If you have a head for business but are interested in the latest technology, consider majoring in Business Information Systems at a college or university. All organizations use some form of information system, whether it is in electronic, written or graphic form, and graduates from this program are prepared for a number of rewarding careers working for companies of all sizes, government departments or as self-employed consultants.
For people who want to be considered for management positions in this field, a Bachelor's degree is the minimum level of education required. Some employers prefer to hire individuals who hold a graduate degree for senior positions. An option for an adult learner who does not want to take time away from work to study is to enroll in an online degree program.
Working in Business Information Systems
To qualify for a management position in this area, an individual will need to demonstrate that he or she has a solid understanding of business concepts. Working in the IS field may mean having to make decisions that can have a significant impact on the company and the people working for it. Candidates who are successful in this field will be able to demonstrate leadership ability, as well as excellent communication skills. Part of this job may include assigning work to other team members and evaluating their performance.
The ability to translate highly technical information into language that a lay person can understand is another important quality for those working in the IS field. Communicating with fellow managers, employees and clients is an everyday occurrence, which calls for good oral and written communication skills.
IS managers who do well on the job may be promoted to higher-ranking positions within their organization. Job titles like chief technology officer or chief information officer are part of this career path. In some cases, the career path leads an IS graduate to a management position in marketing, sales or human resources. Understanding business systems is a benefit to individuals working in these departments in high tech firms.
Information Systems Related Careers
- Account Manager
- Logistics Consultant
- Management Analyst
- Management Consultant
- Purchasing Manager
- Technical Consultant
- Trainer
Self-employment in a consulting role is another career path open to IS grads. A person who is interested in working for him or herself will need to spend several years working in the field to gain the knowledge required to be able to promote him or herself as a consultant.
Choosing to study Business Information Systems at the post-secondary level can open the door to a number of rewarding and lucrative career choices. The need for people who are familiar with technology and how the right choices can benefit business means that this is a field that will continue to grow for the foreseeable future.
* Area of Study
