University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This degree blends foundational business courses with specialised information systems training. The programme typically includes a mix of core business subjects (accounting, finance, marketing, organisational behaviour) and MIS-specific modules that develop technical and analytical skills.

• Programming and software development: introductory programming, object-oriented concepts and software tools used for business applications.
• Database systems: design, SQL, data modelling and practical use of relational databases.
• Systems analysis and design: requirements gathering, process modelling, UML, and system implementation methodologies.
• Business analytics and data visualisation: applied statistics, data mining fundamentals, reporting and dashboard creation for business decision-making.
• Networking and IT infrastructure: fundamentals of networking, cloud concepts and infrastructure considerations for enterprise systems.
• Enterprise systems and ERP: introduction to enterprise resource planning systems, integration and business process alignment.
• Information security and risk management: basic cybersecurity concepts, policy, controls and compliance considerations for organisations.
• Project management: IT project planning, agile and traditional methodologies, team-based project work.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a culminating project or practicum that applies technical and business knowledge to a real-world organisational problem; internship opportunities with local and regional employers are encouraged.

Students may choose electives or minors to specialise further—common options include cybersecurity, data analytics, finance or supply chain management. The programme emphasises hands-on labs, case studies and team projects to develop both technical competence and business communication skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary/high school qualification. Typical entry standards expect satisfactory performance across a broad academic programme with particular strength in mathematics; previous study in computer science is beneficial but not always required. The university assesses applications holistically; examples of commonly requested items include transcripts, a personal statement and references.

For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency is required (for example, recognised tests such as IELTS or TOEFL or equivalent evidence of prior study in English). Transfer students from community colleges or other universities are considered and usually need to provide college transcripts and meet course-equivalency requirements.

There are also pathways for adult learners and those with work experience; such applicants should contact admissions for guidance on portfolio or experiential credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that combine business understanding with IT capability. Typical entry-level and early-career roles include:

• Business analyst or systems analyst
• IT project coordinator or junior project manager
• Database or applications administrator
• Data analyst or reporting specialist
• IT consultant or technical support specialist
• Enterprise systems (ERP) analyst or implementation associate
• Cybersecurity support roles and IT risk analyst positions

Alumni work across private companies, government agencies, healthcare providers and non-profit organisations. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in information systems, business analytics, computer science or an MBA for those seeking management-level careers.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The programme is offered through the university's business college and combines academic rigour with applied learning. Students benefit from dedicated computing and lab facilities, opportunities for internships with regional businesses and support from career services to connect with employers. Class sizes allow for regular interaction with faculty who bring both academic and industry experience to teaching.

Students can also take advantage of cross-disciplinary opportunities at the university—such as minors, certificates and collaborative projects—that help tailor the degree to specific career goals. The campus community in Grand Forks provides a supportive environment with access to professional networks across North Dakota and the wider region.