Top MIS universities in USA: ranking and admission criteria

Management Information Systems (MIS) is a rapidly growing field that combines the worlds of business and technology. MIS professionals play a critical role in helping organisations effectively manage their information systems to make better decisions, improve operational efficiency, and gain a competitive advantage. In the United States, many top universities offer programs in MIS that are recognized for their quality of education and research in the field.

In this article, we will explore some of the top MIS universities in USA, highlighting their rankings and admission criteria.

Why study Management Information Systems in the USA?

Studying Management Information Systems (MIS) in the USA offers several advantages and benefits. Here are some reasons why studying MIS in the USA is a popular choice:

1. Quality Education - Studying MIS in the USA provides access to top-notch faculty, advanced facilities, and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring a comprehensive and up-to-date learning experience.
2. Job opportunities - Pursuing an MIS degree in the USA opens up a wide range of career opportunities in various industries, including technology, consulting, finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and more.
3. Industry connections - Many universities in the USA have close ties with industry leaders and offer opportunities for internships, cooperative education programs, and networking events. This enables MIS students to gain practical experience, establish professional connections, and increase their chances of securing job placements and internships.
4. Innovation and research - Studying MIS in the USA allows students to be part of a vibrant academic community that encourages research, entrepreneurship, and innovation, fostering a mindset of creativity and critical thinking.
5. Post-graduation work opportunities - The USA provides Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities for international students, allowing them to gain work experience for up to 12 months after completing their studies. This can be extended to 24 months for STEM graduates, including MIS, providing an opportunity to gain practical industry experience in the USA.

Top universities for MIS in USA

Several MIS universities in USA offer exceptional programs in this field. These universities have established themselves as leaders in the industry through their rigorous academic curriculum, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. The top 6 MIS universities in USA are:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Sloan School of Management

MIT's Sloan School of Management is a prestigious institution that offers one of the best MIS programs in the USA. The school's MIS program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how technology and information systems can be used to improve business performance and decision-making. The program combines theory and practice to give students a deep understanding of the field and its applications in the business world.

MIT's Sloan School of Management is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world. According to the U.S. News & World Report, the school is ranked #4 in the Best Graduate Schools in the Management Information Systems category for 2022. Additionally, the school is ranked #5 in the Best Business Schools overall category for 2022.

The admission process for MIT's MIS program is highly competitive. Applicants are required to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and a GMAT or GRE score. International students are also required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency. Other admission requirements include letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.

Also read: How much does it cost to study in the USA?

2. Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper)

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is another top MIS university in the USA that is renowned for its high-quality programs in the field. The MIS program at Tepper is designed to equip students with the technical and managerial skills needed to succeed in today's fast-paced business environment. The program is known for its interdisciplinary approach, combining coursework in information technology, business strategy, and data analytics.

The Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University is highly ranked for its MIS program. According to the U.S. News & World Report, the school is ranked #1 in the Best Graduate Schools in the Management Information Systems category for 2022.

Admission to the MIS program at Tepper is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 30%. In addition to meeting the general admission requirements of Carnegie Mellon University, applicants to the MIS program must have a strong academic background in math, computer science, and business. Strong GRE or GMAT scores are also required. Applicants are also evaluated on their work experience, leadership potential, and communication skills.

Also read: MS in USA universities without GRE

3. University of Arizona (Eller)

The University of Arizona's Eller College of Management offers a highly-ranked MIS program that provides students with a strong foundation in technology, business, and leadership. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in a range of industries, including consulting, finance, healthcare, and technology.

The MIS program at Eller is ranked #10 in the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 Best Undergraduate Business Programs rankings. It is also ranked #14 in the 2022 Best Graduate Information Systems Programs rankings. The program offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Undergraduate admission to the program is competitive and based on a holistic evaluation of applicants' academic performance, extracurricular activities, leadership potential, and personal characteristics. Prospective students must submit transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. Graduate admission requirements vary by program, but typically include transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays.

The MIS program at Eller offers a wide range of courses that cover topics such as data analytics, database management, project management, cybersecurity, and enterprise systems. The program also provides students with hands-on learning opportunities through internships, case competitions, and research projects.

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4. Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller)

The Scheller College of Business at Georgia Institute of Technology is considered one of the top MIS universities in USA. The school offers several programs in MIS, including a Bachelor of Science in Computational Media with a concentration in Information Internetworks and a Master of Science in Information Technology Management.

The ITM program at Scheller is ranked #8 in the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 Best Information Systems Programs rankings. The program offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Admission to the MIS programs at Scheller College of Business is highly competitive. For the Master of Science in Information Technology Management program, applicants are required to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and a GMAT or GRE score. Additionally, applicants should have a strong background in information technology, business, or a related field. Work experience is preferred but not required.

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5. New York University (Stern)

The MIS program at New York University's Stern School of Business is one of the top programs in the country. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in areas such as business analytics, data science, information technology consulting, and more. The curriculum focuses on developing skills in data analysis, project management, and information technology strategy.

The MIS program at Stern is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country. According to U.S. News & World Report's 2022 rankings, the MIS program at Stern is ranked #2 in the nation.

To be admitted to the MIS program at Stern, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additionally, applicants must submit GRE or GMAT scores, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining their interest in the MIS program.

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6. University of Texas--Austin (McCombs)

The MIS program at McCombs combines coursework in information technology, business strategy, and data analytics to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of technology in modern business practices.

The MIS program at the University of Texas--Austin is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country. According to U.S. News & World Report's 2022 rankings, the MIS program at UT-Austin is ranked #5 in the nation.

Admission to the MIS program at McCombs is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 20%. In addition to meeting the general admission requirements of UT Austin, applicants to the MIS program must have a strong academic background in maths, computer science, and business. Strong GRE or GMAT scores are also required. Applicants are also evaluated on their work experience, leadership potential, and communication skills.

7. University of California, Berkeley - Haas School of Business

The MIS program at the Haas School of Business combines business management principles with technology skills to prepare students for leadership roles in the digital age. The program emphasises areas such as data analytics, digital innovation, and information systems management. Students benefit from the strong network and entrepreneurial ecosystem of the Berkeley-Haas community.

The Haas School of Business is highly regarded and is ranked #7 in the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 Best Business Schools ranking.

The admission process for the Haas School of Business is highly competitive. The admissions committee evaluates candidates based on their academic achievements, test scores, work experience, leadership potential, and personal qualities.

8. University of Maryland - Robert H. Smith School of Business

The MIS program at the Smith School of Business is known for its strong curriculum and industry engagement. It prepares students for careers in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT consulting. The program offers specialised tracks and provides opportunities for internships, industry projects, and networking with professionals in the field.

The Smith School of Business is consistently recognized as one of the top business schools in the USA and is ranked #17 in the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 Best Business Schools ranking.

The admission process for the MIS program at the Robert H. Smith School of Business involves submitting an online application, official transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, test scores, work experience, leadership potential, and alignment with the program's goals.

9. University of Michigan - Ross School of Business

The MIS program at the Ross School of Business is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to navigate the rapidly evolving business and technology landscape. The curriculum emphasises areas such as business intelligence, digital transformation, and IT strategy.

The Ross School of Business is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the USA and is ranked #13 in the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 Best Business Schools ranking.

The Ross School of Business seeks individuals who are intellectually curious, collaborative, and have a demonstrated passion for making a positive impact in the business field. The admissions committee considers various factors such as academic performance, test scores, work experience, leadership potential, and personal characteristics.

10. University of Minnesota - Carlson School of Management

The MIS program at the Carlson School of Management provides students with a strong foundation in both business and technology. The curriculum focuses on areas such as data analytics, information systems management, and business strategy. Students have opportunities to work on real-world projects, engage with industry partners, and participate in internships to gain practical experience.

The Carlson School of Management is ranked #24 in the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 Best Business Schools ranking.

To apply for the MIS program at the Carlson School of Management, applicants need to submit an online application, official transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. The admissions committee considers factors such as academic performance, test scores, work experience, leadership potential, and personal characteristics.

Related Subjects

• Data Sciences and Big Data
• Information Technology
• Cyber Security
• Computer Sciences

Admission requirements for Masters in MIS in the USA

The admission requirements for a Master's in MIS in the USA can vary among universities. However, here are some specific admission requirements that are commonly observed:

1. Bachelor's degree

Applicants are typically required to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The degree can be in a related field, such as computer science, information technology, business administration, or engineering. Some universities may consider applicants with non-related degrees but may require prerequisite coursework in areas such as programming or database management.

2. Academic transcripts

Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. These transcripts should show a strong academic record, including relevant coursework and a competitive GPA. The specific GPA requirement may vary but is typically around 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

Also Read: What are academic transcripts?

3. Letters of recommendation

Most universities require applicants to provide letters of recommendation. These letters should be from individuals who can assess the applicant's academic abilities, work experience, or potential for success in the MIS program. Typically, two to three letters are required, and they should come from professors, employers, or professionals who can provide valuable insights into the applicant's capabilities.

4. Statement of purpose

Applicants are usually required to write a statement of purpose or personal statement outlining their academic and professional background, career goals, and reasons for pursuing a Master's in MIS. This statement allows applicants to demonstrate their motivation, relevant experiences, and future aspirations within the field.

Also Read: What is SOP?

5. Resume

Applicants need to submit a comprehensive resume that highlights their educational background, work experience, internships, research projects, publications, and any other relevant achievements or extracurricular activities. This document provides an overview of the applicant's qualifications and demonstrates their commitment to the field of MIS.

6. English language proficiency

International applicants from non-English speaking countries are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through standardised tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. The specific minimum scores required may vary among universities, but they generally fall within the range of 80-100 on the TOEFL iBT or 6.0-7.0 on the IELTS.

Also read: Best MBA Universities in the USA

Cost of studying MIS in the USA

The cost of studying MIS in the USA can vary depending on several factors, such as the university, program duration, location, and lifestyle choices. Here are some key points to consider regarding the cost of studying MIS in the USA:

• Tuition fees - The tuition fees for MIS programs in the USA can vary significantly depending on the university, program level (undergraduate or graduate), and whether it is a public or private institution. On average, undergraduate MIS programs can range from $20,000 to $40,000 per year, while graduate programs can range from $30,000 to $60,000 per year.
• Living expenses - The cost of living in the USA can vary depending on the location and lifestyle choices. Major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco tend to have higher living costs compared to smaller cities or towns. As an estimate, students can expect to allocate around $10,000 to $20,000 per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.
• Health insurance - International students studying in the USA are typically required to have health insurance coverage. On average, health insurance costs for international students can range from $500 to $2,000 per year, depending on the plan and coverage.
• Additional expenses - Students should also budget for additional expenses such as textbooks, study materials, student fees, transportation, entertainment, and personal expenses. It's important to have a realistic understanding of these additional costs to effectively manage finances during the study period.

Masters in MIS in USA placement

Master's in Management Information Systems (MIS) graduates in the USA can land various jobs like:

Conclusion

The field of Management Information Systems (MIS) is rapidly growing and becoming increasingly important in the business world. For students interested in pursuing a career in MIS, it is essential to choose a top-ranked university that offers rigorous coursework and valuable networking opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

What is MIS?

Management Information Systems (MIS) is a field of study that combines management and computer science to improve organisational efficiency and effectiveness by using technology-based solutions.

What kind of jobs can I get with an MIS degree?

MIS graduates can pursue careers as database administrators, business analysts, IT project managers, systems analysts, and information security analysts, among others.

What are the admission requirements for an MIS program?

Admission requirements for MIS programs vary by the university but typically include a bachelor's degree in any field, good scores on standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT, relevant work experience, and English proficiency.

How long does it take to complete an MIS degree?

The time required to complete an MIS degree depends on the program and the student's pace. Typically, a bachelor's degree in MIS takes four years to complete, while a master's degree takes one to two years.

What are some of the top MIS universities in US?

Some of the top MIS universities in US include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Arizona, the University of Texas at Austin, and Georgia State University, among others.

Is MIS a STEM course in the USA?

Yes, MIS is considered a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) course in the USA. It falls under the field of Information Systems, which is classified as a STEM discipline due to its focus on technology and data-driven decision-making.

Which degree is best for MIS?

The most common degree for MIS is the Master of Information Systems (MIS) itself. This specialised degree equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge in areas such as database management, systems analysis, information security, and project management, preparing them for careers in IT management and business analytics within various industries.

Does MIS have scope in the USA?

Yes, MIS has a significant scope in the USA. Graduates with an MIS degree can pursue careers as IT managers, business analysts, data analysts, consultants, and more, with opportunities in industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, consulting, and e-commerce.

What is the tuition fee to study for a master's in information system management in the USA?

Tuition fees for a master's in information system management (MIS) in the USA can vary depending on the university and program. On average, the tuition fees for international students range from $20,000 to $50,000 per year.

What is the eligibility for admission into Masters in MIS in the USA?

The eligibility criteria for admissions into a Master's in MIS program in the USA include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in a related field, a competitive GPA (often around 3.0 or higher), letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a resume or CV, and English language proficiency test scores (such as TOEFL or IELTS) for international students.

Is GRE required to study for a Masters in MIS in the USA?

GRE requirements for a Master's in MIS program in the USA can vary among universities. While some universities may require GRE scores as part of the application, some institutions may waive the GRE requirement or consider alternative factors for admission.