10 Best Paying MIS Degree Jobs in 2023

MIS degree jobs may not be the first option that comes to mind when you think of potential IT career paths. But this degree is worth considering for new students and seasoned specialists. With one foot in the tech world and the other in business, this degree unlocks the wide world of MIS degree jobs. The role of technology in business is an incredibly important one. An MIS degree is the foundation for an exciting career.

Article Navigation: What Is MIS? | MIS Education – An Overview | What Can I Do with an MIS Degree? | Job Opportunities for Graduates | Certifications | FAQs | Conclusion

What Is MIS?

Let’s start by getting our definitions out of the way. What is “management information systems”? Simply put, MIS is the study of how technology is used to help manage people, finances, data, and connect theory to practice in business. It’s vital to how businesses function today, so MIS is a crucial area of study. MIS pros take on several tasks, such as:

• Researching and recommending hardware and software to executives,
• Planning and executing upgrade strategies for a company’s computer systems,
• Working to ensure a business’ sensitive data remains secure, and
• Hiring and managing IT professionals.

Required Education For MIS Degree Jobs

What do you learn in an MIS degree program?

A degree reflects the MIS professional’s role as a liaison between business and technology. Students can expect to study various aspects of computer technology. This includes database management, computer networking, and cloud management. It also includes some specialized topics, such as web design, spreadsheet programming, and even coding. Finally, you can expect a substantial amount of coursework related to business. For example, finance and marketing. All of this serves to help MIS students learn how to:

• Design, manage, and improve systems that collect important business data, and
• Organize and present that data in a useful and meaningful way.

Bachelor’s Degree

The best bachelor's degree in MIS provides a broad overview of computer systems and business. Bachelor programs equip you to perform in entry-level jobs in this field. They provide a solid foundation on which to build the next 5-10 years of your career. With this credential, you can pursue roles between any business’s business and technology hemispheres.

Master’s Degree

A master’s in management information systems is another great option. It benefits students ready to take their career to the next level. A bachelor’s in MIS gives you a broad foundation.  The best master’s in management information systems focuses on specific skills. When looking into master’s degrees, keep in mind the different types of MIS specializations available to you.

MBAs are a good choice for those who already have a few years of experience and are looking to broaden their horizons. Look specifically at accredited online MBA management information systems degrees. These will feature coursework concerning topics important to all business experts, such as analytics, business strategy, and leadership. This degree sets you up for success in management or executive positions.

Then there are master’s of science in management information systems degrees. These programs focus on continuing to build skills specific to MIS. They allow a greater depth of knowledge in a few key areas:

• Data analytics,
• Finance, and
• Computer systems.

This path is a great choice for students fresh on the heels of a bachelor’s degree. It’s also great for returning specialists who want to improve their skills and obtain a significant pay increase.

Both types of degrees offer thesis and non-thesis options as well. Consider whether you wish to add research to your resume. This will help you set yourself up to pursue a doctorate degree.

In summary, an MBA generally offers breadth, while an MS offers depth. Whichever one you pursue, just make sure it fits your needs and goals as a professional.

Doctorate Degree

A doctorate degree is the crown jewel of any MIS professional’s resume. In general, it’s worth seriously considering. Generally speaking, a doctorate MIS focuses on high-level concepts central to the field. Doctorate-level students should expect to gain prominence in the profession. They will also contribute to the field in the form of extensive research. This will culminate in a doctoral dissertation in a particular area of MIS at length.

A doctorate is a great choice for those pursuing the top of their field. They often fill educator and mentor roles as well. With a doctorate, you’ll work with colleges and organizations to better the field and educate others.

10 Best MIS Degree Jobs

An online MIS degree is a foundation for a long and profitable career. Research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers shows that the projected management information systems starting salary in 2020 was over $63,000 per year. The BLS research shows an average salary for computer and information systems management at $159,010. Below, you’ll find examples of MIS jobs entry level with an MIS degree. Following are positions that may become available later in your career. They require experience and higher education.

Jobs directly related to your degree include:

1. Systems Analyst

   Annual Salary: $99,270
   Projected Growth: 9%
   Required Education: A bachelor’s degree for an entry-level position

   Systems analysts observe, manage, and improve computer systems with the goal of increasing efficiency. Problem-solving and communication are big parts of this position. MIS specialists address abstract business needs by implementing or improving the appropriate technology.

    

2. Software Developer

   Annual Salary: $109,020
   Projected Growth: 25%
   Required Education: A bachelor’s degree for an entry-level position

   Software developers create applications and programs for computers, smartphones, and other devices. If you love working with a team and enjoy creative elements, software development is a perfect option. MIS professionals can put both technical and soft skills to good use in this role.

    

3. Web Developer

   Annual Salary: $78,300
   Projected Growth: 23%
   Required Education & Experience: A variety of educational or experiential requirements, but a bachelor’s degree is helpful.

   Web developers build and manage websites for people and businesses. This position exercises creativity and problem-solving. You can expect to work closely with graphic designers and branding experts to stay on top of trends. Developers are especially qualified to translate ideas from management into tangible web solutions.

    

4. Computer Support Specialist

   Annual Salary: $57,910
   Projected Growth: 6%
   Required Education & Experience: An associate’s degree for entry-level jobs. Relevant work experience. Bigger roles, such as those offered by large companies or companies with more specialized tech products and services, may require a bachelor’s degree.

   Computer support specialists manage computer systems and assist the people who use them. If you love working with people and solving problems, this job is a good fit. MIS specialists are equipped to bridge the gap between user and system. In this way, they ensure their teammates are able to use technology tools effectively.

    

5. Project Manager

   Annual Salary: $94,500
   Projected Growth: 7%
   Required Education: Project managers usually need a bachelor’s degree in a field related to their specific role. An MIS degree, for example, would qualify you for technology and business projects.

   Project managers combine elements of any project, like budget, staff, and resources, into a cohesive whole. In this position, you’ll exercise task management and organizational skills. You’ll also get to work with people. A combination of business and technical know-how make this an excellent choice for MIS specialists.

    

Jobs where your degree would be useful include:

1. Database Architect

   Annual Salary: $101,000
   Projected Growth: 9%
   Required Education: A bachelor’s degree to enter the field. A master’s degree for more specialized positions.

   Database architects build, maintain, and improve systems that store and protect data. Solving problems and coming up with creative solutions is pertinent in this position. If you have your master’s, you have the specialized knowledge to thrive in this job.

    

2. Chief Information Officer

   Annual Salary: $287,500
   Projected Growth: 15%
   Required Education & Experience: A bachelor’s degree and several years of experience. An advanced degree, such as an MBA or an MIS doctorate degree, is beneficial as well.

   CIOs oversee all a business’ technology and information management needs. This executive role has a lot of responsibility, making it a rewarding job when done well. With additional experience and education, you’ll have the skills necessary to excel in this position.

    

3. Computer and Information Research Scientist

   Annual Salary: $131,490
   Projected Growth: 21%
   Required Education: A master’s degree in computer science or a related field, like MIS.

   Computer and information research scientists find new ways to implement computer technology. Problem-solving, creativity, and a forward-thinking outlook are core tenets of this job. You can expect to move from the role of managing computer systems to the role of designing them. All you need is the appropriate education and experience.

    

4. Information Security Analyst

   Annual Salary: $102,600
   Projected Growth: 35%
   Required Education & Experience: A bachelor’s degree is necessary. Also, relevant work experience and certifications

   Information security analysts ensure that computer networks and systems are secure. They do this by building and implementing security plans and procedures. This is a position for critical thinkers and problem solvers. A background in MIS easily lays the foundation for success in this role.

    

5. Computer Science Professor

   Annual Salary: $77,910
   Projected Growth: 7%
   Required Education & Experience: A doctorate. A master’s or experience in a relevant field leads to a doctorate.

   Computer science teachers are responsible for educating the next generation of professionals. This position is rewarding for those passionate about empowering others and advancing the profession. A doctorate in MIS would prepare you for success in this role.

    

Where Do MIS Degree Graduates Work?

Management information systems jobs are numerous and diverse, as we’ve seen. So where can one find those jobs?

The short answer is this: jobs for MIS majors are almost everywhere. The MIS professional’s role as the bridge between the tech and business worlds is vital. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a predicted 16% growth in the field overall by 2031. That’s much faster than average, indicating an acute need for intelligent, qualified MIS experts. The BLS lists the top employers of MIS majors as:

• Computer systems design and related services,
• Information, and
• Finance and insurance.

Certifications After an MIS Degree

If you want to stand out among other applicants in the field, earn a certification. Certifications are an affordable compliment to any degree, and many can be completed online. Certifications are especially important for tech professionals like MIS majors. The landscape of technology and business is always changing, so it’s important to stay up to date.

Some certifications are specific to MIS professionals. Others help build skills useful for all IT professionals. Find some examples of each below.

MIS Certifications

These certifications will help you develop in your role as an MIS professional. They instill skills and knowledge directly related to your degree.

1. Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA)

   The International Institute of Business Analysis certifies the ECBA. This entry-level credential equips you with business analysis skills. It is the first of three certifications that make up the IIBA’s Core Business Analysis Certifications. Basically, you can build on your initial credential in the future. This ECBA is great for those applying for management information systems entry level jobs. For example, business or systems analysts.

    

2. Certified Foundation Level Business Analyst (CFLBA)

   The International Qualification Board for Business Analysis certifies the CFLBA. This is another entry-level option for business analysis skills. It is also the first step in IQBBA’s suite of certifications. The CFLBA is valuable on its own. Still, it sets you up for further advancement down the road.

    

3. Agile Analysis Certification

   This is another, more specialized certificate from the IIBA. “Agile” refers to a philosophy of project management and product development. An AAC certificate provides the skills you need to apply agile strategies in your role in MIS. Agile Analysis is great for titles like project manager or software developer.

    

Tech Certifications

These certifications are helpful for any technology professional. They teach you how to navigate the biggest tech providers and tools in the industry.

1. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

   Amazon Web Services is one of the industry’s most prevalent cloud computing platforms. This Certified Cloud Practitioner AWS certification equips you to navigate and implement AWS products and services in your business context. You will improve your skills and gain more tools to turn ideas into tangible, useful data.

    

2. Google Data Analytics Certificate

   Google is not just a search engine. It’s also a service provider found under the hood of many businesses and institutions. In fact, this data analytics certificate is one of several. It equips tech professionals to use Google’s business services effectively. You will find the Data Analytics certificate especially useful for MIS. Other credentials include:

   – Google IT Certificates
   – Google Project Management Certificate

    

FAQs

What career can you get with an MIS degree?

Earning your MIS degree online is the first step on many career paths. Management information systems entry level jobs include positions like:

• Systems analyst
• Web developer
• Project manager

You might eventually qualify for MIS degree jobs like:

• Computer and information research scientist
• Information security analyst
• Chief information officer

Are MIS degrees worth it?

The short answer is: yes! Whether an MIS degree is worth it or not depends on your needs and goals. A degree in MIS incorporates both business and technology. Two fields that are becoming increasingly linked to each other. An MIS degree puts you in a unique position to straddle that line. It gives you access to more opportunities than a technology or business degree could provide on its own.

Do MIS majors make good money?

Yes. According to the BLS, the median MIS salary is $159,010 annually. That’s over three times the median annual wage for all occupations at $45,760. Your management information systems salary out of college will be lower than this, of course. But the lowest 10% of MIS specialists still earned nearly six figures as of May 2021.

Is MIS a good field?

MIS has a much faster than average growth rate, more jobs and more competitive pay. You’ll have to decide if MIS is for you. If you enjoy working with people and computers, however, consider choosing MIS.

MIS Degree Jobs Await You

Management information systems jobs are engaging and available. In this career you can expect to wear many hats. You can also expect a wide variety of career options, and enjoy being part of a field on the rise. With so many great career paths and excellent pay, MIS degree jobs lead to a long and satisfying career. GetEducated.com has calculated the best, most affordable MIS degrees online for prospective students. If you’re ready to start looking for a degree, check out our website and start your career path today!