- 1.IT Managers earn a median salary of $169,510 with 16% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Information Systems programs include University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Maryland-College Park, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers information systems education at $14,768/year with 90% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Information Systems programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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.
Program Overview
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's undergraduate Information Systems program graduates 310 students annually with an impressive 90% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Coordinated Science Laboratory and Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center (IQUIST). Industry connections include partnerships with Epic Systems, Deloitte, PwC.
Hakia Insight: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's partnerships with Epic Systems and Deloitte translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
75 years of excellence in cybersecurity, data science, robotics, and cyber-physical systems
Quantum computing research bringing together physicists, engineers, computer scientists, and mathematicians
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Maryland-College Park
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.
Program Overview
University of Maryland-College Park's undergraduate Information Systems program graduates 661 students annually with an impressive 84% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Center for Artificial Intelligence in Business and Smith Analytics Consortium. Industry connections include partnerships with Amazon, Google, Salesforce.
Hakia Insight: University of Maryland-College Park's partnerships with Amazon and Google translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI applications in business contexts and strategic implementation
Advanced analytics and data science research partnerships
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Unable to determine unique distinguishing factors without access to program-specific information.
Program Overview
I was unable to find specific information about the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Information Systems program in the provided source content. Without access to detailed program information, faculty listings, research initiatives, or specific degree offerings, I cannot provide the rich, detailed narrative that would accurately represent this program. To properly evaluate and describe Michigan's Information Systems offerings, I would need access to the university's official program descriptions, faculty profiles, research lab information, and admissions data.
Degree Programs
Syracuse University
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.
Program Overview
Syracuse University's undergraduate Information Systems program graduates 166 students annually with an impressive 99% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Building Energy and Environmental Systems Lab (BEESL) and Center for Advanced Systems and Engineering (CASE). Industry connections include partnerships with EY, Synchrony, Adobe.
Hakia Insight: Syracuse University's partnerships with Synchrony and Adobe translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
IEQ, building energy efficiency, and building protection technologies
Applied research catalyzing high-tech economic growth in New York State
Solar and wind integration into smart grid systems
Industry Partners
Admissions
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
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.
Program Overview
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus's undergraduate Information Systems program graduates 564 students annually with an impressive 87% graduation rate. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Applied Research Laboratory. Industry connections include partnerships with Deloitte, KPMG, Oracle.
Hakia Insight: Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus's partnerships with Deloitte and KPMG translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Department of Defense designated University Affiliated Research Center with cybersecurity and information systems research
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Houston
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.
Program Overview
University of Houston's undergraduate Information Systems program graduates 551 students annually with an impressive 91% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Network, Software and System Laboratory and Transportation Cybersecurity Center for Advanced Research and Education (CYBER-CARE). Industry connections include partnerships with Fluor Corporation, Texas Department of Transportation, Segorobotics LLC.
Hakia Insight: University of Houston's partnerships with Fluor Corporation and Texas Department of Transportation translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Cybersecurity and transportation systems
USDOT Tier 1 UTC center focusing on transportation cybersecurity
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Georgia
369 information systems graduates annually
Program Overview
University of Georgia offers a Bachelor's Information Systems degree, combining rigorous academics with practical experience to prepare graduates for successful careers.
Degree Programs
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 369 information systems graduates annually
- Accredited institution
University of South Florida
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.
Program Overview
University of South Florida's undergraduate Information Systems program graduates 295 students annually with an impressive 85% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Laboratory for Autonomy, Control and Information Systems (LACIS) and Center for Wireless and Microwave Information Systems (WAMI). Industry connections include partnerships with U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase.
Hakia Insight: University of South Florida's partnerships with U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command and Deloitte translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Autonomous control algorithms for unmanned aerial systems
Advanced antenna technology and radar systems for challenging target detection
Business analytics and data-driven innovation
Industry Partners
California Institute of Technology
4 information systems graduates annually
Program Overview
California Institute of Technology offers a Bachelor's Information Systems degree, combining rigorous academics with practical experience to prepare graduates for successful careers.
Degree Programs
Program Strengths
- 88% graduation rate
- 4 information systems graduates annually
- Accredited institution
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
323 information systems graduates annually
Program Overview
Rutgers University-New Brunswick offers a Bachelor's Information Systems degree, combining rigorous academics with practical experience to prepare graduates for successful careers.
Degree Programs
Program Strengths
- 82% graduation rate
- 323 information systems graduates annually
- Accredited institution
Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's — Complete Program Data
#1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Location: Champaign, IL | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,768/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 87.5
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 partnerships with Epic Systems and Deloitte translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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
Admissions: GPA: Not specified | Acceptance Rate: Not specified
#2. University of Maryland-College Park
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 partnerships with Amazon and Google translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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
Admissions: GPA: 3.5 average admitted GPA
#3. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $17,977/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 79.0
What makes University of Michigan-Ann Arbor stand out: Unable to determine unique distinguishing factors without access to program-specific information.
Program Overview: I was unable to find specific information about the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Information Systems program in the provided source content. Without access to detailed program information, faculty listings, research initiatives, or specific degree offerings, I cannot provide the rich, detailed narrative that would accurately represent this program. To properly evaluate and describe Michigan's Information Systems offerings, I would need access to the university's official program descriptions, faculty profiles, research lab information, and admissions data.
Admissions:
#4. Syracuse University
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 partnerships with Synchrony and Adobe translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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: EY, Synchrony, Adobe, JP Morgan Chase
Admissions: GPA: Bachelor's degree required
#5. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
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's partnerships with Deloitte and KPMG translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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. in Information Systems (4 years); M.S. in Information Systems (1 year); Business Analytics and Information Systems B.S. (4 years)
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
Admissions: GPA: 2.00 minimum cumulative for undergraduate entrance to major
#6. University of Houston
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's partnerships with Fluor Corporation and Texas Department of Transportation translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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: MS Management Information Systems (STEM) (Variable)
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
Admissions: GPA: 3.45 average undergraduate GPA of admitted students
#7. University of Georgia
Location: Athens, GA | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,790/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 77.8
#8. University of South Florida
Location: Tampa, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,559/year | Graduation Rate: 85% | Score: 77.2
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 partnerships with U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command and Deloitte translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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
Admissions:
#9. California Institute of Technology
Location: Pasadena, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $60,816/year | Graduation Rate: 88% | Score: 73.6
#10. Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Location: New Brunswick, NJ | Type: Public | Tuition: $13,674/year | Graduation Rate: 82% | Score: 72.6
Best Information Systems Programs - Compare Top 5 Bachelor's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | 87.5/100 |
| #2 University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | 84.9/100 |
| #3 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | 79/100 |
| #4 Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 99% | 78.6/100 |
| #5 Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | 78.2/100 |
Top 25 Information Systems Bachelor's Programs 2026
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | $14,768 | 90% | — | 87.5 |
| 2 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | $9,889 | 84% | — | 84.9 |
| 3 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | $17,977 | 92% | — | 79 |
| 4 | Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | $61,310 | 99% | — | 78.6 |
| 5 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | $19,672 | 87% | — | 78.2 |
| 6 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | $8,685 | 91% | — | 78 |
| 7 | University of Georgia | Athens, GA | $9,790 | 95% | — | 77.8 |
| 8 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | $4,559 | 85% | — | 77.2 |
| 9 | California Institute of Technology | Pasadena, CA | $60,816 | 88% | — | 73.6 |
| 10 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | New Brunswick, NJ | $13,674 | 82% | — | 72.6 |
| 11 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | $11,678 | 89% | — | 71.7 |
| 12 | University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi, MD | $7,632 | 74% | — | 71.1 |
| 13 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | $64,887 | 90% | — | 69.5 |
| 14 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | $9,003 | 84% | — | 67.6 |
| 15 | University of Maryland-Baltimore County | Baltimore, MD | $9,238 | 90% | — | 67.5 |
| 16 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | $7,019 | 93% | — | 67.2 |
| 17 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | $64,526 | 100% | — | 67 |
| 18 | University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | $11,546 | 68% | — | 66.8 |
| 19 | Binghamton University | Vestal, NY | $7,070 | 87% | — | 66.6 |
| 20 | Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA | $12,850 | 92% | — | 66.5 |
| 21 | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | Minneapolis, MN | $14,496 | 92% | — | 65.9 |
| 22 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | $15,850 | 98% | — | 65.4 |
| 23 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | $55,784 | 90% | — | 65.4 |
| 24 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | $8,455 | 97% | — | 65.2 |
| 25 | Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, NY | $7,070 | 89% | — | 65.2 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Information Systems Bachelor's Degree Overview 2026
Information Systems bachelor's degrees prepare students to bridge the gap between technology and business, focusing on how organizations use data, systems, and technology to achieve strategic goals. Unlike traditional Computer Science programs, MIS degrees emphasize business applications, project management, and organizational strategy alongside technical skills.
The field is experiencing rapid growth, with computer and information systems managers projected to see 15% job growth through 2032, much faster than average (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This growth is driven by organizations' increasing reliance on data analytics, cloud computing, and digital transformation initiatives.
Modern MIS programs integrate emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity with traditional business processes. Students learn to design, implement, and manage information systems that support business operations, from enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to data warehouses and business intelligence platforms.
The curriculum typically combines technical courses in database management, systems analysis, and programming with business courses in management, finance, and operations. This interdisciplinary approach prepares graduates for roles that require both technical expertise and business acumen, making them valuable assets in today's technology-driven economy.
Getting Started: No Prior Experience Needed
A Information Systems bachelor's degree requires no prior programming or technical experience. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 70% of students entering technical degree programs have no prior coding background. Programs are designed to take complete beginners to job-ready professionals over four years.
What to Expect Your First Year:
- Introduction to programming fundamentals (typically Python or Java)
- Mathematics foundations including calculus, discrete math, and linear algebra
- Computer systems basics and computational thinking
- Problem-solving methodologies and algorithmic thinking
Research from Computing Research Association shows that students who engage with tutoring services and study groups in their first year have 23% higher retention rates. Most universities offer dedicated support including office hours, peer tutoring, and programming labs. Success comes from consistent practice—not prior experience.
General Education Requirements
Bachelor's programs typically require 40-60 credit hours of general education courses alongside your Information Systems major. These requirements, mandated by regional accreditation bodies, ensure graduates develop well-rounded communication and critical thinking skills valued by employers.
Common General Education Requirements:
- English Composition (6 credits) — Technical writing skills are essential; 89% of developers write documentation weekly (Stack Overflow Survey 2024)
- Mathematics (6-12 credits) — Calculus I & II, plus statistics for data-focused roles
- Natural Sciences (6-8 credits) — Physics is particularly relevant for hardware-adjacent specializations
- Social Sciences/Humanities (6-12 credits) — Ethics courses increasingly important given AI regulation
- Communication (3 credits) — Presentation skills for technical demos and stakeholder meetings
Pro tip: Many schools allow AP/IB credits or CLEP exams to satisfy gen-ed requirements, potentially saving $3,000-$10,000 in tuition. Check your target school's transfer credit policies before enrolling.
Campus Resources for Students
Top Information Systems programs provide extensive support infrastructure to help students succeed. According to EDUCAUSE research, students who utilize campus resources are 34% more likely to graduate on time.
Essential Campus Resources:
- Computer Labs — 24/7 access to high-performance workstations, often with specialized software (MATLAB, AWS credits, GPU clusters)
- Career Services — Resume reviews, mock interviews, and direct recruiter connections; top programs host 50+ tech companies annually
- Tutoring Centers — Free peer tutoring for programming, math, and core courses; many offer drop-in hours
- Student Organizations — ACM chapters, hackathon teams, and Women in Computing groups provide networking and project experience
- Research Opportunities — Undergraduate research positions with faculty can lead to publications and graduate school recommendations
When evaluating programs, ask about student-to-advisor ratios. The NACADA recommends no more than 300:1 for effective academic advising, though top tech programs often achieve 150:1 or better.
Internships & Co-op Programs
Information Systems internships offer the highest compensation of any undergraduate major, with an average hourly wage of $24.76 according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2024 Report. Top-tier companies pay significantly more—often 3-5x the average rate.
Top Employers for Information Systems Interns:
- Google — $8,000-$10,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Amazon — $7,500-$9,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Microsoft — $7,000-$9,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Meta — $6,500-$8,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Apple — $6,000-$8,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
53% of interns receive full-time job offers from their internship employers (NACE 2024). For paid internships specifically, the conversion rate jumps to 70-75%. Most applications open August-October for the following summer—start preparing early.
For salary expectations after graduation, see our software developer salary guide.
Career Paths
Information Systems Manager
SOC 11-3021Oversee technology infrastructure and lead digital transformation initiatives
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex data sets to drive business intelligence and strategic decisions
Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1121Design and implement technology solutions to improve business processes
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational data and systems from security threats and breaches
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1141Manage and optimize database systems for performance and security
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and build applications that integrate with business systems
Bachelor's vs Associate's vs Bootcamp
Choosing between a bachelor's degree, associate's degree, or coding bootcamp depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path offers distinct advantages for entering the Information Systems field.
Bachelor's Degree (4 years, $40K-$160K)
- Comprehensive theoretical foundation plus hands-on skills
- Required for most senior/management positions and graduate school
- Median starting salary: $75,000 (NACE 2024)
- Best for: Students seeking long-term career growth and research opportunities
Associate's Degree (2 years, $10K-$30K)
- Faster entry into entry-level positions
- Many credits transfer to 4-year programs (2+2 pathway)
- Median starting salary: $50,000-$60,000
- Best for: Career changers or those testing interest before committing to 4 years
Coding Bootcamp (12-24 weeks, $10K-$20K)
- Intensive, job-focused training on current industry tools
- Many offer income share agreements (ISAs) or deferred tuition
- Median starting salary: $65,000-$80,000 for graduates with strong portfolios
- Best for: Career changers with self-discipline; see our Information Systems bootcamp rankings
For a detailed ROI comparison, read our analysis: Bootcamp vs Master's Degree: Which Has Better ROI?
Preparing for Graduate School
A bachelor's in Information Systems provides an excellent foundation for graduate study. According to the Computing Research Association, 25% of CS bachelor's graduates pursue advanced degrees within five years of graduation, with master's holders earning 20-30% more than bachelor's-only peers.
Preparing for Graduate School During Your Bachelor's:
- Maintain GPA above 3.5 — Most competitive programs require 3.3+ minimum; top-10 programs average 3.7+
- Secure research experience — 2+ semesters with faculty dramatically improves PhD admission chances
- Build faculty relationships — You will need 3 strong recommendation letters; start early
- Take graduate-level courses — Many programs allow undergrads to enroll; demonstrates readiness
- Prepare for GRE (if required) — Quantitative scores above 165 expected for top programs
Graduate Degree Options:
- Master's (1-2 years) — Career-focused; average salary boost of $15,000-$25,000; see our best Information Systems master's programs
- PhD (4-6 years) — Research-focused; typically fully funded with $30,000-$45,000 stipend; required for professorships and research scientist roles
- Professional Master's — Industry-sponsored programs (Google, Facebook) combine coursework with company projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 150 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Ranking Factors
Degree completions (sqrt normalized, capped at 500)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
State-specific salary data from BLS OES 2024
Admission rate (lower = more selective)
Institution type (R1/R2 research bonus)
CAE-CD designation, curator bonuses
Data completeness proxy
Reporting completeness
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.