M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
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Master of Business Administration - Computer Information Systems
Flint, Michigan
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The MBA with a CIS concentration at the University of Michigan-Flint is engineered for flexibility, accommodating the diverse needs of both full-time students and working professionals. Students can pursue the degree entirely online asynchronously, through synchronous online courses, via a hybrid model, or utilize a hyperflex option that allows for week-to-week choices between on-campus and online attendance. This adaptability enables students to complete the program at their own pace, typically within 18 to 24 months, though it can extend up to five years. A significant advantage is the option for a dual MBA/MS in Computer Science and Information Systems, which allows students to earn two master's degrees with fewer credits, often reducing the overall credit requirement by 18 credits compared to pursuing each degree separately. This dual degree is particularly beneficial for students without an undergraduate background in computing, as it helps them build the necessary technical foundation alongside their business acumen. The program prepares graduates to lead technology teams and manage complex information systems within organizations.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MBA with a CIS concentration is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of core business principles alongside specialized knowledge in information systems. While the foundational and core MBA courses cover essential areas such as accounting, finance, economics, organizational behavior, marketing, and operations management, the CIS concentration delves into advanced topics crucial for IT leadership. Key areas of focus typically include project management, advanced software engineering, and information system management. For students in the dual MBA/MSIS program, the curriculum combines strategic business leadership with in-depth technical training, covering subjects like data management, systems development, cybersecurity, and applied artificial intelligence. Students in the broader MS in Computer Science and Information Systems program at UM-Flint can specialize in Business Information Systems, which may include courses in enterprise information systems, database systems, and object-oriented system design. The program's design ensures graduates possess both the managerial skills to make strategic decisions and the technical expertise to implement and manage enterprise technologies.
Research Focus: While the MBA program at the University of Michigan-Flint is primarily practitioner-oriented, focusing on applying knowledge to real-world business challenges, it is situated within a university system that values research and intellectual contributions. The curriculum often incorporates problem-based learning and team-based projects, encouraging students to analyze and solve complex organizational issues, including those related to information systems. Faculty in the School of Management engage in scholarly activities that contribute to business theory and practice. Specifically, within the Computer and Information Science (CIS) Department, faculty have diverse teaching and research interests, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, data science, information science, emerging systems, game design, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud/edge computing, and quantum computing. This robust research environment indirectly enriches the MBA-CIS program by ensuring that the curriculum is informed by current technological advancements and research insights, even if the MBA itself does not typically culminate in a research thesis.
Industry Engagement: The University of Michigan-Flint places a strong emphasis on practical application and industry relevance. The School of Management actively engages with businesses in its region and beyond, aiming to produce graduates who can meet the demands of the modern workforce. The MBA-CIS program prepares students for roles where they can effectively manage complex information systems and articulate the value of technical solutions to non-technical stakeholders. Graduates are equipped with skills vital for today's data-driven environments, such as business analytics and the application of AI for decision-making. The university's strong connections within the broader University of Michigan system, including access to alumni networks and professional connections, further enhance career opportunities. The program's practical skills development, often through case studies and real-world projects, ensures that students gain hands-on experience and are ready to tackle challenges in various industries.
Global Perspective: The University of Michigan-Flint's MBA program, including the CIS concentration, inherently incorporates a global perspective, essential in today's interconnected business and technology landscape. The AACSB accreditation itself promotes adherence to international standards of business education. The program's flexible online formats allow for a diverse student body, attracting individuals from various geographical locations and professional backgrounds, thereby enriching classroom discussions with global insights and experiences. While specific international study trips for the CIS concentration may not be explicitly detailed, the broader MBA curriculum may include courses that delve into international business problems and global strategy. Furthermore, the very nature of information systems and technology necessitates a global understanding, as digital innovations and business operations frequently transcend national borders. This global outlook prepares graduates to operate effectively in multinational corporations and navigate the complexities of a globalized digital economy.
Location
Flint, Michigan
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 18332
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $55
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 84 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 56 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of Michigan-Flint offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying abroad. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, making quality education more accessible to students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UM-Flint provides several merit-based scholarships for international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic performance, standardized test scores, and other achievements. Notable scholarships include the International Student Scholarship, which helps offset tuition costs for high-achieving students.
Graduate Scholarships: Graduate international students may be eligible for scholarships such as the Global Graduate Merit Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding academic credentials and supports research and advanced study.
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Computer Information Systems (CIS) from the University of Michigan-Flint is designed to propel graduates into leadership positions within the technology sector and across various industries increasingly reliant on sophisticated information systems. This specialized MBA provides a unique blend of strategic business acumen and in-depth knowledge of IT, making its graduates highly sought after for roles that require both managerial oversight and technical understanding. The strong emphasis on contemporary topics like AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity further enhances their career prospects.
Computer and Information Systems Manager: This is a primary career path for MBA-CIS graduates. These managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They are responsible for the smooth operation of IT systems, including supervising staff, implementing new technologies, and ensuring data security. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a much faster than average growth for this role (17% from 2023-2033).
IT Project Manager: With an MBA, graduates are well-equipped to lead complex IT projects from conception to completion. This involves defining project scopes, managing budgets and timelines, coordinating teams, and ensuring that technological solutions align with business objectives. This role is crucial for organizations undertaking digital transformations.
Information Security Analyst: Given the escalating threat of cyberattacks, information security analysts are in high demand. MBA-CIS graduates can step into roles protecting an organization's computer systems and networks, developing security protocols, and responding to breaches. Employment for information security analysts is projected to grow significantly (33% from 2023-2033).
Computer Systems Analyst: These professionals analyze an organization's computer systems and procedures, designing solutions to help the organization operate more efficiently and effectively. They bridge the gap between business needs and IT solutions, a skill highly emphasized in an MBA-CIS program. This occupation is projected to grow 11% from 2023-2033.
Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst: Leveraging the data analytics skills gained in the program, BI analysts collect, analyze, and interpret large datasets to provide actionable insights for strategic business decisions. They play a vital role in helping companies understand market trends, customer behavior, and operational efficiencies.
IT Consultant: MBA-CIS graduates can work as external consultants, advising diverse clients on how to best utilize information technology to meet their business objectives, improve efficiency, and drive growth. This role requires strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Database Administrator/Architect: These professionals are responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of an organization's databases. With vast amounts of data being generated, ensuring its integrity, security, and accessibility is critical, making this a growing field with a projected 9% growth.
Enterprise Systems Analyst/Manager: Focused on large-scale integrated systems like ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), these roles involve implementing, customizing, and managing these complex software solutions that integrate various business functions. The MBA-CIS provides the necessary understanding of both the technical architecture and the business processes involved.
Solutions Architect: A solutions architect designs and integrates IT solutions to meet specific business needs. This involves a deep understanding of software, hardware, networks, and data, along with the ability to translate technical concepts into business value. An MBA provides the strategic perspective to excel in this design-focused role.
Product Manager (Technology Products): For graduates interested in the intersection of business and technology innovation, a product manager oversees the lifecycle of a technology product, from ideation and development to launch and market success. This role requires understanding customer needs, market trends, and technical feasibility, all cultivated through an MBA-CIS program.
