Top 16 Jobs for an Information Systems Degree

Updated April 18, 2024

As you contemplate potential majors, it's important to research the job opportunities that could be available to you after graduation. If you're searching for a dynamic field that can provide a wide range of responsibilities, challenges and opportunities for professional development, then information systems might be a great choice for you. In this article, we explain what exactly an information systems degree is and explore some of the best jobs available for individuals who earn this credential.

What is an information systems degree?

An information systems (IS) degree explores the many types of systems, technological and non-technological alike, that store and transfer information. Though information technology (IT) and information systems are closely related, information systems is a much broader field that predates IT. While pursuing this degree, you might take classes in technology, information theory and social science.This field is primarily focused on employing information technologies in order to reach operational goals and business objectives. Because of this, information systems graduates must possess an understanding of business processes and the technologies they require.Related: A Guide To Information Systems

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What jobs can you get with an information systems degree?

Most information systems graduates find roles focusing on the technical and analytical aspects of this dynamic field, like in the IT sector. Regardless of the position or employer, the primary focus of the role is on adding value to an organization by employing information technology. Some of the most common jobs for information systems majors include:

1. Technical support specialist

National average salary: $54,916 per yearPrimary duties: A technical support specialist works directly with end users, assisting them with technical, hardware and software issues. When issues arise, they provide customers with support, tips and technical documentation.Related: Learn About Being a Technical Support Specialist

2. Information technology specialist

National average salary: $44,889 per yearPrimary duties: IT specialists typically work with computer-based information systems. Some of their responsibilities might include designing, using or maintaining technology within an organization. Though they're often employed by technology companies, you can usually find this role at any organization that oversees large amounts of data.Related: Learn About Being an IT Specialist

3. Librarian

National average salary: $56,415 per yearPrimary duties: Librarians are responsible for organizing large amounts of physical and digital information. They also help others navigate and research this information so that they can locate the materials they need. These professionals typically find work at information-focused organizations, such as the government, public libraries, research institutions, universities, colleges and schools.Related: Learn About Being a Librarian

4. Information systems technician

National average salary: $67,082 per yearPrimary duties: Information systems technicians maintain an organization's computer and communications systems. They accomplish this by writing the programs that collect, manipulate and distribute data needed for a variety of programs and applications.

5. Network administrator

National average salary: $74,376 per yearPrimary duties: Network administrators maintain and manage network segment, intranet, internet, wide area network (WAN) and local area network (LAN) systems. Aside from maintaining a network's security and stability, they also install network hardware and train others on their proper use.Related: Learn About Being a Network Administrator

6. Data analyst

National average salary: $74,377 per yearPrimary duties: A data analyst is responsible for organizing and interpreting data so that others can easily understand it. They typically gather data through statistical tests and then translate the information into reports. Businesses and organizations often rely on this interpreted data when looking for market trends and making important business decisions.Related: Learn About Being a Data Analyst

7. Web developer

National average salary: $77,791 per yearPrimary duties: A web developer creates websites by designing a site's appearance and writing the necessary code. This process often involves collecting and evaluating user feedback so that web developers can troubleshoot issues and improve the overall user experience (UX).Related: Learn About Being a Web Developer

8. Business analyst

National average salary: $83,763 per yearPrimary duties: Business analysts help organizations identify their IT needs and implement the systems, procedures and programs that can help them achieve their goals. These IT recommendations often focus on improving the company's efficiency, streamlining its processes and increasing its sales.Related: Learn About Being a Business Analyst

9. Computer systems analyst

National average salary: $79,891 per yearPrimary duties: A computer systems analyst evaluates an organization's needs and then recommends or designs programs to meet them. These needs often include improving the company's accuracy, efficiency and productivity. Once the programs are in place, computer systems analysts ensure their proper use by writing instruction manuals and training end users.Related: Learn About Being a Systems Analyst

10. Information systems manager

National average salary: $96,173 per yearPrimary duties: An information systems manager analyzes all of an organization's information needs and then determines which systems could address them. For example, they may optimize a company's mail campaign, set up an internal network or choose a more efficient computer system.

11. Information security analyst

National average salary: $90,425 per yearPrimary duties: An information security analyst helps protect an organization's systems and networks from cyberattacks, malware, viruses and hackers. They do this by identifying potential vulnerabilities and risks, investigating security breaches, developing security programs and procedures and installing defense systems, like firewalls, virus protection and data encryption.Related: Learn About Being an Information Security Analyst

12. Cybersecurity analyst

National average salary: $87,738 per yearPrimary duties: Cybersecurity analysts evaluate a company's digital security risks and then make recommendations for how they can mitigate potential external threats. Aside from assessing network security and developing safety protocols, cybersecurity analysts also respond to attempted breaches and work to minimize any potential damage.Related: Learn About Being a Cybersecurity Analyst

13. Database administrator

National average salary: $94,537 per yearPrimary duties: A database administrator (DBA) is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's software databases, such as library catalogs, user accounts, census information, statistical surveys and client records. In order to prevent the potential loss of data during a system failure, database administrators create and manage backup solutions. These professionals monitor, troubleshoot and optimize database systems to ensure that they are operating efficiently and effectively.Related: Learn About Being a Database Administrator

14. Software engineer

National average salary: $108,896 per yearPrimary duties: A software engineer develops software and systems for organizations, such as operating systems, network control systems, games and applications. They work with users to determine their needs and then design, develop and test an appropriate application or system.Related: Learn About Being a Software Engineer

15. Penetration tester

National average salary: $119,538 per yearPrimary duties: A penetration tester, also known as an ethical hacker or pen tester, performs tests on computer systems to identify potential security vulnerabilities. Once they locate the risks, penetration testers make recommendations for how the organization can minimize the issues.

16. Data scientist

National average salary: $119,380 per yearPrimary duties: A data scientist uses their business logic, understanding of statistics and programming skills to evaluate and interpret data in a way that's easy to understand. These professionals can work in a number of fields, including politics, business and social media.