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CAREER GUIDE Master of Business Administration, Information Technology Management
Start on your path today.
Career guide: IT management.
Jump to: Career Opportunities Work Environment Salary Stats Go to: MBA IT Management
Today's upwardly mobile management professionals need to have knowledge and skills beyond those taught in a traditional business curriculum. Specifically, those who aspire to pursue executive IT positions in almost any industry need to have an advanced understanding of the critical role technology plays in modern corporate structures. That means competence, certifications, and credentials that might typically only be acquired in a master's program in IT or information systems.
Conversely, experienced IT professionals seeking to move into management positions need a thorough understanding of how to direct the day-to-day operations of an organization, including the management of its people, policies, and procedures.
Most universities include IT coursework in their BBA and MBA curriculums, but the demands and expectations of today's employers may require a more focused, complete understanding of the tightly intertwined relationship between business and IT management and strategy. For example, a Chief Information Officer (CIO) will be tasked with overseeing the technological direction of an organization and will therefore need sharply honed communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership skills in addition to proficiency in IT.
If you have an IT background and your sights on an upper-level executive position, you'll need to know how to manage an organization and lead people. Polish your resume with credentials tailored to the roles and responsibilities of today's tech-savvy managers, and there's no telling how high you can climb in today's job market.
Job listing growth 2016–2026.
Career opportunities.
Experienced IT professionals who take it upon themselves to advance their business and management skills can direct their careers into a number of different areas. Depending on the level of education and years of experience you have, you can set your sights on the following leadership positions.
Positions in the field.
- Project manager
- Chief technology officer
- Computer and information systems manager
- Management information system (MIS) director
- IT director
- Computer systems analyst
- Director of information technology services
- Senior systems administrator
- Director of application development
- Technical services manager
“The moment I started my MBA at WGU, I got promoted as a director of IT. Now, with my new skills and credentials, I'm hoping for a C-level position.” Manjit Sooch
MBA IT Management
Job market forecast.
Senior-level leadership is invaluable for today's forward-thinking organizations, and dedicated managers with an IT background are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of information systems managers to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026. Furthermore, the best job prospects for top executives will be for those who have an advanced degree and extensive managerial experience.
Job growth 2016–2026.
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Work environment.
IT executives work in a range of office environments, planning and directing the work of other IT professionals and meeting with other corporate executives. For some top executives, travel is necessary to attend meetings and conferences or to visit their company’s local, regional, national, and international offices. Key positions also frequently require long hours, including evenings and weekends. In 2012, about half of top executives worked more than 40 hours per week.
Professional organizations.
If you are an experienced IT professional focused on a management position in information security and assurance, the right education and credentials can help get you there. The following organizations can also provide a wealth of information about this growing field and the best way to secure your future.
Job search resources.
If you're ready to advance your current IT career into management territory, here are a few places to start. With the right credentials and connections, you can position yourself for a leadership role in today's tech-dependent marketplace.
Salary stats.
Generally speaking, IT Managers are compensated well for their advanced knowledge, skills, and experience. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $139,220 in May 2017. Those with hybrid IT and business credentials may also compete for top executive positions that can pay even more.
Average salary of jobs with related titles.
Summary.
An executive career in IT Management often requires more than technology skills. Not only will you be expected to coordinate and direct computer-related activities of your company, you'll also need to know how to plan and execute organizational goals. That means people skills and business know-how.
Your experience in IT makes you extremely valuable in today's business environment. If you're ready to take on greater responsibility and reap the rewards of an advanced IT career, it's time to get your business credentials in line with your tech proficiency. Fortunately, there are innovative master's degree programs that recognize the need for executive-level talent with both tech and business skills. Look for a curriculum that not only teaches you how to manage organizations and lead people, but also helps you sharpen your data-driven decision making skills.
Your career’s next step: Earn a degree.
Ready to jump-start your career in IT Management? The next step could be earning your MBA, Information Technology Management. Accredited, competency-based WGU offers this degree online for at a surprisingly affordable flat-rate tuition. Flexible enough for a working adult’s schedule with the option to accelerate, your degree may be closer than you think!