Master of Science in Information Systems


The Master of Science in Information Systems , the Master of Science in Management Information Systems, and Masters in Management Information Systems are specialized master's degree programs usually offered in a university's College of Business and in integrated Information Science & Technology colleges in recent years. The MSIS degree is designed for those managing design and development information technology, especially the information systems development process. The MSIS degree is often thought to be functionally equivalent to a Master of Information Systems/Technology Management, however the two are distinguishable in that the latter has much more equitable composition of information science/systems, and business/management. Nonetheless, for the purposes of this broad overview, MSIS is included with MSMIS and MMIS which are specialized master's degree programs recognized by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
A joint committee of Association for Information Systems and Association for Computing Machinery members developed a model curriculum for the Master of Science in Information Systems. The most recent version of the MSIS Model Curriculum was published in 2006.
The course of study is concentrated around the Information Systems discipline. The core courses are Systems analysis, Systems design, Data Communications, Database design, and Project management.

Job outlook

In regard to the job outlook for workers in this field, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has said, "Employment of computer and information systems managers is expected to grow 17 percent over the 2008-18 decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations. New applications of technology in the workplace will continue to drive demand for workers, fueling the need for more managers. To remain competitive, firms will continue to install sophisticated computer networks and set up more complex intranets and websites. They will need to adopt the most efficient software and systems and troubleshoot problems when they occur. Computer and information systems managers will be needed to oversee these functions."
U.S. News & World Report also recognizes the robust job opportunities in this field in their article 50 Best Careers for 2010, they state, "There seems to be no end to organizations' appetite for advanced or improved data communications technology. And E-commerce continues to increase the need for systems analysts."