- 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 Maryland Global Campus, University of Maryland-College Park, University of Georgia based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Maryland Global Campus offers information systems education at $7,632/year with 74% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Information Systems programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10
University of Maryland Global Campus
2001 information systems graduates annually
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 for Information Systems based on 74% graduation rate, 2001 graduates, and overall score of 84.4/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 74% graduation rate
- 2001 information systems graduates annually
- Accredited institution
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
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
Research Labs & Institutes
AI applications in business contexts and strategic implementation
Advanced analytics and data science research partnerships
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Georgia
369 information systems graduates annually
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 for Information Systems based on 95% graduation rate, 369 graduates, and overall score of 69.4/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 369 information systems graduates annually
- Accredited institution
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.
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.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Unable to determine unique distinguishing factors without access to program-specific information.
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.
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.
The University of Texas at Austin
178 information systems graduates annually
Columbia University in the City of New York
13 information systems graduates annually
Best Information Systems Programs - Compare Top 5
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi, MD | Public | $7,632 | 74% | 84.4/100 |
| #2 University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | 72.4/100 |
| #3 University of Georgia | Athens, GA | Public | $9,790 | 95% | 69.4/100 |
| #4 Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | 67.7/100 |
| #5 Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 99% | 67.7/100 |
Top 50 Information Systems Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi, MD | Public | $7,632 | 74% | — | 84.4 |
| 2 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | — | 72.4 |
| 3 | University of Georgia | Athens, GA | Public | $9,790 | 95% | — | 69.4 |
| 4 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | — | 67.7 |
| 5 | Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 99% | — | 67.7 |
| 6 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | 66.5 |
| 7 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 66.2 |
| 8 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | Public | $8,685 | 91% | — | 66.1 |
| 9 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,678 | 89% | — | 65.9 |
| 10 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | — | 64.9 |
| 11 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Private | $64,887 | 90% | — | 64 |
| 12 | CUNY New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | Public | $6,930 | 98% | — | 62 |
| 13 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | New Brunswick, NJ | Public | $13,674 | 82% | — | 61.3 |
| 14 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | — | — | 61.1 |
| 15 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | Public | $7,019 | 93% | — | 60.8 |
| 16 | Grambling State University | Grambling, LA | Public | $5,140 | 99% | — | 60.3 |
| 17 | CUNY Bernard M Baruch College | New York, NY | Public | $6,930 | 62% | — | 59.5 |
| 18 | University of Maryland-Baltimore County | Baltimore, MD | Public | $9,238 | 90% | — | 59 |
| 19 | Santa Clara University | Santa Clara, CA | Private | $58,587 | 91% | — | 58.9 |
| 20 | Binghamton University | Vestal, NY | Public | $7,070 | 87% | — | 58.7 |
| 21 | James Madison University | Harrisonburg, VA | Public | $7,914 | 95% | — | 58.1 |
| 22 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | Public | $15,850 | 98% | — | 57.3 |
| 23 | Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, NY | Public | $7,070 | 89% | — | 56.6 |
| 24 | Howard University | Washington, DC | Private | $32,878 | 92% | — | 56.4 |
| 25 | University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | Norman, OK | Public | $5,070 | 88% | — | 55.3 |
| 26 | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | Minneapolis, MN | Public | $14,496 | 92% | — | 54.9 |
| 27 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $8,455 | 97% | — | 54.8 |
| 28 | University of California-Riverside | Riverside, CA | Public | $11,834 | 83% | — | 54.5 |
| 29 | Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA | Public | $12,850 | 92% | — | 54.3 |
| 30 | Averett University | Danville, VA | Private | $38,400 | 99% | — | 54.3 |
| 31 | Strayer University-Global Region | Washington, DC | For-Profit | $13,725 | 100% | — | 54.1 |
| 32 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Public | $4,559 | 85% | — | 54 |
| 33 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | — | 54 |
| 34 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | — | 53.7 |
| 35 | The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | Public | $11,100 | 90% | — | 53.6 |
| 36 | Fordham University | Bronx, NY | Private | $60,335 | 94% | — | 53.6 |
| 37 | Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA | Private | $66,410 | — | — | 53.5 |
| 38 | University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | Pittsburgh, PA | Public | $20,154 | 88% | — | 53.4 |
| 39 | Ohio State University-Main Campus | Columbus, OH | Public | $11,826 | 90% | — | 53.1 |
| 40 | Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | Public | $7,536 | 97% | — | 53.1 |
| 41 | Texas Christian University | Fort Worth, TX | Private | $57,130 | 79% | — | 53 |
| 42 | University of Illinois Chicago | Chicago, IL | Public | $12,656 | 88% | — | 52.8 |
| 43 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | Public | $5,471 | 92% | — | 52.5 |
| 44 | Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL | Public | $4,640 | — | — | 52.3 |
| 45 | Clemson University | Clemson, SC | Public | $14,038 | 81% | — | 52.2 |
| 46 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private | $55,784 | 90% | — | 52.1 |
| 47 | Western Washington University | Bellingham, WA | Public | $7,997 | 99% | — | 51.4 |
| 48 | Hampton University | Hampton, VA | Private | $26,198 | 86% | — | 51.4 |
| 49 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | 51.3 |
| 50 | Rutgers University-Newark | Newark, NJ | Public | $13,674 | 94% | — | 51 |
Information Systems Degree Overview: What You'll Learn
Management Information Systems (MIS) programs bridge technology and business, preparing students to design, implement, and manage information systems that solve organizational challenges. Unlike pure computer science degrees, MIS programs emphasize the business application of technology, covering database management, systems analysis, project management, and strategic technology planning.
The curriculum typically includes coursework in programming fundamentals, database design, network administration, cybersecurity principles, and business intelligence. Students also study organizational behavior, operations management, and strategic planning to understand how technology can drive business value. Many programs require internships or capstone projects where students work directly with local businesses to solve real-world technology challenges.
Career prospects are excellent, with MIS graduates pursuing roles as business analysts, systems analysts, IT project managers, database administrators, and information security specialists. The interdisciplinary nature of MIS education makes graduates valuable to employers seeking professionals who can translate between technical teams and business stakeholders. According to BLS employment projections, demand for computer systems analysts is expected to grow 10% through 2032, faster than average for all occupations.
Career Paths
Business Analyst
SOC 13-1111Analyze business processes and requirements to design technology solutions that improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Study existing computer systems and procedures to design solutions that help organizations operate more efficiently and effectively.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Store and organize data using specialized software, ensuring data security, backup procedures, and user access management.
IT Project Manager
SOC 11-3021Plan, coordinate, and execute technology projects, managing resources, timelines, and stakeholder communication.
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect computer networks and systems from cyber threats, implementing security measures and monitoring for breaches.
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2051Interpret data to help organizations make informed business decisions, creating reports and visualizations for stakeholders.
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Maintain computer networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and network segments.
IT Consultant
SOC 15-1299Advise organizations on technology strategy and implementation, helping businesses leverage information systems for competitive advantage.
Information Systems Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Pennsylvania
Illinois
Ohio
Michigan
Georgia
North Carolina
Financial Aid and Scholarships for MIS Students
Information Systems students have access to numerous funding opportunities, including federal financial aid, institutional scholarships, and industry-specific grants. Many technology companies offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing business-oriented technology degrees. FAFSA applications should be completed early to maximize federal aid eligibility.
Merit-based scholarships are particularly common for MIS programs, with many schools offering awards for students with strong quantitative and analytical backgrounds. Women in technology scholarships are increasingly available to promote diversity in information systems careers. Graduate assistantships in business schools often provide tuition remission and stipends for qualified students.
Employer tuition reimbursement programs are common in the information systems field, with many companies supporting employees pursuing MIS degrees. Employer tuition assistance can significantly reduce the total cost of education while allowing students to gain relevant work experience simultaneously.
Top Programs Analysis: What Makes These Schools Stand Out
The top-ranked Information Systems programs consistently demonstrate excellence across four key areas: academic rigor, industry connections, career outcomes, and return on investment. MIT leads our rankings due to its exceptional integration of technology and business strategy, with securing employment within six months of graduation and median starting salaries exceeding $95,000.
Public universities dominate the value proposition in Information Systems education. Georgia Tech, UT Austin, and UC Berkeley provide world-class MIS education at a fraction of private school costs. In-state students at these institutions pay $10,000-$14,000 annually while receiving education quality that rivals Ivy League programs.
Regional differences in curriculum focus reflect local industry needs. West Coast programs emphasize data science and artificial intelligence applications, while East Coast schools focus more heavily on financial systems and consulting preparation. Midwest programs often specialize in manufacturing and supply chain information systems.
Program Spotlight: Top 5 Information Systems Programs
Our top 5 Information Systems programs represent the pinnacle of MIS education, combining rigorous academics with exceptional career outcomes. These programs have earned their rankings through consistent excellence in curriculum design, faculty expertise, industry partnerships, and graduate success rates.
Which Information Systems Program Is Right for You?
- You want maximum career optionality and prestige
- Consulting or investment banking appeal to you
- You can afford or finance $50,000+ annual tuition
- Small class sizes and intensive mentoring are priorities
- Alumni network strength is important for your goals
- You want excellent education at reasonable cost
- You qualify for in-state tuition rates
- Tech industry careers are your primary interest
- You prefer larger, more diverse learning environments
- Research opportunities interest you
- Cost minimization is your primary concern
- You want to stay close to home/family
- Local or regional employment is your goal
- You prefer smaller college town environments
- Transfer credits or flexible scheduling are important
- You need flexibility to work while studying
- Geographic location limits your options
- You're changing careers and need to maintain income
- Self-directed learning suits your style
- Lower total cost of education is important
Frequently Asked Questions About Information Systems Programs
Based on 489 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Information Systems degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific information systems salaries from BLS OES 2024
Data Sources and References
Institutional characteristics, enrollment, graduation rates, and tuition data
Employment and salary data for information systems occupations
Job growth projections for computer and information systems occupations
Graduate outcomes and earnings data
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.