Ready to open up a whole new world of CIS knowledge? A bachelor’s in computer information systems will prepare graduates for a rewarding career and grant a comprehensive overview of this technical field. See how a bachelors in computer information systems will prepare students to land in-demand roles in today’s global technology market.
Students working toward a bachelor’s in computer information systems should gain the skills needed to thrive in a technology-based workplace. They will likely graduate with skills needed to design, develop and support all kinds of information systems. With this technology and computing knowledge, graduates with a bachelor’s in computer information systems will succeed in CIS careers.
- I. What Coursework is Required for a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems?
- II. What Can I Do with a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems?
- III. Continuing Education for Graduate with a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems
- IV. Can I Earn a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems Online?
- V. Get a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems Online
What Coursework is Required for a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems?
When it comes to hitting the books, computer information systems students will take courses covering all aspects of computer technology and the information sciences.
Courses in a BS in Computer Information Systems (CIS) program will likely cover:
- Information security
- Database management and design
- Project management
- Business analysis
- Structured systems analysis
- Network design
- Software development
- Management information systems
This diverse and technology driven coursework will provide students with the skills needed to thrive in a workplace. Students in a CIS program will likely find there is more to their coursework than learning hard technical skills. These students will also have an opportunity to learn problem solving skills, attentiveness to detail, leadership skills and other essential abilities.
A typical bachelor’s program can be between 120 and 180 college credit hours. In many cases, a student can complete a BS in CIS in 4 years from start to finish. Some schools offer accelerated programs, which can reduce the time it takes to complete a degree.
Students don’t need a specialized background to enter a computer information systems program. In fact, most applicants have a high school diploma or GED. Other applicants might have earned an associate’s degree before entering a CIS BS program. Students entering with an associate’s degree might have earned an AA or AS before applying to a bachelor’s degree program. Previous coursework in computer and information systems will likely be beneficial to CIS degree students entering with an AA or AS degree.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems?
A bachelor’s in computer information systems can open doors to a variety of career opportunities. Higher education in this technical field can prepare students for careers ranging from software engineering to application development and beyond.
It is important to note that demand in CIS-related careers is growing. For example, data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the employment of information security analysts is expected to rise 31% between 2019 and 2029.
Graduates who leave school with a bachelor’s in computer information systems are usually prepared for all kinds of work with computer applications and information systems. Careers in information systems management, systems development and network administration are particularly enticing to CIS BS gradates. Five potential job titles for graduates with a bachelor’s in computer information systems include:
- Information security analyst
- Database administrator
- Information systems manager
- Operations manager
- Systems designer
Potential employers for graduates with information systems degrees can include those in both the private and public sector. Schools and educational institutions, government agencies and corporations all rely on CIS graduates to keep operations strong.
Continuing Education for Graduate with a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems
Graduates who complete a bachelor’s in computer information systems also have opportunities to continue their education. They might opt to increase their knowledge by earning a Master of Science in Information Systems degree or even a Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science.
Graduate level information systems and computer science coursework can prepare students for advanced positions within the industry or for a career in academia.
Can I Earn a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems Online?
Students can earn a bachelor’s in computer information systems online. In fact, there are many benefits and advantages associated with opting for online education.
The benefits of working toward an information systems degree online can include:
- Time management. Today’s students juggle all kinds of responsibilities. Online learning lets students complete coursework as they’re able, letting them maintain work, family and other life accountabilities. This teaches time management skills, which is very desirable to employers.
- Flexibility. Online degree programs offer flexibility through self-paced learning. Students can spend extra time on challenging material and breeze through basics that are easy to understand.
- Improved communication skills. An online or virtual learning environment requires students to flex their communication muscles. Students will communicate with peers and professors in writing, over the phone and even via video. This creates an opportunity to learn essential soft skills like written and oral communication.
- Global perspective. Students enrolled in online degree programs come from all walks of life. No matter where the program is based, coursemates will likely come from around the country. Peers will come from a variety of age groups with different backgrounds and levels of experience. This diversity can give students a global perspective.
- Additional technical skills. Of course students working on a CIS BS degree will learn technical skills. One way they can get hands-on experience is by working online in a virtual school environment. Students will serve as their own IT department and troubleshoot errors, adapt to new hardware and software and more.
Get a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems Online
According to numbers from the National Center for Education Statistics, there are 280 accredited colleges and universities in the United States that will let you earn a bachelor’s in computer information systems online. In fact, 23 of these schools offer exclusively online programs.
The 23 online-only schools and universities that offer a bachelor’s in computer information systems are listed below. Things to consider when looking at online schools might include physical location, the type of institution (public or private; for profit and not-for-profit), and the student-to-faculty ratio. Potential students can explore this list and find the best online computer information systems program for their needs.
Today’s students have options when looking for an online bachelor’s in computer information systems. Education is the foundation for a rewarding CIS career, so it might be best to research college programs and select a course of study that best suits the student’s individual needs.
A bachelor’s in computer information systems can open a whole new world of knowledge. From in-demand technical skills to career-making soft skills, today’s students can prepare for a rewarding career with this exciting educational path.