CONNECTING BUSINESS, TECHNOLOGY, AND DATA
Students studying Management Information Systems (MIS) and Business Analytics gain a unique combination of business acumen, technical expertise, and analytical skills. These capabilities enable graduates to bridge the gap between business operations, technical teams, and data-driven strategies. The following are integral to both MIS and Business Analytics degrees:
Communication and Collaboration Skills
Project management, requirements gathering, teamwork, and interpersonal skills are essential for MIS and Business Analytics professionals. These skills enable graduates to communicate effectively across all levels of an organization, ensuring alignment between technical, business, and data-focused teams. Strong communication and collaboration are vital for driving successful projects and strategic initiatives.
Technical and Analytical Knowledge
MIS and Business Analytics students develop robust skills in computer programming, database management, data analytics, and business software. While MIS students focus on computational thinking and technology integration, Business Analytics students dive deep into data analysis, statistical modeling, and data visualization. Both fields equip graduates with the technical proficiency to solve complex business problems using data and technology.
Business and Data Analysis
Both MIS and Business Analytics professionals play critical roles in business analysis. MIS graduates use their understanding of technology and communication skills to assess and implement changes in business processes. In contrast, Business Analytics graduates focus on extracting insights from data to inform decision-making. Together, they contribute to identifying, articulating, and implementing changes that improve organizational performance.
The Business Analyst is an agent of change. Business Analysis is a disciplined approach for introducing and managing change to organizations, whether they are for-profit businesses, governments, or non-profits.
Business analysis is used to identify and articulate the need for change in how organizations work, and to facilitate that change.
-International Institute of Business Analysis
WHY STUDENTS CHOOSE MIS AND BUSINESS ANALYTICS
Continuous Learning
In the technology and data fields, no two days are alike. MIS and Business Analytics graduates continue learning throughout their careers and get the opportunity to solve challenging business problems—that matter—everyday!
Growing Field
Graduates with expertise in MIS and Business Analytics are highly sought after. Over 89 percent of Iowa State University MIS graduates found professional employment within 6 months of graduation. Business Analytics graduates enjoy similarly high placement rates, reflecting the increasing demand for data-driven roles in today’s job market. (Source: Iowa State University Business Career Services Employment Statistics)
Competitive Salary
MIS majors have the highest median starting salary in the College of Business, with Business Analytics majors following closely behind in second place. The combination of technical expertise and business knowledge makes these graduates highly valuable in the workforce. (Source: Iowa State University Business Career Services Annual Reports)