Compare online master's in information systems programs

Organizations can use technology to protect their assets, understand their audience, and improve their operations. In a master's in information systems online program, you can discover how to manage a business' information systems and use them to solve its most pressing challenges.

Learn what to expect from a master's in information systems online and what opportunities might be waiting after graduation.

What jobs can you get with an online master's in information systems?

A master's in information systems online program can prepare you for advanced IT positions and leadership roles in many industries. You could manage an organization's database or security needs or help businesses incorporate technology or data science into their decision-making processes.

Below is a list of some potential career paths awaiting you:

• IT project manager
• Information systems manager
• Computer systems administrator
• Information systems consultant
• Management analyst

Salary expectations for master's in information systems graduates

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that computer information systems managers earned a median annual wage of $169,510 in May 2023. The median annual salaries for other possible roles during the same period include:

• Network and computer systems administrators: $95,360
• Computer systems analysts: $103,800
• Database administrators and architects: $117,450

How much you can earn in your career depends on many factors, including your role, employer, and location. Your professional experience and program specialization could have an impact on your salary as well.

Career outlook for master's in information systems graduates

The career outlook for a master's in information systems graduate can vary by role, industry, and location. However, many highly-skilled IT careers show signs of strong growth due to an increasing reliance on new technologies and a shortage of professionals with IT and leadership skills.

For example, the BLS projects 17% occupational growth for computer and information systems managers between 2023 and 2033 — four times the 4% projected growth rate for all occupations. The BLS also projects 11% growth for computer systems analysts and 9% growth for database administrators and architects.

What can you expect from a master's in information systems program?

Master's in information systems programs explore the connection between information technology and business. These programs typically feature between 30-45 credits spread across two years and can equip you with skills in database and network management, data science, and systems security. You can also develop business expertise to better understand an organization's challenges and find the appropriate IT solution.

You may encounter different master's in information system degree types, such as a master of science or an . Your degree type can impact several program areas, including the curriculum focus and the admission requirements.

Types of master's in information systems programs

• Information systems management: Focus on the management tools and techniques used for designing IT strategies, pushing innovation, and improving an organization's IT operations.
• Information systems security: Explore the design, implementation, and management of information systems security. You may learn how to set up secure networks and systems, defend against threats, and develop security standards and policies for an organization.
• Artificial intelligence: Investigate the design, management, and practical applications of machine learning for different types of organizations and environments.
• Data science: Examine data and business intelligence technologies and applications. You may learn how machine learning and analytics can improve business operations and decision-making.

Earning a master's in information systems degree online

An online master's in information systems offers more schedule flexibility than on-campus programs typically offer. Online programs require little to no travel and may let you study from wherever you want. Your classes can run asynchronously in a relatively self-paced manner or synchronously, which might include evening or weekend classes.

While online programs give you more freedom in your studies, they may feature less structure and guidance than on-campus programs. This could require you to be more independent and organized.

Curriculum for master's programs in information systems

Master's in information systems programs typically feature core courses that cover the fundamentals of information systems and business applications. You may also complete courses in your specialization and/or electives.

Here are some of the courses you could come across:

• Computer networks: This course explores the setup and administration of the most common IT networks. It may also delve into network protocols, security, and information assurance topics.
• Advanced database systems: In this course, you learn to design and manage database systems. The course may also cover the most popular database models, languages, and security measures.
• Information security: This course explores the security methods and technologies used to protect information. You may learn how to design security systems, detect and manage threats, and handle the recovery process.
• Machine learning for business applications: In this course, you examine how businesses use AI and how to move AI applications from theory to practice. You may learn how to work with algorithm packages for tasks like data analysis, forecasting, and quality control.
• Information technology strategy and policy: This course looks at how IT strategies and policies are developed to improve organizational operations and performance based on the organization's IT needs.