Systems Analysis Master’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Every part of the modern world now relies on information systems for sustainable development. Computers and the Internet have evolved from luxuries to necessities. This presents a perfect job opportunity in the systems analysis industry and you can take advantage of it by earning a master’s degree.

This article is a complete guide to systems analyses master’s degrees starting with a brief definition of the term. It contains a list of the best online and in-person programs and describes the benefits of getting a master’s degree in systems analysis. We have also included a list of the top 10 highest paying jobs for these professionals.

What is Systems Analysis?

Systems analysis is a field of study in information technology that deals with the observation of systems for development and maintenance purposes. System analysts define the code base and methodologies behind IT software. They may also be charged with hosting feasibility studies and other forms of research that are implemented in product development.

Systems analysts are needed in intervals to observe IT software and recommend upgrades. This could be anything from adding new features to a complete design overhaul of the system. They help companies decide if the IT infrastructure is compatible with organizational goals.

What is a Systems Analysis Master’s Degree?

A systems analysis master’s degree is an advanced graduate degree awarded by a university. These degrees traditionally take about two years and they are meant for professionals who already have an undergraduate education in systems analysis. Master’s degree holders complete high-level courses to prove their foundational skills in the area of specialization.

For systems analysis, you can get a Master’s Degree in Information Systems, Systems Engineering, Systems Architecture, or Computer Science. If you prefer a business degree, you can get a combined Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a specialization in systems analysis or information technology.

Systems Analysis Master’s Degree Requirements

To get a Master’s Degree in Systems Analysis, you typically need an undergraduate degree in systems analysis, network administration, information technology, or related fields. Your undergraduate GPA should be at least 3.0 but some schools might accept anywhere from a 2.7 to 3.5 GPA.

Part of the degree program requirements may be some experience working with information systems. Passing an entrance exam and letters of recommendation are also common requirements for a master’s program. Your official transcripts should reflect a strong grasp of analytical studies like mathematics, computer science, and operation systems.

How Much Does a Systems Analysis Master’s Degree Cost?

A systems analysis

master’s degree costs about $19,314 on average

according to the National Center for Education. Students attending public institutions pay about $12,171, while those in private schools may pay between $25,929 and $27,776. Note that this doesn’t include other expenses like transportation and housing.

Systems Analysis Master’s Degrees Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Systems Analysis Master’s Degrees

You can pay for your master’s degree through upfront payment, loans, or employer sponsorships. If you already have a steady job in a good company, employer sponsorship might be part of your package. If this is the case, you should make sure you understand the terms before applying. There are also grants and scholarships available for advanced degrees.

Best Systems Analysis Master’s Degrees Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Systems Analysis: Top Systems Analysis Master’s Degree Programs

Caption: Systems analysis graduate students gain extensive hands-on experience with technical skills and build an advanced knowledge of digital systems that can help them work in several major industries.

The list below contains more details for the degree programs in the table above. This information should give you some insight into their curriculum and help you make an informed decision if you are looking to increase your level of education in this field.

Master of Science in Systems Engineering | Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global is one of the newest members of the Colorado State University System that was founded in 2007. In this graduate degree program, students can focus on system architecture, optimization, and analysis. Classes can be completed in person or online.

Master of Science in Information Systems | Cornell University

This is one of the best Ivy League universities in the United States. It was founded in New York in 1865 and it offers a Master of Science in Information Systems degree program. The department offers three different concentration tracks, urban tech, connective media, and health tech.

Urban tech focuses on urban design and architecture. Connective media teaches students about technology driving digital media. Health tech is used by technology professionals and entrepreneurs to create technology for patients, doctors, and healthcare systems.

Master of Science in Information Systems | ECPI University

This is a 15-month master’s degree designed to equip students with the skills they need to embrace leadership roles. It covers the development and maintenance of information systems on small and large scales. Core courses in this program cover object-oriented programming, information systems project management, information systems design, and cloud security.

Master of Science in Information Systems | George Mason University

When it was established in 1957, George Mason University was part of the University of Virginia. It has a great Master of Science in Information Systems degree that focuses on hands-on experience in information systems analysis, worldwide web database programming, implementation of database systems, and network security.

Master of Science in System Engineering | Johns Hopkins University

According to their website, this master’s program at Johns Hopkins University is ranked third in the industrial and systems engineering category by U.S. News & World Report. Degree concentrations in this program are available in software systems, project management, cyber security, human systems, modeling, and simulation.

Master of Science in Information Systems | New York University

NYU is one of the best private research universities in the United States. The school has been around for 190 years. The Master of Science in Information Systems program is a combination of business and computer science courses. These include courses on financial information systems, operations management, cryptography, and distributed computing.

Master of Science in Management Information Systems | Texas Southern University

This university has a master’s degree program that bridges the gap between business management and technology. It covers business intelligence, project management, computer networking, financial planning, supply chain management, and systems analytics. Courses prepare students for multiple systems analysis jobs, such as

IT analyst

.

Master of Science in Information System Security | University of Houston

This public research university was founded in 1927 as part of the University of Houston System. This master’s degree is ideal for people who want to concentrate on the security aspect of information systems. Courses cover information systems security, security risk analysis, advanced digital forensics, penetration testing, and secure software development.

Master of Business Administration – Operations, Information, and Decisions | University of Pennsylvania

Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is one of the best destinations for IT and business degrees in the United States. This Master of Business Administration (MBA) program allows students to take an information systems track as part of the operations information and decision program.

Master of Science in Information | University of Wisconsin

This four-year public school was established in 1848 in Madison, Wisconsin. The Master of Science in Information is just one of the many IT master’s degrees offered by the school. It covers subjects like analytics for decision making, systems analysis, project management, strategic information services, data algorithms, and information ethics.

Best Online Systems Analysis Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Systems Analysis Master’s Degrees: Top Online Systems Analysis Master’s Degrees Programs

You can also earn a master’s degree in information systems through online courses. The list below contains details about the best online options for a master’s degree in information systems.

Master of Science in Computer Information Systems | Boston University

This Master of Science in Computer Information Systems degree can be obtained online or on-campus in Boston. The online program prepares students with IT undergraduate degrees for leadership positions in different industries. It covers computer networks, business intelligence, IT project management, web development, data analytics, and database management.

Master of Science in Information Technology – Software Design Management | Liberty University

Liberty University is a Virginia-based four-year public institution that offers online programs. The master’s program runs for about 18 months. It is specifically designed for students who want to focus on the software management aspect of information systems and systems analysis.

Master of Science in Information Science and Technology | Missouri University of Science and Technology

Missouri University of Science and Technology was established in 1870. It has several full-time and part-time master’s degrees. The information science and technology master’s degree has four different specializations.

These specializations are human-computer interaction, foundations of internet computing, advanced information systems project management, and technological innovation management and leadership.

Master of Science in Information Technology | North Central University

North Central University is a private Christian school that was founded in 1930. It is open to every student regardless of their religious affiliations. The specializations available for this program are information technology project management, cloud infrastructure, networking infrastructure, network risk management, and general information management.

Master in Information Systems | Syracuse University

Since 1831, Syracuse University has been awarding different levels of degrees across fields. This master’s program is based on an interdisciplinary curriculum that allows students to focus on information policy, data science, management principles, enterprise risk management, or information security.

Master of Information and Data Science | University of California, Berkeley

UC Berkeley allows students to get a combined master’s degree in data science and information. It is a project-based curriculum. Students use real-world datasets from actual companies to learn. This program covers data engineering, machine learning, natural language processing, cloud computing, and systems design.

Master of Science In Management Information Systems | University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a program-rich master’s degree designed for professionals who want to implement IT in business. The credit requirement for graduation ranges between 30 and 33 credit hours. You will develop a solid foundation in programming concepts for business, information security risk management, data mining, and business intelligence.

Master in Business Administration – Information Systems & Business Analytics | University of Maryland, College Park

The combined business and information systems degree is ideal for aspiring business analysts. Students develop core competencies in data analysis, marketing management, corporate finance, strategic information systems, management concepts, and supply chain management.

Master of Science in Systems Architecting and Engineering | University of Southern California

University of Southern California is one of the many popular universities that have adopted online, in-person, and hybrid learning formats in recent years. The master’s degree program has about 12 specialization tracks. Full-time programs can be completed in 18 to 24 months while part-time programs can be completed in 30 to 36 months.

Master of Science in Information Systems | University of Washington-Seattle Campus

This is a public research university based in Seattle that was established in 1861. The Master of Science in Information Systems degree is an accelerated program that can be completed in just 12 months. Courses teach students about project management, data analytics, and information security to prepare them to work as

systems analysts

.

What’s the Systems Analysis Master’s Degree Salary?

Professionals with a Master’s Degree in Systems Analysis earn

about $89,251 on average according to ZipRecruiter. However, the annual wage of these experts could be as little as $25,000 or as high as $157,000. Factors like experience, location, and job title all contribute to determining salary. Entry-level systems analysts earn less than experienced ones.

Top Systems Analysis Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Systems Analysis Master’s Degree Jobs Explained

Network Architect

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $137,129

• 
  Job Outlook
  
  :
  
  5%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 165,200
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : Massachusetts, California, Virginia, Maryland

A network architect is a systems expert who designs and develops hardware to support networking within an organization. They also make changes on existing computer designs to maximize efficiency. While you can become a network architect with a bachelor’s degree, the preferred option among most employers is a master’s degree.

Actuary

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $122,402
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  :
  
  24%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 27,700
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  :  New York, Connecticut, New Hampshire, North Carolina

An actuary is a specialist in risk management who studies data and recommends solutions to boost efficiency in the day-to-day operation of an organization. They assist in major decision-making regarding new technology, policy adjustments, investment opportunities, and insurance. Their primary aim is to determine if a certain action is worth the risk.

Cyber Security Expert

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $112,974
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  :
  
  33%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 141,200
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : California, New York, New Jersey, Washington DC

Cyber security personnel

are network security experts with hands-on expertise in computer security systems and networks. They are responsible for preventing external threats and fighting cybercrime. Most large organizations have cyber security experts on retainer as part of their staff while smaller companies may simply hire contractors to secure their networks.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $90,937
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  11%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  482,000
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey, Virginia

Computer and information systems managers are senior-level business leaders who manage the IT department of an organization. They create strategies for optimizing IT infrastructure. For this role, you will need soft skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

Information Technology Manager

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $86,591
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  : 11%*
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 482,000
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : California, New York, New Jersey, Virginia

These industry leaders take care of the IT needs of an organization. This includes software and hardware equipment. An IT manager is the chief supervisor of the IT department. They work with their team to improve upon the current computer systems when necessary. You will need the excellent communication skills of a project manager for this role.

Software Developer

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $85,766
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  :
  
  22%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : Washington, California, New York, Massachusetts

A software developer is a programmer who creates software for computer-based hardware. If you earn a Master’s Degree in Computer Science with a concentration in system analysis, there is a strong chance that you can secure a job as a software developer.

Business Analyst

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $82,343
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  :
  
  14%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 907,600
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington DC

Business analysts are high-level employees who document and analyze information systems on behalf of the business. They analyze business processes and market environments to help businesses make data-driven decisions.

Senior Operations Systems Analyst

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $76,960
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  25%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  104,100
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : Washington DC, New Jersey, California, Virginia

Senior operations analysts are team leaders who oversee the operation team within an organization. They are charged with ensuring that data related to operations is captured, analyzed, and reported accurately. When necessary, they validate data by confirming its authenticity against the system.

Network Computer Systems Administrator

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $74,550
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  :
  
  5%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 350,300
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : Maryland, California, New Jersey, Washington DC

These IT experts install, manage, and organize computer systems on behalf of systems design firms. They may troubleshoot network issues when necessary and recommend fixes to ensure the system runs smoothly. They should also have an understanding of basic network security. With a master’s degree, you can quickly rise to a management position like this.

Quality Assurance Analyst

• 
  Average Salary
  
  : $72,834
• 
  Job Outlook
  
  : 22%**
• 
  Number of Jobs
  
  : 1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States
  
  : Washington, California, New York, Massachusetts

A quality assurance analyst is a product development team member who ensures that newly developed software is up to company standards. They must analyze and test the software before it goes into commercial circulation. When a product does not meet the standards, the

quality assurance specialist

sends it to the development team with improvement suggestions.

*Job outlook data from US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report on computer and information systems managers.

**Job outlook data from BLS report on software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers.

Systems Analysis Bootcamp vs Systems Analysis Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?

There are multiple ways of gaining essential systems analysis skills, and the best educational path for you will depend on your long-term career goals, academic background, and resources. A bootcamp is a great way to master specific technical skills and computing skills quickly, while a Master’s degree provides more comprehensive knowledge on advanced topics.

Benefits of a Systems Analysis Master’s Degree

• 
  Professional recognition.
  
  A graduate degree holds significant professional recognition compared to a bachelor’s degree or a bootcamp certificate of completion.
• 
  High-earning potential.
  
  Getting a systems analysis master’s degree gives your resume a boost and proves that you have reached a specific level of professionalism in the field. This can help you earn a higher salary.
• 
  Business opportunities.
  
  With a master’s degree in systems administration, becoming a business analyst or diving into any other business management role will be easy. This is because top-tier companies prefer to employ master’s degree holders for managerial positions.
• 
  You can choose a specialization.
  
  A master’s degree allows you to specialize in the field of study that interests you the most. This offers a clear path for your professional development. It can also provide you with career opportunities suited to your interests.

Benefits of a Systems Analysis Bootcamp

• 
  Accelerated training.
  
  You can complete a bootcamp program in three to six months. Bootcamps are designed to help students master job-ready skills, such as basic programming knowledge or database utilization, as quickly as possible.
• 
  No degree is needed.
  
  While you typically need an undergraduate degree to enroll in a master’s program, you do not need a degree for bootcamp education. Most bootcamps only demand a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate.
• 
  No previous experience is required.
  
  Often
  
  ,
  
  your previous career or educational background doesn’t matter when you’re trying to get into a bootcamp. If you’re going for an introductory course, tech experience is not a core requirement. If you’re going for a more advanced course, you may only need to have basic knowledge of computers.
• 
  Bootcamps are affordable.
  
  Bootcamps are traditionally more affordable than universities in the United States. Even so, there are many payment plans and scholarships that you can explore to ease the burden of tuition.

Should You Get a Master’s Degree in Systems Analysis?

Yes, you should consider getting a master’s degree in systems analysis if you want to pursue more career opportunities, work with innovative technology, and gain an in-depth knowledge of the field. There are several high-paying management positions that demand a master’s degree. You can increase your professional credibility by attending a graduate school.

It is important to note that not having a master’s degree won’t stop you from advancing in the world of IT. Tech companies tend to pay more attention to skills than credentials. So, you can thrive in tech even if you do not have this degree.

System Analysis Master’s Degree FAQ