What Can You Do with a Master’s in Information Systems? 8 Jobs to Consider

Information is critical. It’s a thread that runs through every company regardless of its size. With information, businesses can make sound decisions, solve problems, communicate with stakeholders, and deliver products and services to customers.

From start-ups to large corporations, information systems (IS) are the backbone of successful organizations. Are you interested in breaking into this growing industry? Let’s take a closer look at the promising career opportunities within the IS field.

Key Takeaways

• A master’s in information systems (MSIS) equips you with both technical and managerial skills, preparing you for high-demand roles in data engineering, systems analysis, and project management.
• The field of information systems is growing rapidly, with 100,000+ job listings and a projected 17% job growth through 2033, making it a strong career choice.
• Many MSIS programs offer flexible, online learning options and a curriculum that blends technology and business, helping professionals advance or transition into rewarding information systems careers.

What Are Information Systems?

IS (sometimes called information systems technology) is an umbrella term for the systems, people, and processes that create, store, and disseminate information.

Information systems are incomplete without information technology (IT)—the systems that support, store, and administer data. By standardizing computer hardware software and applications, information systems make vital information accessible.

More importantly, these efforts make this information useful to employees, company management, and business owners while still maintaining information security. And in our burgeoning digital age, well-managed data and information are critical for the success of every business.

Increased Demand Means More Talent is Needed

People who specialize in information systems do their work in companies of nearly any type and size, including for-profit and non-profit organizations, the government, manufacturing, transportation, and higher education. And because information and data management is at the core of these various businesses, they find themselves competing for top IS talent.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the number of IS jobs will grow by 17% between now and 2033. That’s much faster than the average for all other occupations. For real-world comparison, we headed to Indeed and searched “information systems jobs” with staggering results. More than 100,000 positions are advertised in this dynamic field — and that’s just on one career website!

As companies seek talented and qualified IS professionals, candidates need something extra to stand out. With an advanced degree in IS, you can transform your resume from basic to all business.

What Can You Do with an MSIS? 8 Careers to Consider in Information Systems

What jobs can you secure with a master’s in information systems? Graduates of these programs often sport a wide range of job titles across industries. Let’s take a look at eight potential careers you might pursue.

1. Management Analyst

Also known as management consultants or business analysts, these professionals evaluate organizational processes, procedures, and operations to identify areas for improvement. They also analyze data and information, develop recommendations, and provide guidance to enhance efficiency.

2. Systems Administrator

These individuals maintain the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of computer systems and servers. Also known as sysadmins, they work to meet the evolving needs of organizations. They may accomplish this by installing or upgrading software, as well as providing routine automation.

3. Distributed Systems Engineer

Distributed systems engineers are tasked with designing, developing, and maintaining distributed computing systems. These individuals work with complex networks and multiple interconnected servers (or nodes) to ensure efficient data sharing, fault tolerance, and scalability.

4. Database Developer

By designing, creating, and maintaining computer databases, they work with database management systems (DBMS) to develop and optimize database structures. Other duties include writing and optimizing SQL queries, as well as ensuring data is stored, organized, and retrieved efficiently.

5. Solutions Specialist

A technical role, solutions specialists advise on selecting and implementing technology solutions to meet business needs. By working closely with customers or clients, they recommend and deploy tech solutions—these may involve hardware, software, or services.

6. Data Engineer

Data engineers are responsible for system design, construction, and installation. Along with maintaining systems for collecting, storing, and analyzing data, they also create data pipelines, databases, and data infrastructure to support data-driven applications and analytics. These professionals are also skilled in data modeling, ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes, and database management.

7. Systems Analyst

A system analyst analyzes an organization’s information systems and processes to design, improve, or integrate technology solutions. Bridging the gap between business needs and technology, they identify requirements, create system specifications, and often play a key role in software development projects. System analysts help organizations achieve their goals through efficient and effective technology use.

8. Database Programmer

These developers focus on writing code to interact with databases. They create and maintain software applications that access and manipulate data within database systems. Additionally, database programmers may modify application programs and test code to ensure its validity and structure.

Ready to Change Your Career Trajectory in Information Systems? UC’s Lindner College of Business Can Help

If any of the above careers appeal to you, you can turn your dream job into a reality. Earning your Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) allows you to stand out in a competitive job market. Offered through the award-winning Lindner College of Business, UC’s 100% online, asynchronous master’s program lets you complete your degree at a flexible pace.

According to Robert Rokey, Academic Director of UC’s MSIS program, students often enroll in the MSIS program with a specific career goal. Perhaps you’re looking to change your career path. Alternatively, the intersection of tech and business within information systems may interest you most.

Whether you hope to earn a promotion or position yourself for a career shift, our MSIS degree offers IS specializations that pave your way forward.

Earn Your MSIS Online—Contact Us Today!

In the constantly evolving field of information systems, you’re sure to find the job of your dreams. Whether you hope to work in corporate America or as an independent IS consultant, a master’s in information systems can help you get there. Most importantly, UC’s MSIS degree is a top 15 program as ranked by EdUniversal—so you know you’re getting your money’s worth.

Excited to take the next step and explore all that UC has to offer? Connect with an Enrollment Services Advisor today or call 833-556-7877, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST.

Our dedicated online staff is here to help you plan your pathway to success!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What jobs can I get with a master’s in information systems?

Common roles in information systems include data engineer, systems analyst, management consultant, and database developer. From tech and healthcare to government and finance, both technical and strategic positions exist across industries.

Is information systems a high paying degree?

Yes, information systems is widely considered a high-paying field! Many roles offer six-figure salaries, and an individual with a master’s degree is particularly qualified for these positions.

Is it hard to find a job with a master’s in information systems?

Not at all. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 17% job growth through 2033, the job outlook for IS professionals is much faster than average.

Is a master’s in information systems better suited for technical or managerial jobs?

MSIS graduates succeed in both technical and managerial roles. Depending upon your individual skill set, past work experience, and communication skills, you may thrive as a project manager or computer and information systems manager.

How is an MSIS different from a master’s in computer science or IT?

An MSIS degree incorporates both IS and business coursework, which emphasizes how tech and business complement each other. A master’s in computer science and IT, by contrast, focuses more exclusively on programming and other technical competencies.

How is an MSIS different from an MBA?

While an MSIS covers varied aspects of business, the study of information systems is still at the heart of the degree. An MBA program typically centers a well-rounded business management education with fewer opportunities to dive deeply into information systems.