Best Online MBA in Information Systems Management Degree Programs of 2025

Positioned at the intersection of business and technology, an online MBA in information systems management can prepare you for an IT manager, data analyst, or IT project manager career. These positions often come with competitive salaries, with IT managers earning a median salary of $169,510 annually and operations research analysts earning $83,640 annually.

Most full-time students graduate in 18 months to two years. The average annual tuition for a graduate degree program is $12,596 at public institutions and $28,017 at private universities.

Choose your area of study

Many online MBA in information systems management programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field. This additional level of specialization can help tailor the courses you take and the topics you study to your interests, career goals, and the skills you wish to develop.

Some popular specializations in this field include cybersecurity, data analytics, IT strategy, and business intelligence. A student with a technical background and an interest in protecting digital assets may be well-suited for a cybersecurity specialization. Those with a penchant for data analysis and decision-making might opt for data analytics. Students aspiring to bridge the gap between technology and business might find IT strategy or a business intelligence specialization more suitable.

Ultimately, selecting your area of study is a personal decision, and you should carefully evaluate your options and interests to narrow your search further.

Research schools and programs

After deciding on your study area, you can more effectively research the schools and programs that best suit your educational needs and career goals.

You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.

Ideally, your online MBA in information systems management program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). These programmatic accrediting organizations have particularly high standards for business education.

You should also gather information on each option’s curriculum, course offerings, and faculty expertise. To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.

Prepare for tests and applications

Now that you know the schools you plan on applying to, you can productively prepare for applications and any necessary tests.

Application requirements vary by school. First, familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of your desired programs and create a timeline to ensure all necessary documents are submitted on time. For standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE, allocate dedicated study time to your daily or weekly schedule. Some students benefit from including a test preparation course in their study regimen or utilizing official practice tests to sharpen their skills. It’s worth noting there are online MBA programs that don’t require GMAT scores, though.

Additionally, dedicate ample time to crafting a well-written personal statement and gathering solid letters of recommendation. Both elements speak directly to your character and potential for success in the program, so giving yourself and your recommenders plenty of time to complete them is crucial. Undergraduate transcripts will typically be required as well.

It’s also worth noting that you should always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.

Select your program

Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Speak to financial aid counselors at the schools you’re interested in for the most accurate and specific information about program cost.

There are multiple options at your disposal to help you finance your degree. First, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. In addition, research scholarships and grants explicitly targeted toward MBA students or those in the field of information systems.

Lastly, check with your employer to see if you qualify for employer tuition reimbursement programs. Some companies and corporations may cover some of your tuition if your degree relates to your current career.