Management Information Systems Prof. David Murray Introduction to MIS

Overview Common questions about MIS What is Management Information Systems (MIS)? Careers in MIS MIS Concentration Coursework Tips for Undergraduate Students

Common Questions about MIS What is MIS? How are MIS and CS different? Does MIS involve a lot of computer programming? What are potential careers in MIS? Can I succeed in MIS without a strong computer or technical background? What can I do to further myself in the MIS field while I’m still a student?

What is MIS? Identifying the information that is needed for effective decision making in organizations and developing information systems to satisfy those needs In other words… “ MIS is using technology to create business value.”

What is MIS? What do MIS professionals do? BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY Bridge the gap between business and technical minds

MIS Career Outlook – GREAT! Five fastest growing occupations between 2004 and 2014 for individuals with a Bachelor's degree: - Network systems & data communications analysts - Physician assistants - Computer software engineers, applications - Computer software engineers, systems software - Network and computer systems administrators Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics

MIS Career Outlook – Pays well too! Projected percent growth in occupations from 2004 to Network systems & data communications analysts (54.6%) - Computer software engineers, applications (48.4%) - Computer software engineers, systems software (43%) - Network and computer systems administrators (38.4%) - Database administrators (38.2%) - Computer systems analyst (31.4%) These positions are ranked in the top 25% for median earnings and are in the BLS list of fastest growing jobs. Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics

MIS Careers What general careers are there in MIS? Project Managers / CIO Systems Analysis and Design Software Design Internet Database Network / Telecommunications Technical Sales

Careers in MIS What does it take to succeed? SOFT SKILLS Communication Teamwork Patience Creativity Decision Making TECHNICAL SKILLS Technical Curiosity Problem Solving Analytical Technological Knowledge Synthesis BUSINESS SKILLS!

Essential Skills for Today’s CIO Source: CIO, March 1, 2002

What classes will I take? Business Core Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Accounting, MIS (MGS351), etc... MIS Concentration Java Programming (CSE113) Telecommunications Technology (MGS402) Database Management (MGS404) Systems Analysis and Design (MGS405)

MIS Coursework Schedule Take anytime prior to final semester: CSE113 Take anytime during Junior year (core class): MGS351 Take during first semester Senior year: MGS402 and MGS404 Take during second semester Senior year: MGS405

Characteristics of Successful MIS Students They truly enjoy technology The top students have the initiative and drive to learn things on their own Many pursue MIS related jobs and internships while in school (CIT) They understand non-MIS business classes are just as important to their career success

– What can I do now? Get involved! (MISA) Seek out technology-related jobs and/or internships Develop soft skills and technical skills Use your computer to solve your own problems Explore technology certifications

Questions? Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the MIS concentration Professor David Murray m m AIM Screen Name: MGS351 m Office: Jacobs 284 m Phone: ? ?