Resources
- What is MIS?
- Why major in MIS?
- Why study MIS at ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø?
- Does an MIS minor exist?
- What is the FES major?
- Can you provide more information about job opportunities as an MIS graduate?
- What's the difference between a Computer Science and MIS degree?
- What types of companies hire MIS majors?
- Could the MIS major prepare me to be a chief information officer (CIO) in a company?
- What classes are MIS majors required to take?
- Who can I talk with to learn more about the MIS or FES programs?
- How important is experience in landing your first job?
- How important are professional certifications?
What is MIS?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Management Information SystemsÌý(MIS)Ìýis a challenging field focused on integrating information technology and organizational processes to meet the needs of businesses and other enterprises. Information technology is viewed as an instrument for generating, processing and distributing information in an organization. While information technologies are the tools of this field, we equip students to be business evaluators, creating efficiency and value within organizations. The MIS major is offered by theÌýInformation and Technology Management (ITM) departmentÌýin the Sykes College of Business.
Why major in MIS?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
First, high placement rates. The demand for smart people who understand both business and technology is met by the MIS major. Professionals who understand how to strategically and effectively use information systems in organizations are in high demand.Ìý
Second, higher salaries. Today, MIS graduates command very competitive salaries.
Third, job satisfaction. MIS professionals make a significant contribution to the competitiveness and well-being of the organizations in which they work.ÌýMIS professionals are intelligent, people-oriented and understand the application of technological systems in the workplace.
Why study MIS at ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Besides the fact that ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø offers a great college atmosphere, ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø’s MIS major is accredited by theÌý.ÌýABET is the recognizedÌýÌýin applied science, computing, engineering and technology promoting quality and innovation in education. Moreover, the MIS program is offered in theÌýSykes College of Business, a ranked AACSB-accredited business school.
Does an MIS minor exist?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Yes. AnÌýÌýis an excellent complement and job prospect boost to many majors offered across the University.
What is the FES Major?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
The ITM department offers a major calledÌýFinancial Enterprise Systems. Students majoring in FES receive a comprehensive education in integrative business processes, finance, information systems and technology.
Can you provide more information about job opportunities as an MIS graduate?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Five of the top 30 fastest-growing occupations through 2016 are related to computer-based information systems, according to employment projections published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).Ìý Moreover, the information technology field is expected to grow faster than the average for all related occupations.Ìý
Many different types of jobs are open to MIS majors. One common job title isÌýinformation systems manager, often called information technology managers (IT managers or IT project managers). These technology leaders plan, coordinate and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They help determine the IT goals of an organization and implement solutions to meet those goals. Salary and job growth projections from the BLS can beÌý.
Other common job titles includeÌýinformation systems analysts, business process engineer, information security manager, business intelligence specialist, software developer, web developer, database administratorÌýandÌýnetwork architect.Ìý.
Payscale.com offers an annual list ofÌý.
What’s the difference between a Computer Science and MIS degree?Ìý|ÌýBack to Start
Ìý(CS) programs focus on the theoretical side of computers, data structures, networks and coding. CS programs are typically offered in science and engineering colleges at universities whereasÌýÌý(MIS) programs are offered in business colleges. MIS focuses on the information and systems needed to manage organizations efficiently and effectively. MIS professionals must be tech-savvy, people-orientated and business smart to be fully successful in today’s competitive environment. At ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø, we only offer the MIS degree.Ìý
What types of companies hire MIS majors?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
In addition to pure IT companies like Google, Microsoft and Apple, nearly every Fortune 1000 and medium-size business regardless of industry hires MIS professionals. Governments as well as nonprofit organizations, such as in healthcare, also hire MIS pros. ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø’s Office of Career Services posts many job opportunities for MIS majors atÌý.
Could the MIS major prepare me to be a chief information officer (CIO) in a company?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Yes, a CIO orÌýchief technologyÌýofficer (CTO) is the most senior executive in an enterprise responsible for theÌýÌýand systems that support organizational goals. The MIS major is ideal for preparing someone for this position if that is a professional goal.
What classes are MIS majors required to take?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
More information about theÌýÌýcan be found in the ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø catalog.
Who can I talk with to learn more about the MIS or FES programs?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Please feel free to contact any faculty member in theÌýITM DepartmentÌýor the chairman, Farouq Alhourani, atÌýfalhourani@ut.edu.
How important is experience in landing your first job?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Gaining relevant experience in the IT field is strongly recommended during the college years. At ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø, we have anÌýinternship programÌýthat helps students earn valuable working experience. Generally speaking, college graduates with experience have a competitive edge over those who do not – which is true with all fields, not just with IT.
How important are professional certifications?Ìý|ÌýBack to Top
Like work experience, earning certifications in IT gives college graduates a competitive edge in the job market. At ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø, we give students the opportunity to earn several certifications. During the senior year, all MIS majors take the Information Systems Analyst (ISA) certification exam. Also, we offer the TERP10 Academy, which provides intensive training to become aÌýSAP Certified Business Associate. Some students take special classes dedicated to passing rigorous exams such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) exam. During the MIS program, students learn about the various certifications available in the field and are encouraged to pursue those that are consistent with professional goals
