Computer Information Systems

Management Information Systems (MIS) combines computer technology with management decision-making methods—to analyze, design, implement and manage computerized information systems in an organizational environment. A bachelor’s degree is generally adequate for entry-level jobs, and additional graduate training is necessary for research and teaching positions. That being said, securing a job in the technology field with little to no experience can be challenging, but not impossible!

To break into a skilled industry, you have to start somewhere. But how do you prove yourself when you haven’t yet earned experience on paper? Here are some ways you can find an entry-level MIS role:

Start with Internships, Volunteer Experiences, or Early Career Development Programs

• Many tech companies offer technology-related internships or early career development programs specifically designed for students and recent graduates. These opportunities provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and the chance to work on real-world projects.
  • Ex. Early career development programs at NSA
• Internships can be a valuable stepping stone to securing a full-time entry-level position within the company or gaining industry experience to enhance your resume.
• Check out the “Gain Experiences” section on this page to browse real-world volunteer projects with real organizations!

Research and Explore Entry-Level Jobs

• If you hope to gain work in this field, learning how to find entry-level computer information systems jobs could help you start your career!
• You can start by researching the most popular entry-level jobs and see which align closest with your unique career goals and skills:
  • Programmer
  • Systems analyst
  • Database manager
  • Computer specialist
  • Network administrator
  • Software developer
  • Project lead
  • Information technology consultant
  • Applications developer

Utilize Your Network

• Networking is another powerful tool for landing your first MIS job. Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances who work in your field of interest. Also don’t overlook making a simple LinkedIn post stating that you’re open to work and asking for help from your connections.
• Lastly, attend job fairs and other events related to your industry. These events are a great opportunity to meet people who can provide valuable insights and help you connect with potential employers!

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter for Each Application

• Take the time to tailor your resume and cover letter to the job or internship you are applying for. Highlight your relevant skills and experience, even if it’s not directly related to the job.
• Consider using a functional resume format that focuses on your skills and abilities rather than your work experience.
• In addition, remember to always use keywords mentioned in the job description on your resume because many companies use software to match your resume with keywords found in job descriptions.

Build A Strong Online Presence

• Establishing a professional online presence can help employers discover you.
• Maintain and update your LinkedIn profile, and participate in relevant online communities, and showcase your projects or contributions on platforms like GitHub.
• This visibility can increase your chances of being noticed by potential employers and industry professionals.

If you’re a MIS student or graduate, chances are good you’ll want to know some of the best mid-level technology jobs out there and where to start looking. Employers are eager to find MIS students and graduates, especially those who have mastered programming languages, frameworks, and even cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence (A.I.). Some experienced professionals find they are looking to make a new career move. Knowing how switch careers can be beneficial can help you plan the next part of your professional life!

Switching Careers – Advice for Career Changers

• As a career switcher, you have a distinct advantage over graduates and early-career job seekers: Your career to date. Through your career you’ll have accumulated lots of skills and knowledge which may be transferred into a new career and are sought-after by employers!
• Transitioning to a tech-related role should build on existing professional experience. In many cases, making a successful switch is a matter of refining specific skills, and highlighting transferable skills from your past experience.
• Spend time researching the technical and soft skills your ideal job requires, and spend time updating your resume and applications to be sure you have noted all your current/newly acquired skills, relevant certifications, and transferable skills from your past experience.

Popular Industries & Career Paths To Explore

• As you begin considering career options, you might want to spend some time researching the various CIS career paths and MIS-related career paths out there and which aligns closest with your passions and skillsets.
• Most common industries that hire MIS degree students and alumni include:
  • Aerospacee/Defense
  • Consulting
  • Financial Services/Banking
  • Healthcare
  • Insurance
  • Hospitality
  • Retail

Popular Companies Hiring MIS Majors

• While researching specific roles, you will want to consider researching some of the top companies looking to hire individuals with MIS degrees:
  • ADP
  • Amazon
  • Deloitte
  • General Motors
  • Honeywell
  • IBM
  • Intuit
  • JPMorgan
  • Oracle
  • PetsSmart
  • Target

As a seasoned professional in the technology field, employers may be expecting that you have not only the experience in the field, but the technical knowledge and certifications to prove your expertise! Career paths for more senior-level students and alumni are diverse and wide ranging. With experience and proven success, senior information system specialists can progress to more senior roles or even executive-level positions, such as senior project manager or technical project manager.

Technical Knowledge for MIS Majors

• Technical skills encompass proficiency in various programming languages and tools. These skills enable professionals to develop software, design algorithms, write/test code, and solve complex problems.
• When creating a resume, it’s important to highlight the relevant skills that demonstrate your expertise and qualifications in the field.
• Here are some key technical skills:
  • Programming Languages: Java, Python, C++, Javascript, C#, Swift
  • Algorithms and Data Structures: Arrays, Linked Lists, Trees, Sorting, Searching & Graph Algorithms
  • Database Administration: SQL
  • Operating Systems: Process Management, Memory Management, File Systems
  • Software Development Lifecycle: Analysis, Design, Coding, Implementations, Testing & Maintenance

Certifications To Explore

• As a professional working in the information systems industry, a certification is a viable way to enhance your career.
• There are many certifications that can help to validate your skills and capabilities to employers, showing you possess the credentials to take on greater responsibilities.
• Learning about these different certifications can help you select the ones that may help you meet your career goals!
  • Certified Computing Professional
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional