How the Management Information Systems Major Prepares You for the Job Market
The business major is one of the most widely-accepted and applicable majors available. Every industry, from health care to non-profits, has a business aspect that demands attention. For this reason, business students are highly likely to find employment in a variety of fields. This may account for the popularity of the business degree. In 2006-2007, approximately 21 percent of the 1,524,000 degrees conferred were given in the field of business, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Management information systems in particular focus on the technology used by businesses today to organize files, plan future endeavors, and communicate with other employees and companies. To prepare management information systems students for these responsibilities, the degree program focuses on systems analysis and design, business data communications, information resources, and other topics related to the growing field of technology-fueled businesses. This educational background prepares management information systems majors for a successful career after graduation, as the majors already possess the valuable knowledge needed in the field.
Best Career Paths for Management Information Systems Majors
Management information systems majors have the work with businesses to develop information technology resources, such as networks and databases. The best career paths for management information systems majors to take are:
- Network Administrator. Network administrators are responsible for handling the development, installation, and support of a companyís computer systems, including networks and Internet connections. They ensure that the networks remain functional and efficient. Network administrators make an average salary of $62,130 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Software Engineer. Software engineers work to design new software and systems to improve computers. They cater to a userís needs to create applications such as business programs, word processors, and games. Software engineers make an average salary of $79,780 annually, according to the Bureau.
- Technical Writer. Technical writers break down complicated technology jargon and rewrite it in a way that nearly anyone can understand. They write the content for troubleshooting manuals, type up reports from technology companies to the less technology-savvy board members that oversee the company, and may participate in the development of diagrams and charts to explain technology. They make an average salary of $58,050 annually, according to the Bureau.
All of these positions utilize the business skills and industry knowledge that management information systems majors possess.
How to Market Your Management Information Systems Degree
Earning a management information systems degree is an important step towards starting your career. However, you will also need to know how to market your degree to potential employers in order to prove that your education makes you an excellent candidate for the position. To do this, be specific about the skills you learned in class. For example, mention how you learned to handle the multiple aspects of communication technology without compromising data safety and security. Be sure to mention the challenging projects you tackled and how those projects helped you hone your skills in the field. Reassuring employers that your educational background helped you develop real-world skills is the most effective way of marketing your management information systems degree.
