Best Value Information Systems Programs 2026

Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10 Best Value — Complete Program Data

1. #1. University of Maryland Global Campus

   Location: Adelphi, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,632/year | Graduation Rate: 74% | Score: 84.4

   What makes University of Maryland Global Campus stand out: UMGC's fully online IS program is purpose-built for working professionals, delivering immediately applicable systems skills while accommodating full-time employment, with particular strength in federal and healthcare IT pathways.

   Hakia Insight: University of Maryland Global Campus's partnerships with U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. General Services Administration translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.

   Program Overview: UMGC's information systems degree is engineered for working professionals and non-traditional students, with a curriculum design that assumes you're applying new concepts on Monday morning at your current job—this creates both a different learning culture and different outcomes than campus-based programs. The program is entirely online with flexible scheduling, allowing students to maintain full-time employment while completing the degree in 3-4 years. The IS curriculum emphasizes immediately applicable skills: database administration, network management, systems analysis, cybersecurity fundamentals, and enterprise technologies that appear regularly on job postings. You'll encounter cohorts of classmates working in federal IT, healthcare systems, defense contractors, and corporate IT operations—meaning class discussions draw from current workplace challenges and solutions already in practice. Faculty include experienced IT practitioners who teach part-time, creating a practical orientation where theory connects visibly to industry standards and certifications. The degree appeals particularly to military-connected students and federal employees who can access tuition benefits, as well as to incumbent IT professionals seeking credentials to advance from support roles into analyst or management tracks. Graduates typically advance within their current organization or move into higher-responsibility positions at similar institutions, with strong outcomes in government IT and healthcare IT specifically.

   Degree Programs: BS in Information Systems (4 years); MS in Information Systems Management (2 years)

   Industry Partners: U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. General Services Administration

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Federal government agencies, Healthcare systems, Defense contractors | Common Roles: Systems Administrator, Business Systems Analyst, IT Operations Manager

   Admissions:

2. #2. University of Maryland-College Park

   Location: College Park, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,889/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 72.4

   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

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Booz Allen Hamilton, Microsoft | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Systems Engineer, Research Engineer

   Admissions: GPA: 3.5 average admitted GPA

   Accreditations: ABET accredited

3. #3. University of Georgia

   Location: Athens, GA | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,790/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 69.4

   What makes University of Georgia stand out: MIS graduates rank high in career satisfaction because the degree prepares students for some of the best jobs in America and six of the highest paying jobs in Georgia, with the PhD program consistently ranked among the best such programs worldwide.

   Hakia Insight: University of Georgia's partnerships with Microsoft and Apple translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.

   Program Overview: The Management Information Systems program at UGA's Terry College of Business is a hands-on major that equips students with real-world skills highly sought after in the job market. The program prepares students to inspire IT-enabled change at organizations and pursue leadership positions in corporate and academic settings.

   Degree Programs: BBA in Management Information Systems (4 years); Master of Business & Technology; PhD in Management Information Systems (4 years)

   Industry Partners: EY, GE, GM, Microsoft, Apple, Chick-fil-A, KPMG, Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, State Farm

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: EY, GE, GM, Microsoft, Apple, Chick-fil-A, KPMG, Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, State Farm | Common Roles: Consultant (IT/Business), Business Process Analyst, Data Analyst, App Developer, Risk & Security Specialist, Energy Informatics Analyst, Cloud Engineer, Cloud Architect, Information Security Analyst

   Admissions:

4. #4. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

   Location: University Park, PA | Type: Public | Tuition: $19,672/year | Graduation Rate: 87% | Score: 67.7

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

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

   Industry Partners: Deloitte, KPMG, Oracle, ServiceNow

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: manufacturing companies, service companies, technology companies, merchandising companies, third-party logistics providers, consulting firms, government agencies | Common Roles: IT Consultant, Data Analyst, Applications Developer, Information Security Specialist

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

5. #5. Syracuse University

   Location: Syracuse, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $61,310/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 67.7

   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 graduates earn $80,243, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.

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

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

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

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

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Microsoft, Amazon, Disney, KPMG, Accenture Federal Services | Common Roles: IT Manager, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Analyst, Cybersecurity Analyst, Information Security Manager, IT Consultant, Systems Analyst, Software Project Manager, Enterprise Architect

   Notable Faculty: Mike Fudge (cloud, data, and human-centered design); Scott Bernard (IT strategy and technology); Jeffrey Saltz (data and AI)

   Admissions: GPA: Bachelor's degree required

   Accreditations: Middle States Commission on Higher Education Accreditation, STEM designation

6. #6. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

   Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $17,977/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 66.5

   What makes University of Michigan-Ann Arbor stand out: Unable to determine unique distinguishing factors without access to program-specific information.

   Hakia Insight: University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's partnerships with Google and Microsoft translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.

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

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

   Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Meta

   Career Outcomes:

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: ABET accredited

7. #7. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

   Location: Champaign, IL | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,768/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 66.2

   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 graduates earn $77,189, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.

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

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

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

   Industry Partners: Epic Systems, Deloitte, PwC, Amazon

   Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: User Experience (UX) design, Big data management, Cyber risk analysis and consulting, Technology development, Management consulting, Investment banking, Finance technology

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

8. #8. University of Houston

   Location: Houston, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,685/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Score: 66.1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   Notable Faculty: Omprakash Gnawali (Computer networks and systems)

   Admissions: GPA: 3.45 average undergraduate GPA of admitted students

   Accreditations: ABET accredited

9. #9. The University of Texas at Austin

   Location: Austin, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,678/year | Graduation Rate: 89% | Score: 65.9

   What makes The University of Texas at Austin stand out: Attracts students from diverse undergraduate backgrounds including business, psychology, anthropology, engineering, art history, music, and architecture, offering flexible curriculum with endorsement specializations and dual degree options

   Hakia Insight: Austin technology hub

   Program Overview: The University of Texas at Austin offers information systems programs through both the Red McCombs School of Business (Management Information Systems BBA) and the iSchool (Master of Science in Information Studies). The MSIS program is an interdisciplinary professional program that provides tools to study, manage, and innovate information systems in the digital age.

   Degree Programs: BBA Management Information Systems; MS Information Studies (MSIS); PhD in Information Studies

   Industry Partners: Amazon

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon | Common Roles: UX Designer

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: CRA, CRM

10. #10. Columbia University in the City of New York

    Location: New York, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,526/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 64.9

    What makes Columbia University in the City of New York stand out: Features accomplished executives from C-suites of major organizations as faculty, real-world Capstone Projects solving business challenges with technology, and access to Columbia University's Ivy League resources and global alumni network.

    Hakia Insight: Columbia University in the City of New York's Computer Graphics Lab and Computer Vision Lab position students at the forefront of information systems research.

    Program Overview: Columbia University offers technology management and information science programs through different schools. The School of Professional Studies provides an M.S. in Technology Management for technology professionals and recent graduates seeking strategic and tactical skills to drive organizational performance through technology leadership.

    Degree Programs: MS (3 semesters); MS (6 semesters); MS

    Research Labs: Computer Graphics Lab - computer graphics; Computer Vision Lab - computer vision; Databases and Digital Libraries Lab - databases and digital libraries; Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery Lab - data mining and knowledge discovery; Distributed Systems Lab - distributed systems; Mobile and Wearable Computing Lab - mobile and wearable computing; Natural Language Processing Lab - natural language processing; Networking Lab - networking; Robotics Lab - robotics; User Interfaces Lab - user interfaces

    Career Outcomes:

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Jae Woo Lee (Computer Science - Director of Undergraduate Studies)

    Admissions: