People who study information systems learn how to create and operate specific hardware and software in order to interact with data. The field of information systems usually involves the study of gathering, filtering, and distributing data. What can you do with a degree in information systems? Since it all involves data, career opportunities for people with information systems degrees are everywhere. Tons of companies look for people who know how to control and process data, so if you’ve got a knack for collecting and experimenting with data, you’re in luck. This just may be the perfect college major for you.
Components of Information Systems
Understanding what an information system is made of leads to a better understanding of how to operate one. Below, you will find a list of four crucial components necessary to create a functioning information system.
Hardware -machinery on which the finalized system performs its purpose
Data – facts related to the subject being studied or analyzed
Software – computer programs in which data is entered
Procedures – actions carried out through the use of software to collect, store, analyze, and distribute data
Information Systems Degree Programs
If information systems sounds like a subject you’d be particularly interested in learning more about, then perhaps you should consider entering a degree program based on information systems. Consult your guidance counselor for information on high school courses that may help prepare you for further studies and for advice on when to begin applying to college degree programs.
The W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University provides students with multiple degree programs to expand their knowledge of information systems and technology. Undergraduate students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, a Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analysis, and more. The degree program for computer information systems is designed to educate students on designing, building, and maintaining computer information systems necessary for countless businesses to function successfully. Dedicated faculty members teach students the ins and outs of data modeling, network deployment, evidence-based decision-making, systems integration, and more. Arizona State University also offers graduate programs in this field, including but not limited to a Master of Science in Information Management and a Ph.D. in Business Administration with a concentration in Information Systems.
With multiple locations in Texas and on the east coast of the United States, South University offers an excellent Master of Science in Information Studies and Technology. Students participating in this graduate degree program learn the basics of information systems architecture and its importance in the business world and are invited to declare a specific concentration within information studies to better shape themselves for their careers of choice. Concentrations include topics like network management and information architecture and design. With a masters degree in information studies and technology, students can learn from experienced and dedicated faculty members how to design and maintain information systems that are user-friendly for less tech-savvy businessmen and women around the world.
The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University of Bloomington offers graduate students the opportunity to earn a Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS). This particular graduate degree program is excellent preparation for students interested in pursuing careers within the field of business technology. Project management is also a key topic in the information science degree program. Because business technology is consistently expanding, students are likely to find jobs within their field not long after (if not before) they graduate. The university encourages students to take a variety of courses found in the business administration program, as well, in order to enhance the likelihood of obtaining jobs sooner.
Careers in Information Systems
After you’re accepted into an information systems degree program at the college of your choice, you should keep in mind that it would be wise to choose a career path that most interests you before completing your degree. Once you decide on a pursuing a particular career in information systems, it will be much easier to mold your educational experience to fit your future goals.
Entry Level Careers in Information Systems
With a bachelors degree in information systems and possibly a bit of experience gained from an internship completed during your senior year of college, you may qualify for at least one of the positions described below.
Network Administrator
A network administrator performs every task from assessing what a business needs in an information system to designing and developing that new information system and then installing it. He or she may also educate others on how to use new and/or updated information systems. Network administrators possess bachelor degrees in anything from information systems to computer science and a strong background in computer programming. Mathematical and problem solving skills are essential for network administrators, as well.
Network administrators may make over $70,000 annually, based on education and experience levels.
Systems Analyst
A systems analyst reviews a business’s current computer information system and determines and creates ways to improve its accuracy and speed in order to increase productivity for the business. He or she also assists with the installation and testing of new systems, as well. Systems analysts typically possess a bachelors degree in information systems or information technology and may have little to no experience, but experience and knowledge gained through internships is highly valuable in the eyes of potential employers. They have outstanding problem solving skills, as well.
Systems analysts may earn around $78,000 annually, based on education and experience levels as well as the specific types of systems on which they work.
Software Developer
A software developer imagines, creates, develops, and tests new software programs designed to improve the organization of nearly all areas of a business, which in turn helps that business function more smoothly and increase productivity in a timely fashion. Software developers often possess bachelor degrees in anything from computer science to information systems. They also have strong problem solving and mathematical skills and are educated and/or experienced in computer programming. They are amazingly creative thinkers, as well, which allows them to produce some of the most effective and unique software programs for businesses around the world.
Software developers may earn around $90,000 annually, based on education and experience levels.
Advanced Careers in Information Systems
If you’ve decided to earn a masters degree or spend a few years gaining experience after earning your bachelors degree, you could qualify for at least one position described here.
Database Administrator
A database administrator spends his or her day sorting and arranging data in such a way that only authorized users have access to these business records. He or she may also manage a database to make sure it functions accurately and smoothly. Database administrators possess bachelor degrees in areas like information systems and computer science and usually have at least three to five years of experience in the field working with information systems. A masters degree in information systems is particularly attractive to potential employers. Database administrators also have good critical thinking and communication skills.
Database administrators may earn an annual salary of around $76,000, based on education and experience levels.
Information Security Analyst
An information security analyst may design and carry out technological security measures to protect computer networks, data contained in information systems and other software programs. He or she also develops ideas for more up-to-date recovery systems in the event of program crashes or malfunctions. Information security analysts often possess bachelor degrees in information systems, information technology, and other related fields. They also have a few years of experience within that field from which they gained expert problem solving and analytical skills. A masters degree is particularly impressive to employers.
Information security analysts may earn around $80,000 annually, based on education and experience levels.
Companies that Hire People with Information Systems Degrees
Companies around the world look for people with information systems degrees. The job market can be quite competitive, so it is important to build a sturdy resume and hone your communication skills to impress potential employers. Below is a brief list of examples of companies that look for people who have earned degrees in information systems.
Marketo – headquarters in San Mateo, CA; hires positions for security analysts, software developers, automation engineers, systems administrators, etc.
Webster Bank – located in Radnor, PA; hires positions for information security analysts, business information analysts, product managers of various levels, etc.
EBSCO Information Services – headquarters in Ipswich, MA; hires positions for software engineers, product managers for licensed secondary databases, performance engineers, software development in test engineers, etc.
Xerox – headquarters in Norwalk, CT; hires positions for software developers, senior analysts, technical business analysts, etc.
MassMutual Financial Group – locations in Camp Hill, PA, and Newark, DE; hires positions for software developers, financial analysts, systems consulting directors, operations data management consultant, etc.
The field of information systems is expanding rapidly, so job outlooks are higher than a large portion of those in other fields of study. If you’re interested in creating and maintaining information systems to help increase the production of businesses around the world, you should definitely look in to studying information systems at a higher level to get a career that allows you to do what you love.
