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Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Computer Information Science

Majors Overview February 16, 2015

Get information about a bachelor’s degree program in computer information science and its coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Computer Information Science

Students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs in computer information science are taught the essential skills of systems management and computer operations. The focus of curricula is on working with databases and computer programming, in addition to computer hardware and software applications.

Some schools offer the degree through their business colleges; accordingly, the coursework is oriented toward the application of these methods in businesses. Numerous universities and colleges offer computer information science programs as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree.

Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma.

Coursework

Coursework is devised to teach students computing industry trends, including participation in research projects led by faculty. In addition, schools offer opportunities for practical experience via work–study programs and internships. Coursework may include topic areas such as:

•C++ programming
•Computer networking
•Computer operating systems
•Accounting
•Systems analysis

Career Choices

Computer information professionals enjoy ample job opportunities thanks to the growing use of computers in workplace settings. Graduates can seek occupations related to government, finance, management, marketing, and computer systems design.

In discharging their responsibilities, they may be required to analyze computer needs, ensure system security, install hardware, and collect data. They can choose from job positions such as:

•Computer security specialist
•Computer programmer
•Network and computer systems administrator
•Computer and information systems manager
•Database administrator

Job and Wage Outlook

A job growth rate of 15% has been predicted for computer and information systems managers over the 2012 – 2022 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Over the same period, corresponding job growth rates of 12% and 8% have been projected for network and computer systems administrators and computer programmers respectively.

In May 2012, computer and information systems managers banked an average annual wage of $120,950 (BLS), while network and computer systems administrators took home $72,560, and computer programmers grossed $74,280.

Continuing Education Choices

Graduates from the bachelor’s degree program may seek continuing education by earning graduate degrees in the computer information science field. Advanced coursework taken by students in master’s programs may require them to specialize in a particular area, such as programming or information security.

Those interested in performing original research may benefit by obtaining a doctoral degree in a concentrated area of computer information science and presenting the findings in a dissertation. A doctoral degree will train graduates to occupy research or teaching positions.

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