Best PhD Programs in Management Information Systems (MIS)

The specific admissions materials and processes typically vary from school to school for MIS doctoral degree programs. However, most of these programs require students to submit the correct application with their official transcripts. There is often an application fee associated with it. It is also common for these degree programs to require current (within the last 5 years) GMAT test scores. Some programs may also accept the GRE. Other common application materials for these MIS programs include references or letters of recommendation, a resume, a personal statement or statement of goals, and/or a writing sample. Writing samples need to be research-based and demonstrate students' research and writing abilities.

The prerequisites for admission to an MIS doctoral program also vary from school to school. Most programs require students to hold at least a bachelor's degree, but some may expect or require a master's degree. The master's degree usually needs to be from a business-related field, such as a Master of Science (MS) in MIS or a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Students may need to meet a minimum GPA requirement from their prior studies, such as a 3.5 or higher. Depending on the program, students may also be expected to have prior coursework in areas such as calculus and mathematics. Although most programs do not have a formal work requirement, students are typically required to include a detailed resume with prior work experience and years of employment.

Most MIS programs are offered by accredited institutions. These schools hold regional accreditation from organizations such as the Higher Learning Commission. This means that all of the school's programs across degree levels and disciplines have met standards set for academic quality. Depending on the degree level and subject area, some programs hold program-level accreditation as well. Although most MIS doctoral programs do not hold program-level accreditation, some doctoral programs in business may be accredited by business-related organizations, such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). While it is not an official accreditation, some doctoral degree programs in MIS are recognized as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) degree programs, which can benefit international students studying in the field.

Doctoral degree programs in MIS are typically designed to be completed in 4 years. However, it is common for students to take up to a 5th year to finish their dissertation. Usually, students complete their coursework in the first 2 to 3 years of the program and then finish out the last year or two working on their dissertation. The time it takes to research and write the dissertation often determines the time to degree completion, but factors such as transfer credit and course load may also play a role.

The structure of the curriculum for PhD programs in MIS varies by school. Most programs have some core courses that are required and typically consist of MIS courses and research methods courses. However, some of these programs may also require some foundational business courses in areas such as accounting, economics, or marketing that may not count towards the total credits of the degree program. There are usually both theoretical and technical core courses in MIS that students are required to take. These courses may cover topics in information systems theories, human-technology interactions, enterprise database management, data structures and operating systems, and more. Research methods courses may cover topics in models for quantitative analysis, statistics, big data research methods, and regression. In place of electives, students are generally required to choose some courses or seminars from other areas of business and/or technology. For instance, students may choose courses from areas such as information economics, management and organization, marketing and supply chain management, or information technology.

Preparing Your Management Information Systems Dissertation

Typically, PhD in MIS programs conclude with dissertation credits. Leading up to the dissertation, students usually take one or more comprehensive exams to ensure that they are understanding the material taught in program courses. Some programs may require a first-year exam followed by written and oral prelims, the second year. Other programs may only have a general exam. Either way, once students have passed their exams, they can begin developing the hypothesis for their dissertation. Most programs require students to complete a dissertation proposal and defend this proposal before their dissertation committee. The committee helps ensure that the student has selected an appropriate topic, is using the right research methods, and is able to find sources. After the proposal gains approval, students may work for 1 to 2 years collecting information, analyzing data, and writing their dissertation. The final step in the dissertation process requires students to defend their finished dissertation before their committee.

MIS degree programs are widely available at the undergraduate and graduate degree levels. Often, these programs are offered in online formats for flexibility. Many of these degree programs focus on both the technology and business sides of the field. Students may gain hands-on learning experiences through coursework, labs, and other learning opportunities. Each degree level is designed to help students further their knowledge and advance their careers in the field. Below, we explore some examples of degree programs at each degree level.

Management Information Systems Associate Degrees

Associate degree programs in MIS are commonly offered as Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees. Many schools that offer these degree programs have a transfer agreement with 4-year institutions so students can transfer credits more easily and earn their bachelor's degree. Students in these programs may complete around 60 credits of coursework and learn about the various applications of computers in the field of business. Students also find out how technology can be used to help make better business decisions.

Management Information Systems Bachelor's Degrees

MIS bachelor's degree programs are often offered as Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees but may also be available as Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degrees. Some of these programs are offered online, and many require at least 120 credits of coursework. Coursework covers topics in information systems analysis and design, mathematics, business, project management, and more. Even online formats typically offer hands-on experience working with different technologies in the field. Graduates can enter the job field or pursue graduate-level education in the field.

Management Information Systems Master's Degrees

Many MIS master's degree programs award a Master of Science (MS) degree. These programs can usually be completed in 1 to 2 years and may offer full- and part-time formats. Depending on the program, students may be able to further focus their studies through specialization areas. There are also some programs that require a final capstone experience or applied project at the end to allow students to apply what they have learned throughout the program.

Management Information Systems Graduate Certificates

There is a wide range of business management graduate certificate programs, including those in MIS. These MIS certificate programs may offer different program options or specialization areas, such as business analytics, business intelligence, system development technologies, and more. Usually, students complete around 12 hours of coursework and may be able to finish in 1 year or less. Typically, applicants need to have at least a bachelor's degree, and many of these programs classify students as non-degree-seeking students.

PhD in MIS jobs after graduation are quite diverse. Students can pursue a range of careers connected to technology and computer information systems, including a career as a computer information systems specialist. Graduates may also specialize in a particular area of the field, such as becoming an information systems security engineer or information systems security officer. There is also a wide range of professional certifications available, depending on the position. For example, a security officer may pursue certification as a certified information systems security professional. Graduates can also pursue careers outside of technology as researchers, educators, consultants, and more. Below are just a few career options for MIS graduates.

Become a Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems managers typically have to hold at least a bachelor's degree, but some organizations require these managers to have at least a master's degree. Those with a background in MIS are trained in the business- and computer-side of the field, but degrees in computer programming, software development, and other related areas are accepted. It is also important for these managers to have at least some prior work experience. Usually, the amount of required work experience increases with advanced positions in leadership and management.

Computer and information systems managers are responsible for understanding the technology-related goals and needs of their organization and then strategizing and planning ways to meet those goals and needs. This often involves conducting research on technology options, preparing cost/benefit analysis for projects, and overseeing the installation and implementation of these technologies. These managers typically oversee the work of other information technology (IT) professionals.

Become a Computer and Information Research Scientist

Computer and information research scientists usually hold at least a master's degree, but some positions may prefer or require a PhD. There are also some entry-level positions that may only require a bachelor's degree. Typically, the degree needs to be in a computer-related field.

Computer and information research scientists study technology-related problems in a range of fields, including business. They solve computing issues by creating models or theories and figuring out what systems need to compute properly. These scientists often work with other engineers and scientists as they conduct experiments and develop new computer-based tools. The results of their experiments may be documented in reports or academic papers. Some of these scientists may specialize in various areas of the field, such as programming or robotics.

Become a Postsecondary Teacher

Some MIS graduates may wish to work in academia, where they can conduct research and help teach students interested in the field. Most universities require postsecondary teachers to hold a doctoral degree in their field, but smaller colleges or community schools may only require a master's degree. It is often preferred for these educators to have some prior work experience in their field so they can speak from experience when teaching their courses. Any industry-related certifications are also beneficial.

As mentioned, postsecondary teachers are responsible for teaching courses in their area of expertise and commonly have some research responsibilities for their institution within their field. Teaching multiple courses requires creating multiple lesson plans, assignments, and assessments. Teachers must also be available to help their students and may need to advise or oversee research conducted by undergraduate and/or graduate students.

Graduates should consider joining one or more professional organizations in their given field to connect with others and further develop their careers. In the case of MIS, professionals can choose from a wide range of organizations, including general information systems groups and focused groups, such as those in security. These organizations provide diverse resources for professionals, such as access to journals and annual conferences. MIS professionals may consider joining groups like the:

• Association for Information Systems- The AIS works to promote the knowledge and high-quality practice of information systems. Members can benefit from AIS communities, such as chapters, webinars, and conferences. The group also offers career services, resources for research, and AIS journals.
• Information Systems Security Association- The ISSA is an international organization that also offers membership and chapters but focuses on security in the field. The organization even offers specialized executive membership for cyber executives. Professionals can explore the group's web conferences, news and updates, and career information.

The total cost of earning an MIS degree depends on a number of factors, including the institution, cost of living, and more. In general, when calculating the cost of earning a PhD, students need to check the cost of tuition and fees at their institution(s) of interest. Most schools charge a tuition rate that is per credit hour, but this rate may vary by different factors. For instance, some schools charge a different tuition rate for in-state vs. out-of-state students. Although it varies by program, students may have to pay between $300 and over $1,000 per credit hour. Students also need to factor in any additional fees or costs associated with the program, such as the cost of books and materials for classes. Living expenses can also increase the total cost of earning a degree.

Since the various costs can add up quickly, many students pursue various forms of financial aid to help pay for the cost of earning their MIS PhD. Students may begin the process by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if they qualify for federal loans, but students should also be sure to check with their school. For example, several PhD programs in MIS offer full funding for students. Typically, this funding includes a stipend and money for research. Some of these assistantships are offered for 4 years and may be extended for a 5th year if students are in good standing. These assistantships also typically include tuition waivers.

Students who attend a program that does not offer funding or only has limited funding may pursue additional forms of financial aid, such as scholarships. Scholarships are widely available from schools and outside organizations in varying amounts for an array of reasons. For example, the University of Oklahoma's MIS division offers various scholarships of differing amounts for students in the field. These awards are funded by alumni and other organizations, and applicants must undergo an interview process.