An online master’s degree in information systems may provide students with the skills and training needed to plan, coordinate, and direct computer issues at a specific organization. In these upper-level programs, students may study the theory and practice of information security combined with data protection pertaining to information systems. Coursework within these programs may include a handful of electives alongside major-specific courses, such as systems analysis and design, data warehousing, and telecommunication networks.

Graduates may seek employment or further their education and enroll in a doctoral-level degree program in information systems. Master’s-level graduates may find employment opportunities working for financial companies, governmental agencies, and telecommunication firms.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 18% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online master’s degree in information systems may include major-specific courses and several electives. Students enrolled in these programs may learn about information system methodologies, including design, implementation, and evaluation of software applications. Core information systems courses may include the following:

• Web Technology
• Systems Analysis and Design
• Computer Programming
• Telecommunication Networks
• Database Systems Design
• Web Application Development
• Data Warehousing

Career Options

Graduates of online master’s-level programs in information systems may find careers in finance, manufacturing, telecommunications, insurance, and IT. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as computer information systems managers are expected to increase by 18% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Computer Information Systems Manager
• Computer Hardware Engineer
• Network Administrator
• Software Developer
• Computer Network Architect

Continuing Education

Graduates of online master’s degree in information systems programs may pursue additional education and enroll in a doctoral-level program in information systems. These research-heavy PhD programs may give students additional training on information systems and prepare them for higher-level teaching positions or careers in research.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook