Understanding how much businesses need information systems professionals has sent many to apply for the best online information systems management associate degrees. Though there are many differences between associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees, know that associate degrees offer an excellent alternative for students to jumpstart their careers now and continue further studies later.
An online Associate Degree in Information Systems Management is excellent for navigating the tech industry. Multiple prestigious colleges offer two-year degrees to students looking for a quicker way to learn in-demand skills.
This guide takes you through the best online information systems management associate degrees, admission requirements, tuition costs, and accreditation. We also include the highest-paying information systems management jobs.
Where Can I Get an Information Systems Management Associate Degree Online?
You can get an information systems management associate degree online from some of the best colleges in the US, like Amridge University, Anne Arundel Community College, Atlantic Cape Community College, and Regent University. If you are wondering where to get your information systems management associate degree online, keep reading for a comprehensive list of options.
What Schools Offer the Best Information Systems Management Associate Degrees?
- Amridge University
- Anne Arundel Community College
- Atlantic Cape Community College
- Cowley College
- Georgia Military College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree?
The admission requirements for an online information systems management associate degree are an online application, standardized tests, placement tests, official high school transcripts, and GED scores. Some less common online Associate Degree in Information Systems Management requirements are letters of recommendation and application essays.
The online application form requires full names, contact information, and the previous school attended. Some colleges will require you to attach your high school transcripts at this point. Other colleges prefer new students to fill in the transcript request form to retrieve the official transcripts from the colleges. Some schools have a GPA requirement of at least 2.0.
Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma
- Minimum GPA score
- College application essays
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
How to Get an Information Systems Management Associate Degree Online
You can get an information systems management associate degree online by meeting all the school’s listed requirements. Each college has different admission requirements. Below is a list of college admission requirements you must fulfill to get an associate degree.
Information Systems Management Degree Requirements
- Complete a capstone project
- Complete 60 plus credit hours
- Complete lower elective courses
- Complete general education courses
- GPA of at least 2.0
Best Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Amridge University | Associate of Arts in Information Systems Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Anne Arundel Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Atlantic Cape Community College | Associate in Science Computer Information Systems |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Cowley County Community College | Associate of Arts for Management Information Systems | Higher Learning Commission Kansas Board of Regents |
| Georgia Military College | Associate Degree in Management Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Hudson Valley Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Liberty University | Associate of Arts in Information Systems | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs |
| Northern Oklahoma College | Associate in Science in Business Administration with a Management Information Systems | Higher Learning Commission |
| Penn State World Campus | Associate in Science in Information Sciences and Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Associate of Science in Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools |
Best Schools for Information Systems Management: Top Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Programs
The best online school for an Associate in Information Systems Management will provide a comprehensive curriculum. The major difference between an online information systems management associate degree and an in-person degree is its convenience. If you want to study online, enroll in any of the top information systems management associate degree programs listed below.
What Is an Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree?
An online information systems management associate degree studies how an organization works by analyzing its processes and information systems and how people use them. An associate degree is a two-year program with a minimum degree requirement of 60 credit hours.
The online degree tackles topics like supporting business applications, network systems, microcomputer maintenance, database systems, operating systems, project management, and cloud technologies.
Prospective students can attend an online information systems management associate degree program or an in-person one. Most schools provide the programs in both formats as well as a hybrid option to accommodate the learning needs of students.
Online vs In-Person Information Systems Management Degrees
Online and in-person programs present very different environments, and it depends wholly on which setting suits you. Many schools offer online and in-person hybrid programs. Some online information systems management associate degrees have pre-recorded videos, while others have live classes.
In-person associate programs are offered on the campus premises. As a student, you will have access to live in-person classes and interact with the instructors and other students. We’ve listed a few benefits of online and in-person information systems management associate degrees below.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Associate Degree in Information Systems Management
- Convenience. The most significant advantage of an online information systems management associate degree is convenience. You can attend the online program in the comfort of your home or from anywhere in the world.
- Affordable. Attending an online degree program helps you save money compared to an in-person program. You won’t have to pay transport costs and campus fees.
- Flexible. Another benefit of an online information systems management associate degree is flexibility. You can attend classes in your own time and work around your own schedule.
- Global networking. Online students come from far and wide. You can grow your professional network and make connections with students and experts on a global scale.
- Instills self-discipline. You will gain time management skills while learning to juggle your schedule without supervision.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Associate Degree in Information Systems Management
- Extracurricular activities. Attending an in-person information systems management associate degree will not only expose you to intensive live lectures but also other social activities. You can access workshops, seminars, and group discussions.
- Highly interactive. Compared to online degree programs, in-person programs are highly interactive. You can get real-time help on campus from tutors and instructors.
- Enhances collaboration skills. Most in-person information systems management programs feature hands-on learning. Students will get to work in groups from time to time to work on projects. Collaboration is a good life skill to learn.
- Networking opportunities. In-person programs offer a great opportunity to network on-campus. Students can collaborate and communicate with one another and build real-life connections.
- Easier to focus. Compared to online learning programs, in-person programs make it easier to focus on studies. You are less distracted by things happening at home when you’re on campus.
What Types of Online Associate Degree Can You Get in Information Systems Management?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for information systems management:
- Associate of Arts (AA)
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
- Associate of Science (AS)
The type of degree depends on the institution you select. There are slight variations in each degree type, but you can get any type of Associate Degree in Information Systems Management completely online.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Management?
It is better to get an Associate of Science degree if you intend to study further. You need to determine your academic and career goals. Students who go for an Associate of Applied Science degree intend to land jobs at the end of the two years. An Associate of Applied Science is usually a two-year terminal degree where you do not transfer credits.
The Associate of Science degree is usually the first two years of a four-year bachelor’s program. If your goal is to study for two years, get a job, and then finish a bachelor’s degree, you should study for an Associate of Science degree. Regardless of the degree you choose, it is better to get an associate degree than to attempt to learn about information systems from free online classes.
How Much Does an Information Systems Management Associate Degree Cost?
Online associate degree programs in information systems management cost an average of $3,621, according to NCES. If you attend a public two-year institution, you will pay tuition fees of $3,377. Private institutions charge a tuition fee of $15,828. The tuition costs vary depending on the college you select.
If the tuition fees are too high, you could consider applying for financial aid. Most colleges offer a wide range of options, including scholarships and loans, to help reduce the tuition burden for students. You might be able to lower your online associate degree cost by attending an in-state school.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Systems Management Associate Degree Online?
It takes about two years to get an information systems management associate degree online. However, program lengths differ between institutions. Some can take 18 months while others take the full two years to complete. Most associate degrees require at least 60 credit hours to complete, but each college has its own basic requirements for graduation.
Are Online Degrees Respected?
Yes, online degrees are respected. According to Statista, there are over 3,450 exclusively distance education courses. This amount indicates the increasing trend toward online education as more and more learners opt for online learning. The increased spike in online education began with the pandemic when many institutions turned to online education for safety measures.
There are over 2,449,559 undergraduate students who signed up exclusively for distance education courses, according to NCES. Most students who attend online associate degrees end up in entry-level job positions, in startups, or established companies. Earning an accredited online information systems management degree can definitely help you land an entry-level job.
Is Information Systems Management Hard to Learn Online?
No, it is not hard to learn information systems management online. All degrees require hard work, but online degrees need extra motivation and self-discipline. Take advantage of student support services offered by the college to help with time management if it’s not your strength. Some students find information systems management hard to learn online if they don’t have experience with distance learning.
Information Systems Management Bootcamp vs Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An online associate degree in information systems management is better because it will look better on your resume and provide a more comprehensive education. However, there are situations where a bootcamp may be a better option.
Determining which is better, a coding bootcamp vs an online associate degree is dependent on your budget and your end goal. There are benefits to both forms of education, so we’ve listed a few top benefits of each to help you make an informed decision.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree
- Convenience. You can complete an online associate degree in information systems management in two years while studying at home.
- Increased earning potential. An associate degree will boost your salary potential. There are many job opportunities available for learners who have graduated from two-year degree programs.
- Credit transfer opportunity. Earning a two-year associate degree will give you academic credits to transfer to a four-year degree program. Often learners complete a two-year associate degree and later decide to join a bachelor’s degree program offered by the same school.
- Excellent career opportunities. There are many entry-level job opportunities for learners with an associate degree in information systems management.
- Earn money earlier. An associate degree allows you the opportunity to start earning money sooner than if you earn a bachelor’s degree. It also keeps your options open should you want to study further.
Top 5 Benefits of an Information Systems Management Bootcamp
- Cost. The most significant benefit of a bootcamp is the affordability. Bootcamps offer students in-demand skills without breaking the bank. They are a great alternative to degree programs.
- Length of the program. Bootcamp programs are much shorter than degree programs. Many information systems management bootcamp courses last about nine months.
- Curriculum. Learners enjoy the competitive curriculum bootcamp programs offer. The platforms continually revise their curriculums to ensure they reflect the current need in the market.
- Career services. Most bootcamp programs feature career services. These courses feature career services to ensure students acquire job-ready skills to navigate the market.
- Networking. Bootcamp students get exposure to industry experts during their learning program. The platforms often partner with top companies who attend networking events to pinpoint new talent in the industry.
Why You Should Get an Information Systems Management Associate Degree Online
You should get an information systems management associate degree online because it is convenient and cheaper to study at home. An online associate degree is also a great choice if you want to work and study simultaneously. One of the main benefits of an information systems management associate degree online program is that you can transfer your credits toward a bachelor’s degree.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Associate Degree Program in Information Systems Management?
You can take courses in web design, programming, networking, and project management in an online information systems management associate degree program. Below is a list of some of the associate in information systems management online courses you will see in popular programs.
Introduction to Computers
One of the major topics in an associate degree in information systems management is an introduction to computers. You can expect to cover basic skills in computing and information literacy. The course generally touches on operating systems, hardware, software, and viruses.
Web Design
The online associate degree program includes various web design concepts. You can learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These are essential styling and programming languages used to develop the front end and backend of a website. You will familiarize yourself with different graphics and server-side technologies. Some programs also teach PHP, C#, and Ruby.
Networking Concepts
Associate degrees in information systems management teach students networking and communication concepts. These courses include data communications networks, local area networks, and wide-area networks.
Project Management
Students need to learn how to manage a project from an idea to completion. The course teaches you to create project schedules, manage resources, and create reports. You may also learn different methodologies such as Agile or Scrum.
Database Systems
The database systems course includes subjects like network database systems, object-oriented database systems, and hierarchical database systems. You will learn about the basics before moving on to advanced concepts.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with an online information systems management associate degree is to transfer academic credits to pursue a bachelor’s degree in information systems management. You can also land an entry-level job to improve your resume.
Other than four-year degree academic programs, information systems management associate degree graduates can also look into certifications. Acquiring a professional certification in information systems management will help you validate your professional skills.
Related Online Information Systems Management Degrees
[query_class_embed] *subject-bachelors-degrees
What to Look For in the Best Information Systems Management Associate Degree Programs
The best information systems management associate degree programs provide a comprehensive education to prepare you for your career. If you are wondering what to look for in an online information systems management program, take a look at our list of criteria below.
Accreditation
Accreditation is important because it shows that the institution meets a standard quality of education. It is also important if you want to study further. An accredited college or university will give you transferable credits to another higher education institution.
Cost
The affordability of a program is very important so you don’t have heavy student debt after graduation. To reduce the cost of tuition for the two-year program, you should look into applying for financial aid.
Graduation Rate
A graduation rate not only shows the value of education the online program provides, but how well the students are supported. A high graduation rate means students have successfully graduated because of good teaching methods and support.
Student Services
Student services will ensure you stay on track with your studies and have a successful outcome. Many student services also help with your resume and interview process. Some offer mock interviews to teach you to look good for a potential employer.
Student to Faculty Ratio
The best online information systems management associate degrees have classes with a reasonable student-to-faculty ratio. Smaller class sizes tend to provide more value compared to large class sizes. It is important to have personalized attention when studying online. Teachers will be able to guide you much easier.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree?
The most affordable online information systems management associate degree is Cowley County Community College. The two-year degree program costs students $3,750 for full-time tuition.
Can I Get an Information Systems Management Associate Degree Online for Free?
No, you can’t get an associate of information systems management degree online for free. However, you can significantly reduce the tuition burden by applying for financial aid. Some colleges require students to apply for financial aid during the application process. You can apply for scholarships or federal funding.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Graduates
There are multiple job opportunities for graduates with associate degrees in information systems management. Whether you want to work in technology or any other industry, the associate degree program can open up a broad range of opportunities. Find out the salary and job outlook for information systems management associate degrees graduates below.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Systems Management Associate Degree?
It is not that hard to get a job with an online associate information systems management associate degree, as they are in demand. Many organizations need help from experts who study this degree program. There is a wide range of opportunities for information systems management graduates, and possessing a two-year degree can increase your chances of landing a job.
Most associate degree programs in information systems management degree programs feature career services. You can expect career coaching sessions, mentorship, career counseling, and online branding. These are essential services that will ensure you are well prepared to land an excellent job in the industry.
What’s the Average Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Salary?
The average online information systems management associate degree salary is $66,000 per year, according to PayScale. You can easily increase your salary potential by looking into acquiring professional certifications or job experience.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree?
Jobs you can get with an online information systems management associate degree are technical support specialist, operations support specialist, network specialist, network support technician, and IT support specialist. There are also other career opportunities you can explore using an associate degree. You should look into becoming a web developer, cloud architect, or network administrator.
Information Systems Management Degree Jobs
- Technical support specialist
- Operations support specialist
- Network specialist
- Network support technician
- IT support specialist
Potential Careers With an Online Information Systems Management Degree
[query_class_embed] how-to-become-a-*profession
How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree?
You can make $44,000 to $82,000 per year with an online information systems management associate degree. The amount you make depends on the career path you select, skill level, and certifications. These are in-demand skills, so many grads find making money with an online information systems management degree is not too difficult.
Highest-Paying Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Information Systems Management Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Network Engineer | $72,323 |
| Systems Analyst | $64,216 |
| Network Administrator | $64,667 |
| Technical Support Specialist | $51,098 |
| Web Developer | $49,953 |
Best Jobs for Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Grads
Some of the best jobs for online information systems management associate degree holders are systems analyst, network administrator, and cloud architect. The following list of associate in information systems management online jobs will help you gain more insight and decide on a career path.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
[query_class_embed] jobs-for-*subject-majors
Is an Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online information systems management associate degree is worth it. If you would like to start a career in tech but don’t have the resources to acquire a four-year degree, an associate degree is a great alternative. You can begin with a two-year degree and work towards a bachelor’s degree. Often learners rely on associate degrees to get enough academic credits to study for a four-year degree.
If you do not want to pursue a four-year degree once you graduate from the two-year program, you can choose a different path. Associate degree programs will give you tech skills to help you land entry-level jobs.
Additional Reading About Information Systems Management
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/information-systems/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/how-to-become-an-information-system-analyst/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/information-systems-associate-degrees/
Online Information Systems Management Associate Degree FAQ
No, an online associate degree in information systems management is not difficult. The two-year degree program has minimum education requirements like a high school diploma or GED certificate. The program also features student support services which are excellent for ensuring you are always on track with your studies.
You can get an associate degree in information systems management degree online as fast as 18 months. However, most degree programs take two years to complete.
Yes, an online associate degree in information systems management is credible. However, it is important to check whether the degree program is accredited. There are various online degree programs, but not all of them are recognized formally. You must ensure the program you select is provided by an accredited institution.
Yes, an associate degree in information systems management is in demand. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a predicted 11 percent job growth rate for computer and information systems managers between 2020 and 2030. This above-average job growth rate means that many more jobs will open up in the future.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
