Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization.
Is computer and information systems managers a good career?
It scores 62/100 and ranks #24 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($175,140 vs $61,390)
- Faster-than-average projected growth (+15.2% through 2034)
- High volume of openings — about 55,600 a year
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
- Often needs prior experience (5 years or more)
What computer and information systems managers earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. computer and information systems managers earn between $138,060 and $220,730 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live computer and information systems managers jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- 5 years or more
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
Education
Computer and information systems managers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a related field, such as engineering technologies. These degrees include courses in computer programming, software development, and mathematics. Management information systems (MIS) programs usually include business classes as well as computer-related ones.
Some organizations require or prefer that computer and information systems managers have a graduate degree in computer science, information technology, or business administration.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Certification is typically optional for computer and information systems managers, although some employers prefer to hire candidates who have it. Usually awarded after passing a test, certification shows that candidates have the specific knowledge or skills required to work in the occupation.
Certification may be particularly relevant for some computer and information systems managers, such as those who oversee IT security.
Important qualities
Analytical skills. IT managers must evaluate information to develop and implement strategic plans for their organization.
Communication skills. IT managers must be able to explain their work to top executives and give clear instructions to their subordinates.
Computer skills. IT managers must have expertise in computer hardware, software, and systems, as well as a working knowledge of programming languages.
Decision-making skills. IT managers must determine how to allocate resources in order to reach their organization’s goals.
Leadership skills. IT managers must direct and motivate IT teams or departments so that workers are efficient and effective.
Problem-solving skills. IT managers must be able to troubleshoot issues that arise and provide solutions.
Related occupations
How much do computer and information systems managers make?
The national median wage is $175,140 a year, with the middle half earning between $138,060 and $220,730 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is computer and information systems managers a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 62 of 100 and ranks #24 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +15.2% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a computer and information systems manager?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree, usually with 5 years or more.
Where do computer and information systems managers earn the most?
Among states, California pays the highest median ($218,290). Local pay for every state and metro is below.