Should I Pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Systems Management?
Majors Overview September 10, 2014Bachelor’s degree programs in Internet systems development are not as common as bachelor’s degree programs in information systems management. Those interested in careers that involve the Internet and its structure can find a similar education with an information systems management program.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Information Systems Management
Students enrolled in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Information Systems Management are provided with the skills necessary to develop and manage the company’s technical resources, especially its communication systems.
The program is a combination of modern management principles and computer science rudiments aimed at making students adept at designing, managing, and maintaining Internet infrastructure and networks. Some schools also offer specialized concentrations in international business, government contracts, health systems, and accounting.
Educational Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma, in addition to submitting scores from the CLEP or SAT and certificates from any professional training or development programs.
Working individuals would benefit by enrolling into a degree especially designed for them, and schools may require prospective students to submit a resume that would help in determining whether or not the student has sufficient information systems work experience to use as credits toward the degree. Some schools may also insist on an interview with an admissions counselor or a written essay. International students may be expected to take the TOEFL.
Coursework
Coursework is devised to equip students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Information Systems Management with a strong grasp of technical infrastructure, computer networks, and communication systems. Core coursework may include the following subject areas:
•Data communications
•Network design
•Ecommerce
•Internet development
•Telecommunications
•Systems analysis
•Network security
Career Choices
Those that successfully complete a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Information Systems Management can aim for various technical jobs, including these job positions:
•Information technology director
•Management information systems director
•Internet systems analyst
•IT project manager
•Computer and information systems manager
•Chief technology officer
•Chief information officer
Job and Wage Outlook
In May 2012, computer and information systems managers banked an average annual wage of $120,950 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). A job growth of 15% has been predicted for these professionals over the 2012 – 2022 decade (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Students may choose to continue their education by earning a graduate degree in the field, such as a Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Systems Management or a Master of Information Systems Management (M.I.S.M.).
Schools sometimes offer these in online formats. Instead of a thesis, an IT project may be required as the capstone from students enrolled in these programs. For instance, students may develop systems or software for real-world businesses. Schools also offer doctorate programs related to information and Internet systems.
