Students who decide to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems degree probably have a strong idea of the general direction in which they want to take their careers following graduation. Demonstrating proficiency in information systems to potential employers can lead to a variety of roles working with and managing the digital platforms companies depend on in the modern economy.
However, an online information systems degree doesn’t tie graduates to just a handful of specific roles. There are many positions where those who successfully complete a BS IS degree can flourish and put their skills to good use. Two areas of interest for many BS IS students and graduates are database management and project management. With a high-quality online education from a highly regarded university like the University of Alabama at Birmingham, those moving into the working world can use their BS IS degree to take on roles related to both types of work.
Let’s compare project management and database management to develop a greater understanding of the specifics of each and where students in the BS IS program may want to direct their career paths following graduation.
What is project management?
Project management is an incredibly broad topic. It generally involves managing a team of employees and related resources. The goal is to follow defined timelines and meet specific goals, reaching an end product or result that’s usually defined at or near the start of the process. A project manager can take on a variety of different efforts over time, although they generally relate to a specific core competency. The most relevant difference between a project manager and other types of managerial roles in the business world is the focus on time-limited, specific efforts that eventually reach a conclusion and are replaced with new ventures. Instead of managing ongoing operations which have no final, conclusive goal, project managers move from one specific task to another as they are completed.
In the context of the world of information systems and technology, project managers take responsibility for planning, supervising, and executing efforts related to the technology businesses rely on to function properly. Project managers should have certain skills and knowledge involving both technology and the people they’re in charge of steering toward specific, defined goals. Critical thinking, group coordination, active listening, and mediation of potential issues play just as important a role as systems evaluation, technical review, and data analysis.
The project management role means regularly changing parameters, deadlines, and even team members, depending on the way individual companies structure such efforts. This sort of variety is a major benefit for some, while others are more interested in a steadier role that doesn’t involve as much short- or long-term variation. The contrast between the regularly changing nature of the project management role and the steadier job description of a database administrator or manager is important for BS IS students to keep in mind.
What is the database management and administration role?
Database management and administration is a relatively straightforward description, specific enough to the realm of information systems and technology that its basic applications and directives might be clear without further explanation. However, there’s a lot of nuance involved in the role as well — something a BS IS student seeking a career in the field after graduation would definitely want to understand. A database management role focuses on managing the databases used by organizations to drive everything from payroll and finances to market analysis, making sure the systems operate continually and at a high level.
Ensuring continuous access while controlling which users can view and use information is an important part of the overall role, so security issues are often part of the database manager’s responsibilities. That ties into similar duties, which may include writing code, specifying user roles and responsibilities along with other actions that tie into the digital side of managing the database. Other aspects of the job may require some more physical work or at least overseeing it, such as when it comes time to replace a current database and upgrade to a new one. Improvements to existing systems without a full-on replacement are also common tasks, and regular testing is another important duty that helps ensure continual uptime and access.
Database managers also should have some general managerial skills. Although not constantly leading efforts in the same way as a project manager, database managers have to communicate with superiors, colleagues, and frequently teams of workers who report to them. Using employees effectively in various roles and encouraging them to provide the best possible results can be a significant aspect of a database manager’s job, although it’s not absolutely integral in the same way it is for the project manager role. Students considering this path should also note that, in some instances, Database management certification may be a requirement to seek certain positions in the field.
Finding an information systems professional path starting at UAB
Whether you want to focus on a single, stable asset like a company database or become involved in the more fluid and changing world of information technology project management through an online project management degree, the right degree is a vital first step toward progress on your career path. UAB’s online information systems degree gives students the strong foundation they need to pursue a variety of positions within the information systems and technology field, providing invaluable technical knowledge alongside instruction in effective business practices and communication.
With our completely online and asynchronous approach to earning a BS IS degree, you can learn at the speed that best suits your needs without sacrificing any of the quality that comes with an education from an accredited and respected university. The BS IS program allows you to learn more about the many aspects of information systems as well, making you more informed and confident in the decision to steer your career in a specific direction. To find out more, get in touch with an advisor today.
Recommended Readings:
Information Systems vs. Computer Science: Which degree program is the right fit?
Information Systems or Information Technology: Which bachelor’s degree is right for me?
Sources:
UAB Collat School of Business, Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
UAB Collat School of Business, Information Systems
O*Net Online, Database Administrators
O*Net Online, Information Technology Project Managers
UAB Collat School of Business: BSIS Brochure