University of Wisconsin–Parkside

What you'll study

This degree blends core business disciplines with technical information systems education. Students take a mix of general education and business foundation courses alongside specialised MIS&S modules. Typical subject areas include:

• Programming and Software Development: introductory and intermediate programming, scripting for automation and application development concepts.
• Databases and Data Management: relational database design, SQL, data modelling and basic data warehousing concepts.
• Systems Analysis and Design: requirements gathering, systems modelling, UML, and lifecycle approaches to developing information systems.
• Networks and Infrastructure: fundamentals of networking, network administration, and understanding IT architectures.
• Information Security and Risk Management: principles of cybersecurity, access controls, threat assessment and policies for protecting organisational information.
• Business Analytics and Decision Support: data analysis techniques, business intelligence tools, visualisation and the use of analytics to support managerial decisions.
• Project and Service Management: IT project management methodology, service delivery models and IT governance.
• Electives and Integrative Experience: options may include enterprise systems (ERP), web development, user experience design, or domain-specific applications, culminating in a capstone project or internship that applies classroom learning to a real-world problem.

The programme is typically structured across four years, with early semesters focusing on foundational business and technical skills and later semesters emphasising advanced electives, experiential learning, and a senior capstone.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of academic achievement. Typical admissions considerations include overall GPA and completion of preparatory coursework such as mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus) and computer-related classes where available. Admissions in the United States commonly consider high school transcripts; standardised test submission may be optional depending on current university policy.

Transfer applicants should supply college transcripts and may receive credit for prior relevant coursework. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional pathways, and provide equivalent secondary education documentation. Specific minimums and any additional requirements should be confirmed with the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Management Information Systems and Services move into a range of roles that bridge business and technology. Common entry and mid-level career paths include:

• Systems analyst or business systems analyst
• IT support specialist, help desk analyst or service desk coordinator
• Database administrator or data analyst
• Network administrator or IT infrastructure technician
• Cybersecurity analyst or information security specialist
• IT project coordinator or project manager
• IT consultant or business technology consultant
• Roles in enterprise applications and ERP support, or in business intelligence teams

Graduates often find opportunities in private sector firms, public organisations, non-profits and consulting companies. The practical and cross-disciplinary nature of the degree also provides a strong foundation for further study such as specialised masters programmes or professional certifications in areas like project management, networking or security.

Why study at University of Wisconsin–Parkside

University of Wisconsin–Parkside offers a focused learning environment with relatively small class sizes that allow close interaction with faculty who have both academic and industry experience. The programme emphasises applied learning through laboratories, project-based coursework and practicum opportunities that connect students with employers in the Kenosha–Racine and greater Milwaukee region.

Students benefit from access to computing and networking facilities, career services that support internships and job placement, and student organisations related to business and technology that foster professional development and networking. The university’s location near major regional business centres also helps students pursue internships, part-time roles and project partnerships with local companies.