Find your perfect college degree
One of the most in-demand fields today is Management Information Systems. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has indicated that MIS managers earn an average of $169,510. That’s almost twice the average annual salary of professionals in managerial roles.
While the minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree, those with advanced degrees are proven to get more recognition. As technology evolves rapidly, hardware and software systems are becoming more difficult to manage and integrate. As a result, organizations are seeking more skilled professionals to lead their IT operations.
A highly effective way to beat the competition is to earn a Master’s in Management in Information Systems from a reputable institution. Online MIS degrees, like on-campus programs, are rigorous and intensive.
Additional Resources:
- Best Online Master’s of Computer Applications Graduate Schools
- Best Grad Schools with Online Doctorate in Management Information Systems
- Best Online Master’s of Science in Computer Science Graduate Schools
Overview
The online Master’s in Management Information Systems is offered in many universities and colleges in the country. Often a challenging and rigorous degree program, the online master’s degree in management information systems equips prospective students with knowledge and skills integral to managing information that greatly contributes to the success of an organization.
It encompasses areas of study such as data mining, supply chain management, and mass customization. If you are interested in advancing your career in a dynamic and exciting field, then this degree program is an ideal choice.
Quick audio summary:
Methodology
Management Information Systems is a highly specialized field, drawing on several disparate disciplines, i.e., business, data science, coding, and more. Students must possess a strong willingness to learn these fields and integrate them successfully.
Just as important is the need to choose the schools that can best provide them with the best training they can get in these fields to best prepare them for their future careers in Management Information Systems.
We can help you with that choice! We have put together a list of Graduate Schools with the Best Online Master’s in Management Information Systems based on the following criteria:
- Offers their management information systems degrees primarily online or in a hybrid format that gives students the flexibility to better balance their coursework with other commitments, like their careers,
- Provides practical, hands-on knowledge of major MIS tools and software, such as SAP, Microsoft SQL, Oracle, and more,
- Contains courses that align with and help students prepare for relevant industry certification exams,
- Taught by expert faculty who have extensive relevant industry experience and insights,
- Offered with affordable tuition rates and various options for financial aid and other cost reduction & management measures,
- Holds relevant accreditation credentials.
Visit our Methodology page for more information on our graduate program selection process.
Top Online Master’s in Management Information Systems Programs
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Master’s in Information Systems
Northwestern’s MS in Information Systems program is intended for graduate students who want to take on management positions. The curriculum focuses on the development and management of software projects in the workplace.
- Students are expected to build leadership techniques and communication skills integral to the implementation of change management and innovation.
- Those who want to specialize in Information Systems Management will learn all about key information system management best practices, project management methods, and information security and technology management techniques.
Standout Features:
The Master of Science in Information Systems program offers eight areas of specialization, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Digital Transformation
- Data Science
- Health Informatics
- Information Systems
- Information Security Systems
- Project Management
- Information Systems Management
Did You Know?
As a leading research university, Northwestern University houses at least 90 school-based centers and more than 50 university research centers. It has received more than $923 million in annual sponsored research awards.
University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL
MS in Management Information Systems
University of Illinois Springfield offers a Master of Science in Management Information Systems. The program’s curriculum is designed to prepare students with the skills to harness technology in driving strategic change for their organizations.
- The program is worth 30 credit hours in total and can be completed in at least 12 months.
- Students are given hands-on experience in a number of industry-standard applications and processes, including Oracle Applications and Database, Microsoft SQL Server, and Python, and become familiar with the System Development Life Cycle technique, as well as other concepts.
- Students have access to the latest technological applications as part of their coursework.
- Best-in-class technology professors teach courses.
Standout Features:
This AACSB-accredited program has an interdisciplinary design that places focus on people, processes, and information systems. It is also taught by expert faculty for both the online and on-campus formats. University of Illinois Springfield follows a pay-by-the-course tuition model with affordable tuition rates, and there are also multiple start dates per year so students can start when it is most convenient for them.
Did You Know?
When it comes to expertise in online/distance education, the University of Illinois Springfield had an early start, as they have been offering some of the best online graduate programs since 1999.
Boston University
Boston, MA
MS in Computer Information Systems
Boston University’s Online MS in Computer Information Systems (MSCIS) degree is an immersive program that prepares students for IT leadership positions in a wide range of industries. It combines technical knowledge and competence in information systems with knowledge of managerial and organizational issues.
- The program consists of 10 courses for a total of 40 credit hours.
- It can be completed within 18-24 months.
- The program has concentration areas in Computer Networks, Data Analytics, Database Management & Business Intelligence, Health Informatics, IT Project Management, Security, and Web Application Development.
Standout Features:
Boston University’s MSCIS program is certified by the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS) and accredited by the PMI-Project Management Institute and CAHIIM-Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics & Info Management Education.
Did You Know?
Boston University received the Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education and Research citation from the National Security Agency.
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Dearborn, MI
MS-Information Systems
The University of Michigan-Dearborn’s MS in Information Systems program is ideal preparation for careers in IT management, application development, and enterprise-level IT development. It is ideal for students with a background in IT management, computer science, or information technology, but it also welcomes anyone with an aptitude for information technology regardless of their bachelor’s degree.
- The program contains a total of 30 credit hours, made up of 10 courses. Three of these courses are electives, and students can choose from a set of 14 courses in the program.
- The program can be completed on-campus or in an online, hybrid format, with flexible evening and online schedule options.
Standout Features:
This program is a STEM-designated degree that gives international students the option to participate in their Optional Practical Training (OPT). The program accepts up to 6 transfer credits for applicable previous education, and students with professional work experience and other credentials can avail of GMAT/GRE waivers.
Did You Know?
The University of Michigan – Dearborn is a member of the CUMU-Coalition of Urban & Metropolitan Universities in the State, together with the University of Michigan – Flint, Wayne State University, and Oakland University. The coalition serves as a platform for engagement and partnerships related to institutions serving urban and metropolitan settings.
University of Colorado Denver
Denver, CO
MS in Information Systems
CU Denver offers an online MS in Information Systems program. It is designed to blend business strategy and technology, preparing students for various careers in technical or IT management capacities.
- The program has a total of 30 credit hours.
- Aside from a General Track, students can choose specialization areas in
- Business Intelligence
- Cybersecurity & Information Assurance.
- The program is offered with CU’s affordable tuition rates and financial aid options, and the University of Colorado has its own set of internal scholarships that students can apply to once they are admitted.
Standout Features:
This highly-ranked, AACSB-accredited degree program is STEM-certified, which has potential benefits for any international students who choose to apply. Likewise, students are able to access the resources of the CU Denver Business School’s Center for Information Technology Innovation (CITI), which connects students and faculty with industry members and companies.
Did You Know?
The University of Colorado’s CU Online portal/campus unifies the degree programs offered throughout the CU’s four physical campuses. Online students obtain the same degrees as their on-campus classmates and can expect the same quality of education.
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE
MS in Management Information Systems
Bellevue University’s Master of Science in Management Information Systems online program equips students with technical and business skills in preparation for senior-level leadership and management roles. Students are expected to focus on strategic information systems technologies, where they analyze and manage resources to create effective strategies.
- This is a 36-credit-hour program.
- It includes courses such as Managing Information Systems Organizations, Systems Development and Deployment, and Information Security Management, among others.
- Students will analyze systems and business requirements for alignment in the design, development, deployment, and operation of information systems.
Standout Features:
Students in the MS in Management Information Systems program can choose a concentration that aligns with their career goals. This includes
- Information Security Management
- Information Technology Project Management
- Cybersecurity
- Business Analytics
- Business Administration
Did You Know?
Strongly committed to offering quality education, Bellevue University collaborates with industry experts and leading businesses to prepare students for career success. They provide career-relevant programs, future-proof industry knowledge, and job-ready skills.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL
MS in Management Information Systems
The online MS in Management Information Systems offered at Florida State University is designed for prospective students who want to boost their management, technical, and analytical skills. Interested students will need to have at least two years of work experience in the field of technology or an undergraduate degree in information technology.
- The cutting-edge curriculum is composed of 11 courses.
- It covers essential topics, including business intelligence, project management, social and organizational issues surrounding information systems, and more.
- The online program can be completed in 24 months if students take two online courses each semester.
- Students can pursue a specialization:
- Business Administration
- Healthcare Management
- Marketing
- Real Estate
- Risk Management and Insurance
- Life and Health Track
- Property and Casualty Track
Standout Features:
Undergraduates in FSU who are qualified may start on graduate coursework on MIS by applying for the Combined Bachelor of Science – Management Information Systems and Master of Science – Management Information Systems pathway. This cuts down the time it takes for them to earn both degrees.
Did You Know?
Beyond the quality of learning from its rigorous curriculum, online students in the College of Business also have the chance to gain experience through several opportunities, including corporate trips, competitions, industry-specific career fairs, and so much more.
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
Master’s in Management Information Systems
The University of Arizona offers a strong online Master’s in Management Information Systems designed for those with Python programming experience. It provides the benefits of an on-campus program but with the flexibility that an online degree can offer. Students may take accelerated eight-week courses at their own pace, which makes the marketing program a suitable choice for busy professionals.
- It requires completion of 39 credit hours.
- Each course lasts seven weeks, with two courses fitting into each semester.
- Some of the courses in the curriculum include Programming Concepts for Business, Social and Ethical Issues of the Internet, Business Foundations of IT, Information Systems Security in Public and Private Sectors, and Systems Security Management, among others.
- The average graduation time is ten months when enrolled full-time.
- Weekly assignments are given with specific deadlines.
- Courses feature various active learning opportunities, such as extra credit options, discussions, chats, labs, quizzes, projects, and exams, all conducted online.
Standout Features:
Students enrolled in the MS MIS program have the opportunity to apply to the Master of Cybersecurity program within their first year. They can plan out their eight academic semesters to earn both master’s degree programs at the same time.
Did You Know?
The University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management offers the Professional Development Center so students can get insights and information needed to work on their career goals in the global marketplace actively. The center provides students with personalized guidance to help them stand out in a competitive world.
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
MS in Information Systems
Drexel’s online MS in Information Systems provides training to systems specialists to use the latest technology and techniques. It is designed to help current IT professionals transform their digital platforms. Students learn to design, develop, and deliver innovative technological solutions to information problems.
- The degree requires 45 credit hours of completion.
- The program operates on a four 10-week quarter system per year.
- At the end of the program, they are expected to lead and contribute substantially to a team when it comes to developing information technology products and services.
Standout Features:
The program features four specialist areas. This includes software and systems development, data, information, and knowledge management; human-centered computing; and cyber-security approaches.
Did You Know?
Established in 1891, Drexel University is home to the nation’s oldest major natural science museum and research education – the Academy of Natural Sciences at Drexel University. It is also considered as Philadelphia’s economic engine for its contribution to the city’s largest employers.
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX
MS in Management Information Systems
Lamar University’s Master of Science in Management Information Systems program develops students’ enterprise system skills. Students in the program are prepared to earn the SAP TS410 Certification and are trained in a range of other industry-standard software, including Oracle, Tableau, SAS Visual Analytics, and more.
- The program contains a total of 30 credit hours and may be completed in as short as 12 months.
- The curriculum includes course content that covers concepts in ERP, Supply Chain Management, Data Mining, Information Security, Database Management Systems, Programming for Business, and more.
Standout Features:
Lamar University’s MS in Management Information Systems program features a hands-on approach-based curriculum that covers the relevant fundamentals in business, data science, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)-related fundamentals. The curriculum also features an ample number of electives that students can choose from to further focus on an area of their choice. Lamar University features affordable tuition rates and follows a pay-by-the-course model.
Did You Know?
Lamar University is also a member of the SAP University Alliance, a program that supports education for the Intelligent Enterprise environment.
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA
Master of Management Information Systems
The online Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS) program offered by Georgia College & State University prepares students to harness corporate information resources effectively. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between IT and other functional areas of an organization.
- The program contains a total of 30 credit hours.
- Courses are delivered either in an asynchronous/synchronous format.
- The program is designed to develop students’ technology skills (such as SAP & SQL) as well as crucial soft skills in analysis, strategic planning, and project management.
- Students can also choose to avail of the weekly Premium Student Support Hour given for each course. This is a unique feature of the program that lets students maximize their interaction with classmates and faculty.
Standout Features:
Georgia College has been awarding degrees in Management Information Systems since 1989 and is one of only a handful of graduate-level MIS programs in the state. The program curriculum aligns with the requirements for the CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) certification examination.
Did You Know?
Aside from the full-blown MMIS degree program, Georgia College & State University also offers MMIS Certificates in IS Data Analytics, IT Auditing, and Web Development, which are also delivered 100% online.
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH
MS in Information Systems
University of Cincinnati’s online MS in Information Systems program integrates core business knowledge with information systems courses to prepare students for data-driven careers. Graduates gain leadership and technology skills to connect technology, people, and processes effectively. This enables them to design solutions that support data-driven companies in achieving their top business goals.
- The program has a total of 36-44 credit hours and a completion time of less than two years.
- Courses are ideal for working professionals, so they are asynchronous and 100% online.
- The program has an included experiential component, which can either be an internship, independent information systems-related project, or research.
Standout Features:
This program offers 8 hours of Basic Business Knowledge (BBK) courses for students who don’t have a business-related bachelor’s degree, making it ideal for a wider range of academic backgrounds. The program is also in the top 15 for MSIS degree programs in the country and has had a 100% employment rate within three months for its graduates.
Did You Know?
The University of Cincinnati’s MSIS program is known for its excellence in the following areas: Business Intelligence, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Database Design and Modeling, and Project Management.
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK
MS in Management Information Systems
Oklahoma State’s online MS in Management Information Systems is known for its strong support services. MIS courses are accessible 24/7, featuring multimedia content and virtual activities to enhance collaboration among students. While a GRE is required for all applicants, exceptions are considered for students with a bachelor’s degree related to MIS from OSU.
- The program requires the successful completion of 33 credit hours.
- It is designed to provide solutions to business information systems, data, and security needs.
- Some of the courses covered in the comprehensive curriculum include database management, data warehousing, systems analysis, data science programming, big data, visualization, security information assurance, health analytics, and database management, among others.
Standout Features:
OSU offers several scholarship opportunities to its online MS MIS students. The school requires students to complete a universal scholarship application starting in mid-February, with application links sent via email to eligible students.
Did You Know?
Oklahoma State University is a Carnegie top-tier research university. This distinction is demonstrated by its innovative approach to education, bringing in new technologies, processes, and research to help develop students’ intellect and creativity. 87% of OSU graduates are reportedly employed full-time with an average annual salary of $45,000.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
MS in Information Systems Technology Management
Liberty University’s online Master of Science in Information Systems Technology Management program is available 100% online. Accredited by the ACBSP, this program provides students with advanced training in developing strategies, providing support and management, and setting long-term goals.
- This is a 36-credit-hour program.
- The curriculum includes Business Simulation and Modeling, IT Project Management, and Decision Making and Executive Information Systems.
- Students can gain advanced training in developing strategies, providing support and management, and setting long-term goals.
- This multidisciplinary program focuses on combining project management and technological systems and operations.
Standout Features:
The program is designed to equip students with skills and knowledge on cutting-edge techniques for streamlining data management systems and handling projects that require collaborative work with programmers, network developers, and computer science teams.
Did You Know?
A pioneer in online education, Liberty University offers degrees in a 100% online format. They give students the flexibility to complete their coursework at any time of the day at their own pace. It also offers an affordable tuition rate while providing an advanced, accredited, and excellent education.
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
MS in Management Information Systems
AUB’s Collat School of Business offers a top-notch online Master of Science in Management Information Systems. The program is designed to reinforce students’ technical knowledge while equipping them with essential skills in business and leadership.
- The rigorous and innovative curriculum can be completed 100% online.
- Students must complete 48 credit hours to graduate.
- A dedicated advisory council of IT professionals designs core classes.
- Students do not need to meet GMAT or GRE requirements. They can also transfer credits from prior coursework.
Standout Features:
Online students in the MS in Management Information Systems online degree program can tailor their education according to their career goals and needs. They can choose among the two available concentrations, including Cyber Security Management and Business Analytics.
Did You Know?
As one of the three autonomous institutions within The University of Alabama System, the University of Alabama at Birmingham is the only one with Carnegie’s highest research classification of very high research activity.
University of Maryland
Adelphi, MD
Master’s in Management, specialization in Information Systems & Services
Prospective students interested in integrating information systems to create value in their organization may want to consider earning a master’s in Management with a concentration in Information Systems and services. This fully online program teaches them how to procure and utilize computer-based information systems for effective decision-making.
- Online students are required to complete a total of 36 credits.
- Core courses include Organizational Theory and Behavior, Statistics for Managerial Decision Making, and Financial Decision Making for Managers.
- Students can also pursue concentration courses:
- Decision Support Systems and Artificial Intelligence Systems
- Information Systems for Managers
- Information Systems Management and Integration
- Information Systems Sourcing Management
- Information Technology, the CIO, and Organizational Transformation
- Internet Multimedia Applications
- Systems Analysis and Design
Standout Features:
Since the online master’s in management program prepares learners for leadership positions in the field of information systems, the courses are designed to help them achieve that goal. Some of the program highlights include solving problems with the use of organizational theory, developing business strategies that leverage information technology, and evaluating the impact of outsourcing information technology activities.
Did You Know?
The University of Maryland Global Campus lives up to its name by offering online courses anywhere. It also has more than 175 classroom and service locations worldwide, including military installations. The online courses provide a collaborative learning environment. Online students at UMGC can also enjoy no-cost digital course materials to help them keep their education costs down.
University of Houston
Houston, TX
MS in Management Information Systems
The University of Houston’s Master of Science in Management Systems is a fully online, STEM-designated program. It is designed for business professionals looking to grow their information systems-related skillset. Students are expected to develop valuable technology leadership and communication skills to gain a strategic advantage in the workplace.
- Requiring the completion of 36 credits, the program’s rigorous curriculum includes core courses such as Transaction Processing Systems, Systems Analysis and Design, Object Oriented Programming, and IT Project Management.
- Students will work with world-class faculty to gain a thorough understanding of core information systems fundamentals.
- Graduates will develop the ability to make data-driven decisions to advance future businesses.
Standout Features:
This program is designed to help students prepare for certifications that can enhance their professional credentials, including getting certified in Project Management, Information Systems Auditing, and Business Analytics.
Did You Know?
The University of Houston’s C.T. Bauer College of Business received the largest up-front award to any single college in the university’s history from Ted Bauer. The endowment amounted to $40 million, allowing the college to attract and retain world-class faculty and develop innovative curricula and special programs.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, FL
MS in Management Information Systems
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Master’s in Management Information Systems (MSMIS) is for students who want to focus on aviation management information systems. This program is available online through ERAU’s Worldwide campus.
- The program consists of 30-33 required courses.
- Students have various certificate options:
- Business Intelligence and Analytics
- Finance
- Human Resources
- Information Systems Security
- International Business
- Leadership
- Marketing
- Project Management
- Students may also choose the non-certificate option.
- The program offers a fast-track option enabling students to graduate in one year.
- The program design is anchored on the system-of-systems perspective, and ERAU has existing alliances with SAS, Tableau, and Microsoft, which are some of the industry’s major MIS software tools & systems providers.
Standout Features:
ERAU emphasizes the creation of world-class research output as a fundamental feature of the program. Likewise, ERAU satisfies industry needs by aligning the programs’ learning outcomes with standards set by major industry organizations, such as the Association for Information Systems (AIS).
Did You Know?
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers the only Global Security and Intelligence Studies program in the country to date, available at their Prescott, Arizona campus.
University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX
MS in Information Technology & Management
The MS in Information Technology and Management degree offered by the University of Texas at Dallas is a high-quality degree that features the most up-to-date training on crucial skills and technologies. All students can access online courses, regardless of whether they complete their coursework primarily online or on campus.
- The online program contains 36 credit hours in total, which students can complete self-paced.
- The program is also offered on-campus, and in a choice of full- or part-time enrollment.
- The program has a wide range of Specialization areas, which includes Enterprise Systems, Digital Product Management, Cloud Computing, Business Intelligence and Analytics, and more.
Standout Features:
UT Dallas’ MS in Information Technology and Management program is one of the best Information Systems programs in the country (Top 15). It is also a STEM-designated degree,
Did You Know?
UT Dallas has a unique history among public universities in the country, having been founded in 1961 by a private company (Texas Instruments) as its private research arm and only being bequeathed to the state to become part of the University of Texas System in 1969.
Auburn University
Auburn, AL
Master of Science in Information Systems
The online MS in Information Systems program offered by Auburn University is designed to prepare students for IT leadership positions in their current or future organizations. This is also one of the most customizable online MSIS degree programs, giving students the chance to specialize and design their own schedules.
- The program has ten courses and a total of 30 credit hours.
- The program can be completed in two years without disrupting students’ full-time jobs, although the program can be completed in as little as 18 months on full-time enrollment.
- Students can choose from Concentration Areas in Security, Geospatial Information Systems, and Technical Skills.
Standout Features:
With Auburn University’s MSIS Program, prospective students are enrolling in a nationally-ranked program taught by expert faculty. The program is also designed to be a highly flexible open degree with only three required courses, where students work with a faculty advisor to develop an education plan that best fits them.
Did You Know?
While Auburn is a public university, it was initially chartered as a private liberal arts school in 1856, affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was called the East Alabama Male College.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an online MIS graduate degree cost?
According to NCES, in-state public four-year schools charge an average of $9,375 in tuition and fees, while out-of-state students pay $27,091, and private school students pay $32,825.
What is Management Information Systems, and how does it differ from computer science?
Coding is a huge part of an MIS degree. However, the field also emphasizes data analysis, project management, customer service, and leadership. It focuses on a comprehensive system of information, knowledge, and technology to address the needs of people and organizations.
On the other hand, computer science tends to feature technical and science courses such as Engineering and Mathematics. The focus is more on technology itself than on using technology for business goals.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in management information systems degree?
While it generally differs depending on the university or college, an online Master’s in Management Information Systems typically requires the completion of 30 credit hours and can usually be completed in two years or less. However, factors such as part-time or full-time enrollment, transfer credit policies, and accelerated options can affect the program duration.
How much can I earn with a master’s in management information systems degree?
Graduates with a degree in MIS can pursue high-demand roles with competitive salaries. According to ZipRecruiter, professionals with a Master’s in Information Systems earn an average annual salary of $105,783.
What job options are available for MIS graduates?
With the growing reliance on technology in organizations, an online master’s in MIS offers various career opportunities. Here are some options:
| Position | Role | Average Annual Salary |
| Data Engineer | Develops and maintains systems for data collection, storage, and analysis, supporting data-driven applications. | $104,219 |
| Database Developer | Creates and maintains databases, optimizing structures and SQL queries for efficient data management. | $103,964 |
| Database Programmer | Writes code to interact with databases, developing software applications for data manipulation. | $103,977 |
| Distributed Systems Engineer | Designs and manages distributed computing systems to ensure efficient data sharing and system reliability. | $137,782 |
| Management Analyst | Evaluates and improves organizational processes and operations by analyzing data and providing recommendations to boost efficiency and performance. | $92,431 |
Key Takeaways
- A Master’s in Management Information Systems degree program is a synthesis of the fields of business and computer science while also including key concepts from data science, management, and others.
- It is common for Master’s in Management Information Systems degree programs to lean heavily on providing practical hands-on training and experience for their students and often integrate preparation for a number of industry-standard certifications.
- Graduates of Management Information Systems Master’s degree programs are expected to go on to take up leadership/management positions in their organizations and fields while possessing a high degree of technical skills in crucial MIS processes and tools.
