In this article, we profile the top 25 accelerated online master’s in management information systems programs.
The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the employment for computer and information systems managers is expected to grow 12 percent over the next eight years. This is a faster employment growth rate than the average of all other occupations. A rise in employment means more jobs as companies expand their digital platforms. With an increase in jobs, qualified candidates are needed as most management roles will require a master’s in management information systems or closely related degree.
Top 25 Accelerated Online Master’s in Management Information Systems Methodology
We looked at 142 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one online master’s in management information systems program. We narrowed our selection of schools by applying the following criteria: degree completion time of two years or less and national, regional, and/or program rankings with a major publication like U.S. News and World Report. We then listed the schools in order of raw affordability.
Below is our list of the top 25 online master’s in management information systems programs.
#25 – Northwestern University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Evanston, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $52,679
Northwestern University offers a top online master’s in management information systems. This MSIS-accelerated program is one of the few part-time programs of its kind. Courses are taught by experienced professionals and leaders in the field. There are also several specialization options available at the time of application, including analytics business intelligence, database and internet technologies, information systems security, medical informatics, and project management. To be considered for the accelerated program, you must hold a bachelor’s from Northwestern’s School of Professional Studies with a specialization in computer information systems. U.S. News and World Report ranks Northwestern #10 in best national universities and #15 in best value schools.
#24 – Boston University
Online Master’s in Computer Information Systems
Boston, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $51,716
Boston University, a premier private institution, offers a fast master’s in information systems online that takes only 18-24 months to complete. Certified by the Committee on National Security Systems and accredited by several reputable governing bodies, Boston’s MSCIS degree is top ranked. Admission is competitive and requires an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with proficiency in computer information systems. Courses are delivered online and include business data communication and networks, database design and implementation for business, information systems analysis and design, and IT strategy and management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Boston #42 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate computer IT programs rank #6 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#23 – Drexel University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $33,996
Drexel University offers fast online MIS degrees that are interdisciplinary and open to students with no prior background in information systems. The program consists of 45 credits and can be completed part-time, full-time, and online. Courses taught by university professors offer flexibility and depth of study. These courses include information forensics, information systems analysis and design, and information visualization. A required practicum provides MSIS students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the field. U.S. News and World Report ranks Drexel #102 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #10 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#22 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online MBA in Information Technology Management
Manchester, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810
Southern New Hampshire University offers online MIS degrees that include the MBA in information technology management. This fully accredited online degree offers a unique blend of business and technology classes designed to equip students for various leadership roles. The program runs at a quick pace, and the degree may be earned in just 15 months. Admission does not require the GRE or GMAT, which adds to the appeal of the program for working students. Courses are delivered online and taught by SNHU faculty. These courses include advanced information technology, enterprise resource planning, and information technology management. U.S. News and World Report ranks SNHU #112 in best regional universities in the North and the #1 most innovative school.
#21 – Our Lady of the Lake University
Online Master’s in Information Systems and Security
San Antonio, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,818
The online master’s in management information systems at Our Lady of the Lake University is one of the few programs certified by the National Security Agency (NSA). Admission is competitive and requires an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and 3.2 GPA in the major field of study, and successful completion of the school’s Cyber Security Boot Camp. GRE or GMAT scores are also required. The program offers accelerated classes taught by university faculty. These courses include data base management systems, information systems development, information systems hardware and software platforms, special topics in information systems, and telecommunications and networking. U.S. News and World Report ranks Our Lady of the Lake University #69 in best regional universities in the West.
#20 – Stevens-Henager College
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Murray, Utah
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,616
Stevens-Henager College offers an MIS online for students seeking the flexibility of a distance learning degree that prepares graduates for top management positions in the IT industry. This accelerated degree program can be finished in as little as 20 months. Potential careers include information technology director, systems architect, and data analyst. Course content covers concepts such as analyzing and designing systems, managing IT projects, managing human resources and capital, and strategic planning. Stevens-Henager College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). The Accrediting Commission of Career School and Colleges is a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education.
*Editor’s note: Stevens-Henager College closed in August 2021.
#19 – Champlain College
Online Master’s in Information Security Operations
Burlington, Vermont
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,310
Champlain College offers an online MIS master’s degree delivered entirely on the internet with no residence or on-campus requirement. The graduate admission process includes sending in an online application, transcripts, personal essay, resume, bachelor’s degree with 2.5 GPA, and two years of experience working in an IT setting. The 30-credit program includes courses such as cyber warfare and cyber crime, incident response and event management, managing risk in IT organizations, and security design and architecture. The accelerated degree can be completed in just 20 months by taking just two courses per 8-week semester. Champlain College is ranked #81 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.
#18 – California Baptist University
Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
Riverside, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,997
California Baptist University offers one of the top online MIS degrees that can be completed in just 12 months. The program is best suited for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as computer information technology, network administration, management information systems, and cybersecurity. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, two recommendations, resume, and 500-word essay. Applicants with a 2.75 GPA will be considered for unconditional admission, while those with a 2.5 are considered for conditional acceptance. Courses may include conflict resolution and negotiations, disaster recovery planning, information systems design, and law and ethics in information technology. CBU is ranked #32 in regional universities West by U.S. News and World Report.
#17 – Regis University
Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
Denver, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,852
Regis University offers a fast master’s in information systems online for students seeking a rigorous and efficient graduate degree. The program prepares students to assume IT leadership positions within a variety of public, private, and non-profit organizations and small businesses. The curriculum blends advanced IT skills with leadership and management applications that graduates need to effectively lead teams in today’s complex IT environment. Courses may include agile systems development, business process engineering, ethics in information technology, and supply chain management. Admission requirements include 3.0 GPA, resume, essay, relevant work experience or a bachelor’s degree. Regis ranks #26 in regional universities West by U.S News and World Report.
#16 – University of Arizona
Online Master’s in Management Information Systems
Tucson, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,748
The University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management offers a top ranked online MIS master’s degree for working IT professionals with a minimum of two years of related experience who desire a rigorous graduate degree preparing them for management and leadership positions within a variety of public, private, and non-profit organizations and small businesses. The accelerated online MIS program is an ideal fit for those seeking to finish the degree quickly without sacrificing quality coursework through transformational content. The entire 30-credit program can be completed in just ten months. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Arizona #106 in national universities for the 2018-2019 cohort of institutions.
#15 – Campbellsville University
Online Master’s in Business Administration and Information Technology
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,204
Campbellsville University offers an accelerated online master’s in management information systems that can be completed in less than two years. The program offers core business classes covering all major business and management topics as well as IT skills and concepts needed to effectively function in an IT management or leadership position. One of the core functions is learning how to effectively manage projects utilizing project management software common in industry jobs. IT courses may include information systems infrastructure, information systems security, and project management. Campbellsville University is ranked #107 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report for the 2018-2019 rankings.
#14 – Tennessee Technological University
Online Master’s in Business Administration with Concentration in IT Management
Cookeville, Tennessee
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,977
Tennessee Technological University offers a master’s degree in management information systems online utilizing a hybrid format where students take coursework over the internet and attend monthly weekend meetings in Nashville. Students who cannot attend the monthly meetings have the option of completing the entire degree online. The program is an accelerated format with students able to complete in less than one year. IT related coursework may include business telecommunication systems, data resource management, and decision support systems. Tennessee Tech uses a matrix scoring format awarding points to students based on years of work experience, academic experience, undergraduate GPA, and GMAT/GRE scores. Additional points may be awarded based on strength of resume and statement of purpose. TTU is ranked #230 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#13 – Central Washington University
Online Master’s in Information Technology and Administrative Management
Ellensburg, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,641
Central Washington University offers one of the top accelerated online MIS degrees available via distance learning. The program offers flexible enrollment with motivated students having the ability to finish in just one year. This MIS online program’s unique curriculum bridges the gap between technology and administrative management, which provides graduates with the ability to lead teams towards solving complex IT issues with innovative solutions. Graduates increase their IT skills and acumen while learning best practices in management and leadership. Courses may include financial analysis in IT and administrative management, customer relationship management, global managerial communications, and social informatics. CWU is ranked #48 in regional universities West by U.S. News and World Report.
#12 – Grand Canyon University
Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
Phoenix, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,555
Grand Canyon University offers a master’s in information systems online in an accelerated format consisting of 8-week terms. Grand Canyon will accept up to 12 transfer credits, which equates to approximately 1/3 of the 34-credit program. The program is designed for current IT professionals seeking to take the next step in their career. Potential post-graduation careers include IT project manager, chief technology officer, chief information officer, information technology director, and more. Core classes include financial fundamentals for managers, innovation in information technology and data management, and strategic management of information technology. Grand Canyon is ranked #230 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#11 – Concordia University
Online Master’s in Management Information Systems
Mequon, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,542
Concordia University Wisconsin offers one of the top accelerated online MIS degrees for students seeking to finish a distance learning graduate degree in less than two years. The degree focuses on the intersection between technology and leadership. Students not only learn new technical skills, but they focus much of their time learning effective project management and leadership concepts within the unique context of information technology. Admission requirements include application, transcripts, bachelor’s degree, resume, two letters of support, and personal statement. The GRE or GMAT is not required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Concordia University Wisconsin #70 in regional universities Midwest.
#10 – Purdue University
Online Master’s in IT Project Management
West Lafayette, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,992
Purdue University offers one of the most flexible online master’s in management information systems for professionals seeking a rigorous graduate degree from a top institution. The program is an accelerated degree that can be finished in as little as 12 months. Students have up to five years to complete the program. The program is designed for current IT professionals seeking upward career mobility into top management and leadership positions. In addition to learning new IT related skillsets, students learn to effectively lead, manage, and communicate within the context of the IT industry. Graduates go on to a variety of jobs in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Purdue is ranked #56 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#9 – Park University
Online Master’s in Business Administration – Management Information System concentration
Parkville, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,036
Park University offers a master’s in information systems online for individuals seeking education and training as preparation for a management or leadership position within the IT field. The online program is an accelerated format that can be completed in just 15 months. The curriculum for the program includes accounting for management decisions, change management and conflict resolution, database management systems, and management information systems. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from regionally accredited institution in any major, 2.75 minimum GPA, application, and transcripts. U.S. News and World Report ranks Park University #128 in regional universities Midwest in its 2018-2019 ranking cohort.
#8 – Colorado State University
Online Master’s in Computer Information Systems
Greenwood Village, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000
Colorado State University offers an online MIS master’s degree for those seeking an accelerated graduate level degree that prepares them for a management or leadership role in the IT field. The program combines computer science and IT skills with leadership and management principles applicable to IT contexts. Offered through the CSU College of Business Department of Computer Information Systems, the program boasts a nearly 100% job placement rate. The program consists of 33 credits (11 classes) including agile management and product development, application software architecture, applied data mining and business analytics, and business visual application development. CSU is ranked #140 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#7 – Liberty University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,723
Liberty University offers a master’s degree in management information systems online to those seeking a distance degree at the graduate level. The program has an accelerated format and can be completed in 1.5 years. The program’s focus in on helping students to learn how to create, design, and integrate data systems that meet the needs of today’s complex business organizations. Students can choose from a concentration in information assurance or technology management. Classes may include business simulation and modeling, decision making and executive information systems, and IT project management I&II. U.S. News and World Report ranks Liberty #230 in national universities.
#6 – Minot State University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Minot, North Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,549
Minot State University offers one of the fastest to completion online MIS degrees in the country. The program provides flexible enrollment levels and can be finished in just two semesters. Students learn the knowledge and skills needed to compete for top IT jobs within a variety of contexts including public, private, and not for profit organizations and businesses. Graduates also choose to pursue a variety of IT-related entrepreneurial ventures. Courses include business network systems management, database management and administration, foundations of information assurance and security, and IS project management. Minot State ranks #128 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#5 – Wilmington University
Online Master’s in Management with Management Information Systems Concentration
New Castle, Delaware
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,438
Wilmington University offers an online MIS for individuals seeking a convenient, flexible, and rigorous IT graduate degree. The online format means students can continue their personal and professional obligations while attending graduate school. Graduates will be prepared for a number of occupations including top-level management and leadership roles. The 12-course (36-credit) program includes analysis of decision-making, global marketing management, leadership development and change management, and strategy in organizations. The program includes contemporary leadership and management concepts along with advanced IT skills and knowledge. U.S. News and World Report ranks Wilmington University #230 in national universities for the 2018-2019 cohort of institutions.
#4 – Georgia College & State University
Online Master’s in Management Information Systems
Milledgeville, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,206
Georgia College & State University provides interested parties with a master’s degree in management information systems online. The program is delivered in both synchronous and asynchronous methods, which requires them to be present for an online course from 5:30-8:15 EST pm one night every other week during the semester. The coursework is similar in content to the Certified Information Auditor exam. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s from regionally accredited school, GMAT/GRE scores, and transcripts. Students with a degree from an AACSB or ABET business school with a minimum 3.2 GPA are not required to take the GRE/GMAT for acceptance. GCSU is ranked #28 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.
#3 – Kennesaw State University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Kennesaw, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,857
Kennesaw State University offers a master’s degree in management information systems online for students seeking to leverage a graduate degree to learn new skills and obtain a leadership or management position in the IT field. Admission requirements include graduate application, transcripts, GMAT score, statement of interest, resume, letters of recommendation (optional), and completion of preparatory knowledge clusters. Offered through the Coles College of Business, the courses may include business intelligence, traditional and big data analytics, database application design and implementation, and legal and ethical issues in information systems. U.S. News and World Report ranks Kennesaw State University #230 in national universities.
#2 – Western Governors University
Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
Austin, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790
Western Governors University offers a fast online master’s in management information systems for current IT professionals seeking a flexible graduate degree from an accredited institution. The WGU program is competency based, which means students can accelerate at their own speed to finish classes. 82% of students finish between 6-24 months, making it one of the most time-efficient online IT degrees. There are 10 total courses including financial management for IT professionals, information technology management, IT sourcing and development in a global economy, and managing technology operations and innovation. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree, transcripts, and interview with enrollment counselor to determine fit.
#1 – Dakota State University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Madison, South Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,367
Dakota State University provides an online master’s in management information systems designed to leverage knowledge and skills gained through coursework as preparation for a management or leadership position within an IT-related occupation. Graduates of the program have gone on to careers as IT managers, database administrators, systems analysts, application developers, and network administrators. Courses may include data warehousing and data mining, emerging technologies and issues, multi-tiered and service-oriented architectures, and technology for mobile devices. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree, minimum 2.7 GPA, and satisfactory GRE scores. DSU is ranked #118 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
__________________________________________________________________
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an online master’s in management information systems degree?
Information systems managers are responsible for IT departments in a variety of organizations and businesses. This department head manages teams and ensures the operation of information systems and technology solutions runs efficiently and productively.
An information systems manager has various responsibilities. Some of these tasks include hiring, reviewing, and firing non-management personnel and planning and directing the daily activities of the IT department or team. Information systems managers must evaluate, implement, and manage network and desktop technologies. A strong knowledge of information security is necessary to ensure workstations and databases perform optimally.
The career path of an information systems manager can branch into various leadership roles. As an analyst or specialist, management roles may be on the horizon. Once a systems analyst gains management experience, even one to two years managing a small team of developers or other specialists, eligibility for management roles exists. Once an information systems manager, individuals may desire to move up the ladder. With three to five years of management experience, you may qualify for higher leadership roles. These positions include director of information technology, IT director, chief information security officer, or chief information officer (CIO). The larger the team you manage and the more experience, the more qualified you will become for these top leadership roles in information systems.
How much money can I make with an online master’s in management information systems degree?
According to PayScale, a global compensation research organization, information systems managers earn an average salary of $82,268. The highest ten percent earn $121,794 and the lowest ten percent earn approximately $50,000 annually. Industry pay varies by experience and leadership responsibility.
Information systems managers who move into top leadership roles, such as chief information officer positions, often receive hefty pay increases. The average income of a chief information officer (CIO) is $146,000 per year.
Also, pay increases with experience. The more experience an information systems manager has, the more money they will generally make. According to PayScale, a positive trend follows the pay by experience graph. This means that individuals with less than five years of experience can expect to earn less than individuals with more than ten years of experience.
PayScale reports individuals with less than five years of industry experience earn an average total compensation of $62,000. Mid-career information systems managers earn an average total compensation of $78,000 per year. Experienced information systems managers with a ten to twenty-year work history earn $89,000 per year. Information systems managers with an excess of twenty years of work experience earn close to $100,000 per year. The more experience you have, the more you will make.
What is the job outlook for an individual with an online master’s in management information systems degree?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to increase by 12 percent through 2026. This is a five percent better job growth than the average of all other occupations. Demand for this occupation is expected to increase as organizations, firms, and businesses expand their digital platforms and new positions open.
Information systems managers generally hold master’s degrees in management information systems. Management roles require an advanced understanding of the challenges faced in the field. Also, management roles are typically responsible for teams and employees. Over the next eight years, an increase in the need for team development and management should be expected.
Cloud computing IT companies should see the most growth. As cloud computing becomes more popular, firms will need to outsource services from in-house information technology departments to cloud-computing businesses. The demand for cloud computing IT managers will increase.
Overall operations specialties managers’ employment growth is also expected to increase for similar reasons. Organization expansion and the demand on in-house IT departments will continue to rise. As demand increases, so will the need for IT managers and information systems management teams. With an online master’s in management information systems degree, job security for at least the next ten years appears to be stable.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in management information systems degree?
The time it takes to earn an online master’s in management information systems degree varies with program and school. While it is common for traditional master’s degree programs to take two years to complete, online master’s in management information systems programs can provide a shorter path.
Most online master’s in management information systems programs on our list require the completion of 30-36 credits. Full-time students complete these requirements at a quicker pace than individuals enrolled part-time. However, accelerated programs are also available and can shorten the time it takes to earn the degree by months.
If you want a speedy pathway toward an online MIS degree, an accelerated program may be ideal. The average completion time for an accelerated online MIS degree is 12-18 months. Students enrolled in an accelerated program typically take more than one class at a time. Rigor should be expected with accelerated programs. While the class length is shorter than traditional semester classes, the same curriculum is covered. Accelerated programs generally compress the material to fit in eight-week modules.
Full-time enrollment is almost always required for individuals pursuing an accelerated online master’s in management information systems degree. It is important to consider any outside obligations you have that might impact the rigor of this uniquely designed program.
What are the admission requirements for online master’s in management information systems programs?
Admission requirements for online master’s in management information systems programs vary with schools. Most programs require an earned bachelor’s degree in information systems or a closely related field. The bachelor’s degree must be earned from a regionally accredited college or university, though some programs will accept nationally accredited degrees.
A handful of online schools on our list require work experience within the field, but most programs do not. Some schools, however, require satisfactory GRE or GMAT scores. If you do not wish to take the GRE or another graduate test, there are plenty of programs that do not require test scores. Top-ranked programs usually ask for scores from tests taken within the last five years. In some cases, if an applicant has an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better, the GRE or GMAT requirement will be waived.
Other requirements for admission may include letters of recommendation from professors or employers, supplemental essays and personal statements, and statistics or undergraduate math classes. On rare occasions, applicants may be contacted to interview prior to the admission decision. If you are selected for an interview after submitting your application, it is important to prepare and not take the request as a formality for acceptance. If your interview performance is not stellar, you may not be offered acceptance.
CVO Staff
Related:
- Master’s Information Systems Online
- Master’s in Information Technology Online
- Quickest Masters Degree Online
- Cheapest Online Master’s
- Online MBA No GMAT Requirement
- Highest Paying MBA Concentrations
- Online Information Technology Degrees (Bachelor’s)