For businesses to thrive in a digitally connected world, information systems are a necessity. Organizations use information systems to streamline work, complete tasks and stay competitive. Companies need skilled business professionals who can manage data and create systems to deliver information.
What Are Management Information Systems (MIS)?
Management information systems provide information that monitors business performance. They also supply meaningful figures that business owners can use to correct deviations or find solutions to problems. Typically, an MIS collects 11 types of company data:
- Accounts payable
- Accounts receivable
- Debts
- Expenses
- Employee information
- Inventory
- Marketing
- Payroll
- Profits
- Sales
- Taxes
What Is the Job of an MIS Professional?
MIS professionals plan and direct information systems to improve business operations such as record keeping, filing and documentation. In addition, they build systems to:
- Boost quality assurance
- Maintain compliance with government regulations
- Reduce financial risks
- Uphold health, security and environmental standards
Who Is a Good Candidate for an MBA With an MIS Specialization?
An MBA program with an MIS specialization is geared toward students who want to pursue a job that combines management and technology. They may be employed as business analyst, computer systems analyst or database administrator. Furthermore, students with an MBA in MIS may qualify for business management positions such as:
- Information technology (IT) project manager
- Product manager
- Software project manager
How Are Students Prepared for an MIS Role in Business?
An MBA degree with an MIS specialization offers both core business courses and instruction that focuses on systems information and technology. Students who complete such a program gain expertise in the use of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. They also may be introduced to emerging strategic technologies and learn about query and procedural language (PL/SQL), database structures and application code. Other coursework may cover:
- Accounting
- Decision-making in organizations
- Corporate finance
- Managerial economics
- Quantitative analysis
- Software systems design
- Strategic management
Benefits of Earning an MBA With an MIS Specialization
Young professionals go this route for the wide variety of job opportunities, high salaries and career advancement into positions such as IT director or chief information officer. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an 11% rise in job growth for computer and information systems managers between 2018 and 2028. Acquiring an MBA in MIS may also help graduates:
- Build self-confidence
- Establish credibility
- Gain versatile skills such as leadership, critical thinking and communication
- Cultivate self-discipline
- Embrace diverse perspectives
Can You Earn an MBA With an MIS Specialization Online?
Generally, it takes about a year to complete a 100% percent online MIS MBA program. An online MBA in MIS prepares students with the tools they need to move into technology-based management roles. Flexibility allows students to study at any time so they can continue to work while completing the program. Online degree programs tend to be reasonably priced and usually offer multiple start dates for student convenience.
Graduates with an MBA in MIS are knowledgeable about business, technology, management techniques and organizational development. Management information systems comprise a vital part of an organization’s ability to accomplish its goals. With MIS implementation, companies can reduce costs and increase productivity. MIS professionals are integral to ensuring that a business can overcome challenges in order to succeed.
Learn more about SIUE’s online MBA program with a Management Information Systems Specialization.
Sources:
MBA Central: What Can I Do With a Management Information Systems MBA?
ThoughtCo: What Is a Management Information Systems Degree?
CIO: 7 Ways an MBA Will Advance Your IT Career — and 5 Ways It Won’t
BizFluent: What Are the Benefits of a Management Information System?
BizFluent: How to Use a Management Information System?
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Computer and Information Systems Managers
PayScale: Master of Business Administration (MBA), Management Information Systems (MIS) Degree
