Online Management Information System (MIS) Certificate Program Info

Information system managers supervise and run a company's technological infrastructure. Many schools offer online management information system (MIS) certificate programs for students and professionals looking to expand their information management skills.

Online Management Information System (MIS) Certificate Overview

Online MIS certificate programs teach students how to develop, implement and maintain information systems in a business environment. Some online schools require students have an undergraduate degree before enrolling. However, unlike graduate-level business degree programs, students do not have to take the GMAT exam to be eligible. Students in online MIS certificate programs focus on courses in business and technology, covering topics such as database design and management, business communications and system analysis.

Program Details and Information

Most online MIS certificate programs can be completed entirely online, though some schools offer the program in hybrid form. This means some courses are taken online while some are taken in a campus environment. Usually these programs offer flexibility as to in which environment particular courses can be taken, as well as when they are available.
Although technical requirements can vary for some courses, students can complete most of their coursework with a reliable Internet connection and a current browser and operating system. Some courses may require access to software like MS Word or Excel, in addition to software that allows students to view and read various types of media.

Common Courses

Students in an online MIS certificate program takes courses emphasizing information system design and maintenance in a business environment.

Web Technologies Course

This course focuses on the development of Internet technology on a global level. Students discuss the effect of Internet technology on international business.

Information Technology Infrastructure Course

Students are trained to design, manage and maintain business information and technology infrastructure on a corporate level. Security and encryption are also covered.

Systems Analysis and Design Course

This class discusses the role and importance of the systems analyst in a corporate setting. Design techniques and methods of development are also covered.

Global E-Commerce Course

In this course, students are taught the function and role of the Internet in relation to the global market. It trains students to successfully design, maintain and manage electronic commerce systems as well.

Career Outlook for Graduates

Graduates of online MIS certificate programs typically work as information system managers or system administrators. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), the average median salary for information systems managers in 2009 was $113,270. The BLS also projects that employment of information system managers is expected to grow 17% between 2008 and 2018. The median salary for systems administrators in 2009 was $67,710.00

Continuing Education Opportunities

Many schools classify their MIS certificate programs as a prelude to a master's degree program and will allow credits earned to be transferred. Many schools offer online or hybrid versions of their Master of MIS programs.