M.S. in Management Information Systems

Program Overview

The M.S. in Management Information Systems at UB is typically a 30-credit hour program, generally completed within 1 to 2 years for full-time students. It attracts graduates from various backgrounds, including those with business degrees and those from more technical or unrelated fields, underlining its ethos of diversity and inclusivity. The program balances technical proficiency with strategic insight, aiming to mold students into persuasive, dynamic software engineers and IT leaders. It often includes practical, hands-on learning experiences to ensure students are "management ready" upon graduation.

STEM Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Management Information Systems program at the University at Buffalo's School of Management is STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students on F-1 visas, as it allows them to apply for a 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) STEM extension. This means international graduates can gain up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. in a field directly related to their degree, providing extended opportunities for career development and experience.

AACSB Accredited: Yes, the University at Buffalo School of Management's M.S. in Management Information Systems program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). AACSB accreditation is widely considered the hallmark of excellence in business education globally, signifying a rigorous curriculum, highly qualified faculty, and strong career outcomes. UB's School of Management has maintained AACSB accreditation since 1930, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to delivering a high-quality business education that meets the highest international standards.

Curriculum: The 30-credit curriculum for the M.S. in Management Information Systems provides a comprehensive understanding of how to apply computer-related technology to managerial problems. While specific course lists may vary, core areas typically include "Database Management Systems," "Technology and Innovation Management," "Systems Analysis and Design," "Predictive Analytics," and "Information Technology and Cloud Infrastructure Management." The program combines a heavy technical component with a broad perspective necessary for advancement in managerial careers. Elective options allow for specialization in areas such as digital forensics, business intelligence, or specific programming languages and tools.

Research Focus: The School of Management at UB, which houses the M.S. in Management Information Systems program, maintains a strong research focus within its Department of Management Science and Systems. Faculty members are actively involved in research that explores the intersection of information technology and business, including topics like cybersecurity, data analytics, IT strategy, and the management of digital innovation. While the M.S. is primarily a professional degree, the curriculum is informed by this cutting-edge research, ensuring students learn current theories and practical applications. Students may have opportunities for independent study or project-based work that allows them to apply research methods to real-world technology challenges.

Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Management Information Systems program at UB places a significant emphasis on industry engagement to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. The program aims to provide "on-the-job training that offer direct and hands-on experience." Opportunities such as internships and part-time work are highly encouraged, even after the first year of the curriculum, with a high chance of converting into full-time positions. The School of Management has strong connections with various firms, and its Career Resource Center actively supports students in finding job opportunities and offers enriching networking events. Graduates are frequently placed in diverse companies across consulting, financial services, e-commerce, and technology sectors.

Global Perspective: The M.S. in Management Information Systems at UB inherently fosters a global perspective by addressing the universal need for effective information management and technology utilization in organizations worldwide. The program prepares students to leverage technology to solve problems and create strategic opportunities in a globalized business environment. The university's diverse international student body enriches the learning experience with varied cultural viewpoints and different approaches to managing information systems across borders. The skills acquired are highly transferable, enabling graduates to pursue careers in multinational corporations and contribute to global digital transformation initiatives.