Information systems represents a quickly growing field that plays heavily into a myriad of business initiatives. This career path is highly appealing to ambitious and analytical individuals who thrive when they can blend technical and leadership skills to make impressive progress toward overarching business objectives.
In this guide, we will provide all the details about an exciting opportunity that can prep you for success in many high-level roles: the Master of Science in Information Systems. Keep reading to learn what this degree involves and why it’s such a great option for the tech-driven leaders of tomorrow.
What Is an MSIS?
Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) is a graduate-level degree program that emphasizes information systems management. This program provides a deep dive into information systems theory and takes an application-oriented approach, revealing how IS concepts play into risk management, quality assurance, and numerous other complex business concerns. Featuring a rigorous curriculum that encompasses database management, project management, and multiple capstone projects, this program provides thorough preparation for a variety of high-level IS roles.
Why Pursue a Master’s in Information Systems?
There are several reasons to pursue an MSIS, but often, this decision comes down to the desire for career advancement. While entry-level roles in data analytics and database administration may be available to professionals trained at the bachelor’s level, moving into management may not be possible without a graduate degree such as an MS in Information Systems.
Others pursue this degree because they are genuinely passionate about IS and want to take a deep dive into cutting-edge concepts while also collaborating closely with the best and brightest in the IS field. For some, this decision is underscored by the sheer convenience of seeking a Master of Science in Information Systems online. With the right format, a flexible, yet empowering educational experience is well within reach.
The Value of a Master of Science in Information Systems
The MSIS provides a powerful pathway for ambitious professionals seeking dynamic job opportunities that draw on multiple competencies. Below, we’ve highlighted several of the most compelling reasons for seeking a Master of Science in Information Systems online:
Enhanced Skill Set
The MSIS is more than a graduate-level credential, although this degree will deliver a significant resume boost. More important, however, are the comprehensive skills developed while pursuing this degree. These include foundational technical and leadership skills, such as:
- System analysis and design
- Descriptive and inferential statistics
- Capital budgeting
- Project management
Marketability
Equipped with a diverse skill set and graduate credentials, you will emerge from your MSIS program with a clear competitive edge. This should prompt positive outcomes as you explore high-level information systems careers:
- Enhanced job prospects. A graduate education can open the door to leadership or specialty roles, which often involve considerable autonomy and the chance to work closely with executives. Several of these opportunities will be examined in more detail below. Generally, it’s crucial to understand that niche or management roles are often difficult to obtain without a graduate degree.
- Higher earning potential. Information systems managers and professionals in related fields enjoy strong earning potential. These roles often come with high median annual salaries due to the specialized skills and expertise required. While it’s possible to secure well-paying positions with a bachelor’s degree, many sources indicate that graduate education is frequently necessary to access higher-level opportunities and maximize earning potential.
Networking Opportunities
MSIS programs provide extensive exposure to the information systems leaders of tomorrow, as well as numerous opportunities to connect and interact with current industry leaders. Through everyday coursework, you’ll have the chance to converse with the field’s most passionate and knowledgeable professionals. These instructors are truly committed to advancing the field and shaping impactful IS leaders.
9 Career Paths With an MSIS
Now that you know why the MSIS is so valuable, you may be wondering, what can you do with an information systems degree? There is no simple answer, in part because this degree opens the door to many compelling job opportunities. To that end, we have highlighted several master’s in information systems jobs below:
1. Information Systems Manager
Responsible for planning and coordinating a variety of tech-centered activities or initiatives, information system managers help align technological resources with organizational objectives. This is a diverse career path, and typically, information systems managers specialize in critical functions such as:
- Planning security policies and promoting information security best practices
- Operating and optimizing eCommerce platforms
- Confirming and implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software
- Planning and directing information systems projects while abiding by project deadlines and scope
2. Business Analyst
Functioning as a bridge between executives and IT professionals, business analysts draw on the power of data analytics to reveal opportunities for boosting innovation and operational efficiency. This is an increasingly in-demand role as organizations move toward a data-driven approach to strategic decision-making.
3. IT Consultant
IT consultants provide practical IT strategy advice, offering an external viewpoint to identify hidden weaknesses and enhancing what internal employees might miss. This is a great option for tech-oriented professionals who value flexibility and autonomy. It may also make it easier to specialize in niche areas, such as systems integration or ERP services.
4. Data Analyst/Data Scientist
The roles of data analyst and data scientist hold much in common. Data analysts take a deep dive into structured data to reveal hidden patterns and deliver actionable insights. Data scientists develop and implement predictive modeling solutions that allow them to work with a more complex range of structured and unstructured data. The latter role may involve processing raw data and developing tools or processes to automate data collection.
5. Cybersecurity Analyst
Specializing in data security, cybersecurity analysts draw on a far-reaching understanding of network architecture, endpoint detection, and antivirus software to help organizations anticipate and respond to a variety of digital threats. Their work often involves analyzing network traffic and conducting security audits. That said, they also play an instrumental role in responding to and mitigating breaches.
6. Enterprise Architect
Tasked with maintaining IT networks at the organizational level, enterprise architects oversee software and hardware. When necessary, they also implement upgrades to enhance security or streamline business processes.
These professionals draw on a thorough understanding of enterprise architecture frameworks, which provide a holistic overview of organizational networks. This plays into efforts to develop and implement a comprehensive enterprise architecture plan (EAP), which provides a blueprint for how IT infrastructure will help organizations meet ambitious objectives.
7. User Experience (UX) Designer
Blending creativity and technical skills, UX designers create accessible, easy-to-use, and visually appealing platforms or applications. These should facilitate a user-centric experience and leave a positive impression. This role involves usability testing, content development, and wireframe modeling. Effective UX design plays heavily into many IS strategies, so there is more overlap between these fields than most professionals realize.
8. Chief Information Officer (CIO)
The modern CIO oversees the integration of information systems with business strategies, managing a wide array of people, tools, and systems. Chris Bedi, an experienced CIO and CDIO, describes the role as requiring skills in communication, sales, and influence, highlighting the CIO’s pivotal role in aligning technology and organizational goals.
9. Technology Entrepreneur
The tech industry provides an abundance of opportunities for self-starters to launch exciting business ventures. This path is far from straightforward, but leadership skills can make a world of difference. Equipped with strong problem-solving skills, elite technical abilities, and a far-reaching professional network, MSIS-trained tech entrepreneurs can develop business plans and secure funding with ease.
Choosing an MSIS Program
If you feel drawn to any of the job opportunities highlighted above, the next step is to find and enroll in an MSIS program that aligns with your personal priorities and career objectives. Key factors to examine when selecting an MSIS program include:
- Curriculum. We have discussed the value of developing both soft and technical skills, but some degree programs are better suited to comprehensive skill development than others. The ideal curriculum will provide a well-rounded overview of fundamental IS concepts, plus business essentials such as accounting and behavior management.
- Specializations. In addition to foundational coursework, MSIS programs should provide plenty of opportunities for passionate students to specialize as they see fit. This might mean choosing elective courses or further specializing while completing IS integration projects.
- Career goals. Through targeted coursework and hands-on learning opportunities, the MSIS should provide valuable preparation for a range of career opportunities related to information systems and data analytics.
- Format. Many graduate students commit to rigorous coursework while also maintaining their status as full-time employees. Online classes make it easier to juggle these demands while cutting down on commuting time. Accelerated options may also be worth examining, especially for those who hope to expedite their career path.
- Accreditation. Program accreditation can say a lot about whether a given degree program lives up to its promises. It is essential to determine not only whether a given program is accredited, but also which accrediting body has given its stamp of approval. With MSIS programs, the most relevant source of accreditation is the PSM National Office.
Start Your Graduate IS Degree at Baker
Are you ready to take the next step in your information systems career? If you are ready to pursue leadership or specialty roles, you could benefit greatly from pursuing a Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) with Baker College. Get in touch today to learn more.