Some of the most valuable certification options in this field include:

  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional: The CISSP certification is relevant to those who wish to work as a chief information officer, security analyst, or IT director. Recognized by the U.S. National Security Agency and Department of Defense, this credential can be obtained by meeting work experience requirements and passing the certification exam. A master’s in information systems will allow you to reduce the work experience requirements by one year.
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor: The CISA certification is offered through ISACA  and recognizes those who have passed the exam and met the necessary work experience requirements. A master’s in information systems will allow you to reduce the work experience requirements for this credential by three years.

Program accreditation

Only apply to institutions approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. If your school doesn’t have regional accreditation, you may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed. Also, many employers won’t accept candidates who earned their degrees at an unaccredited school.

In addition to institutional accreditation, the best options for earning a master’s in information systems and technology also have programmatic accreditation from an industry group such as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Program completion timeframe

Online master’s in information systems and technology programs typically require 32 to 48 credit hours of coursework. Most full-time students will be able to meet these requirements within two years, while part-time students may need up to five years. Some programs offer an accelerated option, which allows you to graduate in just one year by taking many courses per semester.

Cohort-based programs will require you to take classes remotely and complete courses simultaneously as other students. While this will allow you to build stronger relationships with instructors and classmates, those who want to graduate as quickly as possible should avoid cohort-based programs. Instead, you could attend a program that offers asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace.

Employment Outlook for Master’s in Information Systems and Technology Graduates

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the total number of jobs in the United States is projected to increase by 3% over the next decade. Most occupations related to information systems and technology are expected to grow faster than that, so it should be relatively easy to find a job once you graduate.

You should earn a significant income with this degree as well. Indeed, information systems and technology jobs tend to offer six-figure salaries.

The amount you make will likely depend on where you work. Areas with a higher cost of living tend to offer higher pay. For example, the average salary for computer network architects in Massachusetts is over $60,000 higher than in Mississippi.

Job Title Job Description Median Yearly Salary Projected Growth Rate (2022 – 2032)
Computer Network Architect Computer network architects are responsible for building small and large data communication networks, including designing layouts, soliciting approval, checking for security risks, completing any necessary upgrades, and staying up to date on new developments in network technology. $126,900 4%
Computer and Information Systems Managers Computer and information systems managers, or IT managers, are responsible for all computer-related activity within an organization. Their job includes managing other IT professionals, creating proposals for new projects, recommending computer upgrades, and determining their employer’s overall technology goals. $164,070 15%
Software Developer Software developers design new applications and test software to ensure it works as advertised before being released as a completed product. $124,200 25%

Professional organizations

Professional organizations are an excellent resource for networking opportunities, career tools, and keeping up with industry news. The top organizations for those with a master’s in information systems and technology include:

  • CompTIA: This organization offers members access to an entire library of training tools, the latest in IT research, members-only discounts, and invitations to exclusive events.
  • Association of Software Professionals: ASP members receive various professional benefits, including a comprehensive list of discounts, access to the organization’s newsletters and additional industry publications, and discussion groups for networking with their peers.

Financing Your Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology Degree

Online degree programs are usually more affordable than in-person programs, but you still may need help paying for your degree. The first step to accessing assistance is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will determine your eligibility for federally funded loans and grants. Other financial aid options include applying for a private loan or scholarships.

Student Finance Resources and Guides

Loans, grants, scholarships, work-study — there are so many financing options available, each with its own eligibility requirements and application deadlines, that it can be challenging to determine what you should do next after submitting your FAFSA. The resources listed below will help you make sense of your financial aid situation and save as much money as possible.

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Interested in a degree?

Learn more about online degrees, their start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.