M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership
The M.A. in Nonprofit Leadership at OCU is a 36-credit-hour program that can be complet...
Masters of Business Administration - Management Information Systems
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
INTAKE: Jan, May & Aug
Program Overview
The MBA with an MIS concentration at OCU is an accelerated 30-credit-hour program, distinguishing itself as one of the fastest routes to an accredited graduate business degree. It offers significant flexibility with a fully online format, catering to working professionals seeking to advance their careers. The program delves into the strategic importance of information systems in modern organizations, covering aspects like technology infrastructure, project and risk management within IT, and technology's role in overall business operations and strategy. The first cohort for this specific MBA concentration is expected to start in August.
STEM-Designated: A notable advantage of OCU's MBA in Management Information Systems program is its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designation. This is particularly beneficial for international students, as it allows for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the U.S. by an additional 24 months, for a total of up to 36 months of work authorization after graduation. This extended period provides invaluable opportunities for practical experience and career development in the U.S. technology and business sectors.
AACSB Accredited: Oklahoma City University's Meinders School of Business, the home of the MBA program, holds the prestigious AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation. This is a hallmark of excellence in business education, achieved by less than 5% of business schools worldwide. AACSB accreditation signifies that the program meets rigorous standards for curriculum quality, faculty expertise, student learning outcomes, and a commitment to continuous improvement, assuring students and employers of the high caliber of the education received.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MBA with MIS concentration is a strategic blend of core MBA business principles and specialized MIS coursework. Core MBA courses typically include "Effective Leadership & Communication," "Accounting for Business Decision Making," "Business Strategy for Creating Value," "Data Analysis for Business Decisions," "Managing at the Crossroads: The Global Economic Environment," "Strategic Marketing Decisions for Creating Value," and "Financial Strategy and Decision Making." The MIS concentration then builds upon this foundation with specialized topics exploring the role of information systems in modern organizations, including technology infrastructure and technology's role in operations and strategy, with a particular focus on project and risk management. This provides a comprehensive understanding of how to leverage IT for business success.
Research Focus: Oklahoma City University's Meinders School of Business maintains an applied research focus, particularly within its technology-oriented programs like the MBA in MIS. The university has invested in this area, including the Ronnie K. Irani Center for Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence. While not exclusively focused on theoretical MIS research, the program emphasizes equipping students with the skills to analyze business needs and propose technology-based solutions. Faculty, often with real-world experience, bring insights from current industry practices and technological advancements into the classroom, informing discussions on information systems' role in operations and strategy.
Industry Engagement: Oklahoma City University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement within its MBA programs, including the MIS concentration. The faculty in the Meinders School of Business often consists of industry professionals, ensuring that the curriculum is current, relevant, and infused with real-world applications and challenges. The program aims to prepare students to manage information technology firms effectively and to integrate technology seamlessly into other areas of business. Through the faculty's connections and potentially through a capstone project that involves working with a real company, students gain practical experience and networking opportunities, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the IT management landscape.
Global Perspective: The MBA with MIS at Oklahoma City University integrates a global perspective by acknowledging the borderless nature of information technology and global economic interactions. Core MBA courses like "Managing at the Crossroads: The Global Economic Environment" provide a foundational understanding of global business dynamics. Furthermore, the very nature of information systems and technology means that solutions often have international implications and must consider diverse global users and regulatory environments. The program's STEM designation also attracts a diverse international student body, enriching classroom discussions with varied global viewpoints and preparing graduates to navigate complex IT management challenges in a globally interconnected world.
Location
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 14190
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 83 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Oklahoma City University (OCU) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to attract and support talented international students. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and reward academic excellence, leadership, and artistic achievement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: OCU provides merit-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic records, leadership potential, and community involvement. These scholarships are automatically considered during the admission process, and amounts vary based on academic achievement and program of study.
Performance and Talent Scholarships: Students applying to OCU’s renowned performing arts programs, including music, dance, and theater, may be eligible for performance-based scholarships. These awards recognize exceptional artistic ability and provide financial support to help students pursue their creative passions at a professional level.
Transfer Student Scholarships: International students transferring from other accredited institutions may qualify for transfer scholarships. These awards acknowledge previous academic success and help make the transition to OCU more affordable.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: Graduate students, especially those in business, law, and healthcare fields, can access scholarships and assistantships that offer tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research support. These opportunities provide valuable experience and financial relief.
Oklahoma City University's MBA with a Management Information Systems (MIS) concentration is designed to equip graduates with the strategic and technical acumen to lead in the digital age. This program is particularly strong due to its blend of fundamental business principles with specialized knowledge in information systems, its STEM designation, and the robust AACSB accreditation of the Meinders School of Business. Graduates are well-prepared to bridge the gap between business needs and technological solutions, making them invaluable assets in any organization.
IT Project Manager: Oversees technology projects from initiation to completion, ensuring they align with business objectives, stay within budget, and meet deadlines. This role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and an understanding of technical complexities and risk management.
IT Consultant / Technology Consultant: Advises businesses on how to best use information technology to achieve their objectives. This includes evaluating existing IT infrastructure, recommending new systems, and assisting with implementation and change management.
Business Systems Analyst: Analyzes an organization's business processes and information systems to identify areas for improvement. They act as a liaison between business stakeholders and IT teams, translating business needs into technical requirements.
Information Systems Manager / IT Director: Leads and manages an organization's information technology department, overseeing IT strategy, infrastructure, security, and operations. This role is crucial for ensuring that technology supports overall business goals.
Chief Information Officer (CIO) / Chief Technology Officer (CTO): Senior executive roles responsible for the overall technology vision and strategy of an organization. CIOs typically focus on internal IT operations and strategic alignment, while CTOs focus on external technology, product development, and innovation.
IT Risk Manager / Information Security Manager: Specializes in identifying, assessing, and mitigating technology-related risks, including cybersecurity threats, data breaches, and system failures. They develop and implement security policies and ensure compliance.
Data Governance Manager: Establishes and enforces policies and procedures for the management of an organization's data assets. This ensures data quality, security, and compliance with regulations, allowing for reliable data-driven decision-making.
Enterprise Architect: Designs and maintains an organization's overall IT architecture, ensuring that all technology systems are integrated, scalable, and aligned with long-term business strategy.
Product Manager (Software/IT Products): Oversees the lifecycle of a software product or IT service, from conception and development to launch and ongoing management. This role blends technical understanding with market analysis and business strategy.
Solutions Architect: Designs and develops technical solutions for specific business problems, often involving the integration of various software, hardware, and network components. They bridge the gap between high-level business requirements and detailed technical designs.
