Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS)
Majors Overview September 2, 2014Although Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (B.S.I.T.) degree programs in CIS (Computer Information Systems) are not usually offered, they can be found as Bachelor of Science (B.S.) programs. CIS programs teach students how to utilize and understand technology for the purpose of solving commercial business issues. These programs may be found within traditional or business-focused computer science program and usually last four years.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Computer Information Systems (CIS)
Students enrolled in a computer information systems bachelor’s degree program are expected to complete coursework that is a combination of technical coursework in computer science and business involving discussions on the integration of information resources across diverse organizations. Coursework also examines business elements in areas like marketing, operations, and finance aimed at teaching students about the design and deployment of appropriate systems towards improving the overall operational efficiencies of businesses.
Other key areas of study include network security systems, network management, and programming. Schools also offer a CIS degree as a concentration within Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) programs. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
Coursework covers numerous math subjects, in addition to various computer science classes with a focus on current technologies. The program also entails completion of additional coursework related to imparting knowledge in key business areas, including overview courses in economics, marketing, and finance. Coursework may commonly include topic areas such as:
•Machine–human interfaces
•Network architecture
•Network security
•Business operations
•Systems analysis and development
•Programming
•Network administration
•Database management systems
Career Choices
There are many career opportunities in CIS driven by the rapid rate at which technological advancements are transpiring and the burgeoning number of strategic, operational challenges that multi-national businesses have to offer. Graduates of the program may seek entry-level positions such as:
•Database administrator
•Ecommerce manager
•Systems analyst
•Network administrator
•Project manager
•Programmer
Job and Wage Outlook
A 28% job growth rate has been predicted for network administrators over the 2010 – 2020 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). During the same period, systems analysts are expected to see a 22% increase and database administrators 31%; however, programmers are projected to enjoy a growth rate of only 12%, while the predicted numbers are even lower for project managers at 3–9%.
The following are popular job positions, along with their average annual wages, in May 2012 (BLS):
•Network administrator – $72,560
•Database administrator – $77,080
•Systems analyst – $79,680
•Programmer – $74,280
In December 2013, ecommerce developers took home an average annual wage of $53,389.
Continuing Education Choices
Students that successfully complete the BS degree program can expect to become adept at performing various entry-level CIS jobs; those that aspire to reach management levels would need to earn a graduate degree or obtain work experience. Schools commonly offer a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) and Master of Science (M.S.) program in Computer Information Systems, among other advanced degree options that graduates of the bachelor’s degree program can pursue.
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