Associate Degree Programs in Systems Management
Majors Overview June 19, 2013In this technology age, most individuals will be interested in getting involved with the growing field of information systems management. The associate degree programs may serve as a starting point for individuals who want to further their study or open doors to entry-level careers.
Associate Degree Program in Management Information Systems
Information systems management associate degree program is designed for individuals who want to enter careers in business administration or management, with a special emphasis on the use of information and computer systems. These programs will lead to an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree; however, some colleges and universities award Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees to individuals who complete similar programs. Some programs may offer an A.S. in Business Management with a focus on information systems management.
Students who choose to pursue this field will be exposed to the foundation of a business education that includes courses in management and accounting, as well as intensive study into different computer applications and how it relates to business management. To gain admission into the information systems management associate degree program, students are required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma. Applicants will be required to demonstrate proficiency in writing, reading, and math.
Program Course Topics
Most information systems management associate degree program include a core curriculum of liberal arts, science, and math courses, along with specialized study of computer information systems, management, and business. Program course topics may include the following:
•Business tools and software
•Marketing basics
•Basic and advanced programming
•Communications and networking
•Software applications that generate reports
•Database analysis
•Accounting principles
Salary Information and Employment Outlook
Students who have earned their associate degree in information systems management will be prepared for entry-level positions as computer systems and network administrators, computer support specialists, computer programmers, and computer software engineers. However, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov). As technologies progresses, all of these jobs will see faster than average job growth. For instance, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics noted from 2008 to 2018, computer support specialists’ jobs, which are viewed as an entry-level position in the field, were predicted to grow by fourteen percent. In 2009, computer support specialists’ average annual salary was $47,630.
Certification and Continuing Education Information
Most associate degree program graduates can transfer credits earned to a four-year bachelor degree program in the same field. Certification opportunities will be available through different computer software and hardware professional organizations and vendors. For example, Data Management International (DAMA International – www.dama.org) and the Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP – www.iccp.org) both offer various certification programs to professionals. Requirements for certification can include passing of examinations, as well as proof of education and work experience. Continuing education will also be available from professional organizations, including the Association of Support Professionals, which is a group for computer support specialists, as well as vendors.
