- 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
Program Overview
Florida Atlantic University provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $2,522 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 77% graduation rate.
Hakia Insight: Florida Atlantic University graduates earn $72,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Big data and predictive analytics
ERP and supply chain systems
Information security and risk management
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
IBM, Citrix, NextEra Energy, Spirit Airlines
Certifications & Designations
University of Central Florida
UCF's Collegiate Cybersecurity Competition team, Hack@UCF, won 3 back-to-back championships in the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, and UCF grads make up 27% of Lockheed Martin employees in Orlando.
Program Overview
University of Central Florida provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $4,478 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 93% graduation rate.
Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida graduates earn $93,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
L3Harris Technologies, Siemens, HD Supply, Lockheed Martin
Admissions
North Carolina A & T State University
Few programs have expertise in mainframe administration and computer networking areas, with focus on mainframe education due to the department's acquisition of a z9 Enterprise system and the scarcity of mainframe education programs nationally.
Program Overview
North Carolina A & T State University provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $3,540 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 84% graduation rate.
Hakia Insight: North Carolina A & T State University's partnerships with IBM and John Deere translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
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 provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $4,559 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 85% graduation rate.
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.
Cost Breakdown
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
Career Outcomes
Citigroup, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase
Admissions
University of Florida
The program explores how and where technology supports organizations, combining business core knowledge with hands-on analytics and AI training, and emphasizes real-world applications through systems analysis, design and development.
Program Overview
University of Florida provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $4,477 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 95% graduation rate.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
JPMorganChase
Admissions
Georgia Gwinnett College
Georgia Gwinnett College's information systems programs emphasize competency-based learning and strong regional industry partnerships with Atlanta-area technology employers.
Program Overview
Georgia Gwinnett College provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $3,214 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 94% graduation rate. Atlanta metro tech corridor
Hakia Insight: Georgia Gwinnett College's partnerships with Amazon Web Services and Cisco translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Atlanta metro tech corridor
- •Proximity to Fortune 500 companies with major IT operations
- •Access to growing cybersecurity and cloud infrastructure markets
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Indian River State College
Offers academic and research training opportunities at the Cyber Center of Excellence with professors who are experts in cyber security, network engineering and secure web development
Program Overview
Indian River State College provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $2,496 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 54% graduation rate.
Hakia Insight: Indian River State College's partnerships with AT&T and Comcast translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
cyber security research and training
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
AT&T, Comcast, Florida Power & Light, Pratt & Whitney, U.S. Sugar
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Offers eight distinct concentrations including Advanced Data and Knowledge Discovery, Design, Emerging Technologies, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Security and Privacy, Information Technology Management, Software Systems Design and Engineering, and Web Development
Program Overview
University of North Carolina at Charlotte provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $3,812 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 76% graduation rate.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
cybersecurity and network defense
systems research
Admissions
University of West Florida
N/A information systems graduates annually
Program Overview
University of West Florida provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $3,735 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 84% graduation rate.
Hakia Insight: University of West Florida graduates earn $95,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Information security and risk management
Advanced analytics and data science
Enterprise modernization and cloud computing
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Navy Federal Credit Union, Eglin Air Force Base, Sacred Heart Health System, Pensacola Energy
Certifications & Designations
Georgia Southern University
One of the best returns on investment from any program at Georgia Southern with a median salary of $64,100 one year post-graduation, focusing on business aspects of systems without requiring advanced math or coding skills
Program Overview
Georgia Southern University provides budget-friendly Information Systems education at $4,371 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 94% graduation rate.
Hakia Insight: Georgia Southern University's partnerships with KPMG and Textron translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
KPMG, Accenture, Deloitte, General Motors, BMW
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Best Information Systems Programs - Top 10 Most Affordable — Complete Program Data
#1. Florida Atlantic University
Location: Boca Raton, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,522/year | Graduation Rate: 77%
Hakia Insight: Florida Atlantic University graduates earn $72,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.
Program Overview: FAU's Information Systems program combines technical expertise with business strategy, focusing on enterprise systems, data analytics, and digital transformation. Students learn to design, implement, and manage complex information systems in modern organizations.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Business Administration - Management Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: Business Intelligence and Analytics Lab - Big data and predictive analytics; Enterprise Systems Lab - ERP and supply chain systems; Cybersecurity Research Lab - Information security and risk management
Industry Partners: IBM, Microsoft, Citrix, NextEra Energy
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: IBM, Citrix, NextEra Energy, Spirit Airlines | Common Roles: Business Analyst, Systems Analyst, IT Project Manager, Data Analyst
Admissions:
Accreditations: PMP, CISSP, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, Tableau Desktop Specialist
#2. University of Central Florida
Location: Orlando, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,478/year | Graduation Rate: 93%
What makes University of Central Florida stand out: UCF's Collegiate Cybersecurity Competition team, Hack@UCF, won 3 back-to-back championships in the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, and UCF grads make up 27% of Lockheed Martin employees in Orlando.
Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida graduates earn $93,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.
Program Overview: UCF's Information Technology program prepares students to drive efficiency and productivity throughout businesses by providing better service and value. Students gain understanding about maintaining computer equipment and software, as well as skills to improve business processes and innovative ways to use information resources to serve customers.
Degree Programs: BS (4 years)
Industry Partners: L3Harris Technologies, Siemens, HD Supply, Lockheed Martin
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: L3Harris Technologies, Siemens, HD Supply, Lockheed Martin | Common Roles: Computer Network Operator, Information Security Analyst, IT Professional, Network Administrator, Support Technician, System Administrator, Web Designer
Notable Faculty: Dr. Yu Tian (AI and Imaging)
Admissions:
#3. North Carolina A & T State University
Location: Greensboro, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,540/year | Graduation Rate: 84%
What makes North Carolina A & T State University stand out: Few programs have expertise in mainframe administration and computer networking areas, with focus on mainframe education due to the department's acquisition of a z9 Enterprise system and the scarcity of mainframe education programs nationally.
Hakia Insight: North Carolina A & T State University's partnerships with IBM and John Deere translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: The Information Technology program is housed in the Department of Computer Systems Technology with a niche in mainframe administration and computer networking. Students study computer networking, software and hardware support, disk storage technology, mainframe system administration, network security, information management, mobile computing, and other computer-based systems.
Degree Programs: BS Information Technology; BS Information Technology; MS Information Technology
Industry Partners: IBM, John Deere, First Citizens, USAA, BB&T, Bank of America, Market America, Fidelity Investment, Verizon, RedHat, Cisco Systems, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Viacom, Chevron
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Networking Engineer, Computer Systems Analyst, Computer Programmer, Computer Support Specialist, Computer System Administrator, Mainframe System Administration, Information Security Analysts, Software Developers, Web Developers, Cloud Architect, Computer Forensic Investigator, Computer Networking Specialist, High-Performance Computing Specialist, IT Consultant, Mobile Application Developer
Notable Faculty: Dr. Evelyn R. Sowells-Boone (Department Chair); Dr. Li-Shiang Tsay (Program Coordinator)
Admissions:
#4. University of South Florida
Location: Tampa, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,559/year | Graduation Rate: 85%
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
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Citigroup, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase | Common Roles: Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Business Analyst, Consultant, Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, Project Manager
Notable Faculty: Markum Reed (Director, BAIS Program, School of Information Systems)
Admissions:
#5. University of Florida
Location: Gainesville, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,477/year | Graduation Rate: 95%
What makes University of Florida stand out: The program explores how and where technology supports organizations, combining business core knowledge with hands-on analytics and AI training, and emphasizes real-world applications through systems analysis, design and development.
Program Overview: The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration–Information Systems (BSBA-IST) degree program provides a broad overview of the functional areas of business with an emphasis in information systems. Students take foundation courses in economics, mathematics, computing skills, and accounting; core courses that relate to the basic functions of business, such as finance, management, marketing, and operations management; and major courses that focus on the computing, quantitative, and application skills that are vital to a business problem-solving setting.
Degree Programs: BSBA (4 years)
Industry Partners: JPMorganChase
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: JPMorganChase | Common Roles: decision support specialists, information systems specialists, systems analysts
Admissions:
#6. Georgia Gwinnett College
Location: Lawrenceville, GA | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,214/year | Graduation Rate: 94%
What makes Georgia Gwinnett College stand out: Georgia Gwinnett College's information systems programs emphasize competency-based learning and strong regional industry partnerships with Atlanta-area technology employers.
Hakia Insight: Georgia Gwinnett College's partnerships with Amazon Web Services and Cisco translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: Georgia Gwinnett's information systems program reflects the institution's commitment to accessible, career-focused education that serves a diverse student population in metro Atlanta, one of the nation's fastest-growing tech markets. The program design prioritizes flexibility and affordability while maintaining academic rigor, offering multiple pathways for students with different backgrounds and circumstances. Curriculum combines fundamental IS concepts—infrastructure, databases, security, systems analysis—with practical skills directly applicable in Atlanta's robust technology sector, including positions with major tech employers, financial institutions, and growing startups. The college's location in Gwinnett County places students near thousands of employers actively recruiting IT talent, creating abundant internship and job placement opportunities. The program benefits from responsive curriculum development that adapts to regional industry needs, ensuring graduates possess skills employers actively seek. Small to moderate class sizes enable faculty to provide meaningful advising and mentorship, particularly valuable for first-generation and non-traditional students. Many graduates transition directly into IT roles at companies headquartered or operating in the region, building careers without relocating. The program emphasizes both technical competency and professional development, preparing students for entry-level positions with growth potential. For students seeking quality IS education with manageable cost and strong local employment prospects, Georgia Gwinnett provides a practical, regionally-connected option.
Degree Programs: BS in Information Systems - Cybersecurity concentration (4 years); BS in Information Systems - Cloud Infrastructure concentration (4 years); BS in Information Systems - Business Systems concentration (4 years)
Industry Partners: Amazon Web Services, Cisco
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#7. Indian River State College
Location: Fort Pierce, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,496/year | Graduation Rate: 54%
What makes Indian River State College stand out: Offers academic and research training opportunities at the Cyber Center of Excellence with professors who are experts in cyber security, network engineering and secure web development
Hakia Insight: Indian River State College's partnerships with AT&T and Comcast translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: Indian River State College offers comprehensive computer information technology programs focusing on cyber security, web development, and IT support. The programs provide technical and management skills for careers in the rapidly growing IT industry.
Degree Programs: Associate in Science in Computer Information Technology (2 years); Associate in Arts - Computer Information Technology track (2 years); Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management and Cyber Security (4 years)
Research Labs: Cyber Center of Excellence - cyber security research and training
Industry Partners: AT&T, Comcast, Florida Power & Light, Pratt & Whitney, U.S. Sugar, Northrop Grumman, Boeing
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: AT&T, Comcast, Florida Power & Light, Pratt & Whitney, U.S. Sugar, Northrop Grumman, Boeing | Common Roles: IT Support, Cyber Security, Web Development, Computer Information Data Specialist, Help Desk Support Technician, Information Technology Support Specialist, Computer Programming Specialist
Admissions:
Accreditations: A+ Certification
#8. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Location: Charlotte, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,812/year | Graduation Rate: 76%
What makes University of North Carolina at Charlotte stand out: Offers eight distinct concentrations including Advanced Data and Knowledge Discovery, Design, Emerging Technologies, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Security and Privacy, Information Technology Management, Software Systems Design and Engineering, and Web Development
Program Overview: The M.S. in Information Technology program provides advanced skills and knowledge to plan, design, implement, evaluate, deploy, maintain and manage technology applications and systems. Students learn to solve practical challenges common to business, industry and government organizations through various specialized concentrations.
Degree Programs: M.S.
Research Labs: Cyber Defense and Network Assurability Research Center - cybersecurity and network defense; Complex Adaptive Systems - systems research
Notable Faculty: Dr. Heather Lipford (Program Director)
Admissions:
#9. University of West Florida
Location: Pensacola, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,735/year | Graduation Rate: 84%
Hakia Insight: University of West Florida graduates earn $95,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information systems curriculum.
Program Overview: UWF's Master's in Information Systems program provides advanced knowledge in enterprise architecture, strategic IT management, and emerging technologies. The program is designed for working professionals seeking leadership roles in information technology and business.
Degree Programs: Master of Science - Management Information Systems (2 years)
Research Labs: Center for Cybersecurity - Information security and risk management; Business Intelligence Research Center - Advanced analytics and data science; Digital Transformation Lab - Enterprise modernization and cloud computing
Industry Partners: Navy Federal Credit Union, Eglin Air Force Base, Sacred Heart Health System, AppRiver
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Navy Federal Credit Union, Eglin Air Force Base, Sacred Heart Health System, Pensacola Energy | Common Roles: IT Director, Senior Business Analyst, Enterprise Architect, IT Consultant
Admissions:
Accreditations: PMP, CISSP, TOGAF, AWS Cloud Practitioner
#10. Georgia Southern University
Location: Statesboro, GA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,371/year | Graduation Rate: 94%
What makes Georgia Southern University stand out: One of the best returns on investment from any program at Georgia Southern with a median salary of $64,100 one year post-graduation, focusing on business aspects of systems without requiring advanced math or coding skills
Hakia Insight: Georgia Southern University's partnerships with KPMG and Textron translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: The Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Systems at Georgia Southern prepares students to navigate the ever-changing technological landscape of modern business with an emphasis on system-wide expertise. The program focuses on the business aspects of systems without the need for advanced math or coding skills.
Degree Programs: BBA (4 years)
Industry Partners: KPMG, Textron, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Accenture, Deloitte, General Motors, BMW, IBM, Amazon Web Services, Apple, Aflac, Georgia Ports Authority
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: KPMG, Accenture, Deloitte, General Motors, BMW, IBM, Amazon Web Services, Apple | Common Roles: Computer and Information Systems Manager, Business Analyst, Data Scientist, Enterprise Systems Manager, Chief Executive Officer, Project Manager, Consultant
Admissions:
Accreditations: AACSB
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% |
True Cost Breakdown
The true cost of a Information Systems degree extends beyond tuition. Understanding total cost of attendance helps you budget accurately and compare programs fairly. According to College Board, non-tuition expenses add $12,000-$25,000 annually to degree costs.
Full Cost Breakdown:
- Tuition — $3,000-$15,000/year (in-state public) vs $30,000-$60,000/year (private)
- Fees — $500-$3,000/year (technology, activity, health fees)
- Books/Supplies — $500-$1,500/year; e-textbooks and open resources reduce costs
- Housing — $8,000-$15,000/year; off-campus often cheaper than dorms
- Food — $3,000-$5,000/year; meal plans vs. cooking varies widely
- Transportation — $1,000-$3,000/year; car-free campuses save significantly
- Personal/Misc — $2,000-$4,000/year; includes phone, entertainment, supplies
Cost-Saving Strategy: Use each school's Net Price Calculator for personalized estimates including financial aid. Sticker price rarely reflects actual cost.
In-State Tuition Strategies
Establishing in-state residency can reduce Information Systems degree costs by $40,000-$80,000 over four years. Each state has different requirements, but most allow residency establishment within 12 months.
Common Residency Requirements:
- Physical presence — 12 consecutive months living in state before enrollment
- Intent to remain — Driver's license, voter registration, vehicle registration in state
- Financial independence — If under 24, may need parents to establish residency too
- Employment — Some states require working in-state during residency year
Gap Year Strategy: Work in your target state for a year before starting college. You'll earn money, establish residency, and save tens of thousands on tuition. Many tech hubs (Austin, Seattle, Denver) offer good entry-level tech jobs.
Regional Agreements: Some states offer reduced tuition through compacts like WUE (Western Undergraduate Exchange) or MSEP (Midwest Student Exchange)—typically 150% of in-state tuition.
Save with Transfer Credits
Starting at a community college before transferring can reduce Information Systems degree costs by $20,000-$40,000. According to Community College Research Center, transfer students who complete associate's degrees before transferring achieve similar graduation rates to direct admits at four-year schools.
Transfer Pathway Strategy:
- Complete 60+ credits at community college (~$8,000-$15,000 total)
- Target transfer agreements — Many states guarantee admission to public universities for CC graduates
- Focus on transferable courses — General education and intro CS courses transfer most reliably
- Maintain 3.5+ GPA — Transfer admission is often more competitive than freshman admission
Transfer-Friendly Universities:
- UC System — TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) with CA community colleges
- UT Austin — CAP program guarantees transfer after one year at other UT campuses
- Arizona State — MAPP agreements with Maricopa Community Colleges
- Many state schools — 2+2 articulation agreements guarantee credit transfer
Graduate Debt-Free Strategies
Graduating debt-free from a Information Systems program is achievable with strategic planning. According to TICAS, 30% of bachelor's graduates complete their degrees without student loans. Here's how to join them.
Debt-Free Strategies:
- Community college start — Complete 2 years for ~$7,000 vs $30,000+ at 4-year schools
- Work part-time — 15-20 hours/week at $15-20/hour covers living expenses; campus IT jobs are ideal
- Employer tuition programs — Companies like Starbucks, Amazon, and Target offer full tuition coverage
- AmeriCorps/Peace Corps — Earn $6,500+ education award per year of service
- Tuition payment plans — Interest-free monthly payments avoid loans for manageable amounts
Income While in School:
- Paid internships — ${programName} interns earn $4,000-$8,000/month in summer
- Freelance work — Web development, tutoring, or technical writing at $25-75/hour
- Teaching/tutoring — Campus tutoring centers pay $12-20/hour
- Research positions — $15-25/hour working with faculty
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
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)
Ranking Factors
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
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.
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.