Does anyone have a degree in Management Information Systems (MIS)?

[Volt]

I know when I was job hunting the two areas that always had the big $$$$$ assigned to them were true database folks (SQL, Oracle, SAP, etc) The ability to take raw data and make information out of it. The second was the true network security folks. Typically the upper level CISCO certs, firewalls, routing, etc. I went too generic: server, software, printers, desktop, etc as everyone needs these skills but more common and pay much less.

[357]

Originally Posted by Volt

I know when I was job hunting the two areas that always had the big $$$$$ assigned to them were true database folks (SQL, Oracle, SAP, etc) The ability to take raw data and make information out of it. The second was the true network security folks. Typically the upper level CISCO certs, firewalls, routing, etc. I went too generic: server, software, printers, desktop, etc as everyone needs these skills but more common and pay much less.

Let me start by saying I have no degree. I have been working in IT for 10-15 years depending on your definition. What Volt said is very true. You can be either a network architect or a database administrator (DBA) without a degree. These are both very well paying jobs. In my part of the country, if you're good, you can make six figures at either position. If you get the proper certifications a degree is not necessary in these two fields. I am a Windows Server Administrator. I also adminster our company's SAN, Firewalls, Network Switches, Virtual environment (VMware), and more. This is mostly because of the size of the company I work for. The larger, the more pigeon-holed you get. The smaller, the more "hats" you get to wear regardless of whether you are a tech (engineer) or a manager.

That said, an MIS degree may get your foot in the door as a tech or programmer. A degree with certifications will almost always get you an interview. As a tech or a programmer with a degree it is possible to get promoted to a management position. Since I have no degree it is difficult for me to make that transition. I can however get more advanced certifications along with my experience and move into a better paying role.

I hope this helps.