Information systems is the academic field of study that combines business management studies and computer science acumen. In practical terms, information systems is a management specialization that focuses on supervising employees in the information technology or computer systems division of an organization. Software development, Internet operations and affairs, and network security are all within the purview of information systems managers. Expert knowledge of both business and computers is essential in information systems so that the technological goals of a given company are being managed in ways that will provide profitability and overall success for that company.

Because the world of business has become increasingly reliant on the power of technology, information systems as an educational discipline has been embraced by the academic business community. As a result, a number of Master of Business Administration programs now offer information systems as a specialization. Those who graduate from an MBA program touting information systems as their specialty will become prime candidates for a position known as chief information officer, or CIO, and potentially chief technology officer, CTO. CIOs assess the latest in technology innovation and implement the most beneficial technologies for use in their organization. CTOs hold top executive positions, right along with CEOs and COOs, and oversee the entire technical component of a given business. 

Education for an information systems MBA aspirant initially takes place at the bachelor's level of education. Students should seek to enhance preparation in business with majors like marketing or business administration, with equal training in computer science and technology. The job outlook for those who go on to earn MBA degrees is excellent.

Career Specializations

• Computer and Information Systems Manager: This is a general position that manages IT and computer support employees as well as a company's software engineers and computer programmers.
• IT Director, or Management Information Systems Director: Such directors handle the technological and computing resources of a company, with the goal of boosting its efficiency and productivity. 
• IT Project Manager: These employees are assigned to govern over projects or plans that heavily involve information technology, preparing schedules, regimenting employee resources, and ensuring that the work is completed in a timely manner.

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Degree Levels

• Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis on Information Systems: 2-3 years to complete

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Education & Certification Requirements

Preparation for this MBA program begins in the four years needed to earn a bachelor's degree. Students can either choose to major in business management, economics, statistics, political science, history, or another appropriate field of study, supplementing their work with another major or minor in computer science or mathematics. Conversely, computer science or mathematics can be chosen as the flagship field of study, with another appropriate subject rounding out their undergraduate work. Students should begin scouting their ideal MBA programs early on in their bachelor's careers, especially to assess the typical GRE or GMAT scores that are earned by successful applicants. Other than succeeding on the required testing, the vast majority of Masters of Business Administration hopefuls spend at least two to five years in the actual workforce after earning their bachelor's degree in order to gain practical business expertise. 

Once in an MBA program, students should immediately clarify their desire to concentrate on information systems. The first half of most MBA programs focus on coursework in subjects such as leadership, corporate strategy, and operations management. The second half of the program is devoted to the specialization. Students in this phase should exert significant effort in networking with other MBA candidates and participating in internships to improve their base of contacts and improve their chances of employment after graduation. Certification, though not a requirement, can definitely look favorable; the Institute of Certified Professional Managers offers the Certified Manager designation, earned by succeeding in academic training and passing an examination. (BLS)

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Salary Information

The field of information systems provides a highly lucrative career path. Even at the outset of their careers, recent MBA graduates can expect relatively hefty salaries. Most just starting out earn around $90,000, but this quickly augments to more than $100,000 in due time. Those involved with software publishing earn more than $125,000 annually, and computer systems design and company management positions are nearly equally generous in yearly pay. Chief technology officers and some chief information officers can see millions of dollars in salary, depending on the success of their particular business. Stock options, expense accounts, company-paid insurance premiums, and more deluxe features are commonly offered to these professionals. (BLS, BLS)

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Job Outlook

Most computer and information systems managers are rejoicing with the news that employment opportunities will soon boom. By the year 2018, the number of jobs should increase by 17 percent. MBA diploma holders will most definitely enjoy this augmentation more than any other candidates. Statistics for CTOs and CIOs, however, are less favorable; little to no growth has been predicted. Most companies hire their top-billed staff from within, promoting them up the ranks. Information systems MBA graduates should demonstrate global flair -- fluency in multiple languages, and further expertise in international economics -- in order to attempt to rise above the competition. (BLS, BLS)

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Related Careers

Entrepreneurship is a definite path considered by many information systems MBA graduates. Those who have bright, technologically progressive ideas are more than well equipped with the knowledge needed to turn those ideas into a business. Candidates interesting in running their own operations should seek additional training in leadership and entrepreneurial skills during both undergraduate and graduate school, and networking should be one of their finest strengths. 

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