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What Does a Career in Computer Information Systems (CIS) Entail?
Computer Information Systems is a broad-based field that starts with a top-notch associate or bachelor's degree. Ideally, you will be able to complete a bachelor's degree with an area of specialization, such as an on-campus or online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems degree, as a springboard to career success.
Professionals in computer information systems can get their careers underway when they choose a CIS program that best suits their long-term professional objectives. You can even find an online CIS degree, though the school should be fully accredited and offer the focus area that most intrigues them. Your career will usually entail duties related to your focus area, such as computer technology used in business processes or business operations and managing cyber risks.
Your career will also entail lots of fantastic projects that enable to you to create the best operating systems and information systems security for your employer with business database systems development, project management, and database administration. Alternately, you could pursue a more creative direction and work in web or game design, which might include software development. Your knowledge gained in a computer information systems program will help you amass the right tools for you job, while your coding, programming languages, data analytics, information security, and development courses will support your vision and provide you with critical thinking skills.
Components of A Successful Career In "Computer Information Systems"
A successful career in Computer Information Systems is comprised of several components. The first key is a college degree from an accredited institution. From there, you can add professional certificates, or graduate work.
When you embark on an undergraduate degree, do so in a program that will support your career goals. That is, CIS is not a monolithic subject. Rather, programs usually offer focus areas for you to choose from; these could be programming, forensics, security, or even game development. Your concentration could well determine your career path from graduation onward.
When you start your career, seek out professional associations to join. Your employer or your department might be a member of one, so see how that membership will benefit you. Frequently, association membership involves access to courses that keep you up-to-date on the latest hardware and software advances.
Associations and graduate programs also offer certificates, which look great on a resume. A certificate can indicate academic credits that you can apply to a full degree. Your professional and academic certificates, and any advanced degrees, will all support and enrich your career.
How to Earn a Computer Information Systems (CIS) Degree Guide
Difference Between a Computer Science Degree & CIS Degree
A computer science degree differs from a CIS degree in that its focus is on researching computer applications, creating software, and even artificial intelligence. CIS, on the other hand, is more concerned with how to apply computer technology in a company or department so that the workers achieve maximum efficiency.
There is certainly overlap between the two degrees and their application. Some CIS graduates delve deeper into coding and software creation, and some CS graduates land jobs managing the Information Technology needs of their firm. Even if you land in a job that is not specific to your CIS degree, you will surely find applications for your knowledge. After all, every enterprise these days relies on computers to some degree.
Typical Computer Information Systems Online Degree Requirements
To complete a Computer Information Systems degree, you will need to satisfy certain requirements. Many departments will ask you to complete some programming courses, such as object-oriented programming. Database design and management is likely to be required, as well as accounting courses. You'll also need to know about networking and certain back-end operating systems such as Unix or Linux. Depending on what online program you enter, your required course list could include some of the following:
- Programming, I
- Programming, II
- Technical Writing
- Intro to Cybersecurity
- Intro to Computer Forensics
- Database Management and SQL
- User Experiences and Design
- Web Design
- Systems Analysis
- Special Topics in Information Systems
Typical Computer Information Systems Certifications Needed/Available
Graduating with a degree in Computer Information Systems is quite an achievement. With that background, you can move forward and complete various certifications that will match the needs of employers. When you are certified in certain proprietary systems, doors will open the moment you send your resume. Some typical computer information system certifications include:
- Cisco Certified Network Associate
- CompTIA A+ Technician
- Network+
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
Academic Standards for Computer Information Systems Professionals
As the Information Systems field tightens, it's important to maintain the highest standards for yourself. Your online program may even have a minimum GPA standard just to remain in the department. Regardless of these considerations, it's vital to study as hard as you can and attain the highest grades in all of your courses. Considering that you may want to return to school for a graduate degree, graduate schools all have minimum GPA standards for admission. Even if your program is very difficult, your GPA alone will determine what graduate program admits you as a student.
Exam/Experience Needed for Computer Information Systems Majors
Though there is no one specific test you need to pass in order to work as a professional in information systems, you will likely want to attain certifications in certain technologies. These certifications will help your resume stand out and the more diversity you have on your resume the better off you will be.
Experience is always beneficial, so try to gain some experience in the field as you work towards a degree. In fact, you might consider earning a CompTIA A+ Technician certificate. This is an entry level credential, but you can use it to freelance for local small businesses or individuals who have IT problems.
Important Questions to Ask (FAQ)
How long does it take to earn a Computer Information Systems bachelor's degree online?
If you don't take any terms off and you are allowed to take an overload of courses, you might take as little as three years to complete a four-year degree in CIS. Most students take even longer than the traditional four years. In fact, when the government studied how long students were taking to complete a four-year degree, they set the bar at six years.
To ensure that your degree has the maximum integrity and that your knowledge base is as cohesive as possible, strive to complete your degree in the assumed four years. Make a plan for yourself and don't allow external concerns to interfere with your education. After all, once you have a degree in Computer Information Systems, you will be able to start an amazing life, founded on a brilliant career.
How much does an online Computer Information Systems bachelor’s degree cost?
A CIS degree can cost as little as $70,000 if you take your core liberal arts courses at a community college and then attend an in-state public college or university. If you attend a private institution, you can potentially pay as much as $300,000.
Consider that you will likely need to take certification courses after you graduate. The examinations for those aren't terribly expensive, typically costing somewhere around $200. However, you need to budget for study materials and any prep courses you find necessary.
Computer Information Systems Degree Coursework
Your CIS degree will include many fascinating courses that will challenge and enlighten you. If you are like many students, you will be so inspired that you strive to continue learning once you've graduated. In fact, if you're working in a field that is as rapidly changing as information systems, you will need to cultivate the habits of a lifelong learner.
In the meantime, you'll need to work through a series of courses that might include, but is not limited to:
- SQL and Database Management
- Java Programming
- Advanced Networking
- Game Design and Network Integration
- User Experience and Systems Design
- Information Analytics
- Information Architecture
- Computer Ethics
- Visual Analytics
Does the school have the major(s) you’re considering?
If you have your mind set on a career in Computer Information Systems, you certainly want to ensure that your online school has an appropriate degree program. Even if you find schools that have CIS departments, dig deeper into your research to see if they offer the specific focus area you're interested in. Also, look for online programs that offer a wide range of options. Your undergraduate years are a good time to explore the field. You might enter as a freshman intent on studying database management but find that you loved your computer forensics course so much that you decide to focus on cybersecurity.
How many students graduate “on time,” in four years?
This is a tricky question because when this issue is studied, the government allows six years for students to complete a four-year program. This could be that, due to rising costs of living and education, students are taking lighter, part-time course-loads.
Nonetheless, it has been found that you are more likely to graduate within six years if you attend a highly competitive institution. Schools that admit 25% or fewer applicants show a higher rate of on-time graduations. Also, women tend to graduate at slightly higher levels than men. Open-admissions institutions graduate the lowest rates of students within the six-year window.
What kind of accreditation does the online program hold? How is it regarded in the field?
Your online CIS program might have any one of a number of accreditations. Online undergraduate programs frequently are regionally accredited, but some are more closely affiliated with a business program. Business-focused programs might have national accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Other online programs might be certified by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, and some graduate programs may be approved by the American Library Association.
If your online program is accredited by one of those agencies mentioned above, your education will surely be recognized by hiring managers from coast to coast. Since each accrediting agency focuses on different aspects of education, you will find that your interests seem to be reflected in certain accreditations. Whatever accreditation your school claims, make sure you check out the accrediting agency with the US Department of Education to make sure they qualify for student loans and scholarships.
Professional Business Organizations
Association of Information Technology Professionals
Association of Information Technology Professionals
AITP is one of the preeminent professional organizations for IT pros. They will keep you up to speed on emerging technology, provide educational opportunities, and facilitate interpersonal networking throughout your field. With chapters from coast to coast, you're sure to find one near you. If not, the field is growing so fast that there's sure to be one close by soon. Members also receive discounts on certifications that will put your career on the next level.
Association for Women in Computing
Association for Women in Computing
Since Augusta Ada Byron Lovelace was the world's first computer programmer, it only makes sense that there be more resources for women in the profession. The AWC provides networking, leadership opportunities, education, and mentoring for its members. You can join a local chapter or be an independent member. Since you only need four others to form a chapter, you can soon form an outpost in your local area. In fact, the AWC is seeking to form more chapters on campuses to provide support and fellowship for young women in the technical fields.
Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility
Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility
Computing and social responsibility are two concepts that don't often occur in the same sentence. The CPSR is changing that one member at a time. There are CPSR chapters nationwide, and there are outposts in 26 countries and six continents.
Black Data Processing Associates
Black Data Processing Associates
BDPA is an IT association dedicated to helping black IT professionals achieve their optimal success. With job postings, networking opportunities, and entrepreneurial support, black IT professionals nationwide make BDPA membership a no-brainer. With over thirty chapters that span the United States, you're sure to find a chapter close to home.