How Do I Get a Master of Business Systems Degree?

To complete a Master of Business Systems degree, you need to earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or business administration with a minor in computer science or information technology. A Master of Business Systems program is quite rigorous and focuses on the uses of technology and information systems as applied in a business environment. Once you complete the bachelor's degree program, you must take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), and compile application packets for the schools that you would like to attend. In the master's program, you will attend lectures and seminars as well as lab courses and practicums. You will probably be required to complete a culminating project or thesis as well as an exit exam.

The first step to earning a Master of Business Systems degree begins before you attend college as you will need to complete a bachelor's degree program in a related field in order to gain admittance into a post-graduate business systems program. You have one of two choices for where to begin your bachelor's degree program: a four-year college or university or a community college, where you can complete the first 60 hours of a degree program and then transfer to a four-year school. There are advantages and drawbacks to both paths, but, generally, the community college route is less expensive, while the four-year institution will offer a more streamlined completion process.

Once in your final two years of the bachelor's degree program, you will, almost exclusively, take courses that focus on your major or electives that apply to either your major or your minor. During the breaks between academic terms, it would be helpful to take certification courses in programming and coding languages, such as C++, JavaScript®, Python™ and HTML. In the final year of your bachelor's degree program, schedule an appointment to take the GRE at your college's testing center, and begin compiling your application packets for three to five schools that offer Master of Business Systems degree programs that you want to attend.

Include in your application packet a statement of purpose that outlines your academic and career goals. Also include three letters of recommendation and sealed official transcripts from your university. When your GRE scores are received, the agency in charge of administering the test will send the scores to the schools to which you apply.

To complete the Master of Business Systems program, you will need to complete between 30 and 40 hours of graduate coursework in computer systems, information technology, business administration, and networking. Requirements vary, but your degree will also require you to complete a research project or a thesis as well as an exit examination.