Information Systems Degrees

Try to imagine--or, if you date back to the '70s, try to remember--how we would function, personally or professionally, without the use of computer technology. Today, whether we're emailing a friend photos from a vacation or transmitting payroll information for a company of 10,000 employees, we have the expectation that the stroke of a key or click of a mouse will deliver our information in an instant and without complications.

Ensuring a seamless, trouble-free flow of data has become as vital to business as having electricity in the office, or having the right people in place there. For information technology (IT) professionals--the workers responsible for that flow of data--the path to a fulfilling career often starts with an information systems degree.

The role information systems degree holders

Individuals with an information systems degree are most often well-versed in IT and software solutions, have an understanding of business practices and are able to explain highly technical information in a way that can be easily understood by those without expertise in the field. Additionally, these professionals often need to be willing to spend long hours in an office setting. In fact, in 2008 the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that about 25 percent of computer and information systems managers worked more than 50 hours per week.

What are they doing during this time? The primary responsibilities of the majority of those employed in the field of information systems is to maintain, upgrade and ensure the security of a company's computer networks. They are also charged with the task of anticipating the technological needs of an organization from an operational and strategic perspective to ensure equipment remains relevant and secure.

What to expect when completing information systems training

The simplest information systems degree plans prepare students for general positions such as IT help desk staff or network administration. Two-year associate degree programs give students a thorough knowledge of information systems, including technical knowledge about their design and that of database and Web systems; hands-on practice using contemporary technology to create, organize, store and transmit information; essential communications, interpersonal and group interaction skills; and an introduction to business skills and roles.

While pursuing a four-year information systems degree, most students can expect to complete coursework in the following:

Computer science, programming and engineering
Math and statistics
English
Communications

Four-year programs also usually offer a chance to specialize or major in a particular aspect of IT such as network configuration and management, database management, enterprise computing, information security, or software or game design. For those striving for a master's degree, which the BLS reports is preferred by many employers, classes covering systems analysis, integration and security as well as business topics such as accounting and marketing are likely to be part of the curriculum.

Whether learning is achieved via a traditional classroom-based course of study or via online information systems degree programs, students will need access to the hardware and software required by instructors. If attending classes on campus, the institution's technology will most likely be available for use. However, if students are learning from a distance, they should ensure they have the equipment necessary to properly complete assignments.

After information systems training

Many graduates who earn an information systems degree--often at a bachelor's or master's level and bolstered by professional or vendor certifications--pursue employment as computer and information systems managers. The BLS reports that, as of May 2010, the mean annual wage of these managers was $123,280. Many work in computer systems design, software publishing, the insurance industry and at enterprise businesses and educational institutions. In fact, BLS expects the employment of computer and information systems managers to grow 17 percent over the decade 2008 to 2018--this is faster than the average for all occupations.