How to Become an Information Systems Manager: 3-Step Guide

A graduate degree has sometimes been optional for management roles. However, most employers now require a master’s degree when filling supervisory positions in information systems (IS). An advanced degree is often a crucial factor when promoting department heads and selecting division directors, especially for C-suite roles.

If you’re aiming to move up in your company or switch to a new firm, earning your master’s degree in IS will strengthen your resume, give you a competitive edge, and position you for coveted new opportunities.

Step 1: Develop Essential Management Skills in Information Systems

A management career in information systems is ideal for those who want to combine technical expertise with leadership abilities. Companies seek IS professionals with computer and networking skills, but those with management expertise who can work effectively with teams have an added advantage.

Information systems are a fundamental part of almost any business today, and qualified professionals are in high demand. So, what does it take to get noticed by employers?

Top Qualities Hiring Managers Look For:

• Leadership — the ability to connect technology, people, and processes
• Problem-solving — knows how to establish systems or processes that mitigate obstacles
• Business intelligence — can help organizations make data-driven decisions
• Project management — proven focus on achieving specific objectives within agreed parameters

Business + technical skills in a top-ranked online master’s degree — the Master of Science in Information Systems from UC and the Lindner College of Business.

Step 2: Gain Expertise and Confidence in Information Systems Management

University of Cincinnati’s Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) program offered by the Carl H. Lindner College of Business helps you develop the critical knowledge and skills needed to lead and influence IS teams for all types of organizations. The highly regarded and 100% online program covers a mix of technology, business, and managerial concepts. Our students graduate with leadership and technical skills to bridge technology, people, and processes.

In the program, you solve real-world (not theoretical) IS problems. An experiential component allows you to apply your education to practical projects you work on. And with its emphasis on building the key skill sets in both the business and technology sides of an organization, the program is even more relevant if you’ve set your sights on a management role.

Our innovative and highly regarded curriculum blends essential information systems courses with applied learning and business-focused coursework.

Key Basic Business Courses Include:

Information and Technology Management – This course takes a deep dive into the managerial and strategic implications of organizational IS. You begin the course with a review of concepts related to IT in networking, databases, application development, and architecture.

Next, you examine IT’s value in modern organizations. You explore multiple use cases, too, covering themes that include ERP, digital convergence, disruptive innovations, virtual teams, and IT resources and capabilities.

Data Analysis – Managers and team leaders often analyze data, so this course is essential with its introduction to data analysis and statistical methods that use quantitative models and focus on practical decisions. Specific topics include data sources, descriptive and graphical statistical methods, probability, distributions, sampling and sampling distributions, estimation, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing.

Foundations in Finance – In this course, you learn invaluable financial concepts for managers (and how to apply them), including how to create a “time value of money” calculation. You study the differences in interest rates due to variances in risk, horizon, and compounding, use present value calculations to solve bond pricing and risk applications, and more.

Key Core Courses Include:

IS Project Management: This course focuses on the management of IS projects, though many concepts apply to other projects as well. It covers project planning, organizing, staffing, and controlling, requiring both traditional management skills and project management tools.

The Project Management Institute’s “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge,” along with current research and trends, provide the framework for this class. Microsoft Project is used for hands-on exercises. (IS7030)

Data Modeling: This course covers the principles of data modeling, starting with conceptual data models using Entity-relationship modeling grammar. Students learn to map the conceptual model to the logical tier using relational modeling grammar, preparing for database design.

Workshop sessions provide hands-on modeling opportunities, and a basic introduction to SQL is included. (IS7032)

Database Design: Following the Data Modeling course, this course dives into database design principles. It covers normalization theory, relational algebra, and SQL for data definition, manipulation, control, and querying. Higher-level normalization concepts are introduced, and workshop sessions offer hands-on learning in normalization procedures and SQL. (IS7033)

Step 3: Explore Career Opportunities in Information Systems Management

Assistant Professor Educator and MSIS Academic Director Robert Rokey talk with our program students daily.

He acknowledges their differences (as in, they come from a variety of industries) and their similarities. He sees the ideal student as a self-starter who can articulate why they want to pursue the MSIS degree and notes the ones who say they want to be on the management track.

Robert sees Lindner College of Business MSIS program graduates using their education as a springboard to an exciting role in management or senior-level position — and believes the degree can boost a person’s marketability and confidence, whether they apply for a senior-level or individual contributor role.

Management job titles vary by organization and industry, but here are some of the leader- and supervisory-focused roles you can find at companies:

• Information Systems Team Leader – Leads a team of IS professionals, coordinating projects and ensuring that IT solutions meet business needs. Responsibilities include team management, project oversight, and technical guidance.
• Senior Program Manager – Oversees multiple projects within the IS department, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Manages budgets, schedules, and resources, and liaises with other departments to ensure successful project delivery.
• Senior Vice President, Information Systems – Manages the IT department, focusing on strategic planning, budgeting, and implementation of IT systems. Ensures that IT infrastructure supports the organization’s goals and objectives.
• Data Analytics Manager: Leads the data analytics team, focusing on data collection, analysis, and reporting. Provides insights to support decision-making and drives data-driven strategies within the organization.

Ranked by EdUniversal, UC is a top-15 Master of Science in Information Systems program.

Fully Online MSIS Program Attracts Working Professionals

More than 20 years ago when UC Online first designed the student experience, it evaluated what working adults needed and created tailored, high-quality programs that fit students’ busy lifestyles. Fast forward to today, our focus on the student experience is still at the forefront of what we do. You can be assured that Robert and other program directors and staff members continue to work tirelessly to ensure our programs meet students’ needs.

If you earned your bachelor’s degree in a traditional on-campus setting, you’re in for a pleasant surprise getting your master’s degree entirely online.

Benefits of the Online MSIS Program:

• Get countless hours and minutes back in your day by avoiding the hassle of traveling to and from school.
  Join an informative online boot camp that sets you on the right path at the program’s start.
• Customize the IS degree around your career interests, goals, and lifestyle.
• Find all course material and interactions with instructors and fellow students available online.
• Learn from industry and educational experts who are committed to your success.
• Benefit from enrollment-to-graduation support, partnering with a Student Success Coordinator who helps you get the most from your time here.

Get to know the many benefits of getting an MSIS degree at UC Online.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Master’s in Information Systems!

If you’re ready to explore the stellar education and career opportunities that await you when you’re part of UC’s 100% online MSIS degree program, call our Enrollment Services Advisors team today at 833-556-7877. The advisor will answer your questions about the master’s program, explain tuition and financial aid, and more.

Robert and our other IS educators look forward to meeting you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I become an information manager?

To become an information manager, you’ll need a blend of technical expertise and management skills—often acquired through a relevant bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree in information systems. Gaining experience leadership abilities are also crucial steps.

How long does it take to become a computer information systems manager?

It typically takes around 6-10 years to become a computer information systems manager, including the time spent earning a bachelor’s degree, gaining work experience, and often completing a master’s degree in information systems.

Do you need a degree to be an information systems manager?

Yes, a degree is usually required to become an information systems manager. Most employers prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, and many now seek professionals with a master’s degree in information systems for advanced roles.