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, such as 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 the integration of technology.
Why pursue a Minor in Management Information Systems at Fort Hays State University?
The Minor in Management Information Systems is tailored for students outside the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship who want to develop strong, industry-relevant information technology (IT) skills. With no business background required, students in Computer Science, GIS, and other technical fields can easily add business processes and information systems expertise to their degree plans.
Flexibility is a key advantage of the minor, which is offered online and on campus to support students managing internships, employment, or other academic responsibilities. FHSU pairs current technology training with comprehensive academic support, ensuring that students gain practical skills with immediate value across a wide range of professional environments.
Who is this program for?
This program is intended for students with a technical background who wish to apply their skills in organizational and business environments. It benefits students in Computer Science, Engineering Technology, or GIS by strengthening their credentials with practical experience in systems and IT administration. The minor is ideal for those looking to build applied IT and analytics skills without pursuing a full 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
Real-World Applications
The minor 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 practical 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. The curriculum 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 enables them to establish a robust foundation for current systems and future technologies. As a result, students graduate 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 core curriculum consists of 21 credit hours across seven specialized courses. Designed for students without a business background, the curriculum builds technical expertise in systems management, server administration, programming, and data analysis.
Coursework covers topics such as information systems design, data analytics, business intelligence, and Windows-based client and server administration. Students gain a well-rounded understanding of current tools and practices used in developing, managing, and analyzing organizational information systems. This foundation prepares them to contribute effectively in technical roles across various industries.
INF 304: Management Information Systems
Management Information Systems (MIS) investigates the use and management of information systems within organizations. The course covers a broad range of topics, from individual components of information systems (hardware, software, data, procedures, and people) to information security issues and ethics related to information systems. Other topics include introductions to artificial intelligence, data analytics, and data visualization/design. Students will be exposed to and understand the information systems they will use in their careers and lives.
INF 330: Business Intelligence
This course provides conceptual and applied knowledge in techniques to visualize, process, and use data to support and enhance decision-making in business. Students gain practical experience in using BI tools and technologies and apply design principles for creating intelligent solutions to realistic business problems.
INF 603: Big Data Analytics
This course is an introduction to the vast world of big data analytics. Students will learn how big data is created, processed, and analyzed to produce useful information and visualizations. This course is designed to provide students with a foundational knowledge of big data analytics, laying the groundwork for future growth into more advanced technical areas of big data and data analytics.
Discover the full Minor in Management Information Systems course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates have access to various career opportunities in technical, analytical, and administrative IT roles. Combining applied labs, system design, and server management gives students a practical and well-rounded skill set.
Systems Analyst
Systems analysts evaluate existing IT systems to identify areas for improvement. They gather user requirements, analyze system workflows, and develop solutions that align technology with organizational goals.
IT Support Specialist
IT support specialists resolve technical issues and maintain the reliable operation of software and hardware systems. They troubleshoot errors, assist with software installations and updates, and provide frontline user support across various organizational settings.
Data Analyst
Data analysts utilize tools like Python and Excel to interpret data, generate meaningful reports, and support data-driven decision-making across various departments, including marketing, finance, and logistics.
Network or Server Administrator
Network and server administrators manage Windows-based networks and servers, control user access, maintain hardware, and ensure a secure and reliable data flow, functions essential to keeping organizational systems operating smoothly and safely.
Information Systems Coordinator
Information systems coordinators oversee IT system planning and integration, coordinate between departments, manage timelines, support software implementation, and ensure user training, combining project management with IT coordination.
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)
Students must complete seven courses totaling 21 credit hours.
Required courses include programming, server administration, business intelligence, and data analytics.
You can add a minor by working with your academic advisor if you are a degree-seeking student at FHSU.
Yes. The minor is available both online and on campus.
While the coursework aligns with skills assessed in certifications like Microsoft and Python, students must take certification exams separately through authorized testing centers.
Information about the Department of Informatics
The Department of Informatics at FHSU offers a flexible and forward-thinking education tailored to students' interests in data, analytics, and digital media. This dynamic program empowers students to customize their curriculum and develop cutting-edge skills essential for leadership in today’s technology-driven world. Whether studying on campus or online, students learn to leverage data and technology to solve real-world challenges and shape their own career paths.
As one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields, informatics opens the door to a wide range of high-impact, high-paying careers—from data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management. FHSU equips students with expert instruction, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong industry connections to help them succeed in a profession that has quickly become vital across nearly every sector.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Cybersecurity Club: The Cybersecurity Club is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of evolving cybersecurity principles and techniques. Open to all students, regardless of experience or skill level, the club welcomes anyone with an interest in topics such as network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, secure coding, cryptography, reverse engineering, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, the club provides a supportive environment for exploring the many facets of cybersecurity.
- Tiger Media Network: TMN is the student-run news outlet at FHSU, offering hands-on experience in various aspects of media production. Open to students with interests in videography, photography, news writing, journalism, and related fields, TMN provides valuable opportunities to develop practical skills while contributing to campus news and storytelling.
- Advanced Technology Student Organization: The Advanced Technology Student Organization (ATSO) offers a collaborative learning environment for students interested in exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. The organization brings together members to support one another’s educational growth while promoting innovation and technological advancement. ATSO’s primary goal is to foster knowledge-sharing and unite students in driving both the organization and FHSU's continued progress in the tech field.
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