Computer Information Systems (CIS)
Career Overview and Degrees

A Computer Information Systems degree entails most of the major aspects of the wide range of Information Technology disciplines. To paraphrase the old saying, “jack of all trades, master of none,” the modified version would be “jack of all trades, master of almost all.” Included in Computer Information Systems coursework are Local Area Networks and Wide Area Networks (LAN/WAN), network security, application development and databases. Coursework also teaches methodologies related to the planning, directing, and coordinating of internal information systems, systems analysis, data processing, and computer system development.

During the process of earning a Computer Information Systems degree, there are optional tracks of specialization that can be followed. They include, but are not limited to:

• Business Intelligence/Decision Support Systems
• Business Process Management
• Computer Forensics
• Computer/Network Security Management
• IT Consulting
• IT Project Management

A Computer Information Systems degree generally prepares an individual to become a high-ranking manager within an organization: the Computer Information Systems Manager.

Computer Information Systems Job Outlook

The job outlook for Computer Information Systems is excellent with a 17% projected growth by 2018 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The limited supply of qualified people to fill these positions will provide excellent prospects for those prepared for this expanding market. With the installation of sophisticated computer networks and more complex intranets and websites, workers will be needed to maintain it all. Computer Information Systems Managers will be in great demand as they will also be required to oversee not only these workers, but the technology to maintain their organization's competitive edge.

Computer Information Systems Salary

In 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated the mean annual wage of Computer Information Systems Managers to be $123,280. Things to consider when looking into a Computer Information Systems Manager career include geographic location, educational achievement and relevant certifications. Though these factors can affect compensation, annual salaries are driven more by a combination of the level of education, experience and certifications held.

Computer Information Systems Certifications

Certifications can enhance a Computer Information Systems professional's value to an organization. Because of the varied nature of the responsibilities in Computer Information Systems, the types of certificates would be best determined by the needs of that organization.
>> Read more about Certifications

Computer Information Systems Education

Most CIS professionals hold a bachelor's degree in CIS, computer science or a related field, plus certifications. Some CIS professionals hold an associate's degree but this is often not enough for significant career advance. Individuals who want to advance to managerial or senior CIS positions, often pursue master's degrees, such as MIS, MBA with MIS, or related fields. Finally, CIS professionals who wish to pursue academic or research positions should earn a doctorate.

Computer Information Systems Master of Science

BU’s online Master of Science in Computer Information Systems (MSCIS) is designed for working professionals who seek to advance their careers in the IT field. You’ll learn from expert faculty who are also industry leaders involved with building networks, developing applications, and fighting cyber terrorism for the world’s top companies. The MSCIS will prepare students to combine technical skills in information systems with knowledge of managerial and organizational issues; perform security planning, organization, and control; respond to situations of disaster recovery. The online Master of Science in Computer Information Systems consists of ten courses that can be completed in less than two years of study. All students complete a set of six core courses in addition to four specialized courses that further develop expertise in a specific area.

• Database Management & Business Intelligence
• IT Project Management
• Security

Computer Information Systems Bachelor of Science

Computer Information Systems program graduates are prepared to successfully join the work force as technical and management professionals in a variety of industries. Graduates will be able to analyze, design and implement solutions to business problems, create and test CIS solutions for business problems, demonstrate project management skills, and more. This program offers a solid foundation in structured, event-driven, object-oriented and web programming, as well as systems analysis and design, database design and management, and networking across multiple platforms. DeVry incorporates a strong applications-oriented component with each technical course, which reinforces learning of fundamental concepts, principles and theory through use of computer hardware and software for problem solving.

• Business Management
• Computer Forensics
• Database Management
• Information Systems Security
• Systems Analysis and Integration
• Web Development and Administration

Computer Information Systems Bachelor of Science

In the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems program, students will gain experience in group analysis and design projects; in communicating effectively with co-workers, employers, and other professionals; and in using specialized information technology tools. Students will gain the business and technical skills for one of the fastest growing industries.

• Healthcare Informatics
• Human Computer Interaction
• Information Systems Management
• Information Systems Security
• New Media Communication Technologies
• Online Work and Communities
• Self-Designed
• Web Systems Design and Usability

Information Systems
Master of Science

If you are looking to enter or advance your career in the growing technology field, the Master of Science in Information Systems can help you build a solid foundation in technology principles and practices. Study ways to use information technology to enhance decision making and organizational effectiveness. Explore the theory and practice of information security and data protection as you construct advanced information systems. Plan, manage, and implement relevant and appropriate technologies as part of your final capstone course.

Embedded in this degree is the Graduate Certificate in Information Systems, which you will automatically earn after completing the fifth course. This certificate helps demonstrate to current and potential employers the skills you have gained and the progress you are making in the degree program.

• Business Information Management - MISM
• Enterprise Information Security - MISM
• Managing Global Software & Service Supply Chains - MISM
• Healthcare Informatics - MISM
• IT Strategy and Governance - MISM
• Project Management - MISM

Information Systems
Master of Science

The master's program in information systems prepares students for both the technical and real-world aspects of creating and managing an information system. The program, which is offered both part- and full-time, focuses on a systems engineering approach, evaluating client needs and technological advances in order to create solutions that take into account the latest advances and theories in the field. Graduates of the MSIS program are prepared to assume leadership and management positions designing, developing, and delivering innovative technological solutions to information problems in a variety of contexts.

Information Systems
Associate of Arts

This Associate in Arts in Information Systems program seeks to prepare the individual for computer support specialist positions. This program allows the student to explore state of the art information systems concepts. Graduates of this program may apply all the credits earned toward a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems.

• Computer Programming Design
• Operating Systems
• Systems Analysis and Development
• System Modeling Theory
• Introduction to Networking

Information Systems
Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful as information systems professionals in today’s global business environment. Through liberal arts coursework, students will strengthen their understanding of how political, cultural, and economic factors shape our world while developing communication, critical-thinking, and quantitative-reasoning competencies. The information systems courses provide a framework in technology infrastructure and architecture, systems development methodologies, and strategic information systems planning, while the concentration courses allow students to tailor the program to fit their educational goals.

Graduates of this degree program will develop a foundational skill set that will prepare them for positions as a technology manager, programmer/analyst, database management, web development, networking, internetworking, and security professional.

The Information Systems BS program offers the following concentrations:

• IS / Computer Security - BS
• IS / Database Developer - BS
• IS / Database Management - BS
• IS / Homeland Security & Information Systems - BS
• IS / Internetworking Technology - BS
• IS / Networking - BS
• IS / Programming - BS
• IS / Security Administration - BS
• IS / Web Development - BS

Information Systems
Master of Science

The Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) is designed to provide students with the technical and management skills needed to set strategy and deploy computer-based systems that support modern organizations. Students will develop both the theoretical foundation and the practical skills needed to specify, design, implement, and manage systems that possess qualities such as portability, scalability, and interoperability. By strengthening strategic planning and communication skills, and deepening their knowledge of business functions and operations, students will prepare for career advancement in the rapidly expanding information systems field.

• IS / Computer Security Management - MS
• IS / Decision Support System Management - MS
• IS / Enterprise Resource Management - MS
• IS / Network Management - MS
• IS / Software Engineering Management - MS
• IS / Systems Development Management - MS

Master of Information Systems

The Master of Information Systems (MIS) program provides the knowledge to successfully apply information systems theory and principles to address real world business opportunities and challenges to meet the needs of today's information economy. Under the guidance of practitioner faculty, the graduate student will use innovative digital materials to understand the development and management of business systems within the organization, to understand and apply the principles of systems analysis and design, to analyze and evaluate emerging information technologies, and to create project, risk, and information systems strategic plans.

Organizational Leadership / Information Systems
Doctor of Management

The mission of the Information Systems and Technology specialization of the Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership degree (DM/IST) is to enable professionals from any industry to understand and evaluate the scope and impact of information systems and technology (IST) from organizational, industry-wide, and global perspectives. The DM/IST curriculum lays a foundation of knowledge in critical thinking, leadership, and the application of IST content areas. Learners integrate this knowledge with their professional experiences and doctoral-level research to create innovative, positive, and practical contributions to the body of IST knowledge. Graduates will be able to influence their organization and environment positively with transformational IST leadership practices.

This doctoral specialization in IST incorporates coursework in fundamental management, organizational, and leadership concepts to engender the development of IST leadership perspectives. As such, learners with a professional leadership background in any discipline will be able to add their unique perspective to the study of the context, breadth, and processes of IST management.

Computer Information Systems Bachelor of Science

Post University offers a valuable and relevant online CIS degree that prepares students for real-world development, management, and administration of IT for companies, non-profit organizations, and civil/government agencies. The information technology online program provides you with core knowledge of programming and system design that are in high demand in the workplace.

• Database Management
• Software Development Management

Computer Information Systems Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems is an information technology degree that provides a balanced curriculum of computer hardware, software, system design, and communications, to help students understand current and future computer information needs of their companies. This degree program is ideal for students looking to advance their current IT career or seeking entry-level employment in an information technology field such as database management, software engineering, system design and analysis, programming, website development, and information architecture. The curriculum covers a broad range of computer information responsibilities, including: control structures, advanced programming and algorithms, management information systems, and systems analysis and design.

Of the 1,400 programs in information technology across the nation, less than 20% of are accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET). We are pleased that the Computer Information Systems degree from Regis University CPS is one of only 35 in the nation accredited in Information Systems by the Computing Commission of ABET.

IT / Applied Track /
Information Systems Management
Bachelor of Science

Students enrolled in the applied technology track will study the foundational concepts, tools, and methods of IT through a curriculum designed to support the needs of a business. Students could develop a broad foundation in the fundamental areas of IT as well as an in-depth understanding in information systems management.

IT / Information Systems Track
Bachelor of Science

The information systems track is a more rigorous course of study that requires three advanced math courses in statistics, linear algebra, and discrete mathematics. You will study how to create information systems and technologies to meet user needs. The curriculum also includes an introductory course on information systems architecture. Students will study the technology, business and communication skills relevant to the IT professional.

• Information Systems Management - BSBA
• Information Processing - AASBA

Management of Information Systems
Master of Science

The Master's of Science in Management Information Systems is a 36 credit-hour program. It focuses on the application of technological concepts of information systems to the collection, retention, and dissemination of information for management planning and decision making. The program concentrates on areas such as project management, decision support systems, computer languages, client-server and distributed computing, database systems and data warehousing, telecommunications, system analysis and design, human-computer interaction, electronic commerce, information security, computer graphics, and multimedia.

The program blends theory and practice into a learning experience that develops skills applicable to complex real-world problems. It is designed to give students a thorough knowledge of the field and to provide an enduring foundation for future professional growth.

Graduates with the M.S. in Management Information Systems are able to: (1) communicate management information systems concepts, designs, and solutions effectively and professionally; (2) apply knowledge of management information systems to produce effective designs and solutions for specific problems; (3) identify, analyze, and synthesize scholarly literature relating to the field of management information systems; (4) evaluate software development tools, software systems, and modern computing platforms.

The program’s formats offer full-time students the opportunity to earn the master’s degree in 12 months and working professionals the opportunity to earn the degree in 12–18 months.

Students have the option to earn the M.S. in Management Information Systems with Concentration in Information Security Management (also 36 credit-hours), or the Graduate Certificate in Information Security Management, which requires a total of 15 credit-hours (five courses). The concentration and graduate certificate are recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) based on its certification of the school’s curriculum under NSA national training standards NSTISSI No. 4011 (Information Systems Security Professionals) and CNSSI No. 4013 (System Administrators). As a result of this certification, Federal civilian and military personnel will be permitted to take the school’s certified graduate courses under government sponsorship, and the school is authorized to issue certificates to students who complete such courses. Individuals may apply to take one or more certified information security courses as non-degree students. These programs are available online or on-campus. Students who complete the concentration may also request the graduate certificate.

Information Systems Management
Master of Science

The Master of Information Systems Management (MIS) is designed as a comprehensive and contemporary study of the management and utilization of the various aspects of information systems. The program is geared toward students who have an interest and/or experience in the field of information systems and who have a desire to take advanced or graduate level courses to improve their education, enhance their opportunities for advancement, or better prepare for a career change. Concentrations are offered to allow the student to focus on specific interests or types of information systems. 

Information Systems Management
Master of Science

The MS in Information Systems Management program responds to the growing need for IT professionals to acquire the more general management skills and knowledge that are often provided by an MBA, but to study these management issues within the context of fast-moving developments in technology.

At the same time, it provides those already in management positions with updated, cutting-edge IT knowledge, so you don't have to choose between these two complementary aspects of IT management. A combination of core and elective modules enables you to personalize the program to your individual requirements.

Management Information Systems
Master of Business Administration

The Management Information Systems specialization of the MBA program focuses on development and management of information systems, data, telecommunication systems, and LAN/WAN networks, from both a management and computer system perspective. This curriculum is designed for administrators, managers, and consultants using computer information systems to enhance the management process and business outcomes. Learners will complete a final written research project demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action.

• Management Information Systems
• Database Management Systems
• Telecommunications Management
• Computer Management Consulting
• Management Information Systems Project

Computer and Information Security
Master of Business Administration

The requirement for computer security knowledge increases as new techniques and technologies are developed. Threats to the strengths of the existing protections in systems and network perimeters must be constantly upgraded. This specialization enables Learners to examine realistic examples of the crucial links between security theory and the day-to-day security challenges to IT environments. The focus is to provide Learners the ability to ascertain the essentials of security threats, information assurance and security management in corporations. This specialization also examines the field of cyber-forensics including the dangers of cyberterrorism and the evolving U.S. policy response. At the end of the Computer and Information Security specialization, Learners will complete a final written research project, demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action.

• Introduction to Computer Security
• Corporate Computer and Network Security
• Cyber Forensics: Collecting, Examining, and Preserving Evidence of Computer and Information Crimes
• Risk Management in Information Assurance and Security
• Computer Information and Security

Applied Computer Science
Master of Business Administration

Technology trends change rapidly, resulting in the need for companies to look for skilled professionals who possess advanced knowledge of contemporary applied computer science methods. Many advanced managerial roles exist in this dynamic field that require specialized management training, including technical project managers, lead programmers, lead systems administrators, and lead network administrators. The curriculum for the masters program in Applied Computer Sciences is designed to provide preparation for professional careers with an emphasis in various technology management tracks for specialized job roles.

• C# Programming
• Database Management
• Computerized Systems for Business and Management
• Operating Systems
• Applied Computer Science Research Project

Management of Information Systems
Master of Science

The Master of Science in Management Information Systems Degree is a customized degree tailored specifically to prepare students for management positions in the Information Technology profession. It consists of multiple components: the core and concentrations. The core explores the characteristics of information systems with emphasis on critical management issues.

After completing core for the management information systems major, students may select one or more of six concentrations to obtain additional depth in:

• Business Administration
• Computer Information Systems
• Healthcare
• Information Security
• Project Management
• Solutions Architecture

To satisfy the requirements for Master of Science in Management Information Systems degree, students must take 27 semester hours of core courses and at least nine semester hours from one of six concentrations.

• Computer Information Systems - MS
• Computer Information Systems / Business Administration - MS
• Management Information Systems - MBA