Florida State University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational business courses with specialised information systems teaching. Early study covers core business disciplines such as accounting, finance, marketing and organisational behaviour alongside introductory computing and quantitative methods.

• Programming and Software Development – foundations in programming logic, software design and development practices relevant to business applications.
• Database Systems – relational database design, SQL, data modelling and management for business decision-making.
• Systems Analysis and Design – requirements gathering, modelling, user-centred design and systems development lifecycles.
• Networking and IT Infrastructure – principles of networks, cloud basics and infrastructure that support enterprise systems.
• Information Security and Risk Management – fundamentals of cybersecurity, access control, incident response and governance.
• Business Analytics and Data Visualisation – applied analytics, statistical methods and visualisation tools for extracting business insight.
• IT Project and Service Management – project planning, agile practices, service delivery frameworks (such as ITIL concepts) and vendor management.
• Strategy, Ethics and Governance – alignment of IT and organisational strategy, legal and ethical considerations, compliance and privacy.
• Capstone and Experiential Learning – integrative projects, internships or practicum experiences that apply classroom knowledge to real organisational problems.

The degree typically requires completion of business core requirements plus a sequence of MIS courses, elective options in areas such as data analytics or cybersecurity, and a culminating project or internship to demonstrate applied competence.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the university and to the College of Business; entry to the MIS major may require meeting programme or college progression standards. Typical expectations include:

• Successful completion of secondary education with a competitive academic record. Strong performance in mathematics is advantageous.
• Demonstrable quantitative ability; prior study of mathematics and computer science at school level is helpful.
• Standardised tests are considered according to university policy; consult the university for current testing expectations.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or qualification unless exempt.
• Transfer applicants should present college transcripts showing readiness for upper-division business coursework; relevant work experience or technical certificates can strengthen an application.

Specific GPA thresholds, prerequisite courses and application processes are set by Florida State University and the College of Business; prospective students should consult official admissions pages for up-to-date requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that link business needs with technology solutions. Common career paths include:

• Business analyst or systems analyst – translating business requirements into technical specifications and process improvements.
• IT project manager or implementation consultant – leading technology projects and managing vendor relationships.
• Database administrator or data analyst – designing, maintaining and extracting insight from organisational data.
• IT service manager or operations specialist – overseeing day-to-day delivery of IT services and support.
• Cybersecurity analyst or information assurance specialist – protecting systems and data and supporting compliance efforts.
• Enterprise systems analyst or ERP specialist – configuring and optimising large business applications.

Graduates also move into consulting, product management, technology sales, or continue to postgraduate study in information systems, business analytics or related fields. The programme emphasises transferable skills—communication, problem solving and project work—that are valued across sectors.

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University’s College of Business offers an AACSB-accredited environment combining reputable business teaching with practical IT-focused modules. Students benefit from:

• Access to applied learning facilities, labs and software used in industry, plus opportunities for internships with regional and national employers.
• Industry engagement through guest speakers, career fairs and corporate partnerships that aid recruitment and real-world exposure.
• Active student organisations and competitions in information systems and analytics that foster teamwork, leadership and technical practice.
• Faculty who balance academic research with practitioner experience, offering mentorship on research projects and career development.
• Support services including career coaching, networking events and study abroad options to broaden professional and cultural perspectives.

These elements combine to prepare students to move quickly into IT and business roles or to pursue further study in information systems and related disciplines.