Minor in Management Information Systems
Hours: 21 On-Campus Online
About
The Minor in Management Information Systems at Fort Hays State University provides students with targeted knowledge of how information systems function within business settings. Designed for those in technology-related fields like Computer Science or Geoscience Information Systems, the minor expands understanding of systems management and information technology.
The curriculum blends theory with practical application, enabling students to apply IT skills across various professional environments and collaborate in teams, managing and analyzing organizational data. Whether involved in programming, server administration, or systems development, students gain essential insights into business processes and technology integration.
Why pursue a Minor in Management Information Systems at Fort Hays State University?
The Minor in Management Information Systems is designed for students outside of Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship who seek strong, industry-relevant information technology (IT) skills. It does not require a business background, allowing students in Computer Science, GIS, or related technical majors to easily integrate business processes and information systems knowledge into their degrees.
Flexibility is a key advantage of this minor, which is offered both online and on-campus to accommodate students balancing internships, work, or other academic commitments. FHSU combines up-to-date technology training with robust academic support, ensuring students gain practical skills that are immediately valuable in a variety of professional settings.
Who is this program for?
This minor is designed for students with a technical background who wish to apply their skills in organizational and business settings. It benefits students in Computer Science, Engineering Technology, or GIS by enhancing their credentials with practical experience in systems and IT administration. The minor is well-suited for those seeking to develop applied IT and analytics skills without committing to a business degree.
- Students in Computer Science or GIS programs
- Technical majors who want to apply IT skills
- Students interested in MIS careers
- Undergraduates seeking systems or server admin knowledge
- Those preparing for graduate-level IT studies
Learning Outcomes
The Minor in Management Information Systems equips students with the critical thinking and practical skills needed to navigate today’s fast-paced information technology landscape. As organizations increasingly rely on digital solutions to drive operations and strategy, students who complete this minor are well-prepared to bridge the gap between technical execution and strategic decision-making.
System Design and Implementation
Students learn to plan and implement complete IT systems, from requirements analysis to deployment. They develop the ability to translate organizational needs into functional specifications and choose appropriate tools and architecture. The focus is on preparing students to lead system implementation across industries.
Technical and Analytical Problem Solving
Through coursework in Python, data analytics, and business intelligence, students develop the skills to process, analyze, and visualize data. These capabilities support trend identification, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making. Students complete the minor with the ability to interpret data within information systems and solve complex technical challenges.
Network and Server Management
Students gain hands-on experience managing client and server environments using Windows-based tools. Through lab assignments, they learn to configure networks, manage user access, and troubleshoot server issues. This practical training prepares them for technical administration roles in both small and large organizations.
Practical IT Integration
Students learn to integrate software and hardware solutions to support real-world business objectives. From configuring analytics tools to deploying server clusters, they develop the ability to evaluate technologies and apply them strategically. The coursework builds practical knowledge of system integration across departments and teams.
Real-World Applications
The Minor in Management Information Systems prepares students to tackle real-world workplace challenges by simulating the full lifecycle of IT projects—from analyzing requirements and designing solutions to implementing systems that align with organizational goals.
The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, with assignments, lab work, and software exercises that reflect the daily responsibilities of IT professionals. Students engage in tasks such as creating data visualizations, configuring user networks, and writing automation scripts, gaining practical experience that translates directly to the workplace.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The field of management information systems is continually evolving, driven by rapid advancements in technology, tools, and global demand. Coursework reflects these changes, incorporating updates such as new features in Windows Server, emerging Python libraries, and the latest in analytics platforms.
Students also learn to adapt to software updates and shifting industry best practices. This forward-thinking approach helps them build a strong foundation not only for current systems but also for future technologies. As a result, students complete the minor prepared to learn, adapt, and lead in an ever-changing IT landscape.
Hands-on Activities
Hands-on engagement is central to every course in the Minor in Management Information Systems. Students work extensively in lab environments that simulate real-world IT settings, completing tasks such as system setup, server administration, and data analysis. Whether programming in Python or configuring a virtual network, each topic includes practical components that develop job-ready skills.
Project-based assignments further connect academic concepts to professional goals. Instructors incorporate real software platforms and design tasks based on real-world business scenarios, ensuring students gain experience directly applicable to the workplace.
What You’ll Learn:
- Apply management information concepts
- Understand business intelligence tools
- Analyze data with Python and analytics
- Design and develop information systems
- Use Windows client/server technologies
How You’ll Learn:
- Work in hands-on lab environments
- Collaborate through project-based assignments
- Review current industry case studies
- Interact with real software applications
- Gain access to advanced tech solutions
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 $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/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.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs in information technology, systems management, and business analytics that complement the Minor in Management Information Systems. Students seeking further specialization or planning to pursue graduate studies may find these options particularly valuable.
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Information Systems)
- BBA in Management Information Systems
- Master of Business Administration (Management Information Systems)
- Minor in Information Systems (non-Business majors)
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.