What Can You Do With a Master's in Information Systems?

We live in an unprecedented age of technological advancement, data consumption, information storage and innovation. With organizations collecting more data than ever before and integrating new technologies into their workflows, businesses want to hire experts who understand both the operational needs of organizations and the technologies that enable better efficiency. This exciting landscape has spurred the growth of information systems, which is a field of study and practice that connects technical skills with business strategy. In the past, this type of work would have been lumped into either business strategy or information technology, but information systems has developed into a unique field where individuals can build a thriving career. Like all specialized career paths, information systems requires you to have a combination of knowledge, skills and experience to succeed. One great way to jumpstart your career is with an MS in Information Systems (MSIS), which provides students with expertise in both technology and business processes. With a powerful credential like this on your résumé, doors open to a wide array of career opportunities.

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What Is Information Systems?

Information systems is essentially the process of businesses and organizations using information and communication technologies in order to solve problems and enhance operations. The field, while rooted in technology, has applications across a range of industries. As an information systems professional, you won’t necessarily be an expert in information technology (IT), but you will understand how people and organizations use tech solutions and how information is passed through workflows and communication channels. Information systems professionals are both technologically skilled and strategy-minded individuals with a strong capacity for leadership and management. Some of their responsibilities include: Bridging the gap between technical teams and management teams Communicating information in terms that everyone can understand Supporting cross-functional processes and initiatives

MSIS vs. MSIT

MSIT and MSIS programs both are rooted in information technology, but they diverge significantly when it comes to application. MSIT programs emphasize the tech in IT, while MSIS programs train students for roles that primarily focus on IT and communications tech delivery. Some universities offer combined IT and IS programs, called MS in Information Systems Technology degrees, which equip students with the skills to do it all.

MSIS vs. MBA

MS in Information Systems and Master of Business Administration programs both emphasize communication and leadership, especially when it comes to cross-functional collaboration. However, MSIS degrees are specialized master’s degrees in technology, while MBAs are designed to be very broad for aspiring leaders in all industries.

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Master’s in Information Systems Careers

Career Outlook

MSIS graduates can find fulfilling and lucrative careers in any area where organizations can benefit from an expert in supporting tech-enabled decision making. Given this fluid but technical career path, information systems professionals can work in many roles, functions and industries — everywhere from technical database roles to tech team leadership.

The career outlook for IS professionals is incredibly promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 17% growth in computer and information systems manager jobs through 2033. This rate is 13% higher than the average job market growth rate and equates to over 50,000 new job openings each year.

8 High-Paying MSIS Job Roles and Salaries

Role	Average Salary
Database Architects	$128,400
Software Developer	$141,200
Information Systems Manager	$167,800
Database Administrator	$122,200
Management Analyst	$104,800
Computer Systems Analyst	$96,100
Information Systems Project Manager	$106,800
Business Operations Analyst	$85,200

Source: Lightcast

1. Database Architects

Median Annual Salary: $128,400

Database architects hold an important role in the information systems and technology field by supporting how an organization stores, manages and accesses data. As such, they are responsible for creating effective database architectures through technical knowledge of database systems. They might be tasked with:

• Reducing query time
• Improving efficiency
• Making other improvements to existing databases
• Creating a new database system

2. Software Developer

Median Annual Salary: $141,200

Software developers program a variety of deliverables in order to meet very specific goals outlined by a project manager or product owner. Not all software development roles are information systems roles, but typically IS professionals working in a software development capacity will develop software and tools for internal use, rather than for a client. This may include:

• Create reporting dashboards for their organization
• Develop proprietary software specific to a company’s IT and IS needs
• Build tools to support business processes and strategy
• Support integration between internal tools and plug-ins

3. Information Systems Manager

Median Annual Salary: $167,800

Information systems managers leverage both technical and leadership capacities in IS environments, with an eye toward leading teams of IT professionals. They typically:

• Manage the IT budget and allocate funds
• Hire, manage and train their team
• Oversee the organization's hardware, software and integrations
• Develop and implement IT policies and cybersecurity procedures
• Research and propose new technologies and softwares

4. Database Administrator

Median Annual Salary: $122,200

Where database architects might be tasked with building a new database system from the ground up or revamping how existing data structures are organized, database administrators maintain existing databases and oversee the data structure of an organization. They are specifically responsible for ensuring that databases are:

• Efficiently and effectively designed
• Optimal in terms of functionality
• Secure from unauthorized access

5. Management Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $104,800

Information systems professionals who work as management analysts are tasked with helping organizations improve the effectiveness of their information systems workflows. This might include:

• Analyzing existing IS workflows to uncover inefficiencies and blockers
• Providing recommendations for operational improvements
• Offering insights on new hardware or software systems
• Helping to design or implement new workflows

6. Computer Systems Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $96,100

Computer systems analysts, also known as systems architects, examine an organization’s computer systems, processes and workflows to find areas that can be improved. Where management analysts consider the whole information systems lifecycle, computer systems analysts specialize in computer systems. These professionals:

• Identify ineffective hardware
• Support new software implementation
• Oversee the installation and customization of new systems
• Train teams on new software and hardware
• Help organizations harness digital technology to meet business goals

7. Information Systems Project Manager

Median Annual Salary: $106,800

Implementing effective technological processes and projects can be very complex, which is why organizations need dedicated information systems project managers. These professionals leverage project management techniques and information systems expertise in order to support the creation of new systems or improvements upon existing ones. IS project managers, like project managers in other fields, will be responsible for tasks like:

• Planning projects
• Communicating with implementation teams and stakeholders
• Monitoring the execution of projects
• Managing risks, setbacks and issues in a project
• Documenting the project’s progress
• Testing the finished process or tool to make sure everything was accomplished correctly

8. Business Operations Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $85,200

Business operations analysts are problem-solvers that support organizational goals by identifying operational problems and recommending appropriate solutions. They typically work with a great deal of data in order to create models of the issues. Using these models, business operations analysts can test multiple solutions before recommending the best option. Information systems professionals in these roles apply their expertise to:

• Tech workflows
• Software systems
• IT hardware improvement initiatives
• Cybersecurity infrastructure

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Benefits of Earning an MSIS

The curriculum of an MS in Information Systems provides you with crucial expertise, knowledge and training in information systems theory, application and best practices. While developing your skills and expanding your expertise are some of the chief benefits of graduate education, those aren’t the only things that make this degree worth the investment.

Career Progression

A master’s degree helps position you for success in the job market, both in terms of opportunities and earning potential. In order to advance into specialized roles, high-level positions and leadership opportunities, you will typically need a master’s degree as the minimum education requirement. But even for roles that don’t require a master’s degree, the MSIS will help you stand apart from the crowd.

MSIS Salary

As for your earning potential, it is likely that you will be able to earn back the cost of your education within a few years of graduating. On average, those with master’s degrees have lower rates of unemployment and significantly higher salaries than those with only bachelor’s degrees. While the average salary of all master’s degree graduates in the U.S. was $90,324 in 2023, the average salary for master’s degree holders in IT occupations was $122,000, according to Lightcast.

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GW’s MSIST Degree

For individuals who don’t want to be limited to just information systems or information technology, a combined degree might be the answer. GW School of Business’s MS in Information Systems Technology offers a blend of IT and IS expertise specifically designed to equip you with crucial skills and knowledge for success. Students will learn to:

• Manage projects and teams
• Leverage information systems and IT knowledge for effective team work and leadership
• Think critically and analytically about technology processes and issues
• Harness technology ethically

This is a versatile degree program that can be applied across a range of roles and can help support a range of career trajectories. Our students have gone on to work as project managers, software developers, security analysts, consultants, technology directors, CTOs and more. In a world where you might think you need to be either a tech guru or a business leader, choose to be both.

Advanced Tech Skills for Tomorrow’s Challenges: GW’s MSIST

Advance your career with the GW School of Business’s Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MSIST), available online or in person. The MSIST prepares you to succeed in the face of IT challenges, use data effectively and drive sustainable growth. Through online MSIST coursework and live lectures, you’ll gain the skills you need to spearhead major technology initiatives and translate complex data into strategic business decisions. We believe in supporting our students through their academic journeys: every student accepted into our summer and fall 2025 online graduate programs will receive an automatic tuition scholarship. Learn more about the online MSIST by requesting a brochure, or starting your application today! Since 1928, GW School of Business students have leveraged our global presence to pursue practical, insightful expertise in the world of business from an enviable vantage point. One of the most diverse cities in the United States, D.C. is home to leading organizations in the health care, hospitality, media, government, defense and technology sectors. Our faculty are thought leaders and educators in these areas and more, and they’re ready to provide you with the business and management expertise you need to succeed.