Learn information systems with online courses and programs
People who know how to collect and analyze information can help maintain efficient business processes and meet goals.¹ ² Aspiring professionals can learn more about the field by taking a computer information systems course or completing a degree program.
What are information systems?
An information system is the combination of resources that creates desired products or services. For companies and organizations, this piece of the computer science world is a vital part of business processes and provides a coherent system for operation, affecting decisions on what technology and analytics to use.³ ⁴
There can be as many as six components of information systems: hardware, software, data, network, people, and internet.⁵
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Courses
Coding Boot Camp
University of Dayton
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Master of Science in Computer Engineering
University of Minnesota
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Master of Science in Computer Engineering
Syracuse University
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Master’s Degree in Computer Science
The University of Texas at Austin
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Coding Boot Camp
The University of Texas at San Antonio
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Coding Boot Camp
University of Dayton
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Coding Boot Camp
University of Dayton
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Coding Boot Camp
University of Dayton
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Coding Boot Camp
University of Dayton
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Coding Boot Camp
University of Dayton
10 courses • 1.5-3 years • $10,000
Related Topics
Different types of information systems
Experts in information systems have the skills to understand infrastructure and advise companies and organizations about ways to improve operations, including finding the best technology solutions to build into existing business architecture.⁶
Professionals may have completed computer information systems courses, some of which lead to an information systems certificate. Courses range from general information systems topics to information systems specializations that may include:
Management information systems (MIS): Plan, direct, and coordinate activities in departments such as electronic data processing, systems analysis, and computer programming.
Information technology (IT): Plan, initiate, and maintain IT projects; lead and guide the work of technical staff; coordinate between technical and business teams; manage projects to meet deadlines, standards, and budgets.
Enterprise data management (EDM) Collect, organize, store, secure, manage, and distribute the data used to operate business; oversee the people who work with database management systems.
Information systems security (INFOSEC): Maintain, monitor, and protect data, network, and computer systems, ensuring that tools are using and storing data properly.
Explore information systems jobs
Experts in information systems can be valuable to companies and organizations. Earning a bachelor’s degree is one starting point for those interested in an information systems career path. Completing an accredited online graduate degree program can provide specialized knowledge and skills to rise even higher in the ranks of an organization. The range of job opportunities may widen for employees with this expertise.
Graduates with degrees in information systems can be hired into various roles such as:
Computer network architect
Computer systems analyst
Database administrator
Information systems analyst
Information systems security engineer
Information systems manager
IT manager
How to become an information systems analyst online
Information or computer systems analysts may have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).⁷ They may have degrees in other areas, as well. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with master’s degrees in computer science or business administration with a concentration in information systems. Alternatively, a rigorous boot camp can also cover a broad curriculum.
Subjects that can prepare people for roles as information systems analysts or for jobs in related fields include:
Business
Computer science
Data science
Information technology
Mathematics
Information systems analysts also typically have these skill sets, according to the BLS:
Analytical skills. Interpret information from different sources and determine how to proceed.
Business acumen. Understand the organization’s business objectives and identify when systems need to be upgraded to meet them.
Communication skills. Explain complex issues to management and other departments in a way they can understand.
Creativity. Develop innovative solutions to complex problems with computers, networks, and systems.
Attention to detail. Examine operations carefully and identify inefficiencies or errors in business processes.
Organizational skills. Coordinate with departments to ensure tasks are completed on time and everyone is adhering to the plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
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¹ Computer and Information Systems Managers. (2022). Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved July 7, 2022.
² Computer Systems Analysts. (2022). Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved July 7, 2022.
³ Systems Security Engineering: Considerations for a Multidisciplinary Approach in the Engineering of Trustworthy Secure Systems. (2016). NIST Special Publication, 1(800-160). Retrieved July 7, 2022.
⁴ Risk Management Framework for Information Systems and Organizations. (2018). NIST Special Publication Revision 2, 800-37. Retrieved July 7, 2022.
⁵ Identifying the Components of Information Systems. (2020). Workforce LibreTexts. Retrieved July 7, 2022.
⁶ Eight Benefits of Seeking a Career in IT. (2021). ISACA. Retrieved July 7, 2022.
⁷ Computer Systems Analysts. (2022). Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved July 7, 2022.