How to get a Ph.D. in Information Systems Online in 2025: Schools, Cost & Requirements

Reaching the apex in a choosing career is one of the reasons to pursue a Ph.D. However, there are certain details you’d really need to give it the best shot. Here in this article, I’ll show you how to get your Ph.D. especially if you’ are looking to get in Information Systems.

With a Ph.D. in Information Systems degree from any online schools, you are sure of becoming a global leader of information technology because you will be equipped with advanced working knowledge of the organizational structure and operational functions.

This post provides you with insight about How to get a Ph.D. in Information Systems Online this 2025, including the Schools, Cost & Requirements needed to take a Phd It program online.

You can navigate through the table of contents below to get an overview of all that this post entails.

What is Ph.D. in Information Systems?

Ph.D. studies in management information systems are the highest level of studies in the management and organization of the company’s technological information systems and its people.

Generally, Information technology consists of hardware and software systems, as well as telecommunications systems and networks.

The program attempts to introduce students to an understanding of basic technologies and their relationship to the organization and their economic survival.

Moreso, it focuses on computing systems that are used to collect, record, organize, and access data.

The information gathered helps business leaders make informed decisions. A doctoral degree or DBA in this field will allow graduates to teach at the university level, conduct innovative research, or work in high-level corporate or business positions.

Also, going for Information systems degree programs will help you concentrate on computing platforms, software programs, and applications that support organizations.

Check out: 10 Best Information Technology Schools In The World

Why Take Ph.D. in Information Systems Online?

One thing that is so interesting about going for an online Ph.D. in Information Systems is that it provides you with flexibility for students who also work as professionals.

Web-based programs typically follow the same rigorous curricula as physical opportunities, creating similar promotion opportunities for graduates.

The online format is also great for students who, in addition to their work and class schedule, have other responsibilities, such as caring for children or family.

What is the Salary of a Ph.D. in Management Information Systems holder Like?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) of the United States Department of Labor, the average annual salary for computer and information system administrators in 2025 was $ 139,220.

The GSP also reports that the lowest ten percent of management information system operators earned less than $ 84,000 and the highest ten percent more than $ 208,000.

Many information system administrators work full time. Depending on the culture of the company and the problems that arise, management may need to work more than forty hours a week. Managers spend most of their time working with teams and meeting to find solutions to problems.

The GSP survey showed that in 2016, approximately one in three computer and information system administrators worked more than forty hours a week.

The global compensation research organization PayScale also sets average salaries for people with a Ph.D. in management information systems.

According to PayScale, the average salary for a person with a Ph.D. in MIS is $ 121,000.

Many years of experience affect compensation. The more experienced a person is, the more money they will earn.

The industry rewards hard work and education. Also, the more experience, the more opportunities for improvement. Senior industry professionals with many years of experience often occupy senior management positions.

What career can I take up with a Ph.D. in Information technology?

There are so many career opportunities you can go for once you have a Ph.D. in information systems. These career opportunities pay heavy and are highly valued all over the world.

This is because of the skills and theoretical knowledge you will get from the Online doctoral programs in information technology.

With a doctorate in information technology, you can fit into any of the following career options:

  • Chief information officer
  • Chief technology officer
  • Entrepreneur
  • Information technology consultant
  • Information technology strategist
  • The higher education faculty member or administrator
  • Postgraduate Teacher
  • Information Technology Architect
  • A technical manager or director
  • Senior Data Expert
  • Information Technology Project Manager

Information Technology Architect

Salary: $114,612.

As an IT architect, you will oversee a variety of technical areas in your organization, including security management and business planning.

You will also be responsible for enforcing different laws, as well as for developing and implementing new security systems.

Information Technology Project Manager

Salary: $85,552

Another career you can build with a Ph.D. in information systems is Project manager. As a Project Manager, you will be responsible for planning and initiating projects on behalf of their employers.

Also, you will be expected to work within a budget, and many have significant problem-solving skills.

Postgraduate Teacher

Salary: $77,570

Becoming a Postgraduate teacher is another well-paying career or job you can qualify for if you have Information systems P.h.D degree.

With this degree, you can teach information technology in colleges and universities. You can also handle other doctorate-related courses in IT.

According to BLS, jobs for post-secondary teachers in computer science are projected to grow 8 percent between 2016 and 2026.

Senior Data Expert

Salary: $125,998

Data scientists research multiple datasets to draw conclusions and ideas that benefit your organization.

Key data scientists lead these departments and are experts in the use of various computer programs and programming languages.

Chief Information Officer

As a Chief Information Officer, you will often focus on a specific area of ​​information systems, such as electronic data processing or information security.

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You will also lead teams of professionals and is responsible for achieving reporting objectives. And further, oversee the implementation of the company’s technology and coordinate teams of IT professionals to implement and accomplish goals.

IT/IS Security Administrator

The role of the IT / IS Security Administrator is to oversee the security of the organization’s network and data.

Typically working with top executives, the role of the IT security manager is to promote an information security culture across all departments and across the organization.

How much does an phd information systems online Cost?

Although the cost of going online to get a Ph.D. degree in information technology systems can be high, it is not too high that you will have to break a bank or pay through your nose.

So, don’t worry

There are factors that determine what getting an online information technology degree will cost you.

For instance, what it will cost you if you are not a US Citizen let’s say you want to study in the US A school, will be totally different from what a USA Citizen will pay if he or she wants to get the same degree.

Also, the type of college you are applying to will also contribute to a large extent what it will cost you. For instead, if you are applying to a private school, you are likely to pay higher than a student that made public school his or her choice.

Moreso, some schools pay fixed tuition to students online, regardless of the state of residence. Technology taxes are another important factor; These fees often apply to students online, but not to their colleagues.

With all these factors, you can understand that there is no exact cost for getting a Ph.D. information system online. It simply Differs!

But with estimation, the cost of a Ph.D. in online information technology typically ranges from $ 500 to $ 1,000.

So, if you are going for a Ph.D. degree program in Information technology systems and you want to get it online, you should expect to pay between $ 28,000 and $ 64,000 for general education.

How long will it take to earn a PhD information systems Degree Online?

This is one thing you must take note of so that you can plan yourself very well. If you going for online doctoral studies In information management systems programs, you should make plans of spending like 2-4 years in school.

On the other hand, if you want to get it on campus, then you should be looking at spending like 4-6 years, which made online Ph.D. programs the best option.

However, there are factors also that can depend on the length of the program. For instance, as a Full-time student, you will spend a shorter time than a part-time student.

Basically, a full-time program in an information system online can take you an average of 3 years while a part-time program admission takes an average of 4 years.

In the same vein, research can also determine how long it will take you to complete your Ph.D. online studies on IT. Non-thesis Ph.D. programs exist and do not require the extensive research required of dissertation and thesis programs.

This does not mean a non-thesis pathway to a Ph.D. will require no research. Many non-thesis programs require a research paper.

See Also:

Best Management Information System (MIS) colleges in USA | 2025

What are the Application Requirements

In applying for any academic degree program, there are certain requirements and criteria that you must meet before you can say that you are qualified to apply.

Without meeting up the criteria, your application will not be considered. That is why it is very important you understand what you are expected to have, ensure you have it all before applying for any degree program.

Now, coming to getting a Ph.D. in Information technology, there are some requirements and documents that you must present with your application form.

But first, the common criteria is that you must be a master’s degree holder. That is the first and basic criteria. After that, the following requirements must be met;

  • Transcripts from institutions you have previously visited.
  • GMAT or GRE scores.
  • Then, a goal that describes your academic and professional goals, anticipated career paths, and program goals.
  • GPA should be 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale
  • 2 letters of recommendation from former colleagues or instructors.
  • Curriculum vitae that specify your relevant work experience.
  • master’s degree certificate in management information systems or a closely related field of study.
  • A sample writing.

What are the online phd programs in management information systems I can apply for?

Below is a list of online management information systems programs you can run a Ph.D. degree in:

  • Ph.D. in Information and Communication Systems
  • Informatics
  • Business IT
  • Doctorate in Strategic Information Systems Analysis
  • Information Systems
  • Technical Cybernetics
  • Informatics and Computing
  • Information Systems & Data Management
  • General Questions of Mathematics and Information Science
  • Information and Communication Systems
  • Doctorate in Strategic Information Systems Analysis
  • Business Informatics
  • Information and Communication Engineering

Best Schools that offers Phd information systems online

Like I said earlier, Online Ph.D. Information technology prepares and equips you with the necessary skills you need to enable you to take up leadership roles in information technology with highly competitive salaries and exceptional job prospects.

Interestingly, there are so many schools where you can obtain a Ph.D. degree in information systems online.

To help you make the right choice, I have put down below a list of the best schools that will give you what you really want. I also included the programs these schools offer best.

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With any of these programs, am sure you can kick-start your academic career.

Check out the list!

  • Metropolitan State University
  • Baker College – Flint, Michigan
  • Colorado State University- Colorado Springs, Colorado
  • Walden University- Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Capella University- Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Northcentral University- San Diego, California
  • Argosy University- Arlington, Virginia
  • Hampton University- Hampton, Virginia
  • University of the Cumberlands- Williamsburg, Kentucky
  • University of North Texas – Denton, Texas
  • Dakota State University -Madison, South Dakota
  • Indiana State University – Terre Haute, Indiana
  • Sam Houston State University- Huntsville, Texas
  • George Washington University- Washington, District of Columbia
  • Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, Florida

#1. Metropolitan State University- Saint Paul, Minnesota

Program: Online Doctor of Business Administration with an MIS Concentration

The most accessible online MIS doctoral program is in Metropolitan State University.

This school will admit you if you have an MBA Degree and you will spend 24 months before you can complete the program.

Note, the tuition for this program is $7,566/year, which you will be expected to pay before starting the program.

However, this online program covers the following courses advanced methodologies, information technology strategy and problems, accounting and financial policy, global business problems, and advanced strategic management.

#2. Baker College – Flint, Michigan

Program: Online Doctor of Business Administration with an Information Systems Concentration

Tuition:  $9,000/year

Next on our list of the best Schools that offer Ph.D. information systems online is Baker College.

This college offers an online doctoral degree in information systems. The aim of this program is to help students like you compete in the business environment and take better positions in the business industry.

It majors on the tools and skills students need to work in different professions. As a student, you will be taught quality improvement and organizational change, introduction to research and design methods, and corporate and personal ethics.

Note, the tuition for this Ph.D. online program is $9,000/year.

#3. Colorado State University- Colorado Springs, Colorado

Program: Online Doctor of Computer Science – Enterprise Information Systems Concentration

Colorado State University is another school that offers an Online PhD degree in Information systems.

Aside from the Ph.D. programs, the school also offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in almost all programs. This includes an online doctorate. systems engineering.

The only challenge is that this university doesn’t require admission to a master’s degree.

The following are the Courses this online Ph.D. program covers:

  • Information technology and project management.
  • Systems engineering processes
  • Risk analysis
  • Systems engineering architecture
  • Modeling modeling
  • Understanding cyber security
  • In addition to the courses, students must complete a research and dissertation and may also be required to conduct a campus visit.

Note, the tuition for this online program is up to $10,540/year.

#4. Walden University- Minneapolis, Minnesota

Program: Online DBA in Information Systems Management: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Walden University is a non-profit online university that offers all fully online degree programs at all levels. This includes an online information technology doctorate degree.

To qualify for this online Ph.D. IT program, you must have a master’s degree in information systems or any related field.

The courses that you will cover when doing this program includes:

  • Basics of information systems.
  • Systems analysis and design.
  • Programming principles
  • Business database design
  • Enterprise systems architecture

See Also: Information Technology VS Computer Science | Careers and Salaries

#5. Capella University- Minneapolis, Minnesota

Program: Online Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management with an Information Technology Management Specialization

Capella University is a profitable online university founded in 1993. Capella offers a variety of fully online degrees, including an online Ph.D. in information technology.

Both programs have study plans that provide advanced information technology skills. Specialization opportunities include:

  • Information security and cybersecurity.
  • Information technology education.
  • Project management
  • A common information technology track
  • Leadership in information technology.
  • Strategy in a complex global environment.
  • Information technology consulting.

Note, the tuition for this online Ph.D. information systems degree is about $13,998/year.

#6. North central University- San Diego, California

Program: Online Doctorate in Management Information Systems

The doctoral program offered by Northcentral University is called the MIS program, but in reality, it is a doctor of business administration with an MIS concentration.

It prepares students to work as database administrators in private and public companies, as well as government departments.

Although it has 18 courses, this program gives students the opportunity to complete their studies in approximately 39 months, depending on how long they need to complete the dissertation and conduct all the required classes.

Northcentral gives its DBA students a maximum of seven years to complete this program, which begins when students begin their first grades. If a student exceeds his / her assignment, he/she must reapply.

Note, the tuition for this Ph.D. information systems program is up to $10,368/year.

#7. Argosy University- Arlington, Virginia

Program: Online Doctoral Degree in Business Administration with an MIS Concentration

Argosy University is another university that specializes in information systems online. It has a DBA program with an MIS concentration that requires students to complete 60 credit courses beyond the undergraduate level.

Courses in the program include applied research, cutting-edge qualitative methods, holistic management in organizations, and corporate and global finance.

if you apply for this program, expect to pay up to $13,144 annually as tuition.

#8. Hampton University- Hampton, Virginia

Program: Online Ph.D. in Business Administration with an Information Systems Concentration

Hampton University offers joint venture management with a focus on information systems.

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Note, there is a comprehensive exam that you must take before beginning work on dissertations before you can get the degree.

The following are the courses included in this program;

  • Empirical research methods
  • Policy leadership and strategies
  • Advanced organizational theory and practice
  • Advanced organizational behavior.

#9. University of the Cumberlands- Williamsburg, Kentucky

Program: Online Ph.D. in Information Technology

The University of Cumberland is also one of the best schools that offers Ph.D. information systems online.

The online Ph.D. in Information Technology in this school is designed for working students and professionals who want to work from home and complete a Ph.D.

The program covers a wide range of information systems and technological topics which includes;

  • Big data, emerging threats to information technology and systems
  • Corporate risk management
  • Information management
  • Global economic technology.

To qualify for application, you must have a master’s degree in IT or a related field with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.

Note, the tuition fee for this online Ph.D. in information systems program is $5,970.

#10. University of North Texas – Denton, Texas

Program: Online Ph.D. in Information Science

One of the best schools with an online Ph.D. in information technology or management information systems programs is the University of North Texas.

This accredited university offers a Ph.D. in information science that offers a flexible format and curriculum that can accommodate most students.

However, to qualify for this program, you must have a full master’s degree from an accredited institution, GRE competitive scores, three letters of recommendation, and a full personal statement.

 Note, the tuition fee for this online Ph.D. in information systems program is $7,165.

#11. Dakota State University -Madison, South Dakota

Program: Online Ph.D. in Information Systems

Next on our list of schools that offer online Ph.D. programs in management information systems is Dakota State University.

This university’s online programs are specifically designed for students who want to become IS researchers, lecturers, and directors or managers.

You also need a master’s degree certificate, a 3.0 GPA, and satisfactory GRE scores taken in the past five years before you can apply.

 Note, the tuition fee for this online Ph.D. in information systems program is $6,367.

Read Also: Top 20 Undergraduate Scholarships for Information Technology Students

#12. Indiana State University – Terre Haute, Indiana

Program: Online Ph.D. in Technology Management

Indiana State University offers a doctorate in online management information systems to prepare students for technology management positions in the public and private sectors.

The online Ph.D. in Technology Management is a 66-credit-hour program that requires a significant area of specialization.

You also need a master’s degree in a relevant field and from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and a GRE or GMAT score.

 Note, the tuition fee for this online PhD in information systems program is $7,472.

#13. Sam Houston State University- Huntsville, Texas

Program: Online EdD in Instructional Systems Design and Technology

Sam Houston State University is another university that online PhD programs in information systems.

The program offered in this school consists of 60 credits and classes delivered online.

When submitting your application, you must submit it with an official transcript indicating receipt of bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Candidates must also submit acceptable GRE scores and provide three years of experience in teaching design, administration, or training. Three letters of recommendation are also required at the time of admission.

 Note, the tuition fee for this online Ph.D. in information systems program is $7,575.

#14. George Washington University- Washington, District of Columbia

Program: Online Ph.D. in Systems Engineering

One of the best MIS doctoral programs on our list is an online doctorate in systems engineering at George Washington University.

The program is designed for adults working with online classes and Saturday meetings that are combined with a busy work schedule. The program lasts three years.

The courses are taught by university professors with direct research and application experience.

These courses cover topics that cover the elements, trends, and directions of systems engineering and the integrative nature of systems engineering. George Washington University is a high-level institution.

 Note, the tuition fee for this online Ph.D. in information systems program is $29,840.

#15. Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Program: Online Ph.D. in Information Systems

To be eligible for An online doctoral student at Nova Southeastern University in Administrative Information Systems requires a minimum of 64 credits, which can be completed online.

The program is available to information systems professionals seeking advancement and career opportunities.

Online courses include:

  • Business intelligence and analytics
  • Database systems
  • Information security management
  • Risk management in secure systems
  • The social perspectives of information systems.

FAQs

Below is a list of schools that offers online Ph.D. in information systems:

Colorado State University- Colorado Springs, Colorado
Walden University- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Capella University- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Northcentral University- San Diego, California
Argosy University- Arlington, Virginia
Hampton University- Hampton, Virginia
University of the Cumberlands- Williamsburg, Kentucky…..

Below is a list of online management information systems programs you can run a Ph.D. degree in:

Ph.D. in Information and Communication Systems
Informatics
Business IT
Doctorate in Strategic Information Systems Analysis
Information Systems
Technical Cybernetics
Informatics and Computing…..

Here are the requirements you must meet before you can apply;

Transcripts from institutions you have previously visited.
GMAT or GRE scores.
Then, a goal that describes your academic and professional goals, anticipated career paths, and program goals
GPA should be 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale
2 letters of recommendation from former colleagues or instructors…..

Sources

Recommendations

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