What Can I Do with a Computer Information Systems Degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), occupations in the computer and information technology field are expected to see much faster than average job growth from 2023 to 2033. With so many emerging technologies and the role of information technology (IT) so central to the success of organizations across industries, earning a master’s degree in computer information systems can open the door to a number of in-demand jobs.
What someone can do with a computer information systems degree depends on their career goals, experience, and personal interests.
What Is a Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems?
A master’s in computer information systems is an advanced technical degree that’s suitable for individuals who want to prepare to take on leadership roles in a technology-driven environment. The coursework in the two-year programs for this degree focuses on teamwork, collaboration, and solving real-world technical problems.
Many of these programs offer concentrations so that students can develop expertise on a topic that aligns with their career goals and interests. Many schools offer online and hybrid schedules to accommodate working professionals’ busy schedules.
Careers in Computer Information Systems
Computer information systems is a broad field that encompasses entry-level to executive-level positions. The technical skills that master’s in computer information systems graduates have honed are needed in many types of organizations, ranging from educational services and telecommunications companies to government agencies and financial firms.
Below are some of the top jobs for graduates of a computer information systems program, along with their duties, median salary, and job outlook.
Computer Systems Analyst
Also known as systems architects, computer systems analysts study an organization’s current computer systems and identify ways to improve their efficiency. Analysts consult with the organization’s officials about improving their systems and designing new systems.
Education
For entry-level computer systems analyst roles, a bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum education needed. A master’s degree may be required for more complex or advanced roles. Though it’s generally optional, a popular certification for those in the role is the certified information systems auditor (CISA) credential from the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).
Skills
Analysts need a variety of skills since they support both the technical and business sides of an organization. Analytical competencies are key, and core business skills are crucial to understanding and implementing an organization’s business objectives.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the BLS, computer systems analysts had a median annual salary of $103,800 as of May 2023. The BLS also reported that professionals working in the following industries had the highest median wages:
- Management of companies and enterprises: $107,820
- Information: $105,440
- Finance and insurance: $105,190
- Computer systems design and related services: $103,620
- Government: $91,510
The BLS projects an 11% increase in jobs for computer systems analysts from 2023 to 2033.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and information systems managers plan and supervise an organization’s computer systems, recommend new technical equipment, and set budgets for purchases. Their duties can vary by the size and needs of their organization.
Education
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education required to become a computer and information systems manager, but some organizations prefer candidates with a graduate degree due to their advanced knowledge in a specialty area. Certification is optional, but employers may seek managers who hold a credential such as the certified information security manager (CISM) designation from ISACA.
Skills
Computer and information systems managers need a variety of skills to meet the technical goals of their organization and to manage and motivate members of their team. These competencies include leadership, problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
Salary and Job Outlook
The median annual salary for computer and information systems managers was $169,510 as of May 2023. The BLS listed the highest-paying industries for these professionals and their respective median salaries as:
- Information: $183,370
- Manufacturing: $175,540
- Finance and insurance: $173,090
- Computer systems design and related services: $171,460
- Management of companies and enterprises: $170,190
The BLS projects 17% job growth for computer and information systems managers from 2033 to 2033, which is much faster than the average growth of 4% projected for all occupations.
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architects plan and execute data communication networks for organizations, including intranets, local area networks, and wide area networks. They also research new technologies, present network plans, and perform numerous network tests.
Education
Their level of education varies, but most computer network architects have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as computer and information technology. Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree. Certification may be needed for roles that use certain software products.
Skills
To be able to examine and solve data network issues, computer network architects must have excellent problem-solving and analytical skills. Leadership, communication, and collaboration skills are also important for those in the role, as they are responsible for coordinating networks and directing teams.
Salary and Job Outlook
As of May 2023 data from the BLS, computer network architects had a median annual salary of $129,840. The BLS identified the following top-paying industries for professionals in this role and their median wages at each:
- Computer systems design and related services: $134,130
- Management of companies and enterprises: $133,340
- Temporary help services: $127,670
- Telecommunications: $106,860
- Educational services: $102,210
The BLS projects that computer network architects will have a 13% job growth between 2023 and 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations during the same time.
Elevate Your Computer Information Systems Career With a Master’s Degree
There’s a lot individuals can do with a computer information systems degree. Whether it’s combining their business and technical skills to find ways to improve an organization’s systems or using their analytical expertise to enhance a system’s performance, graduates have many options for applying what they’ve learned in this fast-growing field.
New England College (NEC) can help individuals develop key managerial and technical skills through their Master of Science in Computer Information Systems program. Students can choose from concentrations in data modeling and analytics, programming, computer networking, or project management. A required on-site internship allows students to apply their knowledge in an office setting.
Learn more about how NEC’s master’s in computer information systems degree program can help you achieve your career goals.
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