Management Information Systems

What is an information system?

An information system is the power behind the decision making process of an organization; it is an integral part of an effective management system.

The information system professional utilizes tools, techniques, and concepts of various disciplines such as computer science, management science, and organizational behavior.

These interdisciplinary tools, combined with an understanding of the basic needs of an organization, enable the information system professional to apply computer technology to the solutions for a wide range of business problems.


Is This Major Right for You?

In order to succeed in this major, a student should be interested in organizations and how they function, as well as in computing.

This student also needs a strong grasp of oral and written communication skills. Working with computers in general requires the student to be able to concentrate, to deal with frustrations, to be a self-starter and to be motivated to learn on their own.

The Management Information Systems program enables students to learn how to integrate technology into business processes to improve system efficiency and effectiveness.

MIS students take general business courses such as accounting, finance, marketing, economics, statistics, and project management, but additionally take coursework such as programming, databases, networking, information systems, information technology and ecommerce in order to learn how these disciplines support modern businesses.

Graduates of the Management Information Systems program pursue careers as programmers, business analysts, technical or network support personnel, systems analysts, web developers, database analysts and account managers.

An MIS major is of interest to students who wish to specialize in business-orientated information analysis and data processing. This curriculum provides a broad overview of computer based information systems, with special emphasis on business applications and managerial control.

An MIS professional utilizes tools, techniques, and concepts of various disciplines such as computer science and management science.

These interdisciplinary tools combined with an understanding of the basic needs of an organization enable the information system professional to apply computer technology to the solution of a wide range of business problems.

Information systems professionals interact with individuals in the functional areas of an organization to analyze information needs and requirements and to serve as a liaison with computer systems personnel.


Course Requirements


Future Career

These professions and professional organizations illustrate the types of positions you might qualify for if you complete this major.

Some majors are more directly related to employment than others. You should consider the likelihood of employment after graduation carefully, if you do not plan to go on for graduate work in a field. You should determine what the prospects are for this or any major.

Employment possibilities are often enhanced by selecting employment-related courses and by the enrollment in second major or in a minor.

  • Communication Specialist
  • Computer Programmer
  • Information Systems Manager
  • Networking Specialist
  • Software Engineer
  • Systems Engineer
  • Technology Instructor
  • Computer Analyst
  • Database Specialist
  • Internet Specialist
  • Project Leader
  • Systems Development Manager
  • System Specialist
  • Technology Representative

Is MIS Major Recognized as a Stem Discipline?

Yes, MIS Major in the Department of Business Administration is recognized as a STEM discipline (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).


What Is the Advantage of MIS Major Being Recognized as a STEM Discipline for the International Students?

Majors recognized as a STEM discipline provide a critical opportunity for international students' professional careers and development. 

Upon their graduation, international students of the MIS Major at the College of Business at Winona State University will have the opportunity to apply for an additional 24 months of Optional Professional Training (OPT), in addition to having an initial 12 months of Pre-Completion OPT. 

International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) administer the OPT application process for all those international students majoring in STEM-related majors, including the MIS Major. Please consult the ISSS Website about off-campus work opportunities before graduating from the MIS Major and after graduation about Optional Practical Training (OPT).