The MBA in information technology management focuses on e-business, global business techniques and strategies, quantitative analysis and digital commerce. This program will introduce the students to the ever-changing IT requirements of organizations, the use of e-commerce and IT technology with regards to an organization's business objectives and the use of e-commerce in order to gain a competitive edge in the global market.
Requirements for an MBA in IT management
Prerequisites for an MBA in IT management may differ from university to university. Normally, you would be required to fulfill the following criteria in order to be considered for admission into this program:
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A bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college
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An acceptable GPA, preferably a GPA of 3.0 or above
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A personal statement that may include more than one essay
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A resume
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Two or more letters of recommendation
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Official transcripts from all previous institutions attended
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Some universities or colleges may ask you to come in for an interview
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Proof of English language proficiency, in some cases
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GRE or GMAT test scores
Curriculum and Coursework
The curriculum is designed to enhance and develop certain qualities that are essential for an IT professional. These qualities may include analytical skills, organizational skills, decision making skills, leadership skills, communication skills and the ability to innovate. Coursework may vary from one program to another, but the core curriculum usually includes the following courses:
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Enterprise architecture
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Ethics in technology management
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Intelligence analysis for information security
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Financial analysis for technology managers
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Managing technology
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E-commerce and e-business fundamentals
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IT and operations management
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Technology and the law
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Strategic project management
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Managing emerging technologies
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Accounting and finance for information technology
Certification
Although not required, getting a certification may demonstrate your competency and professionalism. For instance, the Health IT Certification board provides several information technology certifications for people working in the healthcare field. These certifications include the Certified Professional in Health Information Technology and the Certified Professional in Electronic Health Record designations.
Job Prospects and Career Outlook
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the annual median salary of IT managers was $120,950 in 2012. BLS also projected that the number of people working as IT managers would grow by 15 percent from 2012 to 2022, which is faster than the average of all occupations. The bureau also stated that the job market for IT managers would continue to grow, as more and more companies continue to increase their use of wireless and mobile networks. BLS also notes that most companies operating in the United States require that their IT managers be graduates of an MBA in IT management program or a closely related degree.
Acquiring a MBA in IT management may also help in improving your prospects for career progression, as it demonstrates that the IT manager has advanced knowledge and expertise in the IT field. Most aspiring IT managers start their careers at the entry-level in a company's IT department, but may advance on to become IT directors or chief information officers.