Patterns that emerged from reviewing four syllabi for courses on management information systems are discussed. These courses are offered as part of graduate level studies in the field of higher education administration. A proposed outline for a syllabus is also provided. Courses addressing the information requirements for colleges and universities offer a range of content from a focus on computer technology to a focus on the information useful for various management decisions. It is recommended that information systems be studied as part of a course emphasizing information as it relates to decision-making requirements. The uses of information are considered: information for day-to-day operations, information for control or for managing and guiding the institution, and information for strategic purposes (i.e., adjusting to new situations). The proposed syllabus covers educational objectives, content, possible activities/field projects, and reading materials for the course. Generally, the student is expected to develop an integrated knowledge of information and decision support systems, and understand how these relate to institutional governance, management, and leadership. Students should have some familiarity with: the organization, structure, and finance of colleges and basic research design and statistical methods. A list of members of the course syllabi network is included. (SW)