🥇
$11,380
Tuition/yr
73%
Grad rate
88.8
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information systems degree programs: U of Alabama, Auburn, U of South Alabama
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $5,528 to $21,930/year
Columbia Southern offers the most affordable option at $5,528/yr
Information Systems degree programs available: 1 associate's, 8 master's, 1 doctoral in Alabama
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
4 online information systems degree programs in Alabama
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Alabama community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SAIC
Tech hubs in Huntsville and Birmingham
Hakia Research 2026
Information Systems degree programs near 44+ cities across Alabama
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Alabama Information Systems programs
We rank 27 accredited information systems programs in Alabama using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Information Systems Degree Programs in Alabama Worth It?
Answer
$98,520
Yes. The best information systems degree programs in Alabama deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $98,520 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $11,293/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Systems Degree Rankings in Alabama
Compare the top-ranked Information Systems programs in Alabama by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Information Systems Programs in Alabama
12
Programs ranked
$11,714
Avg tuition/yr
48%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama ranks among the nation's top destinations for information systems education, with 17 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 13 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Alabama, Auburn, U of South Alabama, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Alabama information systems programs earn a median salary of $83,742, 15% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $5,528 to $20,722 annually, with an average of $10,667/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Alabama's leading technology employers. For students seeking information systems degrees in Alabama, these top-ranked information systems schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, ALPublic
$10,374
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
86.3
Hakia Score
#4
$8,976
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad rate
76.5
Hakia Score
Show all 12 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Athens State University | Athens, AL | Public | $7,680 | — | 74.3 |
| #7 | Oakwood University | Huntsville, AL | Private nonprofit | $21,344 | 45% | 74.3 |
| #8 | University of North Alabama | Florence, AL | Public | $10,200 | 55% | 73.1 |
| #9 | University of West Alabama | Livingston, AL | Public | $9,100 | 35% | 71.1 |
| #10 | Faulkner University | Montgomery, AL | Private nonprofit | $21,930 | 37% | 66.5 |
| #11 | Alabama State University | Montgomery, AL | Public | $8,328 | 30% | 58.3 |
| #12 | Miles College | Fairfield, AL | Private nonprofit | $11,764 | 16% | 53.9 |
Best Master's Information Systems Programs in Alabama
7
Programs ranked
$11,660
Avg tuition/yr
58%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama offers 8 master's degree programs in information systems, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Alabama, U of Alabama at Birmingham, Auburn, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Alabama earn a median salary of $98,520, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $12,589/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Alabama's information systems schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$11,016
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad rate
91.4
Hakia Score
🥈
$11,380
Tuition/yr
73%
Grad rate
85.8
Hakia Score
#4
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, ALPublic
$10,374
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
81.7
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Strayer University-Alabama | Birmingham, AL | Private for-profit | $13,725 | — | 57.4 |
| #7 | South University-Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | Private for-profit | $17,100 | 9% | 52.2 |
Information Systems Degree Costs & Tuition in Alabama
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $11,293/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $28,233/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,823/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $67,760 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $16,940 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Systems Students in Alabama
State Aid Programs
Alabama residents pursuing Information Systems degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to make higher education more affordable. The primary state-level resource is the Alabama Student Assistance Program, which provides need-based grants specifically for Alabama residents attending in-state institutions. This program complements federal financial aid available through FAFSA, which opens the door to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. All students should complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal aid, regardless of financial circumstances, as many institutions offer merit scholarships that require FAFSA submission.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, Alabama's 31 institutions offering Information Systems programs, including major research universities like Auburn University, The University of Alabama, and University of Alabama at Birmingham, offer institutional scholarships and departmental funding opportunities. Many schools provide merit-based scholarships for strong academic performance and need-based aid packages tailored to individual circumstances. Community colleges in Alabama also offer affordable entry points for students beginning their IS studies. Institutions like John C Calhoun State Community College participate in the STARS transfer system, allowing students to complete general education and foundational IS coursework before transferring to four-year programs, potentially reducing overall degree costs. Prospective students should contact financial aid offices directly to explore all available scholarships and grants specific to Information Systems majors.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator, Alabama
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree in Alabama. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Information Systems Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Alabama metro areas
Huntsville$108K
Birmingham$103K
Mobile$99K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Huntsville | $108K |
| Birmingham | $103K |
| Mobile | $99K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Information Systems Graduates in Alabama
Find information systems jobs in Alabama. These major employers across Alabama metro areas are actively hiring information systems degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Systems Jobs in Huntsville
ALNASA Marshall Space Flight Center
government
Redstone Arsenal
defense
Dynetics
defense
SAIC
defense
Boeing
aerospace
Information Systems Jobs in Birmingham
ALRegions Financial
finance
BBVA USA
finance
Shipt
tech
Protective Life
insurance
Information Systems Jobs in Mobile
ALAirbus
aerospace
Austal USA
defense
AM/NS Calvert
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Information Systems Degrees in Alabama
State Transfer System
Alabama's 26 community colleges serve as essential gateways to bachelor's and master's degrees in Information Systems through the state's strong transfer infrastructure. The STARS (Statewide Transfer and Articulation Reporting System) provides standardized transfer pathways guaranteeing course equivalency between two-year and four-year institutions. Students completing associate's degrees in Information Systems at institutions like John C Calhoun State Community College (#1 ranked, $3,810 tuition), H Councill Trenholm State Community College (#2 ranked), and Jefferson State Community College (#3 ranked) earn guaranteed admission to bachelor's programs at major universities. This system ensures no credit loss during transfers and reduces overall degree completion time and cost. The typical transfer pathway begins with foundational IT courses, mathematics, and general education requirements at the community college level, followed by upper-level systems and management courses at universities like University of Alabama at Birmingham or Auburn University.
How Transfers Work
Alabama's transfer system exemplifies best practices in educational access. Students beginning at affordable community colleges with tuition averaging around $3,500–$3,810 can complete associate's degrees while saving significantly compared to four-year university costs. Upon transfer, graduates enter junior-level coursework at bachelor's-granting institutions, reducing the total undergraduate investment. Master's degree pathways also accommodate transfer students. Individuals with bachelor's degrees from Alabama community college partner institutions can seamlessly enroll in programs at Auburn University, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and University of South Alabama. The Alabama Student Assistance Program provides need-based grants to Alabama residents, further supporting affordability. For detailed transfer agreements and course equivalencies, consult STARS, individual institution registrars, and explore related programs like Information Technology in Alabama and Database Management in Alabama that offer similar transfer opportunities.
Why Pursue an Information Systems Degree in Alabama?
Industry & Workforce
Alabama offers a strong pathway for Information Systems education with 31 institutions delivering programs across all degree levels, from associate's through doctoral degrees (IPEDS). The state's four-year institutions provide 628 bachelor's degree completions annually, making Alabama a significant hub for IS talent development. Leading institutions like The University of Alabama, Auburn University, and University of Alabama at Birmingham consistently rank among the nation's best IS programs, with The University of Alabama alone producing 255 program completions, the highest in the state. Students benefit from an average public in-state tuition of $9,589, substantially lower than the national average, creating accessible pathways for aspiring technology professionals.
Salary Outlook
Alabama's geographic position and economic development make it an ideal location for IS studies. Major technology employers including Redstone Arsenal, UAB Health System, Mercedes-Benz, and Honda Manufacturing create abundant internship and career opportunities across the state's key metro areas: Birmingham-Hoover, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery. These regions actively recruit IS graduates for roles in systems administration, database management, network security, and cloud infrastructure. The combination of competitive tuition rates, strong employer connections, and academic programs positions Alabama as a strategic choice for students pursuing information systems degrees. Explore related programs like Information Technology in Alabama and Data Analytics in Alabama to broaden your educational options.
Information Systems Program Availability in Alabama
18 Programs
Alabama offers 18 accredited information systems programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Information Systems Job Market & Salary Data in Alabama
Employment Outlook
Alabama's information systems job market is supported by a strong network of educational institutions and growing employer demand across multiple regions. The state hosts 31 institutions offering Information Systems programs at various degree levels, from associate's degrees through doctoral programs (IPEDS). With 628 bachelor's degree completions and 441 master's degree completions in 2023, Alabama produces a steady stream of qualified IT professionals ready to enter the workforce. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions stands at $9,589, making education accessible to many aspiring information systems professionals (IPEDS).
Salaries by Metro
The job market is particularly strong in Alabama's major metropolitan areas, including Birmingham-Hoover, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery. These regions are home to significant employers and government installations that actively recruit information systems professionals. Current salary data and employment trends can be reviewed through the Bureau of Labor Statistics State Data for Alabama. Students completing their degrees at top institutions like The University of Alabama (255 completions), University of Alabama at Birmingham (180 completions), and Auburn University at Montgomery (143 completions) enter a competitive job market with multiple career pathways. For more context on career opportunities in related fields, explore Information Technology in Alabama and Data Analytics in Alabama.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Alabama$64,038$142,854
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Information Systems Programs in Alabama
Online Programs
4 available in Alabama
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$10,164/yr$11,293/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Information Systems Programs in Other States
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Florida
- Total Programs
- 83
- Median Tuition
- $4,600
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 37
- Median Tuition
- $7,600
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $9,300
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $9,500
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 133
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 110
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Information Systems Degree Programs in Alabama: FAQ
What are the best information systems degree programs in Alabama?
The best information systems degree programs in Alabama based on our methodology are: 1) The University of Alabama (90% graduation rate), 2) Auburn University, and 3) University of South Alabama. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Alabama offers 18 total accredited programs across 13 public and 2 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 17 bachelor's programs.
How much do information systems degree programs cost in Alabama?
Information Systems degree program costs in Alabama vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $11,293/year, while private institutions average $24,845/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $2,823/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $45,172 at public schools to $99,378 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information systems degree graduates earn in Alabama?
Information Systems professionals in Alabama earn a median salary of $98,520, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $64,038, while senior roles exceed $142,854. Salaries vary by metro area: Huntsville ($108,372), Birmingham ($103,446) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information systems degree programs in Alabama?
Yes, Alabama offers 4 accredited online Information Systems programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Faulkner University and University of Montevallo. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information systems degree graduates in Alabama?
Major Information Systems employers in Alabama include NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SAIC, Dynetics. The Huntsville and Birmingham metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Alabama universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Alabama's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information systems degree program worth it in Alabama?
An information systems degree program in Alabama offers strong ROI with a $98,520 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $11,293/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($111,328), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information systems degree programs take in Alabama?
Standard completion times for information systems degree programs in Alabama are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Alabama community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Alabama university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information systems degree students in Alabama?
Alabama information systems degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Alabama state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Alabama's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Alabama salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.