Updated June 3, 2026

The 20 Best Online MBA in Management Information Systems

Be the go-to expert in running a company's Management Information Systems! Earn an online MBA in MIS today from the top graduate schools!

20 programs ranked AACSB-focused By Staff Editor Reviewed by David Krug

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By the numbers

How the programs compare

Pulled from each program's published details. A blank simply means the school didn't list that figure.

Time to completemonths, full-time
St. Cloud State University10 mo
Lamar University12 mo
University of North Carolina Wilmington12 mo
Emporia State University12 mo
University of Illinois Springfield12 mo
University of Massachusetts Lowell12 mo
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville12 mo
University of Delaware16 mo
University of Pittsburgh21 mo
Florida Atlantic University23 mo
University of Maryland24 mo
Auburn University31 mo
Credit hourscredits to finish
Lamar University30
St. Cloud State University30
Emporia State University33
New Jersey Institute of Technology36
University of North Carolina Wilmington36
University of Houston Clear Lake36
Shippensburg University36
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville36
University of Alabama at Birmingham39
Florida State University39
Auburn University39
University of Massachusetts Lowell42
Mississippi College42
University of New Mexico43
University of Delaware44
Florida Atlantic University46
Best for
  • Working professionals who need to keep earning while they study
  • Candidates committed to a career in management information systems
Maybe skip if
  • You want the in-person cohort and on-campus recruiting of a full-time program
  • You want a generalist MBA and aren't set on management information systems
How we rank · Our methodology Try the model

Every program earns a Stack Score from 0–100, weighted across four factors readers tell us they actually weigh — never reputation or ad spend. Drag the weights to match your priorities and watch a sample program rescore in real time.

Outcomes & salary35%
Cost & value30%
Flexibility20%
Accreditation15%
86/100
Sample Stack Score
Sample program scores
Outcomes & salary
78
Cost & value
91
Flexibility
84
Accreditation
100

Inputs start from public data — accreditation records, published tuition and reported outcomes — not surveys. Read the full methodology →

Executive Summary

A Master of Business Administration degree is among the most popular degrees because of its high ROI in terms of career advancement, diverse job opportunities, and personal fulfillment.  But why settle for an MBA with a general track when you can earn an online MBA in Management Information Systems degree?

Students in online MBA programs with a management information systems concentration study a combination of core courses in business administration with concentration courses related to the management of an organization’s computer systems, particularly its information systems. Students learn best practices in leveraging technology, such as management information systems, toward solving complex issues and making informed business decisions.

Indeed, the crucial importance of professionals with online MBA in Management Information Systems in business and nonbusiness organizations cannot be overemphasized! Now is the best time to consider the online MBA programs featured here and get started on a challenging and rewarding career as a business professional with specialist information systems skills.

At a Glance

Earning an online MBA in Management Information Systems degree results in gaining advanced knowledge and skills in business administration that can be used in the management of an organization’s information systems. Students in these graduate programs tackle the same challenging coursework as their on-campus counterparts and, thus, are assured of the same academic quality. These online programs, furthermore, are an excellent choice for working professionals looking for convenience, flexibility and affordability in their business education.

When choosing an MBA program, your first consideration must be its academic quality followed by its cost and convenience (e.g., schedule of classes and on-campus residencies). You want to earn the MBA in Management Information Systems degree instead of dropping out, and it starts with choosing the right one for your unique circumstances.

Best Online MBA in Management Information Systems

The 20 best online MBA programs featured here are offered by regionally accredited universities, a must for business education. Furthermore, these online programs are offered by business schools with programmatic accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This is widely considered as the gold standard with less than 200 colleges and universities across the United States granted the accreditation.

01Florida Atlantic University

23 mo46 credits

College of Business

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $800 (Same for in-state, out-of-state, and international students)
  • Units Required: 40-46 credits
  • Program Length: 16-23 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, scholarships, grants and fellowships, private loans, military and veteran benefits; self-pay installment option available

The MBA in Management Information Systems program features a 28-credit business administration core coursework that strengthens the students’ business acumen. Students with non-business background may be required to complete foundation courses in managerial finance and financial accounting.

All students in the MBA program learn best practices in business administration using information and communication technologies, from web-based business management to third-party information technology collaborations. Students also learn business research skills in solving complex organizational issues.

Courses:

  • Web-Based Business Development
  • Information Technology Project and Change Management
  • Management of Information Assurance and Security
  • Data Management & Analysis with Excel

Prospective students of the online MBA program must have a bachelor’s degree with at least 3.0 GPA; there are no required business prerequisites and submission of standardized test scores is optional. At least four years of professional work experience is a must.

02New Jersey Institute of Technology

36 credits

Martin Tuchman School of Management

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $1,112
  • Units Required: 36 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Financial Assistance Options: MTSM Graduate Endowed Scholarships, Scholarship Universe, and Graduate Financial Aid

The MBA in Management Information Systems program prepares students for the complex challenges that come with an increasingly globalized, technology-savvy business world. Students develop their professional ability for the management of day-to-day business operations with the use of information technology that, in turn, enables them to contribute to the achievement of organizational goals.

The best candidates for the MBA in Management Information Systems program are working professionals who have a passion for people and technology, and the limitless opportunities that come with their optimized use. Students prepare for roles like management information system managers involved in the overall creation, execution and operations of an organization’s computer systems.

Courses:

  • Decision Analysis
  • Data Mining and Analysis
  • Knowledge Management
  • Decision Support Systems for Managers

The MBA program emphasizes the strategic value that reliable and relevant information brings to any organization. Prospective students of the online MBA program must be prepared for a selective admissions process.

03University of Alabama at Birmingham

39 credits

Collat School of Business

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $555 (In-state and out-of-state for online courses)
  • Units Required: 39 credits
  • Program Length: 1-2 years
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, scholarships and grants, and student loans

Students in the MBA in Management Information Systems program are assured of the best business education in preparation for leadership roles in the business world and beyond. Aside from the technical skills in business administration with a focus on information systems and management, students develop leadership skills including communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Due to the extensive UAB alumni network, students in the MBA in Management Information Systems program have plenty of excellent networking opportunities. With their skills in web analytics, operations management, and decision analysis, they are sure to impress, too! Graduates of the online MBA program can look forward to diverse career opportunities as chief information officers, information systems consultants and strategists, and more.

Courses:

  • Strategic Cost Analysis and Decision Making
  • Information Technology and Business Strategy
  • Information Security Management
  • Topics in Corporate Finance
  • Operations and Supply Chain Management

Students in the MBA program must complete a capstone project in strategic management.

04Florida State University

39 credits

College of Business

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $780.18 (Florida resident); $810.24 (Non-Florida resident)
  • Units Required: 39 credits
  • Program Length: Seven semesters
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, university scholarships, and MBA LOANS program

Graduates of FSU’s MBA in Management Information Systems program are sought-after by the business world and beyond! This isn’t surprising as their business education features an innovative curriculum, personalized attention, and hands-on experiences with Florida’s top business professionals!

The part-time online MBA program features concentration courses that introduce students to the basic concepts related to information systems from a business perspective. Graduates are then able to use information systems in the achievement of organizational goals.

Courses:

  • Financial Reporting and Managerial Control
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Project Management
  • Corporate Information Security

Online students in MBA in Management Information Systems program learn from high-caliber professors who also teach the on-campus MBA program. The curriculum emphasizes direct classroom-to-workplace application, too.

05Lamar University

12 mo30 credits$15,784

College of Business

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Total Tuition: $15,784 (With leveling courses)
  • Units Required: 30 credits
  • Program Length: As few as 12 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid

Students in the MBA in Management Information Systems program acquire the knowledge and skills vital for success in the international business industry. Graduates are sought-after by multinational corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies for their business acumen and organization-specific applications of information systems.

The core courses in the online MBA program provide comprehensive coverage of business skills in the 21st century. The concentration courses, on the other hand, enable students to gain the knowledge vital for success in the CompTIA Security+ certification exam.

There are no programming language-related prerequisites for admission into the MBA in Management Information Systems program. But the program prepares students for careers like chief systems analysts, chief technology officers, and database directors.

Courses:

  • Cybersecurity Management
  • Database Management Systems
  • Healthcare Information Systems
  • Information Assurance and Security
  • Introduction to Programming for Business Solutions
  • IT Project Management

Admission into the MBA program doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree in business administration but students with non-business degrees may have to complete leveling courses.

06University of North Carolina Wilmington

12 mo36 credits

Cameron School of Business

Online MBA in Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $503.15 (NC resident); $1,271.43 (Non-NC resident)
  • Units Required: 36 credit hours
  • Program Length: As few as 12 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, scholarships and grants, and private loans

UNCW’s MBA in Information Systems program emphasizes the acquisition of pragmatic business skills for the achievement of organizational goals. Students also learn best practices in the use of information systems for effective and efficient business-related decision-making and problem-solving processes.

The superb balance between business and technology is, indeed, in tune with the times and one of the reasons why this is among the best online MBA in Information Systems programs. Students benefit from the comprehensive coverage of business administration principles and practices including accounting, business and information analysis, and operations, marketing and strategic management.

Courses:

  • Accounting
  • Information Analysis and Management
  • Information System Strategy and Governance
  • Information System Analysis and Design

Students in the MBA program learn from the best business professionals/professors, too! No wonder admission into the online MBA program is competitive with prospective students only considered if they have at least five years of managerial work experience.

07University of Houston Clear Lake

36 credits$9,902

College of Business

Hybrid MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Annual Tuition: $9,902 (Resident off-campus); $19,082 (Non-resident off-campus)
  • Units Required: 36 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, scholarships and grants, and private loans

Think of earning the MBA in Management Information Systems degree as leveling up your career advancement with top-notch business skills and technical understanding of information systems. Students prepare for the complex challenges that come with applying information technology and its related systems to business and non-business situations. Many graduates go on to become leaders and entrepreneurs in the thriving e-commerce industry.

Courses:

  • Human Behavior in Organizations
  • Executive Decisions in Marketing
  • Fundamentals of Business Programming Applications
  • Management Information Systems
  • Fundamentals of Databases and Business Intelligence

Students in the online MBA program must complete a capstone course in strategic management. Minimum admission requirements of the top-notch MBA program include a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, minimum.

08West Texas A&M University

46 credits

Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business

Online MBA in Computer Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $500 (Resident);  $540 (non-resident)
  • Units Required: 37-46 credit hours
  • Program Length: 2 years, on average (6-year maximum time-to-degree)
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, College of Business scholarships, and WTAMU scholarships

With its flexible schedules featuring asynchronous classes, WTAMU’s MBA in Computer Information Systems program attracts full-time working professionals. But online students can participate in on-campus classes, too, if they want a face-to-face experience. This is also an affordable MBA program, even for out-of-state students.

Courses:

  • Information Technology Management
  • Business Intelligence and Decision Support Systems
  • Electronic Commerce and Web Development
  • Networking Management and Information Security
  • Data and Information Management

The MBA program with a computer information systems concentration emphasizes skills development in both the hard and soft areas. Students develop top-level skills in professional communication, leadership, and business ethics along with technical skills in business administration and computer information systems.

09University of Maryland

24 mo54 credits

Robert H. Smith School of Business

Online MBA in Information Systems and Business Analytics Program

  • Tuition per credit: $1,759.16 (In-state); $2,156.96 (out-of-state)
  • Units Required: 54 credit hours
  • Program Length: As few as 24 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, scholarships including alumni scholarships, and private loans

UMD’s MBA in Information Systems and Business Analytics program features a contemporary curriculum designed by business professionals with research and real-world experiences. The courses are divided into Foundation One and Foundation Two coursework, among others, which enable students to establish a strong foundation in business administration for the 21st century.

The MBA in Information Systems and Business Analytics program empowers students to become business professionals with more confidence in their professional abilities in diverse industries where information is king.

Courses:

  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Change
  • Data Mining and Predictive Analytics
  • Managing Digital Businesses and Platforms
  • Social Media and Web Analytics

UMD’s MBA program is known for its admission-to-graduation commitment to student success! Students in the MBA degree program must complete two residencies - an opening residency at UMD’s College Park campus and a capstone residency with integrative business simulation experiences.

10University of Delaware

16 mo44 credits

Lerner College of Business & Economics

Online MBA in Information Technology Program

  • Tuition per credit: $950
  • Units Required: 44 credits
  • Program Length: 16 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, grants and scholarships, and military benefits

Students in UDel’s MBA in Information Technology program acquire a high-level understanding of the principles and practices of Big Data and other aspects of information technology when applied to business. By using Big Data in business situations, they are able to achieve organizational goals in their area of responsibility. Students also develop evidence-based problem-solving, decision-making, and human resource management skills.

Courses:

  • Financial Reporting and Analysis
  • Managing People, Teams and Organizations
  • Database Design and Implementation
  • Object-oriented Systems Analysis, Design and Implementation
  • Enterprise Architecture

Applicants to the MBA program should have at least two years of relevant work experience, but applicants who don’t meet the requirement can be considered based on their academic performance (i.e., GPA).

11St. Cloud State University

10 mo30 credits

Herberger Business School

Online MBA in Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $633.33
  • Units Required: 30 credits
  • Program Length: As few as 10 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid and pay-as-you-go scheme

The development of professional project management skills as applied in business processes and information systems projects is at the heart of the MBA in Information Systems program. Students learn the ins and outs of the project management cycle in business settings in general and information systems in particular, from planning and implementing to troubleshooting and ensuring quality.

The program features the extensive use of software platforms vital in information systems and their management including Python, Java and SAP, among others.  Students also learn advanced business principles and practices, too, via a comprehensive core curriculum in accounting, finance, and operations management, and more.

Students of the MBA in Information Systems program prepare for rewarding careers as information systems managers, senior business analysts, and audit risk managers.

Courses:

  • Organizational Behavior
  • Financial Accounting
  • IT Infrastructure
  • Project Management for IT
  • Business Process Management

Admission into the MBA in Information Systems is on a competitive basis with applicants evaluated based on their answers to essay questions, among other criteria.

12Emporia State University

12 mo33 credits

School of Business

Online MBA in Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $363
  • Units Required: 33 credits
  • Program Length: As few as 12 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid tuition reduction programs (e.g., Corky Plus and Hornet Nation Waiver)

The accelerated MBA in Information Systems program at ESU features an innovative curriculum that bridges business administration knowledge and information systems skills. Students are able to apply their learnings in finding effective and efficient solutions for complex issues in their workplaces.

Such direct classroom-to-workplace applications are made possible by a combination of didactic courses and case studies of real-world examples. Students also thrive under the personalized attention provided by their credentialed professors with real-world business experiences.

Graduates of the MBA in Information Systems online program become successful systems analysts, project managers and consultants for information technology projects, and applications analysts, and more.

Courses:

  • Advanced Financial Management
  • Accounting Information for Management
  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Information Technology Project Management
  • Business Analytics

The accelerated MBA program features six start dates and a competitive admissions process where applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and 2-4 years of professional work experience, minimum.

13University of Pittsburgh

21 mo60 credits

Katz Graduate School of Business

Online MBA and Master of Science in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $1,579
  • Units Required: 60 credits
  • Program Length: As few as 21 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, Katz School scholarships, and private educational loans

Earning a dual degree in MBA and MS in Management Information Systems is challenging, to say the least, but the personal and professional rewards are worth it! Students gain a comprehensive understanding of contemporary business principles and practices as well as technical skills in information systems.

Every graduate degree has a two-year time-to-degree but due to its accelerated format, students can earn both graduate degrees in less than two years of full-time studies! Students must complete an integrated learning capstone course and a summer internship that adds to the academic rigor. The integrated learning capstone experience includes community-based networking that strengthens the students’ post-graduation career advancement.

Courses:

  • Business Systems Platforms
  • Database Management
  • Project Management Concepts & Processes
  • MIS Practicum

Students may also complete courses in the Credential, Academy or Business Disruption Series programs.

14Shippensburg University

36 credits

John L. Grove College of Business

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition + fees per credit: $1,995
  • Units Required: 36 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, assistantships, work-study, and private loans

Ship markets its MBA in Management Information Systems program as an affordable and accessible online program with the guarantee of exceptional academic quality. Students develop not just their technical skills in business and management information systems but also their transferable skills that enable them to stay on top of an ever-changing global economy.

Courses:

  • Information Systems Project Management
  • Database Design
  • Information Analysis
  • Management Information Systems and Applications

The MBA program features a robust core curriculum with subjects in financial management, managerial accounting, and organizational leadership, and more. Students also complete a capstone course in strategic management. Students with non-business bachelor’s degrees may be required to complete business prerequisites.

15University of Illinois Springfield

12 mo

College of Business and Management

Online MBA in Information Technology Project Management Program

  • Tuition per credit: $512
  • Units Required: 30
  • Program Length: As few as 12 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid

Among the most affordable online MBA programs, UIS’ MBA in Information Technology Project Management program is also unique due to its highly specific focus. Project management demands specialist knowledge and skills with diverse applications across industries - adding even more specialized skills in information technology is impressive.

Students learn the best uses for information technology tools including the Systems Development Life Cycle for this reason. Other learnings are in decision analysis, diagramming techniques, and computer-aided systems development.

Courses:

  • Production and Operations Management
  • Information Technology Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • System Analysis and Design
  • Project and Change Management

Graduates become successful information security analysts, database administrators, and cybersecurity officers, among other business and information technology occupations. Applicants, however, must possess a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree to be admitted into the selective program.

16University of Massachusetts Lowell

12 mo42 credits

Manning School of Business

Online MBA in Information Technology

  • Tuition per credit: $655
  • Units Required: 42 credits
  • Program Length: As few as 12 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal aid, scholarships and grants, military benefits, and private loans

The small class sizes - 20-40 students per class - of the MBA in Information Technology program at UMass Lowell enables professors to give individualized attention to their graduate students. There’s also the fact that it’s a 100% online program but online students are encouraged to visit the campus and take advantage of the on-campus resources. Online students can also take a pause in their MBA studies for up to two semesters.

Courses:

  • Database Management
  • Management Information Systems
  • Enterprise System Management
  • Advanced Data Mining
  • Project Management

Students complete a self-paced program of study, meaning coursework can be done at their own pace but assignments and exams must be submitted on or before the deadline. Professors are also available for a weekly chat hour.

17University of New Mexico

43 credits

Anderson School of Management

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $805 + student fees
  • Units Required: 43 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, Anderson scholarships, and employer tuition reduction

The MBA in Management Information Systems program at UNM emphasizes business skills first and management information systems skills second. Students then prepare for leadership roles in a wide range of business and finance occupations as well as in the information technology sector. A few popular career paths are information systems managers, network administrators, and systems analysts.

Courses:

  • Information Systems Analysis and Design
  • Database Management Systems
  • Management of Information Systems
  • Information Systems Project Management
  • Information Systems Security

Students must pass the MBA Knowledge Exam as a demonstration of their mastery of the core courses; this is a CR/NC exam and includes qualitative and quantitative portions. The professional coaching services provide mentorship services for students including networking opportunities and career advancement guidance.

18Auburn University

31 mo39 credits

Raymond J. Harbert College of Business

Online MBA and Master of Science in Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $900
  • Units Required: 39 credit hours
  • Program Length: 31 months, on average
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, scholarships and fellowships, and university loans

Earn the MBA and the Master of Science in Information Systems dual degree at Auburn University and open doors of opportunities in both the business world and information technology industry! Students in the dual degree program gain the business skills that enable them the opportunity for C-suite positions while their information systems-related skills provide them the perspective of a technical person.

While it’s an online program, students are connected to their peers and professors, thanks to the use of Canvas, among the best learning management systems.

Courses:

  • Strategic Marketing Management
  • Information Technology for the Competitive Advantage
  • Integrated Business Project and Case Analysis
  • Information Systems Analysis and Design
  • Advanced Database Management

Students must complete the Integrated Business Project and Case Analysis course with a major project requirement.

19Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

12 mo36 credits

School of Business

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per Credit:  $526.13
  • Units Required: 36 credit hours
  • Program Length: As few as 12 months
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, assistantships, fellowships and scholarships

The accelerated format of SIU’s MBA in Management Information Systems program means students must adopt effective time management habits, especially for working professionals. The time, energy and effort spent are worth it, however, because graduates have competitive business and information systems-related skills that make them suitable for leadership roles.

MBA students start their academic journey with core courses in business administration, such as managerial economics, accounting, and quantitative analysis. The coursework enables students to better understand the possible applications of management information systems principles and practices in organizational settings. Students must also complete a capstone course in strategic management.

Courses:

  • Project Management Fundamentals and Best Practices
  • Strategic Management of Information Technology
  • Software Systems Design
  • SQL-PL/SQL
  • Database Design
  • Enterprise Resource Planning

Admission is on a selective basis. GMAT/GRE waivers are available for qualified applicants.

20Mississippi College

42 credits

School of Business

Online MBA in Management Information Systems Program

  • Tuition per credit: $645
  • Units Required: 42 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Financial Assistance Options: Federal financial aid, scholarships and grants, and loans

Students of the MBA in Management Information Systems program receive broad-based business education that strengthens their management skills. Then, their concentration courses enable them to apply management information systems concepts in business and non-business settings. Graduates are among the most prepared business professionals in Mississippi!

Courses:

  • Financial Management
  • Strategic Management
  • Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics
  • E-Strategy: Strategic Management of Information Systems
  • Introduction to Physical Security

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in data management, computer science, or other related fields, as well as relevant work experience (i.e., 3-5 years) that demonstrates readiness for the academic rigor of the MBA program.

Admission to Graduation: Important Things You Must Know About the Best Online MBA in Management Information Systems

Due to the unique admission and degree requirements in every MBA program, you must ask for specific information before making your final choice. Here are general aspects that MBA in Management Information Systems online programs share, nonetheless, they can be your guide.

Admission Requirements

The AACSB-accredited BA in Management Information Systems online programs featured here usually have selective admissions criteria. Applicants must be ready with their application documents, follow the instructions including the format for the personal statement, and prepare for possible interviews.

The typical admission requirements include:

  • A bachelor’s degree
  • Official transcripts
  • Professional resume
  • Personal statement (With or without essay prompts depending on the program)
  • Letters of recommendation

Standardized test scores may or may not be required; waivers may be available.

Curriculum and Courses

The best online MBA programs require students to complete core courses in business administration and concentration courses in their chosen field of specialization.

The core courses in business administration include:

  • Financial and managerial accounting
  • Financial management
  • Corporate finance
  • Operations management
  • Organizational behavior and change management
  • Human resources management
  • Supply chain management
  • Marketing management
  • Business analytics
  • Business law and ethics

The concentration courses include:

  • Management of Information Assurance and Security
  • Web-Based Business Development
  • Data Management and Analysis
  • Enterprise Resource Planning
  • Database Design
  • Information Technology Sourcing Management
  • SQL-PL/SQL
  • Software Systems Design
  • Corporate Information Security

Capstone and/or Dissertation Requirements

Most of the MBA programs featured here require completion of a capstone course and project that demonstrates their mastery of the business administration and management information systems concepts. Few have master’s thesis requirements, and it isn’t surprising since a master’s thesis usually requires a longer time commitment.

Typical Time-to-degree

MBA programs usually have a 24-month time-to-completion but accelerated programs enable students to earn their master’s degrees in 12-18 months of intensive studies. For part-time students, the time-to-degree can stretch to 3-4 years. Note the maximum time-to-degree in each program so that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to earn your MBA degree within the allotted time.

Online Learning Experiences

Business schools offering online MBA programs make it easier for working professionals to pursue a graduate business degree while balancing their personal and professional commitments. This is made possible through learning management systems, such as Canvas, Moodle and Blackboard, which allow online students to take advantage of learning formats including:

  • Virtual classes that use videoconferencing platforms in their live classes where real-time participation and interactions are possible
  • Assessment methods including quizzes, exams and assignments as well as presentations, case studies and projects
  • Multimedia content including recorded presentations, lectures and case studies can be accessed 24/7
  • Online forums and discussion boards for collaborations and other synchronous and asynchronous activities that require communication
  • Group projects and team assignments that enable online students to meet academic requirements and maximize networking opportunities among their peers
  • Access to resources including academic journals, e-books, and research databases, among other digital library resources
  • Technical support services for positive online learning experiences
  • Virtual office hours where students can connect with their professors and staff members

In-person and online networking opportunities are also available for online MBA students. These include online communities, guest speaker sessions, and online and in-person job fairs and other networking events.

Residency Requirements

Many MBA programs have in-person, on-campus residencies that are usually required for one or more of the following purposes:

  • Orientation and/or onboarding
  • Intensive modules and workshops
  • Capstone projects and their presentations

Development of Hard and Soft Skills

MBA students strengthen their technical and transferable skills including:

  • Business administration and management including accounting, financial management, and operations management
  • Project management
  • Business intelligence and data analysis
  • Information systems management
  • Database management
  • Information technology strategy and governance
  • Enterprise systems
  • Leadership skills
  • Communication skills
  • Collaboration skills
  • Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
  • Ethical decision-making skills

The combination of these skills results in well-rounded MBA degree holders that, in turn, make them valuable members of their organizations.

Tuition and Financial Aid

In many business schools, online students pay nearly the same tuition as their on-campus counterparts. On average, however, an online MBA degree can cost $61,800 according to the Education Data Initiative.

Financial assistance—which comes in the form of federal financial aid, institutional grants and scholarships, and private loans—are available to online MBA students to defray their cost of attendance.

Professionals with an MBA in Management Information Systems degree have plenty of career advancement opportunities awaiting them! The business and financial occupations alone are a gold mine of opportunities with its 7% projected growth rate and its $76,570 median annual wage.

But you can also look beyond the business and financial occupations and use your skills in management information systems to good use. Here are a few examples of the career paths you can take.

Chief Information Officers

With an MBA degree combined with relevant work experience and expertise, Chief Information Officers are responsible for the entire organization’s information technology strategy and operations.

E-commerce Managers

These professionals are in charge of the overall management of e-commerce platforms including their sales strategies and digital marketing programs.

Information Technology Strategy Consultants

As consultants, these professionals collaborate with organizations in the creation and implementation of information technology strategies in accordance with their goals and objectives.

Information Technology Managers and Directors

These professionals oversee the entire life cycle of information systems, from their planning to their troubleshooting, maintenance and evaluation. Their main duties also include aligning information technology with organizational goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between an MBA in Management Information Systems degree and a Master’s in Management Information Systems degree?

While the MBA degree provides professionals with a broad business education, the master’s in management information systems degree has a more technical perspective. Both degrees, however, are valuable in getting leadership positions.

Can you apply for an MBA in Management Information Systems program without a business administration bachelor’s degree?

Yes, most online MBA programs only require a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. But students with non-business academic backgrounds may be required to take foundation or leveling courses.

Are these specific technical requirements for online students in these MBA programs?

Yes, but every online MBA program has specific technical requirements, including computer specs, software installed, and Internet speed, among others.

Run the numbers

Will this MBA pay for itself?

A back-of-the-envelope payback estimate, pre-filled with the median tuition from this ranking. Slide the figures to match your situation.

Annual raise
Pays for itself in
Net gain over 10 years

A rough guide only — it assumes the raise holds steady and ignores taxes, raises you'd earn anyway, and time out of the workforce. Not financial advice.

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The conversation

What applicants are actually saying.

Real threads pulled from public Reddit discussions. Opinions are the posters' own — we just surface them.

Community consensus

If you want to move into project management, an MBA is a solid choice, especially if you're eyeing management roles. If you lack IT experience but want to break into tech, an MBA with a tech focus can bridge the gap. Your supply chain experience is a plus, but if you're aiming for technical roles, a more tech-specific master's might serve you better.

r/cscareerquestionsSeptember 7, 2025

Getting a Masters In Management Information Systems or an MBA to get into Project Management?

“I’m currently enrolled in a ... Information Systems that my employer pays for. It’s my first semester in the program, and my end goal is that this degree would help me in landing a position as a project manager in the future. But…”

Open thread
r/ITCareerQuestionsMay 29, 2018

Master's Degree in IS/MIS/CIS vs MBA. My experiences.

“After I got my MBA I applied to anything that was an IT Manager/IT Director level, depending on the size of the organization. I landed my first management gig when a director decided to take a chance with me (Isn't that how…”

Open thread
r/SNHUSeptember 23, 2023

MBA - Information Technology Management?

“I think that is a wise choice. An MBA will help with both, but since you are considering management, specifically consider a master's in management. University of illinois has an online one that is roughly 10K.”

Open thread
r/ITCareerQuestionsDecember 31, 2023

Should I get an MIS degree or an MBA degree with no IT experience?

“I am currently debating signing up for a few classes for either the MMIS (Management Information Systems) or MBA programs at two separate colleges. Both programs are online and cost about $2000 for 2 classes and are about 12…”

Open thread
r/ITCareerQuestionsJune 15, 2024

MBA information technology management

“If the goal is to pursue technical roles then a higher rated Masters Of Information Technology program that’s online would be better like Virginia Tech, University of Cincinnati or similar as those are technical focused and have…”

Open thread
r/ITCareerQuestionsFebruary 5, 2024

Thinking of doing MBA in Management Information Systems, I have experience in supply chain. Would my experience translate. What certificates would help.

“Staying in your current field with an IS focused MBA would give you credibility to take on more technical project/programs within your current role.”

Open thread

Sourced from public Reddit discussions. MBA Stack isn't affiliated with Reddit or the posters.