Is an MBA in Information Technology Worth It?

As we become increasingly reliant on digital products and services, the demand for professionals who can navigate the complexities of both business and technological domains is at an all-time high. Organizations are looking for leaders who can harness the power of technology to drive innovation, growth and success.

But what does it take to become one of these leaders?

For those seeking a career in IT (information technology), a master's in business administration (MBA) specializing in IT offers a blend of technical expertise and business acumen. 

This advanced degree provides a comprehensive understanding of business and technology principles, enabling you to excel in a wide range of roles, from software development to IT project management to help desk management to cybersecurity.

Reasons to Choose an MBA in Information Technology

While a master's in information technology (M.S. in IT) primarily focuses on technical skills, an MBA program in IT offers a broader perspective. It combines advanced technical knowledge with essential business and management principles, enabling you to excel in leadership roles and drive strategic decision-making.

This intersection between technology and business is where the magic happens.

A specialized MBA degree provides you with the knowledge and skills to seamlessly integrate business strategies with cutting-edge technologies. 

Dr. Alyncia Bowen, dean of Franklin University’s Ross College of Business and executive director of the university’s Leadership Center, says these are invaluable assets to have in today's data-driven economy.

"Organizations are looking for agile leaders,” she said. “The MBA with a specialization in IT produces individuals that can adjust and adapt to emerging business and technical trends."

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You may also be the right fit for an MBA specializing in information technology if you're looking to:

• Develop a strong understanding of business and technology principles. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business and technology concepts, such as data management and business analytics, allowing you to bridge the gap between these domains. This holistic approach fosters a deep appreciation for how technology can drive business growth and innovation.
• Enhance your management and leadership skills. An MBA in information technology emphasizes the development of leadership and managerial skills, equipping you to effectively lead teams, manage projects and drive organizational change.
• Gain a competitive edge in the job market. With the increasing integration of technology across all industries, those with a firm grasp of business and technical concepts are in high demand. Specialized MBA programs show you're well-versed in business processes, computer systems and information systems management.
• Stay current with the latest technology trends and innovations. This program ensures you stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and industry trends, enabling you to anticipate and adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities. This is important whether you decide to run your own business or are helping someone to grow theirs.
• Build a strong network of professionals in the field. An MBA in IT program often fosters a collaborative learning environment. This permits you to interact with peers, industry professionals and faculty members. This network can provide valuable insights, mentorship and potential career opportunities.
   

What Should I Look For in an MBA in Information Technology Program?
 

When evaluating an MBA in information technology program, it's important to pay special attention to the following core offerings, as they form the backbone of a comprehensive and well-rounded education.

Project Management

Effective project managerial skills are non-negotiable in the IT industry, where successful delivery of projects within time and budget constraints is paramount. A strong MBA in information technology program should equip you with the skills to plan, execute and deliver projects efficiently.

According to Lightcast™, project management skills are highly desirable, appearing in 53% of IT-related job searches across various industries.

Business Strategy

An MBA in IT program should provide you with the knowledge and tools to formulate and implement effective business strategies. This includes strategies that align with company goals and that leverage technology as a competitive advantage.

Lightcast™ data highlights the desirability of business strategy, with 30% of IT job postings having it listed as a requirement. This underscores the importance of this skill across the job market. 

Business Management

You should gain a deep understanding of managing IT projects and teams effectively while exploring broader business management principles.

Data from Lightcast™ shows that business management skills are highly sought after in job searches, appearing 34% of the time across postings related to information technology, making this a critical component of an MBA in IT curriculum.
 

Job Opportunities for Graduates with an MBA in IT

Lightcast™ projects that jobs involving information technology will increase by 18.5% through 2032, while business administration and management jobs are expected to increase by 15.8% over the same period. This reflects the growing demand for skilled professionals in this field, especially when compared to the expected U.S. average of 2.8% job growth across all industries over the same time period (Bureau of Labor Statistics).  
 

MBA graduates specializing in IT are well-positioned to pursue a wide range of career paths, including:

• Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
• Database Management Attendant
• IT Manager
• Network Security Manager
• Information Technology Consultant
• Information Systems Manager
• Data Analytics Manager
• Cybersecurity Manager
• IT Operations Manager

Dr. Bowen says that the skills and knowledge learned in this advanced degree program are being used in increasingly creative ways across different sectors.

"Information technology is relevant to all industries,” she said. “Recently, I observed an insurance company stating they were a tech company that sold insurance. I share this example because it implies that an organization's culture can influence the relevance of technology. This highlights the versatility of an MBA program in IT, which is valuable across career pathways ranging from finance and healthcare to manufacturing and consulting.”

Salary Expectations for an MBA in Information Technology

According to Lightcast™ data, the average advertised annual salary for graduates with an MBA in IT is between $74,500 and $98,900, depending on your location, chosen industry and years of experience.

Compared to other MBA degrees with specializations, such as finance or marketing, those with an advanced degree in information technology still earn a competitive salary. This reflects the high demand for professionals with dual expertise in both business and technology.

The Value of an IT MBA: Is it Worth the Time and Money?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition cost for an MBA program is $41,026. However, weighing this investment against the potential salary increase and career advancement opportunities that an MBA in IT can provide is essential.

"The primary challenge students may experience is not knowing what they want to do with the degree," says Dr. Bowen of Franklin University. "Individuals need to know how to leverage their degree, knowledge, and experience as a trifecta approach to maximize it. The degree works best when applied."

Your return on investment (ROI) data will depend on the career you pursue. However, this analysis should consider factors such as average starting salaries for your desired career path and the potential for growth and advancement.

In addition to career stability and profitability, an MBA in IT can also equip you with a diverse set of marketable skills. These include far-reaching skillsets such as executive leadership, business analytics and strategy, marketing management, financial and managerial accounting, human resource management and information systems management—all of which help to provide you with a competitive edge in the job market.

Your Path Toward a Career in IT Starts Here

Franklin University's business administration degree in information technology offers a unique combination of strategic management and technical understanding. It prepares you for a wide range of rewarding careers and equips you with the agility and adaptability to thrive in today's competitive business landscape.

If you're ready to embark on your journey toward becoming a tech-savvy business leader, Franklin University can help.

Apply now for Franklin’s MBA in information technology program and unlock your full potential. You can also check out Franklin’s MBA programs page for more information or request additional info by quickly filling out this short form.

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