What should I know when considering a degree in MBA in Information Systems?
When most people think of an MBA degree, they think of concentrations in management or finance--and these are indeed important parts of any Master's in Business Administration degree. However, more business schools are now offering specializations in many areas of business, including information systems. This is an attractive skill set for a business manager in today's economy, since well-run information systems allow companies to run more efficiently and effectively.
When most people think of an MBA degree, they think of concentrations in management or finance--and these are indeed important parts of any Master's in Business Administration degree. However, more business schools are now offering specializations in many areas of business, including information systems. This is an attractive skill set for a business manager in today's economy, since well-run information systems allow companies to run more efficiently and effectively.
Students can consider either an information systems MBA as part of a traditional program, or an online MBA, depending on their needs and individual career stage. For example, a prospective MBA student who is already rising through the ranks of a corporation may find that the flexibility of an online MBA makes sense, as may a student who is unable to relocate for an on-campus program. Programs cover traditional business-school topics, as well as information systems design and implementation.
Career Opportunities
Those who obtain MBAs in information systems can expect their career options to grow faster than the average, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Most will take positions as CTOs (Chief Technology Officers), information technology directors, or project managers. Information systems managers serve crucial functions within a company. Duties may include, but are not limited to:
Those who obtain MBAs in information systems can expect their career options to grow faster than the average, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Most will take positions as CTOs (Chief Technology Officers), information technology directors, or project managers. Information systems managers serve crucial functions within a company. Duties may include, but are not limited to:
- Choosing among cutting-edge technology options
- Ensuring server reliability
- Managing programmers and software engineers
- Ensuring security system functionality
- Overseeing implementation of corporate intranets
- And developing strategies for technology and technical personnel that dovetail with a company's long-term needs
Information systems managers may also act as liaisons between technical staff and other managers, so having "people skills" is essential.
Earning Potential
Salaries for information systems managers are competitive--not surprising, given that this field brings together two sought-after skill sets. Median earnings are $101,580, with the middle 50% of information systems managers making between $79,240 and $129,250 per year. Since not all information systems managers have MBAs, those that do can expect wages toward the higher end of the salary spectrum for this field. As of May 2007, the highest-paying industries for information systems managers were securities and commodities brokers, as well as other financial services. Other high-paying industries include telecommunications and computer manufacturing. State and municipal governments also offer competitive wages.
Qualities of Successful IS Managers
Information systems managers bring together two key skill sets: the ability to understand and think strategically about complex business models, and the ability to apply that knowledge to develop appropriate, cost-effective technologies for a given situation. The right information technology can streamline a company's functions, leading to massive cost savings, while the wrong system can retard growth and lead to immense frustration to workers, customers, and other stakeholders. Intelligent business growth is increasingly intertwined with intelligent use of technology; hence the rising demand for competent information systems managers.
An MBA that focuses on information systems management is a smart choice, offering opportunity and excellent earnings potential. Standing at the confluence of business management and information systems design, those in this field will have ample opportunity to make a difference in the daily operations of local, national, and global entities.
Information systems managers bring together two key skill sets: the ability to understand and think strategically about complex business models, and the ability to apply that knowledge to develop appropriate, cost-effective technologies for a given situation. The right information technology can streamline a company's functions, leading to massive cost savings, while the wrong system can retard growth and lead to immense frustration to workers, customers, and other stakeholders. Intelligent business growth is increasingly intertwined with intelligent use of technology; hence the rising demand for competent information systems managers.
An MBA that focuses on information systems management is a smart choice, offering opportunity and excellent earnings potential. Standing at the confluence of business management and information systems design, those in this field will have ample opportunity to make a difference in the daily operations of local, national, and global entities.
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