Online Information Systems Degree Programs

Online Information Systems Degree Programs

Information systems are a vital part of many different fields in the constantly evolving marketplace. An online information systems degree program prepares students to pursue a lucrative career in a variety of areas. Undergraduate information systems degree programs provide students with fundamental knowledge and a solid background on information systems and students can choose an area of specialty. Graduate degrees provide more in depth study and enable students to pursue higher positions. Read more about online information systems degree programs.

Some Stats

In 2006, computer and information systems managers held 264,000 jobs with about 1 in 4 working in industries that provide service. Network and computer systems administrators held 309,000 jobs in 2006 (2). According to Payscale.com, individuals with jobs in network administration, information technology, and information systems earned average annual salaries between about $49,000 and $76,000 depending on the field and position (3).

Employment Outlook

Employment outlook for information systems professionals varies depending on degree, field, and position. Employment of computer and information systems managers is expected to grow faster than average for all professions from 2006 to 2016, increasing 16% and adding 43,000 new jobs. Network and computer systems administrators are expected to experience much faster than average job growth, increasing by 27% and adding 83,000 new jobs (2). Information systems managers with 1 to 4 years experience earned annual salaries between $40,472 and $73,324 (3).

Specialties

Information systems are a vast field that encompasses many different topics. Students can choose an area of specialty to focus their academic study on and purse a meaningful career. Information systems specialties include database and Internet technologies, software project management and development, information systems management, information systems security, geographic information systems, enterprise information systems, health information systems, business information systems, accounting information systems, database management, systems administration, technology management, and computer programming. Students who interested in a specific specialty should choose schools that offer strong programs in that area of interest.

What to Expect

Information systems degree programs differ depending on the school, program, and specialization. Undergraduate information systems degree programs require general education courses in English, composition, mathematics, history, science, and electives. The core and specialization coursework varies by program, but many programs require courses in statistics, calculus, computer programming, data structures, foundations of information systems, systems development, software development, communication, economics, computer networks, and business systems. Graduate information systems programs focus more on specialization and in depth study and prepare graduates for higher level positions.

The End Result

An undergraduate degree in information systems prepares graduates to pursue a many different career opportunities in a variety of organizations such as large corporations, small businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. Graduate degrees enable students to transition into more advanced higher paying positions. Career opportunities for information systems graduates include:

An information systems career will be rewarding for people who have a strong interest in a variety of information systems. Information systems professionals apply their specific knowledge and expertise to many different career fields. They help with solving problems that occur in the constantly changing marketplace. Information systems professionals must be able to adapt to new challenges and effectively communicate with many different professionals and clients.

(1) SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009 Edition
(2) SOURCE: Payscale.com, Salary Survey for People with Jobs in Network Administration/IT/Information Systems
(3) SOURCE: Payscale.com, Salary Survey Report