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Computer and Information Systems Manager: Career Information

By , About.com Guide

Computer and Information Systems Manager Job Description:

Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate and direct research, and design the computer-related activities of firms.

Employment Facts for Computer and Information Systems Managers:

Computer and information systems managers held about 293,000 jobs in 2008.

Educational Requirements for Computer and Information Systems Managers:

Some employers require a bachelor's degree for management positions, although many others prefer a graduate degree, specifically a master's degree in business administration (MBA) with technology as a core component.

Other Requirements for Computer and Information Systems Managers:

Computer and information systems managers must possess strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.

Advancement Opportunities for Computer and Information Systems Managers:

Some computer and information systems managers may advance to progressively higher leadership positions in their field.

Job Outlook for Computer and Information Systems Managers:

Employment of computer and information systems managers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2018.

How Much Do Computer and Information Systems Managers Earn?:

In 2009, computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of $113,720.

A Day in a Computer and Information Systems Manager's Life:

On a typical day a computer and information systems manager will:

  • consult with top management in order to help determine both technical and business goals;
  • make detailed plans for the accomplishment of these goals;
  • direct the work of systems analysts, computer programmers, support specialists, and other computer-related workers;
  • provide the upkeep, maintenance and security of networks;
  • assign and review the work of their subordinates;

  • Chief technology officers evaluate the newest and most innovative technologies and determine how these can help their organization;
  • Management information systems directors manage information systems and computing resources for their entire organization;
  • Project managers develop requirements, budgets, and schedules for their firm's information technology projects;
  • LAN/WAN (Local Area Network/Wide Area Network) managers design and administer an organization's local area network; they direct the network, and its related computing environment, including hardware, systems software, applications software, and all other computer-related configurations.;

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Computer and Information Systems Managers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos258.htm (visited November 9, 2010).
Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET Online, Computer and Information Systems Managers, on the Internet at http://online.onetcenter.org/link/details/11-3021.00 (visited November 9, 2010).

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