Information management is one of the most rapidly growing career fields of the 21st century with employment expected to rise 12 percent from 2016 to 2026 — a rate faster than the national average for all occupations — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This uptick equates to approximately 367,600 new jobs over that time. These estimations align with current industry trends, as many organizations, including private enterprises, governments, small businesses and more, need experts in this increasingly vital area of business.
Careers students can pursue with an advanced information management degree
Graduates of a master’s degree in information management may be able to qualify for roles that involve technology and programming as well as strategic and decision-making responsibilities. Possible information management careers and duties, along with average salaries according to PayScale, include:
- Senior systems analyst: Implements and analyzes complex software design, programming and maintenance. Earns an average salary of $87,026. Requires competency in multitasking, troubleshooting, budgeting, risk management and organizational skills.
- Enterprise architecture director: Directs all technical architecture design and development. Earns $146,478 on average. Part of the job includes cooperating and sharing data with management teams, leading departments, operating within strict deadlines, mentoring, reporting to high-level executives and more.
- Vice president, software development: Supervises all teams responsible for software development, purchases and sales. Earns $154,219 on average. This position requires multitasking capabilities and some administrative or human resources duties, such as providing feedback, creating teams, motivating direct reports and more.
- Chief technology officer: Leads the business’s entire technology department and works closely with IT staff members. Earns $154,244 on average, and requires leadership skills, self-motivation and the ability to work well in demanding situations.
- Chief information officer: Tracks and manages all operations and employees involved with the company’s information technology framework. Makes an average of $154,476, overseeing all technology purchases, upgrades and decision-making.
Through innovative coursework, hands-on projects and expert faculty guidance, an online Master of Science in Information Management can help professionals acquire the advanced technical skills and strategic business expertise needed to achieve one of these or other high-ranking positions.