About Information Systems

Information Systems involves the use of information technology (IT) skills to help companies maximise their results and performance. The “information systems” in question are the networks, hardware and software that a business uses. Information Systems professionals design, implement and evaluate systems to ensure they are meeting business needs. Rather than enhancing the performance of computers alone, Information Systems professionals focus on making computer systems work within the greater business ecosystem.

　　

Is Information Systems right for me?

The interdisciplinary field of Information Systems suits people who are effective communicators, great team players and natural problem-solvers. Unlike many IT roles, Information Systems roles are client-facing, meaning strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills are needed. You will work directly with people to understand their tech requirements and help them introduce the appropriate technologies into their organisation. You’ll need good business acumen and commercial awareness, and will also be expected to keep up with the latest developments in technology.

　　

Information Systems study options and costs

　　Most professionals in Information Systems have a Bachelor’s degree under their belts. IT degrees can cost anywhere from USD$25,000-$35,000 a year in the US, AUD$30,000 a year in Australia and £22,200 per year in the UK. The good news is that these degrees often pay for themselves in the form of stellar salaries upon graduation!

　　As part of your degree, you may be able to hone into a specialisation like project management or web development. You might also need to gain an industry-specific certification like CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) to make yourself ultra-employable.

　　

Future outlook

The IT sector in general is seeing consistent growth, with 11% job growth being expected between 2019 and 2029. As an Information Systems professional, you’ll find yourself in high demand across all types of organisations like government, education, telecommunications and software. This means you’ll always be able to switch up your career path while repurposing your transferable skills. And as technology continues to evolve, your expertise will be needed to respond to the new challenges that arise.

　　

Career pathways for Information Systems graduates

　　

Information Systems Analyst

　　Information systems analysts identify opportunities for improvement across computers, systems and business processes. This will then help the client determine their technological needs and gain positive ROI on their equipment, employees and processes. What’s more, systems analysts are predicted to be in high demand as technology becomes an integral part of the business world.

　　

Computer Network Architect

　　Not so keen on the business side of things? Consider becoming a computer network architect. Also known as an information architect, these professionals codify all the data in a website, network or organisation. Their goal is to ensure all this data is user-friendly, whether it’s geared towards employees or customers. Computer network architects are also some of the highest-paid professionals out there, earning an average salary of USD$109,020.

　　

Software developer

　　If you have more of a creative side to you, software development could be a fulfilling pathway to consider. Software developers design, modify, write and debug apps, as well as maintain existing systems to ensure optimal performance. Software development also offers flexibility and stellar growth, with the average yearly salary being USD$105,590.

　　

Information Security Analyst

　　With technology taking over all aspects of our life, information security has never been more important. Information security analysts are responsible for keeping company data and systems secure, putting security measures in place and responding to threats. Working as an information security analyst can also really pay off, with demand for the role being expected to grow by 32% over the next few years.

　　

Database Administrator

　　As data becomes more crucial to the world of work, so do database administrators. These professionals are tasked with organising information so that it can be processed in a meaningful way. Other responsibilities include updating software, managing user profiles, adjusting system structures and establishing backup strategies.