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management information systems

The Management Information Systems (MIS) major provides students with an understanding of the technical areas of modern corporate information systems and communication systems, and an understanding of business requirements for day-to-day transaction support and management decision support. MIS graduates, like all our business graduates, will possess general business knowledge and should be qualified for most entry-level positions in business. Within the MIS specialty, they may be employed as database administrators in training, network administrators in training, information center technologists, or possibly as programmers. In a small company, the graduate might have sole responsibility for administration of the database or network. Large corporations often maintain a staff of information center technologists who assist other employees by showing them new data evaluation techniques and methods, and by providing help and assistance in the use of the corporate information system. These larger companies would hire MIS graduates to work in this capacity.

This program is available in the day and in the evening. Check sheets are used to summarize progress in the program.

Why Study Management Information Systems?

  1. In 2003, the U.S. Department of Labor ranks computer related occupations high, and in some categories, first among the fastest growing occupations. Their Web site states that "Employers prefer managers with advanced technical knowledge acquired through computer-related work experience and formal education."
  2. An occupation in information technology offers long-term security because it will never be out of style. The need for accurate and relevant information will only increase. Information today and tomorrow means computerized information. Every aspect of business in the "New Economy" requires computer information systems.
  3. You will enjoy a challenging career that is always at the cutting edge.
  4. Some examples of specific occupations in the technology area are:
    1. Computer systems analysts - one of the fastest growing occupations.
    2. Database administrators - also one of the fastest growing occupations.
    3. Network manager - every company is looking for talent in this area.
    4. Customer relations manager and support personnel - these positions are very "person oriented" and in great demand.
  5. Learn how to integrate the Internet into business. E-commerce web sites, including business to business, business to consumer and business to government e-commerce systems, are all driven by the Internet. With the new faster Internet access plans available to more and more consumers this area of business is sure to grow. (See Internet Indicators web site listed below.)
  6. MIS majors may take a second major and enjoy the opportunity of working in nearly any business area.
  7. If you're good, the pay is good; if you're very good, the pay is VERY good.
  8. Enjoy variety. Work with people if you like; work independently if you like.  Enjoy self expression as you create computer solutions to all kinds of business problems. You may work primarily with technology if you prefer or primarily with people, or a good mixture of both.
  9. Enjoy rapid advancement as long as you keep your skills current.
  10. Win friends and influence people. Everyone needs a friend who can help them with their computer problems!

SOME GOOD WEBSITES FOR MANAGEMENT TYPES:

  1. CEO Express is a great source for current news from business newspapers and magazines, as well as specific information about particular companies or industries;
  2. The Wall Street Journal provides wonderful resources—even if you don’t subscribe to The Wall Street Journal. Students can click on 'Other Journal Sites' at the left of the homepage and view items such as 'Career Journal,' which can take you to 'European Careers,' 'Asian Careers,' 'Starting a Business,' etc.;
  3. The Briefings Publishing Group is another good source for info on what it’s like to be a manager, as well as tips on getting a job—and moving up the ladder. Click on “Working with People” or “Advice for Managers” at the top of the page
  4. More Business is a must if you’re interested in starting your own business, or working in a small business;
  5. Dilbert is for when you need to lighten-up. Here, you’ll find Dilbert’s more humorous view of managers and the business world. Be sure to click on “Site Map” at the top of the page, and then click on “Scott Adam’s Bio.” Scott Adams, creator of the Dilbert comic strip, is a great example of a successful entrepreneur and small business manager! Also, click on “Dilbert Archives” for a whole month of Dilbert cartoons.

Here are some web sites which may prove interesting:

MIS Web (Management Information Systems - Industry News).

Internet Indicators (facts and figures).

Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility (social impact).

Association for Computing Machinery (student membership).

Computer.org (technical and career resources).

US Department of Labor (occupational outlook -- for Systems Analysts, Computer Scientists, and Database Administrators).

US Department of Labor (occupational outlook -- for Engineering and Natural Science Managers).

US Department of Labor (occupational outlook -- for Computer and Information Systems Managers).

Fastest growing occupations through 2010.

 

 


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