Program Overview

Online Master of Science in Information Systems

The Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) program at Mississippi State University prepares students to become information systems professionals who can successfully develop, acquire, and integrate information technology across levels and functions of a firm in the continually changing global business environment. The MSIS degree equips students with critical technical skills, strengthens communication skills, enhances understanding of business functions/operations, and helps develop students' understanding of the link between organizations and information technology.

Career Opportunities with an MSIS Degree

The Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) degree from Mississippi State University prepares graduates for high-demand roles at the intersection of business and technology. Our graduates are equipped with the technical expertise, business acumen, and problem-solving skills needed to lead in today's data-driven global environment.

• Business Analyst – Translate business needs into technical solutions and improve processes through data-driven insights.
• IT Project Manager – Lead technology projects, manage cross-functional teams, and ensure timely delivery of business systems.
• Data Analyst – Analyze large datasets to support strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Systems Analyst – Evaluate and design information systems to support organizational needs.
• Cybersecurity Analyst – Protect organizational systems from digital threats by managing risk and developing secure frameworks.
• Database Administrator – Design, maintain, and optimize database systems critical to enterprise operations.
• Enterprise Architect – Align IT infrastructure with business goals through long-term systems planning.
• Chief Information Officer (CIO) – Serve as a strategic leader responsible for an organization's overall technology vision.

MSIS Program Structure

All students are required to take a set of basic business courses, or prerequisites, prior to taking their core courses. Students must complete the set of basic business courses listed below, or submit transcripts from other schools that carry equivalent courses with a grade of "B" or better.

MSIS Prerequisites Course Codes & Titles:

Master of Science in Information Systems Curriculum

• 15 credit hours of required courses
• 12 to 15 hours of electives
• Students who already have six (6) or more hours of programming may take 15 hours of electives. Students with only 3 hours of programming are required to take an additional 3 hours of graduate level programming and 12 hours of electives.

Required Courses

BIS 8113 Management Information Technology & Systems

Three hours lecture. Course includes the description, development and use of systems from an analytical perspective. Technology-enabled concepts are used for student assignments.

BIS 8213 Secure Systems Analysis & Design

(Prerequisite or co-requisite: BIS 8113 or any 3 hours of computer-related coursework). Three hours lecture. Analysis/design of secure computer-based information systems using structured methodologies. Emphasis on functional and security requirements analysis, business data analysis, logical system design, quality assurance, and comprehensive information security management.

BIS 8313 Advanced Database Design Administration

(Prerequisite: Three hours of computer programming with a grade of "B" or better). Three hours lecture. Design and management of local and distributed data resources, database design, definition, creation, maintenance, acquisition and analytical use. Role of Database Administrator.

BIS 8413 Data Analytics

(Prerequisite: BQA 8443 or equivalent). Three hours lecture. Enterprise approach to improving business processes and managerial decision-making through quantitatively sophisticated analysis of organizational data. Hands-on experience in analytical techniques, modeling, and software.

BIS 8753 Information Systems Collaborative Project

(Prerequisites: 9 hours of graduate BIS coursework beyond 8113). Three hours lecture. Capstone experience incorporating knowledge gained in prerequisite courses. Requires team participation using appropriate tools and methodologies in assisting organizations with real-world information systems related requirements through business and data analysis.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition and fees listed are subject to change and do not include all possible charges. Additional fees may apply.