- 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 California-Berkeley, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Washington-Seattle Campus based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of California-Berkeley offers information systems education at $11,834/year with 96% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Information Systems programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10 Online
University of California-Berkeley
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.
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
Research Labs & Institutes
Long-term cybersecurity research and policy
Technology policy and governance research
Biosensor and sensing technology development
Industry Partners
Admissions
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
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
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 Washington-Seattle Campus
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.
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
Industry Partners
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.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Unable to determine unique distinguishing factors without access to program-specific information.
Carnegie Mellon University
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.
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.
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.
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.
University of Florida
210 information systems graduates annually
Best Information Systems Programs - Compare Top 5 Online
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 100/100 |
| #2 University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | 92.5/100 |
| #3 University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | 91/100 |
| #4 University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | 84.9/100 |
| #5 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | 79/100 |
Top 50 Online MIS Degree Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 100 |
| 2 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 92.5 |
| 3 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 91 |
| 4 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | — | 84.9 |
| 5 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | 79 |
| 6 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | — | 78.7 |
| 7 | Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 99% | — | 78.6 |
| 8 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | — | 78.2 |
| 9 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | Public | $8,685 | 91% | — | 78 |
| 10 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Public | $4,477 | 95% | — | 77.9 |
| 11 | University of Georgia | Athens, GA | Public | $9,790 | 95% | — | 77.8 |
| 12 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Public | $4,559 | 85% | — | 77.2 |
| 13 | University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi, MD | Public | $7,632 | 74% | — | 76.1 |
| 14 | The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | Public | $14,564 | 77% | — | 75.8 |
| 15 | California Institute of Technology | Pasadena, CA | Private | $60,816 | 88% | — | 73.6 |
| 16 | University at Buffalo | Buffalo, NY | Public | $7,070 | 95% | — | 73.4 |
| 17 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | New Brunswick, NJ | Public | $13,674 | 82% | — | 72.6 |
| 18 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,678 | 89% | — | 71.7 |
| 19 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 70.8 |
| 20 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Private | $64,887 | 90% | — | 69.5 |
| 21 | Boston University | Boston, MA | Private | $63,798 | — | — | 68.1 |
| 22 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | — | — | 67.8 |
| 23 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | 67.6 |
| 24 | University of Maryland-Baltimore County | Baltimore, MD | Public | $9,238 | 90% | — | 67.5 |
| 25 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | Public | $7,019 | 93% | — | 67.2 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Online MIS Degree Programs Overview
Management Information Systems (MIS) degrees blend business knowledge with technology skills, preparing graduates for careers bridging IT and business operations. Online MIS programs offer the flexibility needed for working professionals to advance their careers while maintaining current employment. According to IPEDS 2023 data, 454 accredited institutions now offer fully online MIS degree programs, representing a 23% increase from 2020.
The best online MIS programs maintain the same accreditation standards as their on-campus counterparts, with many offering identical curricula. Students learn database management, systems analysis, project management, and business intelligence through virtual labs and simulation software. Career outcomes remain strong, with BLS data showing computer systems analysts (a common MIS graduate role) earning a median salary of $99,270 annually with 10% projected growth through 2032.
For those considering related technology degrees, explore our comprehensive rankings of computer science programs and information technology degrees. Students interested in advancing to graduate study should review our data science master's programs guide, as many MIS graduates pursue advanced analytics roles.
Career Paths
Computer Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Design and implement computer systems and procedures to solve business problems. Evaluate system requirements and recommend technology solutions.
Information Systems Manager
Oversee IT departments and coordinate technology activities. Plan and implement computer systems that support business objectives.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Store and organize data using specialized software. Ensure data security and troubleshoot database problems.
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2051Analyze business data to identify trends and insights that inform strategic decisions. Create reports and dashboards for stakeholders.
IT Project Manager
Lead technology implementation projects from conception to completion. Coordinate teams and resources to deliver solutions on time and budget.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect computer networks and systems from cyber threats. Monitor security breaches and implement protective measures.
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Maintain computer networks and ensure reliable connectivity. Install and configure network hardware and software.
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and create computer applications and systems. Work with programming languages to build software solutions.
Top States for Online MIS Programs
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Pennsylvania
Illinois
Ohio
North Carolina
Virginia
Georgia
Financial Aid and Tuition Costs
Online MIS program tuition varies dramatically by institution type and state residency status. According to IPEDS 2023 data, median tuition ranges from $8,400/year at public universities (in-state) to $28,600/year at private institutions. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement for technology degrees, with 73% of Fortune 500 companies providing educational assistance for employees pursuing relevant online degrees.
Federal financial aid applies to online programs at accredited institutions, with students eligible for Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study programs. The FAFSA application process remains identical for online students, though state-specific aid may have residency requirements. Several states offer grant programs specifically for STEM education that apply to MIS degrees, providing additional funding opportunities for qualified students.
Top 5 Online MIS Programs Analysis
The top five online MIS programs demonstrate consistent excellence across key metrics while offering distinct advantages. Arizona State University leads with a 74% graduation rate and 95% job placement, leveraging its established online learning infrastructure and AACSB accreditation. Penn State World Campus ranks second, offering the same curriculum as the flagship campus with extensive alumni network benefits.
Cost considerations vary significantly among top programs. Georgia Southern University provides exceptional value at $335 per credit hour, while maintaining an . Private institutions like Southern New Hampshire University offer competitive tuition at $398 per credit with comprehensive student support services that contribute to higher completion rates among working adults.
Choose Your Ideal Online MIS Program
- You qualify for in-state tuition rates
- Cost is your primary concern
- You prefer traditional academic structure
- You want the strongest regional alumni network
- You plan to work for government agencies
- You need maximum flexibility in scheduling
- Student support services are crucial
- You want smaller class sizes and personal attention
- Employer tuition reimbursement covers higher costs
- You prefer accelerated degree completion
- You're active duty military or veteran
- You need deployment-compatible scheduling
- You want to maximize military education benefits
- You prefer schools with military student services
- You're interested in government contractor roles
- You have significant IT work experience
- You want to complete the degree quickly
- You prefer project-based over exam-based assessment
- You're self-motivated and disciplined
- You want to demonstrate practical skills to employers
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 454 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
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
Data Sources and Methodology
Official government database providing graduation rates, enrollment, tuition, and institutional characteristics for all accredited colleges and universities.
May 2024 wage data for computer and information technology occupations, including detailed salary information by metropolitan area.
Comprehensive career information including job growth projections, typical education requirements, and work environment details.
Direct contact with university admissions offices, career services departments, and program coordinators to verify job placement rates, student outcomes, and program specifics.
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.