Accounting, Computer and Business Information Systems Careers

As more organizations begin to utilize advanced technology in their day-to-day operations, the need for skilled computer and information systems professionals is on the rise.

 

Computer and information system professionals do everything from helping to develop a business plan to overseeing network security and monitoring Internet operations. Managers within this field are involved in planning and directing technical research and over-seeing all aspects of computer-related activities within a company.

 

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of computer and information systems professionals is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2016.

As the field of information systems continues to grow, so do the number and variety of educational opportunities that will prepare students for information systems careers. Schools, colleges and universities offer a range of certificate and degree programs designed to launch students into successful careers. Information systems graduates will be qualified to work in any number of specialized fields, including:

Certificate programs in information systems can help those seeking an entry-level position get their foot in the door. Experts say you can expect to earn about $46,000 after obtaining a Network Information Systems Certificate. The program provides training for jobs such as:

Generally speaking, the certificate program focuses on understanding network systems, hardware and software. You can expect to spend about one year and $3,000 to $5,000 obtaining the certificate, depending on the institution’s cost-per-credit fees.

At roughly double the cost and amount of time of a certificate program, an associate degree can expand your career possibilities in the information systems field. Coursework often involves computer programming and advanced mathematics. With an associate degree, you will be able to not only analyze data but also to program it yourself.

 

Statistically, the associate degree can yield you a management position starting at about $52,000, annually. Telecommunications and network management are among the fields seeking information systems specialists with an associate degree or higher.

A bachelor’s degree in the information systems field gives you a chance to use technological expertise within other fields, such as business. A Bachelor of Science in Business Security and Assurance, for example, provides graduates with training in computer security for banks and other high-risk industries. A computer information systems career in one of these specialized areas often pays a very lucrative salary.

 

Analysts say that a starting salary for a job requiring a bachelor’s degree in information systems can reach as high as $70,000, if the degree program combines information systems and business.

More competitive than certificate or associate degree programs, institutions offering master’s degrees seek high scorers on GRE or GMAT tests, as well as a strong academic and/or employment history.

 

For individuals interested in pursuing management, information systems master's degrees are typically required. An information systems manager position usually requires the specialized training provided by an advanced degree.

 

A master’s program typically focuses on:

Do you have a program in mind?

Research different schools that offer any of the below programs with the links below.