Best Information Systems Degree Programs

Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data

1. #1. University of California-Berkeley Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #1 in information systems degree program. Location: Berkeley, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 100.0

   What makes University of California-Berkeley stand out: MIMS graduates don't just build technology—they shape its ethical future, with the program being uniquely positioned in the Bay Area where Silicon Valley meets Berkeley's social justice tradition, creating leaders who drive innovation at companies like Google and Meta while influencing California's AI governance policies.

   Hakia Insight: University of California-Berkeley graduates earn $1,200,002,023, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.

   Program Overview: The Master of Information Management and Systems (MIMS) at UC Berkeley's School of Information is a two-year, full-time STEM-designated professional master's program that uniquely bridges technology, people, and policy. Students customize their journey through six core knowledge areas including Computer Science & Software Engineering, Data Systems & Machine Learning, Human-Centered Design & UX, and Policy & Ethics. The program culminates in a final project that tackles real-world challenges, with recent projects including flood navigation apps for Ghana and arcade games designed for social interaction. The I School is home to cutting-edge research centers including the Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity (CLTC), the Center for Technology, Society & Policy, and the BioSENSE Lab, where faculty like David Bamman are pioneering AI applications in humanities scholarship and Joshua Blumenstock is using AI to combat extreme poverty.

   Degree Programs: MIMS (2 years); PhD

   Research Labs: Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity (CLTC) - Long-term cybersecurity research and policy; Center for Technology, Society & Policy - Technology policy and governance research; BioSENSE Lab - Biosensor and sensing technology development

   Industry Partners: Google, Meta, Apple, Microsoft, Salesforce, PayPal

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: MIMS graduates work across established technology companies, start-ups, consulting, non-profits, financial services, entertainment, government, and healthcare | Top Employers: Google, Meta, Apple, Microsoft, Salesforce, PayPal, Federal agencies, Fast-growing startups | Common Roles: Product Manager, Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, UX Researcher, Interaction Designer, Trust & Safety Researcher, Product Designer, Program Manager, Privacy Engineer, UX Designer, AI Researcher, AI & Tech Lead, Research Scientist

   Notable Faculty: David Bamman (Computational analysis and AI applications in humanities); Joshua Blumenstock (AI applications for poverty reduction); Deirdre Mulligan (Information policy and AI governance)

   Admissions:

2. #2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the #2 in information systems degree program. Location: Champaign, IL | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,768/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 92.8

   What makes University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign stand out: Illinois Information Systems uniquely combines a top-10 business school education with direct access to quantum computing research and one of the nation's premier cybersecurity labs, positioning graduates at the intersection of emerging technologies and business innovation.

   Hakia Insight: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's industry network — including Epic Systems and Deloitte — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

   Program Overview: The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Information Systems that bridges the gap between technology and business strategy. This undergraduate program, housed within the prestigious Gies College of Business, prepares students to design, implement, and protect information systems that drive organizational success in an increasingly digital world. Students complete a rigorous curriculum combining core business foundation courses with specialized IS coursework including systems analysis and design, database management, and IT governance. The program emphasizes practical application through electives in data analytics, cybersecurity, social media strategy, and emerging technologies like big data platforms. What sets Illinois apart is its integration within a top-ranked business school combined with access to world-class computing resources through the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science. Students benefit from the university's strong quantum research presence through IQUIST (Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center) and the Coordinated Science Laboratory's cutting-edge work in cybersecurity, data science, and cyber-physical systems. The program's location in the heart of the Midwest provides excellent internship and career opportunities, with 91% of graduates participating in experiential learning and 42% receiving job offers directly from these experiences.

   Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (4 years)

   Research Labs: Coordinated Science Laboratory - 75 years of excellence in cybersecurity, data science, robotics, and cyber-physical systems; Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center (IQUIST) - Quantum computing research bringing together physicists, engineers, computer scientists, and mathematicians

   Industry Partners: Epic Systems, Deloitte, PwC, Amazon

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 96% secured first destination (Gies College of Business overall) | Top Employers: Amazon, PwC, Deloitte, Epic Systems, Google, Microsoft | Common Roles: Information Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Project Manager, Business Intelligence Specialist

   Notable Faculty: Faculty from CSL (Cybersecurity, data science, and cyber-physical systems)

   Admissions: GPA: Not specified | Acceptance Rate: Not specified

   Accreditations: AACSB accredited through Gies College of Business

3. #3. University of Washington-Seattle Campus Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #3 in information systems degree program. Location: Seattle, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,524/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 91.0

   What makes University of Washington-Seattle Campus stand out: UW's MSIS program is uniquely positioned in Seattle's tech epicenter, offering direct access to industry leaders from top companies like Microsoft and Amazon while being ranked #12 nationally for Information Systems programs by U.S. News & World Report.

   Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Microsoft, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.

   Program Overview: The University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers a distinctive STEM-designated Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) through the Foster School of Business, designed as a one-year intensive program for working professionals. With flexible evening and weekend classes, this program uniquely blends business insight with hands-on experience in artificial intelligence, data strategy, and technology management. The program stands out for its practical approach, featuring hands-on projects applying generative AI and predictive analytics in real business cases, personalized career coaching, and one-on-one mentorship from industry leaders. For those without extensive tech backgrounds, the MSIS Accelerate program provides a spring preparatory quarter to build foundational business, data, and technical knowledge before entering the main program.

   Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (Systems Track) (4 years); MS in Computer Science (Thesis) (2 years); MS in Computer Science (Professional) (2 years)

   Research Labs: Allen School Computer Systems Lab - Distributed systems, networking, and systems performance; Security and Privacy Research Lab - Cybersecurity, privacy, and systems security

   Industry Partners: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Apple

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 94% of graduates promoted within three months of graduation | Common Roles: AI/ML leadership roles, Technology management, Data strategy positions

   Notable Faculty: Léonard Boussioux (Artificial intelligence and generative AI); Ming Fan (Data analytics and e-commerce); Apurva Jain (Operations management and supply-chain analytics); Yong Tan (Systems analysis and implementation)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: STEM-designated program

4. #4. University of Maryland-College Park Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks University of Maryland-College Park as the #4 in information systems degree program. Location: College Park, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,889/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 84.9

   What makes University of Maryland-College Park stand out: Smith's MSIS program is ranked #7 among public universities for Management Information Systems and uniquely focuses on developing students as strategic liaisons between technical teams and business leadership, with mandatory real-company partnerships and AI proficiency training.

   Hakia Insight: University of Maryland-College Park's direct partnerships with Amazon and Google give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.

   Program Overview: The University of Maryland's Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) program at the Robert H. Smith School of Business is a STEM-designated, 30-credit degree that transforms students into strategic technology leaders who bridge the gap between technical teams and business leadership. Completed in just three semesters, this intensive program combines cutting-edge AI and data science training with practical business applications. Students dive deep into artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and digital business transformation while working on real-world projects with industry partners through required industry seminars and capstone experiences. The program uniquely positions graduates as 'translators' between highly technical teams and executive leadership—a critical role in today's AI-driven business landscape. With an average starting salary of $77,000 and strong placement rates at companies like Google, Amazon, and Salesforce, the program attracts students from diverse backgrounds who want to lead technological change in organizations.

   Degree Programs: MS in Information Systems (In-Person) (3 semesters); MS in Information Systems (Online) (TBD); Plus 1 MSIS (1 additional year)

   Research Labs: Center for Artificial Intelligence in Business - AI applications in business contexts and strategic implementation; Smith Analytics Consortium - Advanced analytics and data science research partnerships

   Industry Partners: Amazon, Google, Salesforce, Capital One, Deloitte

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Salesforce, Capital One, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, IBM, KPMG, PWC, Walmart | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Analyst, Systems Analyst, Consultant, Big Data Developer, Risk Systems Developer

   Notable Faculty: Dr. Siva Viswanathan (Platform design, social media analytics, information economics, sharing economy); Dr. Lauren Rhue (Technology platforms in minority communities, economic and social implications of technology); Dr. Tejwansh Singh Anand (Academic Director of MSIS program); Dr. Sujin Kim (Industrial and technological information systems, simulation methodology)

   Admissions: GPA: 3.5 average admitted GPA

   Accreditations: STEM-designated program, #7 ranking in Management Information Systems among public universities (U.S. News & World Report 2026)

5. #5. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks University of Michigan-Ann Arbor as the #5 in information systems degree program. Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $17,977/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 83.0

   What makes University of Michigan-Ann Arbor stand out: Michigan's School of Information ranks in the top 5 nationally, offering unique interdisciplinary programs that bridge technology and organizational management.

   Hakia Insight: With a 18% acceptance rate, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's information systems program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.

   Program Overview: University of Michigan's School of Information is consistently ranked among the nation's top programs for information systems and management. The program combines technical skills with organizational understanding, preparing students for leadership roles in information management. Michigan's strong alumni network and corporate partnerships provide excellent career opportunities.

   Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (Information Systems track) (4 years); MS in Computer Science (Systems specialization) (2 years); PhD in Computer Science (Systems area) (5-6 years)

   Research Labs: Advanced Computer Architecture Laboratory - Computer systems and architecture; Software Systems Lab - Software engineering and distributed systems

   Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Ford

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Ford, Deloitte | Common Roles: UX Researcher, Data Analyst, Product Manager, IT Consultant

   Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 18%

   Accreditations: ABET accredited

6. #6. Carnegie Mellon University Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #6 in information systems degree program. Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Type: Private | Tuition: $62,260/year | Graduation Rate: 98% | Score: 78.7

   What makes Carnegie Mellon University stand out: CMU's Heinz College holds the #1 ranking for Information Systems programs nationally, with many world-changing technologies like AI, machine learning, and robotics having been invented on campus - making it the premier destination for aspiring tech leaders.

   Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University leverages partnerships with PwC and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

   Program Overview: Carnegie Mellon University offers one of the nation's most prestigious Information Systems programs through both graduate and undergraduate pathways. The Master of Information Systems Management (MISM) is a rigorous 16-month program spanning 3 semesters plus a required internship, designed to blend technical expertise with leadership skills for transforming organizations through technology. The program welcomes students from any background, recognizing that Information Systems serves as the bridge between technology and humanity across all industries. The undergraduate Information Systems program, housed jointly between Heinz College and Dietrich College, provides a uniquely technical foundation drawing from CMU's world-renowned computer science leadership while maintaining deep roots in humanities and social sciences. Both programs emphasize experiential learning through capstone projects with real-world industry clients, tackling challenges from autonomous vehicle safety to cybersecurity for financial institutions.

   Degree Programs: Master of Information Systems Management (MISM) (16 months); Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (4 years)

   Research Labs: AI Measurement Science & Engineering Cooperative Research Center (AIMSEC) - Research hub for evaluating, testing, and monitoring modern AI systems in collaboration with NIST; Block Center for Technology and Society - Examining societal consequences of technological change, AI for social good, and inclusive innovation; CyLab - Security research with 50+ researchers and 80 students from multiple CMU colleges addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities; iLab - Inter-disciplinary research on IT management and policy problems, fostering entrepreneurial culture

   Industry Partners: PwC, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Amazon, Google, Microsoft

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook, Goldman Sachs, McKinsey & Co., Accenture, Deloitte, IBM, Boeing, Capital One | Common Roles: Information Systems Manager, Data Analyst, Software Engineer, Technology Consultant, Product Manager, Cybersecurity Specialist

   Notable Faculty: Joe Mertz (Faculty Director); Gary DiLisio (Director of Undergraduate Education)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: STEM-designated program (24-month OPT extension eligible)

7. #7. Syracuse University Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks Syracuse University as the #7 in information systems degree program. Location: Syracuse, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $61,310/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 78.6

   What makes Syracuse University stand out: Syracuse's iSchool is ranked #26 in Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology Programs and offers one of the fastest completion times in the field - students can earn their MS in Information Systems in just 12 months, with STEM designation providing up to 36 months of OPT work authorization for international students.

   Hakia Insight: Syracuse University's industry network — including Microsoft and Amazon — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

   Program Overview: Syracuse University's iSchool offers two distinct Master's in Information Systems pathways designed for different career stages. The traditional 36-credit MS program can be completed in as little as one year and bridges business leadership with technical expertise in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and machine learning. For experienced professionals, the Executive Program compresses 30 credits into just 15 months, targeting IT professionals with 3+ years of experience. Both programs emphasize practical application through capstone projects and internships, with access to specialized research labs like the Building Energy and Environmental Systems Lab (BEESL) and the Center for Advanced Systems and Engineering (CASE). The curriculum combines core management and technology courses with flexible concentrations in areas ranging from data science to digital transformation.

   Degree Programs: MS in Information Systems (1-2 years); MS in Information Systems for Executives (15 months)

   Research Labs: Building Energy and Environmental Systems Lab (BEESL) - IEQ, building energy efficiency, and building protection technologies; Center for Advanced Systems and Engineering (CASE) - Applied research catalyzing high-tech economic growth in New York State; Smart Grid & Power System Research Lab - Solar and wind integration into smart grid systems

   Industry Partners: Microsoft, Amazon, Disney, KPMG, Accenture Federal Services

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 89% for MS Information Systems (2024) | Top Employers: Technology companies, Healthcare organizations, Financial services, Government agencies | Common Roles: IT Manager, Business Intelligence Analyst, Cybersecurity Analyst, Enterprise Architect, Systems Analyst

   Notable Faculty: Dr. Jianshun Zhang (Environmental and energy systems, building envelope technologies); Professor Jeffrey Saltz (Data and AI leveraging); Mike Fudge (Cloud computing, data systems, and human-centered design)

   Admissions: GPA: Bachelor's degree required

   Accreditations: STEM-designated program, Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredited, Certificate of Advanced Study options in Data Science and Information Security Management

8. #8. University of South Florida Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks University of South Florida as the #8 in information systems degree program. Location: Tampa, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,559/year | Graduation Rate: 85% | Score: 78.4

   What makes University of South Florida stand out: USF was the nation's first medical school to offer a Master of Science in Health Informatics 100% online, and the Information Systems program maintains strong ties to defense research with $150 million in Army-funded projects over the past 20 years.

   Hakia Insight: University of South Florida's direct partnerships with U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command and Deloitte give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.

   Program Overview: The University of South Florida's Information Systems program operates through the School of Information Systems within the Muma College of Business, offering a comprehensive Business Analytics and Information Systems (BAIS) degree that bridges business acumen with technological expertise. The undergraduate program integrates core business principles with advanced technological skills, focusing on business analytics, data management, and information systems through an hands-on curriculum that includes real-world case studies and practice center projects where students gain industry experience under faculty supervision. Available on both the Tampa and St. Petersburg campuses, the program emphasizes the data-intensive nature of modern information systems applications, preparing students with knowledge in databases, computer networks, programming, and decision-making for a workforce where business analytics and information skills are increasingly sought after. The school also houses specialized research centers including the Center for Analytics & Creativity and participates in significant defense research through partnerships with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, where faculty members have collectively secured $7 million in federal grants. Students benefit from regular bootcamps, competitions, and networking events, while graduates consistently secure positions at top-tier companies including Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, Raymond James, and Tribridge, demonstrating the program's strong industry connections and practical relevance.

   Degree Programs: BS in Business Analytics and Information Systems (4 years); MS in Health Informatics (2 years (22 months average))

   Research Labs: Laboratory for Autonomy, Control and Information Systems (LACIS) - Autonomous control algorithms for unmanned aerial systems; Center for Wireless and Microwave Information Systems (WAMI) - Advanced antenna technology and radar systems for challenging target detection; Center for Analytics & Creativity - Business analytics and data-driven innovation

   Industry Partners: U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, Raymond James, HIMSS

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, Raymond James, Tribridge, Citigroup | Common Roles: Business Analyst, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, Project Manager, Clinical Informatics Specialist, Health Data Manager

   Notable Faculty: Dr. Tansel Yucelen (Mechanical engineering and autonomous control systems); Dr. Jing Wang (Electrical engineering and wireless systems); Dr. Gokhan Mumcu (Electrical engineering and secure wireless communications); Dr. Bhuvanesh Unhelkar (Information systems)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: CAHIIM accreditation for MS in Health Informatics through 2029, HIMSS Approved Education Partner status, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accreditation

9. #9. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus Information Systems Program

   Hakia ranks Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus as the #9 in information systems degree program. Location: University Park, PA | Type: Public | Tuition: $19,672/year | Graduation Rate: 87% | Score: 78.2

   What makes Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus stand out: Penn State's Information Systems program uniquely combines rigorous business foundation coursework with cutting-edge technical training, requiring all students to complete real-world internships and capstone system design projects while offering seamless pathways from bachelor's to master's degrees on the same campus.

   Hakia Insight: Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus leverages partnerships with Deloitte and KPMG to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

   Program Overview: Penn State's Information Systems program operates across multiple campuses, with the flagship B.S. in Information Systems housed at Penn State Harrisburg and a complementary Business Analytics and Information Systems B.S. at University Park. The Harrisburg program is a STEM-designated degree requiring 121 credits, focusing on the intersection of business intelligence and technology to solve organizational challenges. Students build expertise in data analytics, cybersecurity, and systems design through hands-on coursework in business data management, system design projects, and required internships. The program offers three specialized concentrations: Systems Design, Data and Business Analytics, and Computing Security, allowing students to tailor their education to career goals. Penn State also offers an accelerated one-year Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) at Harrisburg, which can be completed in just 30 credits with both full-time and part-time options available.

   Degree Programs: B.S. Information Systems (4 years); B.S. Supply Chain and Information Systems (4 years); Integrated B.S./M.S. Information Systems; Integrated B.S. Information Systems/M.B.A.

   Research Labs: Applied Research Laboratory - Department of Defense designated University Affiliated Research Center with cybersecurity and information systems research

   Industry Partners: Deloitte, KPMG, Oracle, ServiceNow

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Deloitte, KPMG, Oracle, PwC, ServiceNow, State Farm, Computer Aid Inc., Capital Blue Cross, Lockheed Martin, Shell Oil Company | Common Roles: IT Consultant, Data Analyst, Applications Developer, Information Security Specialist, Computer Systems Analyst, IT Auditor

   Admissions: GPA: 2.00 minimum cumulative for undergraduate entrance to major

   Accreditations: STEM-designated program

10. #10. University of Houston Information Systems Program

    Hakia ranks University of Houston as the #10 in information systems degree program. Location: Houston, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,685/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Score: 78.0

    What makes University of Houston stand out: UH's MS MIS program stands out by combining STEM designation with deep industry integration in Houston's Fortune 500 corridor, offering dual pathways for both traditional on-campus and fully online completion with identical curriculum rigor.

    Hakia Insight: University of Houston graduates earn $75,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.

    Program Overview: The University of Houston offers a comprehensive MS in Management Information Systems (STEM-designated) through the C.T. Bauer College of Business, uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and business strategy. Students can complete this program either on-campus or fully online, with the flexibility to specialize in Project Management, Business Analytics, or Information Systems Auditing certifications. The program is housed within Houston's thriving business ecosystem, home to dozens of Fortune 500 companies spanning energy, healthcare, and finance sectors. The curriculum emphasizes translating emerging technologies into business assets while developing critical leadership and communication skills. Faculty include former industry leaders from automotive, telecommunications, and technology sectors, alongside professional engineers and strategic consultants. Students engage directly with Houston's major corporations through real-world projects, creating invaluable industry connections in one of America's most dynamic business markets.

    Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years); PhD in Computer Science (5-6 years)

    Research Labs: Network, Software and System Laboratory - Cybersecurity and transportation systems; Transportation Cybersecurity Center for Advanced Research and Education (CYBER-CARE) - USDOT Tier 1 UTC center focusing on transportation cybersecurity

    Industry Partners: Fluor Corporation, Texas Department of Transportation, Segorobotics LLC

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 85% | Top Employers: Microsoft, Google, ExxonMobil, HP Enterprise, Schlumberger | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Norman Johnson (Chair of Decision and Information Sciences, Business Analytics); Dr. Yunpeng (Jack) Zhang (Cybersecurity, Data Science, IoT Security)

    Admissions: GPA: 3.45 average undergraduate GPA of admitted students

    Accreditations: STEM-designated degree, Preparation for PMP certification, Preparation for CBAP certification, Preparation for CISA certification