Study Information Management: Degrees and Training Programs at a Glance
According to the Association of Information and Image Management (AIIM), information management is the collection and accurate distribution of information. The growth of technology has made information management more complex and increased the need for specialized training. You may consider a master's degree or training program to become an information manager, although experience may still be required.
Two careers you may consider that are closely-related to information management are database administrators and computer and information systems managers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for database administrators are projected to increase 31% from 2010-2020. Over that same time period, the BLS predicted that job opportunities for computer and information systems managers are expected to increase 18%.
| Master's | Training Programs | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is this degree for? | Experienced individuals who want to advance to an information management position | Individuals looking to become more experienced in information technology |
| Common Career Paths (with approximate median annual salary) | - Database administrator*** ($75,000)* - Information and computer systems manager*** ($118,000)* - Information technology manager*** ($44,000 - $125,000)** | The same careers may be available to individuals who complete a training program, depending on their background |
| Time to Completion | 2 years full-time | Varies |
| Common Graduation Requirements | - Approximately 30 credits - Thesis or project | - Comprehensive exam |
| Prerequisites | -Bachelor's degree - GRE or GMAT scores | Varies |
| Online Availability | Yes | Yes |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures), **Payscale.com (October 2012 figures, 10th - 90th percentile), ***Position typically requires experience in addition to a degree
Information Management Master's Programs
Master's programs are typically offered in a specific form of information management, such as information technology or information systems. These programs can come in 2-year formats, although accelerated tracks may be available. Master's programs train you to organize information and how to manage the processes with its delivery, storage and security.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Accelerated tracks may be available
- Programs may be offered in a specific area of information management
- Internship programs may be offered or even required
Cons
- Experience may still be needed for management positions
- Few programs are available
- Work experience may be required by some programs
Coursework and Requirements
These curricula include core coursework in information management, along with electives in supporting areas like business. Summer internships may be encourage or required, depending on the program and the background of the student. In addition to advanced coursework, you may be required to complete an individual or group project. Some of the courses you may take include:
- Database management
- Information law and policy
- Statistics for information managers
- Information technology concepts
- Information organization and retrieval
Online Programs
Online programs in information technology are available through professional schools and traditional universities. These programs are typically offered completely online without any on-campus requirements. Online courses may be more expensive than their onsite counterparts and some may be offered on a part-time basis.
How to Get Ahead
While experience may set you apart from individuals without it, you may also consider maintaining your skills in basic computing applications, computer programming or networking software. These may range from Microsoft programs to software that is specially tailored for a company. You may also consider becoming certified. The BLS indicates that some companies may require individuals who use their products to be certified.
Information Management Training Programs
Training programs are offered through professional organizations and major corporations. These programs can familiarize you with new technologies or provide evidence of your experience. In some instances, training programs can provide continuing education credits toward maintaining an existing certification.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Corporate training programs may familiarize you with specific products
- Can be offered in several formats, including onsite, online and hybrid
- Programs may be complete quickly when compared to master's programs
Cons
- May not be sufficient for an information management position without the proper academic training or experience
- Programs that aren't online may require travel
- Training programs offered by professional organizations can be more expensive for non-members
Coursework and Requirements
Some training programs only require that you attend while others may have you take a test to receive full credit. These tests vary in the number of questions, allotted duration and minimum passing score. Many training programs may require just one course or seminar for completion. Advanced certifications may require previous credentials and a passing score on multiple exams.
Online Programs
Online training programs for information management are available. These programs may be offered as live versions of an onsite program or they can be self-directed modules that you can study at your own pace. In some organizations, there may not be as many online programs available as there are onsite.
How to Get Ahead
Since some information management training programs are for specific software programs or information technology packages, experience working with those items will be beneficial. Some programs may recommend experience with specific technologies or software. You may also look for training programs that benefit one another or come in a series.
