Author: Brenda Rufener
Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson
Reading level: Grade 10
Reading time: 6 minutes, 23 seconds
Original publication date: December 2018
Updates: 5
Key Takeaways:
- Our #1 ranked college for an accelerated online master’s in management information systems is Dakota State University, followed by Western Governors University.
- This ranking considers factors like degree completion time (under two years) and tuition costs to determine value.
- These programs are designed for IT professionals aiming for management roles, offering courses that align with industry demands.
This article profiles the top 10 accelerated online master’s in management information systems programs.
Featured Programs
The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs for computer and information systems managers are expected to grow 12 percent over the next eight years. This is a faster employment growth rate than the average of all other occupations. Both management and IT are among the top-earner jobs for a 4-year degree. So a degree in both should land you a great job. A rise in employment means more jobs as companies expand their digital platforms. With increased jobs, qualified candidates are needed as most management roles will require a master’s in management information systems or a closely related degree. If you want to diversify your skillset with some computer science electives, here’s what you can expect from computer science courses.
Top 10 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. If you’re interested in other accelerated master’s degree programs, check out our ranking of the quickest online master’s degrees.
Below is our list of the top 10 online master’s in management information systems programs.
#1 – Dakota State University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Madison, South Dakota
Website
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,367
Dakota State University provides an online master’s in management information systems. It is 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 Developer
- Network Administrators
Courses may include:
- Data Warehousing and Data Mining
- Emerging Technologies and Issues
- Multi-tiered and Service-Oriented Architectures
- Technology for Mobile Devices
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, a minimum 2.7 GPA, and satisfactory GRE scores. According to U.S. News and World Report, DSU is ranked #118 among regional universities in the Midwest.
Pros:
- Faculty is willing to work with students
- Technology focused institution
Cons:
- Some issues at the administrative level have been reported
- Some lack of financial aid accessibility has been reported
#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. It is for 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 within 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
- Managing Technology Operations and Innovation
Admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Transcripts
- Interview with an enrollment counselor to determine fit
Pros:
- Course mentors available for online student support
- Rolling admission
Cons:
- Not much face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers
#3 – Kennesaw State University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Kennesaw, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,857
Kennesaw State University offers an online master’s degree in management information systems. It is for students seeking to learn new skills and obtain a management position in the IT field. Admission requirements include:
- Graduate application
- Transcripts
- GMAT score
- Statement of Interest
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation (optional)
- Completion of preparatory knowledge clusters
The courses offered through the Coles College of Business may include:
- Business Intelligence
- Traditional and Big Data Analytics
- Database Application Design and Implementation
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Information Systems
U.S. News and World Report ranks Kennesaw State University #230 among national universities.
Pros:
- Ranks among the top 50 colleges in the South
- Accepts dual, AP, and CLEP credits
Cons:
- Student to faculty ratio is higher than the national average
- Graduation rate is lower than the national average
#4 – Georgia College & State University
Online Master’s in Management Information Systems
Milledgeville, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,206
Georgia College & State University has a master’s degree in management information systems online. It’s available in both synchronous and asynchronous methods. It 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 a 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.
Pros:
- Small class sizes
- Faculty is accessible
Con:
- Lack of diversity
#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. It is for individuals seeking a convenient, flexible, and rigorous IT graduate degree. The online format means students can continue their personal and professional obligations. Graduates will be prepared for several 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
- Strategy in Organizations
The program includes:
- Contemporary Leadership
- Management Concepts
- 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.
Pros:
- Program flexibility
- Good online student support
Cons:
- Financial aid process can be a challenge to navigate
#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 country’s fastest-completion online MIS degrees. The program provides flexible enrollment levels and can be finished in just two semesters. Students learn the skills needed to compete for top IT jobs. They will find careers within various 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
- IS Project Management
Minot State ranks #128 among regional universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Pros:
- Supportive faculty
- Challenging academic programming
Cons:
- Issues with advisor availability have been reported
- Some issues with transfer credits have been reported
#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. The program has an accelerated format and can be completed in 1.5 years. It focuses on helping students 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
- IT Project Management II
U.S. News and World Report ranks Liberty #230 in national universities.
Pros:
- Customizable curriculum
- Dual degree options
Cons:
- Less diverse
- Minimal tech support
#8 – Colorado State University
Online Master’s in Computer Information Systems
Greenwood Village, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,584
Colorado State University offers an online MIS master’s degree. It is 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. The program is offered through the CSU College of Business Department of Computer Information Systems and 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
- Business Visual Application Development
CSU is ranked #140 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
Pros:
- Has been called the “Harvard of the West”
- Highly rated online programming
Cons:
- Faculty apathy has been reported
#9 – Park University
Online Master’s in Business Administration – Management Information System concentration
Parkville, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,942
Park University offers a master’s in information systems online. It is for those 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
- Management Information Systems
Admission requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in any major
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- Application
- Transcripts
U.S. News and World Report ranks Park University #128 in regional universities Midwest in its 2018-2019 ranking cohort.
Pros:
- Small class sizes
- A focus on social responsibility and inclusivity
Cons:
- Graduation rate is lower than the national average
- Some issues with advisor availability have been reported
#10 – Purdue University
Online Master’s in IT Project Management
West Lafayette, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,591
Purdue University offers one of the most flexible online master’s in management information systems. It is 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. Students learn to lead, manage, and communicate within the context of the IT industry. Graduates go on to various public, private, and non-profit jobs. Purdue is ranked #56 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
Pros:
- A wide array of academic programming
- Cutting edge technology
Cons:
- Graduation rate is lower than the national average
- Student to faculty ratio is high
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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 various organizations and businesses. This department head manages teams and ensures the efficient and productive operation of information systems and technology solutions.
An information systems manager has various responsibilities. Some of these tasks include:
- Hiring, reviewing, and firing non-management personnel
- Planning and directing the daily activities of the IT department or team
Information systems managers must evaluate, implement, and manage network and desktop technologies. They must also have a strong knowledge of information security to ensure that 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
- Chief Information Officer (CIO)
The more experience you have, 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, 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.
IS managers who move into top leadership roles often receive hefty pay increases. The average annual income of a chief information officer (CIO) is $146,000.
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 annually. Experienced information systems managers with a ten to twenty-year work history earn $89,000 annually. Information systems managers with over 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 that the employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to increase by 12 percent by 2026. This is a five percent better job growth than the average of all other occupations. Demand for this occupation will 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. They are also 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 must 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 for 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 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 to earn the degree by months.
An accelerated program may be ideal for a speedy pathway toward an online MIS degree. 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 a bachelor’s degree in information systems or a closely related field, 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, plenty of programs do not require test scores. Top-ranked programs usually ask for test scores 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 admission requirements may include letters of recommendation from professors or employers, supplemental essays and personal statements, and statistics or undergraduate math classes. Occasionally, applicants may be contacted to interview before the admission decision. If you are selected for an interview after submitting your application, it is essential 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
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