Information Systems Management: Everything You Need to Know About This Major

Information systems management combines the theories of computer science and information technology (IT) with management and business concepts. By pursuing a degree in information systems management, you can learn about the connected relationships between people, technology, and organizations.

Read on to learn more about what an information systems management degree involves, possible career pathways, and which international student friendly universities in the US offer opportunities to a student in information systems. 

What Is an Information Systems Management Degree?

Information technology plays an important role in most industries, and there is a high demand for IT professionals — a projection of 682,800 job vacancies is expected annually in the US for the next 10 years. There are a variety of IT job roles available to graduates with a degree in information systems management, including application analysts, cyber security analysts, database administrators, and more. 

Information systems management is a STEM-related degree offering in-depth knowledge about accounting and finance concepts, economics, marketing, and management of computer-based information systems. It covers the skills needed to design and administer database management systems, while also building strategic decision-making skills.

Students in information systems programs learn transferable and in-demand skills that qualify them for high-paying employment opportunities and flexible jobs. These STEM-eligible degree programs also allow for longer OPT and CPT enrollment in the US. 

Let’s take a look at potential career prospects.  

Career Opportunities with an Information Systems Management Degree

As many organizations grow increasingly technologically advanced and expand their digital platforms, the demand for those with knowledge in information systems management has increased rapidly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in computer and information systems management roles are expected to grow by 16% from 2021 to 2031. 

Here are some occupations you can consider with a degree in information systems management, as well as annual average salaries in the US, Brazil, China, and India:

Source: SalaryExpert, 2023

Many universities across the US offer a variety of information systems degrees, with Shorelight universities giving international students the chance to pursue these degrees in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Shorelight Universities Offering IT-Based Degree Programs

Shorelight universities offer well-rounded curriculum and hands-on learning experiences to prepare students for roles in global IT-driven organizations such as Apple, Google, Meta, and more. Let’s take a look at some of the universities in the US where international students can pursue an information systems management or related degree program. 

Undergraduate Programs

Auburn University

Ranked #78 in Best Business Schools by U.S. News & World Report, the Raymond J. Harbert College of Business at Auburn University provides a well-rounded Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Information Systems Management. Curriculum provides in-depth knowledge in the design, development, and management of versatile information systems. Human resources, marketing, finance, and other managerial subjects are also covered. 

Auburn University also gives you the chance to gain real-world learning opportunities during your studies through internships. Sign up with Handshake, an app that enables students to explore a variety of jobs and connect with potential employers.

American University

The business administration degree with a minor in information systems and technology offered by the Kogod School of Business at American University provides the knowledge and skills you need to kick-start your IT career. Learn about information systems (IS) project management, business analysis, databases, information risk management, and more. 

Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University is ranked in the top 100 business schools for part-time MBAs by U.S. News & World Report. The School of Business Administration, a member of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), offers a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in management information systems. It is designed to provide advanced technical skills needed to become a successful professional. Graduates of this program work at leading companies such as Amazon, Boeing, and Dell. 

Cleveland State University

A Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Systems at Cleveland State University focuses on the use of modern information technology within the framework of a company. The curriculum includes systems analysis methods, modern database design and implementation, and management of business networks. 

Western New England University

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Western New England University’s College of Business offers a business analytics and information management major that combines academic learning with real-world experience. The degree aims to strengthen students’ understanding of business principles and analytics, as well as develop the soft skills their future employers value. 

Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Decision Sciences program teaches students how to manage projects and data while also developing a deep understanding of IT resources. The degree also covers systems analysis, design, and implementation skills needed to support managerial and operational tasks in an organization.

University of Illinois Chicago

With a research-based curriculum and corporate-sponsored project courses, the information and decision science program offered at the University of Illinois Chicago covers tech-centric business operations, along with analysis and strategy. UIC also offers business data analytics, management information systems, and operations and supply chain management as concentrations, so you can select an option based on the specialty you wish to pursue.

Undergraduate degrees are a great starting point for you to gain a grounding in information systems management. There are many roles you could apply for with a bachelor’s degree in this field. If you plan to pursue more advanced careers in information systems, consider a master’s in an IT-related field, such as an MBA in IT. Here are some post-graduate degrees to consider.

Postgraduate Programs

Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University offers a Master of Information Systems at their Monte Ahuja College of Business. This is a specialized STEM degree that takes a deeper dive into how technology and management leads to more functional and digitally advanced organizations. 

Students pursuing this graduate program have the option of completing a thesis or elective coursework to earn their degree. Students are encouraged to participate in internship and research initiatives to enhance the skills gained during their studies. 

University of Illinois Springfield

Ranked as Illinois’ #1 public regional university (U.S. News & World Report) for the fourth year in a row, the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) offers a Master of Science in Management of Information Systems. Students learn the advanced application of information technology to solve business challenges and gain a thorough understanding of complex information systems.

The graduate program can be completed online, on campus, or by following a hybrid schedule, making it a flexible alternative for students. For real-world IT experience, UIS’s career development center gives students a space for networking and building professional connections.

University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago offers a Master of Science in Management Information Systems along with their undergraduate degree. This expert-led degree shows students how to build, deploy, and manage systems directly affecting the tactical and strategic operations in a company. With the option of focusing in technical or managerial streams, this graduate degree provides a competitive edge when entering the workforce. 

At the end of their degree, every student typically completes either a design project with an external company or an independent research project to ensure they graduate with a well-rounded skill set.

UMass Boston 

The Master of Science in Information Technology at UMass Boston includes courses such as business data communication and computer networks, business programming, database management systems, and more.

Students develop a critical understanding of the technical foundation of information systems to support day-to-day business operations. While there is an emphasis on technical and theoretical knowledge, this graduate program is also designed to support students in developing communication and analytical skills and improving their decision-making abilities.

Whether undergraduate or graduate, a degree in information systems management can offer a pathway to a rewarding career exploring challenging digital problems and supporting core business operations.

Shorelight can help you start your higher education journey in the US from when you apply all the way to your graduation. Your Shorelight advisor will guide you every step of the way and can help you with choosing the right college, preparing your college application, and obtaining your student visa. Start your deep dive into the world of information technology today!

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