Earning an accelerated online Master’s in Computer Information Systems is a choice that most professionals in the field would love to take on. This is probably due to the fact that there is a need for qualified candidates to take on mid-level and senior-level roles as well as a need from the sector to bring in professionals who understand the role that computer information systems play in an increasingly globalized economy. This is a list of schools and programs that focus on the 25 most affordable information systems.
The need for graduate programs in this field continues to grow, but professionals with an undergraduate degree in the industry are increasingly demanding more: they need flexible degree programs that can fit around their work schedules. They also require accelerated programs that won’t see them reviewing material they already use within the field and instead see them graduate within two years or less with a graduate degree that focuses on their specific professional needs. Please read more about the 25 most affordable information systems below.
Featured Schools:
Methodology: Ranking the 25 MOST AFFORDABLE MASTER’S IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Fast Online Master’s editors want prospective computer information systems professionals to see their online master’s pay off. That’s why we’re featuring only accredited colleges and universities with a reputation for return on investment. Programs are presented here in order by tuition rate, according to IPEDS data.
1. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University offers an affordable Master’s in Information Systems that is recognized to be the fourth-best online Master’s in the nation by Best Value Schools. Kennesaw State University’s online Masters in Computer Information can be completed in one year. Classes include advanced information technology project management, legal & ethical issues, and systems development methods and technologies, to name a few.
Kennesaw State University is a research learning institute that was established in the mid-1960s. Kennesaw State University operates two primary campuses in Marietta and Kennesaw that serve more than 41,050 undergraduate and graduate students. Kennesaw State University holds the distinction of being Georgia’s second-biggest student enrollment but the largest freshman class.
Online Degree: MS in Information Systems
2. Southern Arkansas University
Southern Arkansas University offers an MS in Computer and Information Science that ranks among the most affordable of the nation’s online Masters in Computer Information programs. Southern Arkansas University’s online Master’s requires about two years to finish the minimum requirement of 30 graduate credits. Undergraduate degree candidates enrolled in Southern Arkansas University’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program have the option of three focus areas – data science, information technology, or cyber security and privacy.
Founded more than one century ago as a high school dedicated to agriculture (1909), Southern Arkansas University now operates as a space-grant school with a student enrollment that nears 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students every year. Since the early 1980s, the school’s family day holds an annual race of beds – represented by each residence hall’s residents.
Degree: MS in Computer and Information Science
3. Dakota State University
Dakota State University offers an MS in Information Systems that is considered one of the top online Masters in Computer Information programs in South Dakota. Students enrolled in Dakota State University’s online Master’s can complete this master’s program in only four semesters or up to five years. Coursework for this 30-credit Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program includes system analysis and design using case tools and web application development, among others.
Founded in the early 1880s as a teacher’s training school, Dakota State University (DSU) is now a space-grant institution that serves 3,300 students each year from the school’s Madison campus and online. Dakota State University was founded nearly a decade before South Dakota reached statehood.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
4. University of Denver
The University of Denver’s University College offers an MS in Information and Communications Technology that is among the best accelerated online Masters in Computer Information programs in Colorado. Classes for the University of Denver’s online Masters Degree in Computer Information are delivered in ten-week terms. The University of Denver’s Masters offers nine concentrations – cybersecurity management, ISS, project management, web design, software programming/design, and GIS, to name a few. An undergraduate degree along with good GRE scores is the first step to a better career path.
The University of Denver, established as a seminary in 1880, now operates as a space-grant school with nearly 13,000 graduate and undergraduate students. The university’s campus is located near downtown Denver and is a designated arboretum. While the University of Denver was established by the United Methodist Church but now operates as a nonsectarian school.
Degree: MS in Information and Communications Technology
5. Boston University
Boston University offers an online Masters in Computer Information program (MS) that can be completed in as few as 18 months. Boston University’s 40-credit online Masters Degree in Computer Information offers seven academic concentrations in web applications, computer networks, security, data analytics, IT project management, database management, and health informatics, to name a few. Boston University’s Masters in online degree program has received accreditation from various organizations.
Founded in Newberry, Vermont, in Boston University in the late 1830s, Boston University is now a comprehensive research institution of higher learning that maintains multiple campuses across Boston that serve nearly 35,000 students each year. Boston University is organized into seventeen undergraduate and graduate schools. Boston University’s main campus runs along the Charles River across the river from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The University offers many scholarships and financial aid programs are available.
Degree: MS in Computer Information Systems
6. Touro College
Touro College offers an MS in Information Systems (MSIS) that is stem certified. Touro College’s online Masters in Computer Information program requires eleven classes for a total of 33 credit units. Classes for Touro College’s online Master’s include IT project management and strategic management of technology, among others. This Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program offers four academic paths – network administration/cybersecurity, web/application development, data analytics, and technology leadership.
Founded in the early 1970s, Touro College is a private institution of higher education that is affiliated with the Jewish Faith. More than 11,500 graduate and undergraduate students attend classes on the school’s NYC campus and online. Touro College is a member school of the Touro College/University System along with seven campuses across the state of New York, Israel, Nevada, and California, plus online.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
7. Regis University
Regis University offers an MS in Information Technology Management that requires degree students to complete a minimum of 36 graduate semester units. Regis University’s online Masters in Computer Information program is delivered with eight-week course terms. This online Masters Degree in Computer Information offers eight concentrations to students. Classes for this Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program include IT concepts, enterprise architecture, and ethics in IT, among others. The University of Denver’s University College offers an MS in Information and Communications Technology that is among the best accelerated online Masters in Computer Information programs in Colorado. Classes for the University of Denver’s online Masters Degree in Computer Information are delivered in ten-week terms. The University of Denver’s Masters offers nine concentrations – cybersecurity management, ISS, project management, web design, software programming/design, and GIS, to name a few. An undergraduate degree along with good GRE scores is the first step to a better career path.
Regis University is a Roman Catholic higher learning institution that was founded in 1877 in New Mexico. The university operates with five colleges/schools that serve more than 8,300 graduate and undergraduate students every year. Regis University had the honor of a Papal visit in 1993 (Pope John Paul II) when the Pope met with then-President Bill Clinton and about 150 other honored guests.
Online Degree: MS in Enterprise Systems Engineering
8. Colorado State University
Colorado State University offers a Master of Computer Information Systems that requires the completion of 33 graduate semester credits to graduate. Colorado State University’s online Masters in Computer Information program can be completed in only 1.5 years. Colorado State University’s online Masters Degree includes classes in business database systems, IT & project management, and application software infrastructure, among others. Students enrolled in Colorado State University’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program have five years to complete the degree.
Established in the 1870s as an agricultural college, Colorado State University is a land grant school (under the Morrill Act) and the flagship campus of Colorado’s state system of universities. Nearly 35,000 graduate and undergraduate students attend classes online and on the three campuses operated by Colorado State University. Colorado State University was founded about six years prior to Colorado becoming a state. The University offers many scholarships and financial aid programs are available.
Online Degree: Master of Computer Information Systems
9. University of Maryland-Baltimore County
The University of Maryland-Baltimore County offers an MS in Information Systems that is among the most affordable online Masters in Computer Information programs on the east coast. The University of Maryland’s online Masters Degree offers three academic tracks in data science, cybersecurity, and user experience. US News ranks UMB’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program among the best in the nation.
The University of Maryland was founded as a research higher learning institution in the mid-1960s. The university’s online platform and the urban campus are home to approximately 13,550 students each year vying for the more than 200 academic and certificate programs offered. The University of Maryland’s 450+ acre campus is situated about ¼ hour from Baltimore’s harbor and an hour from the nation’s capital.
Online Degree: MS in Information Systems
10. Penn State World Campus
Penn State World Campus offers a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Systems Engineering that is among the most affordable of accelerated online Masters in Computer Information programs. In addition, US News ranks Penn State World Campus’s online Masters Degree in Computer Information Systems program among the top degrees in the country. Penn State World Campus’s 36-credit Masters can be completed in only two years. Classes for this graduate degree include systems engineering, invention & creative design, and systems architecture, among others.
Penn State World Campus was founded in the late 1990s as the distance learning platform of Penn State. The university’s online system serves approximately 15,000 students each year. Many of the online degrees offered by Penn State World Campus is recognized by US News for numerous accolades in their academic offerings.
Degree: MEng in Systems Engineering
11. Auburn University
Auburn University offers an MS in Information Systems that is among Alabama’s most affordable and accelerated online Masters in Computer Information programs. Auburn University’s online Masters Degree requires degree candidates to complete ten classes for a total of 30 graduate semester units. Classes for this Masters include advanced database management, analysis & design, among others. Classes for the online Masters Degree in Computer Information are delivered in ten-week terms. They are as follows cybersecurity management, ISS, project management, web design, software programming/design, and GIS, to name a few. An undergraduate degree along with good GRE scores is the first step to a better career path.
Auburn University was founded in the mid-1850s as an all-male college specializing in agriculture and mechanics. Auburn University is Alabama’s first land-grant school but is also a sea and space-grant institution of higher education. With more than 30,350 students, Auburn University is recognized to be the state’s second-biggest school. Auburn University shares the honor of being one of Alabama’s flagship institutions of higher education. The University offers many scholarships and financial aid programs are available.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
12. Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech offers an MS in Systems Engineering that is among Virginia’s most affordable online Masters in Computer Information programs. Virginia Tech’s interdisciplinary online Degree in Computer Information requires the completion of comprehensive coursework of 30 graduate credit units. Classes for Virginia Tech’s Masters include system dynamics modeling, systems engineering, and fundamentals of systems engineering, among others.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University was founded as an agricultural/mechanical college in the early 1870s. Additionally, Virginia Tech operates multiple campuses as a land, sea, and space-grant higher learning institution. More than 36,550 students attend classes offered online and Virginia Tech’s campuses. Virginia Tech operates international facilities in the Dominican Republic in Italy and Switzerland.
Degree: MS in Systems Engineering
13. Loyola University Chicago
Loyola University Chicago offers an MS in Information Systems and Analytics (MSISA) that is one of Chicago’s most affordable online Masters in Computer Information programs. Loyola University Chicago’s online Masters Degree in Computer Information Systems program has been designated as STEM education. Students enrolled in Loyola University Chicago masters degree must complete these classes – data visualization, business analytics, applied econometrics, and data mining, to name a few. Loyola University Chicago’s Masters in Computer requires students to complete twelve classes for graduation.
Loyola University Chicago is a private school and a member of the Loyola university system. Established in 1870, Loyola University Chicago now maintains multiple campuses across six Chicago locations that serve more than 17,050 graduate and undergraduate students each year. Loyola University Chicago’s flagship campus is located along Lake Michigan’s shores – a few minutes north of the famous Chicago Loop. The University offers many scholarships and financial aid programs are available.
Degree: MS in Information Systems and Analytics
14. New Jersey Institute of Technology
New Jersey Institute of Technology offers an MS in Information Systems that can be completed 100% online. New Jersey Institute of Technology’s online Masters in Computer Information program is ranked first in the country by College Factual. This online Masters Degree in Computer Information Systems program from the New Jersey Institute of Technology prepares students for careers as logistics specialists or consulting analysts, to name a few. New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program offers concentrations in data analytics, user experience design, and network management, among many others.
New Jersey Institute of Technology was established as a technical college in the early 1880s. New Jersey Institute of Technology maintains dual campuses in Newark and Jersey City. The school’s graduate and undergraduate student enrollment exceed 11,450 across both campuses and online. New Jersey Institute of Technology’s notable alumni can be found in the areas of business/industry, government/politics, academics, and STEM, among others.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
15. University of Alabama at Birmingham
The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers an MS in Management Information Systems that is recognized to be among Alabama’s most affordable online Masters in Computer Information programs. Graduates of the University of Alabama’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program find rewarding careers as IT managers, chief information officers, and IT security managers, to name a few.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham was founded in the 1960s as a public research institution of higher learning. The university’s student enrollment on the Birmingham campus and online exceeds 22,340 students each year. The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers nearly 150 programs from the baccalaureate to doctoral levels, plus a variety of professional programs across disciplines. The University offers many scholarships and financial aid programs are available.
Degree: MS in Management Information Systems
16. Missouri University of Science & Technology
Missouri University of Science & Technology offers an MS in Systems Engineering, which is one of the best accelerated online programs in Missouri. This online Master Degree in Computer Information Systems program requires graduate degree candidates to complete a minimum of thirty credit units to meet MST’s program requirements. Core coursework for this Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program includes system architecture, life cycle costing, and a capstone project, among others.
Founded as the school of mines in the 1870s, Missouri University of Science & Technology is now a space-grant school. The state’s university system serves more than 8,000 students each year. Missouri University of Science & Technology is recognized to be the first technology school that was located to the west of the Mississippi River.
Degree: MS in Systems Engineering
17. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona offers an MS in Management Information Systems that is one of the best accelerated online Masters in Computer Information programs, according to US News. The University of Arizona’s online Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems program requires a student to finish a minimum of thirty graduate credit units. Classes for the University of Arizona’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program include enterprise data management, IT audit, data mining for business intelligence, and information systems design, among others.
The University of Arizona was founded as a land-grant school that was established in 1885 when Arizona was still a territory. The University of Arizona serves more than 45,550 students studying online and on-campus. The University of Arizona ranks among the world’s top 100 schools, according to US News.
Degree: MS in Management Information Systems
18. University of Maine
The University of Maine offers an MS in Information Systems (MSIS) which is one of New England’s best accelerated online Masters in Computer Information programs. The University of Maine’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program offers students a rolling admission schedule. This online Masters Degree in Computer Information Systems program requires classes that include information systems programming information systems law and design of information systems, to name a few.
The University of Maine was founded as Maine’s land-grant school in the mid-1860s. The University of Maine is also the flagship campus for the state’s university system that serves more than 11,450 students online and on the school’s rural campus. The University of Maine’s men’s hockey team plays as the Black Bears and has won two championships at the national level.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
19. Liberty University
Liberty University offers an MS in Information Systems that is one of the best accelerated online Masters in Computer Information programs in Virginia. Liberty University’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program requires the completion of thirty-six credit units in about eighteen months. Degree candidates enrolled in Liberty University’s online Master’s in Computer Information Systems program complete classes that include secure enterprise design and network management, among others.
Established in the early 1970s by Jerry Falwell, Sr., Liberty University operates as an evangelical school of higher learning. LU is one of the biggest evangelical schools across the globe, with nearly 110,000 students studying on-campus but mostly online. Liberty University is organized into seventeen colleges/schools that offer more than 500 academic, professional, and certificate programs, Columbia University is recognized to be an Ivy League university located in New York City that was established in the 18th century as King’s College through a Royal Charter. More than 33,000 students attend online and on-campus each year. Columbia University is recognized to be the Empire State’s oldest higher learning institution and considered among the nation’s colonial colleges, with many scholarships and financial aid programs available.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
20. University of Colorado Denver
The University of Colorado Denver offers an MS in Information Systems that can be completed as full- or part-time students. UC’s online Masters in Computer Information program requires degree candidates to finish a minimum of thirty credit hours of graduate-level work. UC’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program is STEM-certified with two concentrations. Available tracks in this online Masters Degree in Computer Information Systems program include cybersecurity/information or business intelligence systems.
The Denver campus of UC – the University of Colorado was founded in 1912. The University of Colorado’s student enrollment exceeds 13,340 undergraduate and graduate students each year online and on the university’s urban campus in the Mile High city. The Denver campus of the University of Colorado shares its southwest Denver with two other local schools.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
21. Tarleton State University
Tarleton State University offers an MS in Information Systems that can be completed entirely online in about one year. Tarleton State University’s online Masters in Computer Information program requires students to complete 36 graduate semester units. Graduates of Tarleton State University’s Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program find rewarding careers as a database administrator or IT Director. Intelligent.com ranks Tarleton State University’s online Master’s in Computer Information Systems program among the top programs in the nation.
Tarleton State University was established as an agricultural college in 1899. Tarleton State University is a member school of the A&M system in Texas. The university operates multiple campuses that serve approximately 13,150 students each year. Tarleton State University is organized into seven colleges/schools that offer programs in agriculture, business, education, health science, liberal/fine arts, STEM, and graduate studies.
Degree: MS in Information Systems
22. Drexel University
Drexel University offers a Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree program that is ranked among the best by US News. DU’s online Masters in Computer Information program prepares students for careers as computer systems analysts or data science managers, among others. Students enrolled in Drexel University’s online Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems program are to complete 45 graduate semester credits to meet program requirements.
Drexel University was established as a technical school in the 1890s. Drexel University’s Philadelphia campus serves more than 24,250 graduate and undergraduate students every year, most involved in Drexel’s well-known cooperative education programs. Drexel University is recognized to be among the best value and innovative schools in the nation – especially in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, among others.
Online Degree: MS in Information Systems
23. Columbia University
Columbia University offers an MS in Systems Engineering that is among New York’s best Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree programs. Columbia University’s online Masters in Computer Information program has a GRE qualifying exam. Classes for Columbia University’s online Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems program include applied systems engineering, Stochastic Models, and systems engineering – tools & methods, to name a few.
Columbia University is recognized to be an Ivy League university located in New York City that was established in the 18th century as King’s College through a Royal Charter. More than 33,000 students attend online and on-campus each year. Columbia University is recognized to be the Empire State’s oldest higher learning institution and considered among the nation’s colonial colleges, with many scholarships and financial aid programs available.
Online Degree: MS in Systems Engineering
24. Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University offers an MS in Information Systems Engineering, which is one of the best accelerated Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree programs. Johns Hopkins University’s online Masters in Computer Information program can be completed on a part- or full-time basis. Depending on if you want to work or go full time with financial aid. Classes for Johns Hopkins University’s online Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems program include data structures, discrete mathematics, and introduction programming, using Python, to name a few.
Johns Hopkins University is a research higher learning institution that was founded in the 1870s. Johns Hopkins University operates facilities across the world in China and Italy, among others. The lacrosse program at Johns Hopkins University has won more than 40 national titles. Johns Hopkins University’s student enrollment exceeds 26,350 undergraduate and graduate students each year. Nearly forty faculty members or alumni are Nobel laureates.
Online Degree: MS in Information Systems Engineering
25. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California offers an MS in Systems Architect and Engineering (SAE) that is among California’s top accelerated Masters in Computer Information Systems online degree programs. Specialty tracks for USC’s online Masters in Computer Information program include network-centric, software process, CIS, aerospace/mechanical systems, and automation, among others. Graduates of the University of Southern California’s online Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems program find rewarding careers in the area of supply chain management, manufacturing, transportation systems, or project management, to name a few.
The University of Southern California is a sea and space grant school that was established in 1880. The University of Southern California’s campuses serves more than 48,550 students each year beginning every fall semester. The University of Southern holds the distinction of being among the largest Los Angeles employers with an economic impact on the state that is estimated to be approximately $8 billion.
Online Degree: MS in Systems Architecting and Engineering
What Kind of Information System Degrees Are There?
An information systems degree can be a traditional on-campus program or an online degree program. An information systems master can include elective courses that focus on software development and data security or other technical skills.
A computer information systems degree is a fast-paced degree. Students who enroll in an accelerated program should be familiar with basic software development, data warehouse, business data, risk management, systems analysis, data warehousing, programming languages, and have good communication skills.
In addition, applicants should be familiar with database management systems and information systems security. Those getting a computer information systems degree will need to complete prerequisite courses in their Bachelor’s degree before continuing to graduate school. There are a number of ways to attain financial assistance, should you need it, for graduate school, a bachelor’s degree, even for elective courses.
Why Should I Get My Computer Information Systems Master’s Online?
Many working professionals can answer the question, why should I get my Computer Information Systems Master’s online, because they have. There are also many reasons to consider pursuing a master’s in computer information systems online if you are an IT professional with technical skills or someone like an information systems specialist.
First and foremost there is the increase in salary range that comes with earning an advanced degree like an online masters in computer information systems. That promotion in earnings is typically a result of advanced opportunities and the attached salary to those titles. In addition to income and opportunity, getting an online master’s degree in computer information systems is often the smartest and most practical option.
Earning a master’s in computer information systems online is a practical decision for working professionals who need the flexibility and workability that online options provide. Another reason why people consider pursuing an online masters in computer information systems is the advantage of saving time and money often involved with traditional classroom options.
Earning an online masters degree in computer information systems won’t require buying lunches for days spent on campus. It can mean eliminating the need to spend fuel or hours in the car getting to class. And it can allow for more balance with work while attending classes.
Is a Master’s in Computer Information Systems Worth It?
Let’s review. Earning a master’s in computer information systems online can result in easier class management, less expense, more class flexibility, and convenience, increased earnings, and greater opportunities. Is a master’s in computer information systems worth it? The obvious answer is yes.
While earning a master’s in computer information systems is worth it, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some potential concerns to be aware of, including unforeseen expenses. Check with the online class requirements for any additional hardware or software purchases they may require. And most importantly, verify that the program or online option you choose is an accredited and established institution.
One of the greatest benefits and reasons why earning a masters in computer information systems is worth it, is the amazing doors this degree opens.
What Can I Do with a Master’s in Computer Information Systems?
The opportunities that come as masters in computer information systems jobs are not only lucrative, but important, and highly sought. You could go into management or several other roles. Many of these positions, however, place a great deal of responsibility on the shoulders of those who fill these roles, and that can sometimes mean long hours too.
These are generally salaried-level positions that often come with an array of perks and benefits. A few of these opportunities may include roles such as:
- IT large-scale project manager
- IT department manager
- Business analytics roles
- Information Security analyst
- Web development leader
- Chief technology officer
These are just a few possible roles and titles that someone with a master’s technical skills in computer information systems might step into. That, of course, includes those aforementioned perks and increased salary too. It is also important to note that if you take out financial aid you may want to look for a job with a company that would help pay loans off.
How Much Can I Make with a Master’s in Computer Information Systems?
Masters in computer information systems jobs are the result of hard work, time invested, and knowledge learned. The titles are nice, the respect from these positions is humbling, and the earnings potential is considerable. While there will be obvious variations in pay scale across different regions of the country, the median numbers reflect the benefits in earnings that those Masters in computer information systems jobs afford.
The most recent numbers from last year reveal much about the financial benefit of earning an advanced degree. Salary isn’t the only factor that counts in making a decision to pursue a degree but it should have due influence. In this case, that influence can look like tens of thousands of dollars, and more.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “the median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $151,150…” 2020. Consider those in the field without an advanced or masters in computer information systems salary made less than $42,000, and the value of pursuing a master’s degree becomes even clearer.
While a computer information systems masters degree salary isn’t the only motivation people have for a master’s pursuit, it is a big one. There is also a certain amount of respect and recognition that inherently comes with earning a master’s degree, and it is recognition and respect that is earned. So congratulations on your continued education and career pursuits and may it bring you all that rewards your hard work deserves.
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