Information Systems
Information systems are those systems used to manage and process information about a business in order to support its daily operations. These programs are computerized, and include information about the people, procedures, supplies, customers, and policies that comprise any given company.
An information systems manager supervises the collection, processing, storing, and communication of information via technology for an organization. He or she might work to keep the computer network functioning properly for an entire business, or develop new software to protect the computer systems. He or she might also create new programs to attract new clients, or maintain communication with existing ones. This work all involves the use of technology to meet the business's goals, and to ensure that Internet-based operations run smoothly.
Specializations: Concentrations within information systems degrees include project management, information security, data administration and management, information systems tools, global outsourcing management, wireless systems, electronic commerce, health information systems, and network management. Elective courses can be taken in any of these more specialized areas, while the typical foundation courses offered for a degree in information systems are:
- Strategic Management of Technology
- Accounting and Finance
- Leadership and Organizational Behavior
- Managerial Applications of Information Technology
- Marketing
- Project Management Systems
- Networking Concepts and Applications
- Calculus
- Systems Analysis, Planning and Control
- Principles of Information Security and Privacy
- Database Concepts
- Law and the Legal Environment of Business
- Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
Skills: Virtually every business uses computer technology to organize and promote their business today, so those with a degree in information systems can find work in many different places. Job prospects are currently excellent for people in this field. If you have strong skills combining computer technology and business knowledge, you will find yourself much in demand. An additional understanding of effective leadership and communication skills, mathematics, and excellent attention to detail would make you highly employable.
Careers: Information systems graduates are hired as business analysts, project managers, network and systems administrators, programmer analysts, consultants, technology auditors, and computer training and support personnel. They can also find careers as chief technology officers, information technology directors, and systems analysts.
Salary: These positions tend to be very highly paid. Because those with an information systems degree have a thorough knowledge of business principles and IT, they are highly sought after. Median annual salaries of an information systems manager in 2008 were around $112,210, while the middle 50% of those in this field were paid between $88,240 and $141,890 per year. People working in information systems need to learn new systems and update their technological knowledge constantly in order to stay at the forefront of the industry. They are paid accordingly for this ongoing knowledge acquisition.
Article Resources:
Encyclopedia Britannica
Georgetown University Glossary
Keller University
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Washington State University