- 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 Florida Atlantic University, University of Central Florida, North Carolina A & T State University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: Florida Atlantic University offers information systems education at $2,522/year with 77% graduation rate
- 4.25 accredited Information Systems programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10 Most Affordable
Florida Atlantic University
N/A information systems graduates annually
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 for Information Systems based on 77% graduation rate, strong graduates, and overall score of undefined/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 77% graduation rate
- Accredited institution
University of Central Florida
N/A information systems graduates annually
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 for Information Systems based on 93% graduation rate, strong graduates, and overall score of undefined/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- Accredited institution
North Carolina A & T State University
N/A information systems graduates annually
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 for Information Systems based on 84% graduation rate, strong graduates, and overall score of undefined/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 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.
University of Florida
N/A information systems graduates annually
Georgia Gwinnett College
N/A information systems graduates annually
Indian River State College
N/A information systems graduates annually
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
N/A information systems graduates annually
University of West Florida
N/A information systems graduates annually
Georgia Southern University
N/A information systems graduates annually
Best Information Systems Programs - Compare Top 5 Most Affordable
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | Public | $2,522 | 77% | N/A |
| #2 University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | Public | $4,478 | 93% | N/A |
| #3 North Carolina A & T State University | Greensboro, NC | Public | $3,540 | 84% | N/A |
| #4 University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Public | $4,559 | 85% | N/A |
| #5 University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Public | $4,477 | 95% | N/A |
Top 25 Most Affordable Information Systems Programs 2026
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | $2,522 | 241.4 | 77% |
| 2 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | $4,478 | 187 | 93% |
| 3 | North Carolina A & T State University | Greensboro, NC | $3,540 | 185.5 | 84% |
| 4 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | $4,559 | 184.2 | 85% |
| 5 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | $4,477 | 182.8 | 95% |
| 6 | Georgia Gwinnett College | Lawrenceville, GA | $3,214 | 174.2 | 94% |
| 7 | Indian River State College | Fort Pierce, FL | $2,496 | 173 | 54% |
| 8 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | $3,812 | 162.4 | 76% |
| 9 | University of West Florida | Pensacola, FL | $3,735 | 149.9 | 84% |
| 10 | Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA | $4,371 | 146.6 | 94% |
| 11 | University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL | $3,996 | 146.4 | 82% |
| 12 | Texas A & M International University | Laredo, TX | $3,818 | 139.7 | 82% |
| 13 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA | $4,450 | 139.6 | 66% |
| 14 | University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | Norman, OK | $5,070 | 138.2 | 88% |
| 15 | Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers, FL | $4,191 | 135.6 | 95% |
| 16 | University of North Georgia | Dahlonega, GA | $4,230 | 134.5 | 100% |
| 17 | Grambling State University | Grambling, LA | $5,140 | 129 | 99% |
| 18 | North Carolina Central University | Durham, NC | $3,728 | 125.7 | 87% |
| 19 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | $4,443 | 124.2 | 79% |
| 20 | Oklahoma State University-Main Campus | Stillwater, OK | $5,417 | 121.3 | 83% |
| 21 | Olympic College | Bremerton, WA | $4,197 | 118.6 | 85% |
| 22 | Appalachian State University | Boone, NC | $4,242 | 117.6 | 78% |
| 23 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | $7,019 | 111.4 | 93% |
| 24 | Columbus State University | Columbus, GA | $4,371 | 111.3 | 93% |
| 25 | Binghamton University | Vestal, NY | $7,070 | 102.9 | 87% |
Career Paths
Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Analyze business requirements and design IT solutions to improve organizational efficiency
IT Project Manager
SOC 11-3021Lead technology implementations and coordinate cross-functional teams
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1241Design, implement, and maintain database systems for organizations
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational data and systems from cyber threats
Financial Aid Options for Information Systems Students
Information systems students have access to multiple financial aid sources that can significantly reduce program costs. Federal Pell Grants provide up to $7,395 annually for eligible students and do not require repayment. The Federal Work-Study program offers part-time employment opportunities that allow students to earn money while gaining relevant experience in IT departments.
STEM-specific scholarships are particularly valuable for MIS students. The National Science Foundation offers various scholarship programs for students pursuing technology degrees. Many tech companies, including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, provide scholarship opportunities specifically for students studying information systems and related fields.
State-based financial aid programs can provide additional support for residents. For example, Georgia's HOPE Scholarship covers up to 90% of tuition costs at in-state public universities for students maintaining a 3.0 GPA. Similar merit-based programs exist in Florida, Tennessee, and other states with strong technology sectors.
- Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 annually for eligible students
- Federal Direct Loans: Low-interest loans with flexible repayment options
- STEM scholarships: Industry-sponsored programs for technology students
- State grants: Resident-specific aid programs varying by state
- Work-study programs: Part-time employment in university IT departments
- Employer tuition assistance: Up to $5,250 annually for working students
How to Choose the Right Affordable Information Systems Program
Selecting the most affordable information systems program requires balancing cost with quality and career outcomes. Start by researching programs that hold regional accreditation and specific accreditation from organizations like AACSB or ACBSP. Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and that employers will recognize your degree.
Consider the total cost of attendance beyond tuition. Factor in fees, textbooks, technology requirements, and living expenses. Online programs often provide the lowest total cost by eliminating housing and commuting expenses. However, ensure the program provides adequate student support services and technology resources for distance learners.
Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it covers current industry technologies and practices. Look for programs that include hands-on experience with database management systems, network administration, cybersecurity principles, and business analysis tools. Many affordable programs partner with technology companies to provide students access to enterprise software and certification training.
Research faculty credentials and industry connections. Programs with faculty who have recent industry experience can provide valuable insights into current practices and networking opportunities. Some affordable programs maintain strong relationships with local employers, leading to internship and job placement opportunities for graduates.
Which Affordable Program Type Is Right for You?
- You're self-motivated and disciplined
- You have relevant work experience
- You want to accelerate your studies
- You need maximum flexibility
- You qualify for in-state tuition
- You prefer traditional classroom learning
- You want campus resources and activities
- You're a recent high school graduate
- You want to minimize total costs
- You're unsure about your major
- You need to improve your academic record
- You prefer smaller class sizes initially
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable MIS Programs
Based on 173 programs from IPEDS 2023 (tuition $2K-$35K, 40%+ grad rate, 10+ graduates)
Our Best Value algorithm calculates Value Score = Quality Score / (Tuition / $10,000). This rewards schools delivering quality education at reasonable prices.
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023, weighted at 35% of the Quality Score
Number of Information Systems graduates indicating program resources and faculty (IPEDS 2023)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
R1 research universities receive bonus points for institutional quality
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database of college costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
Employment projections and salary data for information systems occupations
Educational statistics and institutional data
Information about federal financial aid programs and eligibility
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.