- What is MIS?
- How is MIS different from Computer Science?
- What is the difference in the course work for CS and MIS majors?
- What kind of jobs do people with MIS degrees get?
- What do MIS graduates earn?
- Why is UA's MIS program top rated?
- What kind of facilities does the MIS program have?
- Is the MIS program difficult?
What is MIS?
MIS is a field that involves applying information technology to solve business problems and take advantage of business opportunities. MIS professionals must have both business skills and technical skills. An MIS professional also understands that technology should be used as a means to improve the business and not as a solution itself.
How is MIS different from computer science?
Computer science focuses more on technology and less on its use in business. MIS looks less at technology, and more at how it is used. MIS and computer science courses differ, of course, but so do the support courses. Computer science students take courses that will help them better understand technology, like math classes. MIS students take courses that will help them understand business problems, like accounting and marketing. Neither one is better than the other - they're just different. If you are really into computers themselves (for example, if your garage is full of circuit boards and ribbon cables), maybe computer science would be for you. If you're more interested in working with people to solve problems, consider MIS.
What is the difference in the course work for CS and MIS majors?
The freshman and sophomore years of CS and MIS are similar, but the junior and senior year courses are completely different. Both CS and MIS students become capable programmers. However, MIS classes require more and larger group projects and emphasize project management and people issues more than in CS. In contrast, CS courses have more technical depth, especially on topics such as operating systems and algorithm development.
What kind of jobs do people with MIS degrees get?
All sorts of things, but they are all about using information technology to solve problems. Businesses and other organizations have a strong need for individuals who understand the various business functions and who understand the role of computers and other information technologies in modern organizations. Specifically, this program prepares individuals for careers as the following: o Systems analyst - studying problems and designing systems to solve them o Programmer - writing software to gather, store and manipulate data o Trainer - making sure people know how to use systems effectively
What do MIS graduates earn?
MIS graduates earn more than most, as you might expect. There is a very high demand for qualified and competent information systems professionals in industrial, business, governmental and educational organizations. Short-term and long-term employment opportunities are outstanding. MIS majors earn salaries higher than any other business major. In 2001, our typical graduate received:
- A starting salary of $44,000 - $54,000
- A $1,000 - $5,000 signing bonus.
National surveys predict continued strong demand for MIS professions. MIS salaries are expected to grow by 10-15% annually at least until 2008.
Why is UA's MIS program top rated?
The MIS program at the University of Alabama provides its students with Real Education, Real Experience, and Real Results. This means that we provide students with a well-rounded set of tools that allow them to succeed in the field of Information Technology. Our students learn both the technical skills required to implement IT solutions and the business skills that allow them to effectively use them.
What kind of facilities does the MIS program have?
MIS students have access to a number of great facilities including study areas, computer labs equipped with the latest in technology, and state-of-the-art multimedia classrooms. Click here to learn more about our excellent facilities.
Is the MIS program difficult?
The program is challenging. If it weren't, the graduates wouldn't be in such demand. However, most people with good high school or college grades can succeed. Be prepared to work hard, and play hard. The typical MIS student is not only bright but hard-working as well. Be dedicated!