What Are Popular Careers in Management Information Systems (MIS)?

<h2 id="section---MISDegreeOverview">MIS Degree Overview</h2> <p>Management information systems (MIS) focuses on people, technology, and business and how they interact. An MIS degree program provides training on how to utilize information and communication technology to improve productivity, enhance the quality of products and services, and refine the overall efficiency of business operations. Students can expect to learn different types of information systems as they complete their coursework. Apart from technical knowledge, an MIS program also aims to develop skills in project management, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and customer service. </p> <h2 id="section---MISCareerPaths">MIS Career Paths</h2> <p>Graduates can pursue MIS opportunities in businesses, tech companies, IT consultancy firms, and government agencies. Common MIS degree jobs include database administrator, web developer, business analyst, systems developer, and technical support personnel. </p> <h3 id="section---DatabaseAdministrator">Database Administrator</h3> <p>Database administrators (DBAs) are responsible for storing and securing organizational data. They make sure that databases and systems are running smoothly and accessible to users while putting security measures in place to protect data from unauthorized access. <a href="https://learn.org/articles/How_Do_I_Become_a_Certified_Database_Administrator.html">DBAs usually obtain a certification</a> for the specialized software they use. Some DBAs specialize as system administrators and work on the physical and technical features of a database. Others focus on application administration; they manage a database that is tailored for a particular application. </p> <h3 id="section---WebDeveloper">Web Developer</h3> <p>The work of a web developer mainly involves creating, designing, and maintaining websites. Web developers write code using various programming languages, create applications that fit the requirements of the site, and monitor the site's capacity and performance. Some web developers focus on the back-end work, which refers to the technical framework of the site, while others specialize in front-end web development, which is about the look of the website, including the layout, graphics, and applications. Meanwhile, webmasters are developers that maintain the site and make sure that it is updated and free from errors. </p> <h3 id="section---NetworkAdministrator">Network Administrator</h3> <p>Network administrators are in charge of installing and monitoring a company's computer systems, including intranets, local area networks, and wide area networks. They make sure that systems are secure and that network hardware such as servers and desktop computers are working properly. They are also responsible for conducting network upgrades and repairs. Just like DBAs, <a href="https://learn.org/articles/How_Do_I_Become_a_Certified_Network_Administrator.html">network administrators can earn certifications</a> for specific hardware or software products. </p> <h3 id="section---BusinessAnalyst">Business Analyst</h3> <p>Business analysts are focused on utilizing technology to improve business operations and meet the goals of the company. They evaluate IT systems and technical processes, make recommendations on how to increase productivity and efficiency, and oversee the implementation of new information systems. They also communicate with management how process changes can affect the objectives and performance of the organization. </p> <h3 id="section---TechnicalSupportSpecialist">Technical Support Specialist</h3> <p>Technical support specialists help customers understand and use a product or service. They troubleshoot technical problems, test products and systems for errors, and conduct upgrades and repairs when needed. Aside from knowledge of programming and user interface, technical support roles require excellent communication and problem-solving skills as well as the ability to multitask. </p> <h2 id="section---MISCareerOutlook">MIS Career Outlook</h2> <p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information technology occupations, which include management information systems jobs, are expected to grow 13 percent from 2020 to 2030. This amounts to about 546,200 new jobs, with particular demand in the areas of big data management, information security, and cloud computing. The median annual wage for computer and IT jobs was $91,250 as of May 2020, according to BLS data. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Projected Job Growth for Computer and Information Technology Occupations (2020-2030)*</b></td><td>13 percent</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Median Annual Salary for Computer and Information Technology Occupations (May 2020)*</b></td><td>$91,250</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i></p>