The field of management information systems involves applying computer technology, quantitative techniques and administrative skills to the information processing requirements of organizations.

Management Information Systems (MIS) combines computer technology with management decision-making methods—to analyze, design, implement and manage computerized information systems in an organizational environment. A bachelor's degree is generally adequate for entry-level jobs—graduate training is necessary for research and teaching positions.

The Eller College Department of MIS has placed in the top five nationally in U.S. News & World Report for almost a decade. Currently the MIS department ranks third overall and number one among public institutions.

Degree Requirements

The requirements include: foundation courses required for Professional Admission*, general education requirements, professional core courses, free electives and a set of specific MIS courses.

Sample MIS Courses:

• Introduction to Java Programming; Data Structures and Algorithms; Data Communications and Networking; Database Management Systems; and Information Systems Analysis and Design
• Information System Design; Prototyping and Evaluation

* Students must achieve Professional Admission (a competitive and selective application process) to move from the pre-professional phase to the professional phase. 
** Check the Degree/Academic Progress Report (APRR's) for your specific academic program requirements per the catalog.

Other Preparation

Clubs and Organizations
The college has a wide variety of professional fraternities, honoraries and student clubs. Student organizations offer: career information; networking opportunities with alums, corporate representatives, faculty and fellow students; social and professional activities; and provide leadership roles and skills building opportunities. 
Student organizations for MIS students include Management Information Systems Association (MISA).

Visit the Eller Undergraduate Student Organizations website for more information.

Research and Internships
Students in the program are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities for independent study, research, internships and part-time work, even full-time work after the first year of the MIS curriculum. Internships should ideally have a visible connection to the company's success, and allow the student discretion in making decisions in areas such as design and project management.

Technology
Laboratory facilities for MIS students are equipped with state-of-the art computer technology. Many locations on campus make computer workstations accessible for student use.

Certifications
MCSE and Oracle are particularly good to have. Also: Cisco, Java, Linux, SAS, A+

Informational Interviews
Talk one-on-one with someone who does what you'd like to do; find out how to get yourself there.

Career Opportunities

MIS graduates will find career opportunities wherever computers are used in business, industry and government.

Management Information Systems Careers Overview

Employment Outlook

Information-technology professionals are among the most sought-after talent in the job market today—but companies seek candidates with solid speaking and writing skills because presentations to clients and working with sales and marketing teams are part of the normal job requirements. Sign-on bonuses are common, relocation packages are broader and more generous, pay rates are accelerating and guaranteed bonuses are common. There is strong demand for professionals with experience in so-called "enterprise-wide solutions." Industry experience is a plus but not necessary to land good job offers. All the major consulting firms are competing for systems analysis talent. Financial services firms are looking for IT professionals who can design electronic banking systems. Openings abound for Java as well as for Internet programmers with good communication and team skills.

Salaries

Starting salaries vary by size and type of employer, location, course work and experience.

• Eller MIS graduate average offer $62,597 (Eller Graduate Survey, Spring 2020)
• National MIS graduate average salary offer: $61,122 (NACE Salary Survey, Summer 2020)

Recruitment Opportunities

Management Information Systems graduates obtain jobs through various avenues, leading to placements with a wide range of firms and organizations.

On-campus recruitment opportunities include the fall and spring Eller Expo and Career Showcase, hosted by the Eller College, and the fall and spring "Career Days", hosted by the University of Arizona Student Engagement and Career Development.

A sample of employers that recruited Eller College MIS majors for both placement and career-related experience in recent years: