Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems)

Hours: 31 Online

About

The Master of Liberal Studies (MLS) with a concentration in Management Information Systems at Fort Hays State University offers a flexible, online curriculum tailored for working professionals. This program combines academic rigor with practical training, emphasizing key areas such as advanced information systems, data analysis, and IT project management.

Rooted in industry standards, the curriculum provides both theoretical understanding and real-world application, preparing students for leadership roles across diverse sectors. The coursework is regularly updated to reflect current technologies and trends, ensuring graduates are equipped to navigate the evolving demands of the information systems field.

Why pursue a Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) at Fort Hays State University?

Pursuing a Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) at FHSU offers a distinctive combination of flexibility, academic depth, and industry relevance. Designed for working professionals, the fully online format allows students to balance graduate studies with career and personal responsibilities.

The program integrates real-world applications and current industry practices into its curriculum, equipping students with both the theoretical foundation and practical skills needed in today’s competitive job market. Covering topics such as advanced information systems, data analytics, and IT project management, the curriculum provides a well-rounded education in IT/IS.

With experienced faculty and a strong focus on applied learning, the program prepares graduates for leadership roles and long-term success in the rapidly evolving technology sector.

Who is this program for?

The Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) program is ideal for diverse individuals seeking to advance their careers in the IT/IS field. It caters to professionals at various stages of their careers, providing the flexibility and comprehensive education needed to achieve their goals.

IT managers seeking advanced knowledge and skills
Professionals transitioning into IT/IS roles
Recent graduates aiming for leadership positions
Individuals looking to stay current with industry trends
Those interested in a flexible, online learning format

Learning Outcomes

The Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) program is designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles in the IT/IS field. The program’s learning outcomes emphasize both strategic understanding and practical application, ensuring that graduates are prepared to address real-world challenges, drive innovation, and contribute meaningfully to their organizations.

Advanced Knowledge in IT/IS

Graduates will gain in-depth expertise in advanced management information systems, including areas such as data analytics, IT project management, and cybersecurity. This comprehensive knowledge equips them to design and implement IT strategies that support and enhance organizational objectives.

Practical Application Skills

The program emphasizes real-world application, enabling students to translate programming concepts into effective solutions. Through hands-on projects, internships, and applied coursework, students develop the skills needed to solve complex IT/IS challenges and foster innovation within their organizations.

Leadership and Management

The program prepares graduates for leadership roles by building their skills in managing IT/IS projects and teams. Students learn to navigate IT governance, lead diverse teams, and make strategic decisions that support organizational success.

Adaptability to Trends

Graduates will be equipped with up-to-date knowledge of emerging trends and technologies in the IT/IS field. The curriculum’s integration of current topics and industry input ensures they can adapt quickly to changes in the tech landscape and contribute effectively to their organizations’ continued growth and innovation.

Real-World Applications

The Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) program is designed to equip students with practical, real-world skills in the IT/IS field. Combining academic theory with applied learning, the curriculum emphasizes hands-on experiences that are directly transferable to professional environments. Key components such as the capstone project, internships, and conference participation provide meaningful opportunities for industry engagement and professional networking.

Students gain expertise in high-demand areas including data analysis, cybersecurity, and IT project management. By working with industry-standard tools and current methodologies, they develop the ability to solve complex challenges in today’s technology landscape. This applied focus ensures that graduates are fully prepared to contribute from day one and make a measurable impact within their organizations.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum is designed to stay aligned with the evolving IT/IS industry. Regular updates ensure that students engage with the most current knowledge, tools, and practices. The coursework addresses emerging topics such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT governance, reflecting modern industry standards and technological advancements.

The program is shaped by employer feedback and academic partnerships, allowing it to remain responsive to workforce needs and industry trends. This forward-looking approach equips graduates with adaptability, technical expertise, and strategic insight required to excel in fast-paced, competitive environments. As a result, they are well-positioned to take on leadership roles and make meaningful contributions in the field of information systems.

Hands-on Activities

Our Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) program places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world application. Students gain practical experience through internships, which not only enhance technical skills but also expand professional networks. A key feature of the program is the capstone experience, where students work on real-world IT/IS projects, applying their academic knowledge to current industry challenges.

The program also encourages participation in professional conferences, offering students opportunities to engage with industry experts and stay informed about emerging trends and innovations. These experiential components complement the theoretical foundation of the curriculum, ensuring graduates are equipped with both the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in today’s technology-driven workplace.

What You’ll Learn:

Advanced IT/IS management
Data analysis techniques
IT project management
Current industry trends
Leadership skills in IT

How You’ll Learn:

Online coursework
Interactive learning modules
Faculty expertise
Flexible scheduling
Industry feedback integration

Courses

The core curriculum offers a comprehensive foundation in advanced management information systems, data analysis, and IT project management. It covers complex topics such as IT/IS management and strategy, cybersecurity, data analytics, and IT governance, providing a well-rounded education.

Elective courses enable students to customize their studies to align with specific career goals, allowing for focused expertise in areas of particular interest. This flexible approach ensures that students create a personalized learning path tailored to their professional aspirations. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in diverse IT/IS roles and meet industry demands effectively.

INF 603G: Big Data Analytics

Analysis and design of large integrated databases. Design alternatives. Logical and physical representation of data. Storage and retrieval mechanisms and languages. Survey of existing systems. Roles of the database manager and analyst.

INF 684G: Foundations of Information Systems Security

This course is intended as an introduction to the many facets of Information Security. It approaches information security from a holistic perspective and emphasizes that security encompasses more than just hardware and software. The course introduces the technological tools used to protect information, including software, hardware, and network tools. It also addresses protocols, processes, human systems, security management practices, and other non-technological elements

MIS 602G: Information Systems Design and Development

This course is designed to explore fundamental organizational processes and how they interact digitally. Emphasis is placed on the tools and techniques that a project leader and systems analyst would use to analyze, design, and document an information system. The course will also emphasize the importance of various skills, which the systems analyst should possess, including communication, problem solving, and project management.

Discover the full Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-prepared to pursue diverse careers in IT and information systems. The program equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a range of IT/IS roles, positioning them as valuable contributors and leaders within their organizations.

IT Manager

IT managers oversee IT operations and strategy, manage projects, ensure system security and efficiency, and lead teams. Their expertise enables them to make strategic decisions that support organizational goals and drive innovation.

Data Analyst

Data analysts interpret complex data to guide business decisions. Using advanced techniques, they identify trends and optimize performance, turning data into actionable insights vital to organizational success.

Project Manager

Project managers lead IT projects from start to finish, ensuring timely, on-budget delivery. They apply IT management and leadership skills to coordinate teams, manage resources, and mitigate risks, driving successful project outcomes.

Cybersecurity Specialist

Cybersecurity specialists protect organizations from cyber threats by implementing security measures, monitoring breaches, and responding to incidents. Their expertise safeguards data and ensures secure IT operations.

Consultant

IT consultants advise organizations on IT strategies and solutions, analyze client needs, recommend technologies, and support project implementation. Their expertise helps businesses improve IT efficiency and capabilities.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Get Started Today

Ready to advance your career and broaden your intellectual horizons? Discover how FHSU's Master of Liberal Studies program can help you achieve your goals.

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Related Programs

For students interested in expanding their knowledge and skills beyond the Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems), Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement and enhance their education. These programs provide additional opportunities to specialize in specific areas of interest within the broader field of IT/IS.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete the Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) program?

The program typically takes two years for full-time students to complete.

What are the prerequisites for the Master of Liberal Studies (Management Information Systems) program?

Applicants should have a bachelor's degree and some background in IT/IS or related fields.

Is financial aid available for this program?

Yes, financial aid and scholarships are available for eligible students.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, transfer credits are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

What kind of support can I expect as an online student?

Online students can access the same resources as on-campus students, including academic advising, library services, and technical support.

Information about the Department of Informatics

FHSU’s Department of Informatics allows you to tailor your education to your interests in data, analytics, and digital media. Our dynamic program empowers you to design your own curriculum and gain cutting-edge skills that make you a leader in today’s tech-driven world. Whether you choose to study on campus or online, you’ll learn to harness the power of data and technology to solve real-world problems and shape your career path.

In a field that has rapidly evolved into one of the most in-demand job markets, the possibilities are endless. From data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management, Informatics offers a vast array of high-paying, high-impact careers. At FHSU, we provide the expertise, hands-on experience, and industry connections to help you excel in a profession that didn’t exist several years ago but is now essential across every industry.

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