An online computer information systems degree can help set you up for a rewarding career in an industry that’s growing by leaps and bounds.
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Many people who work in this field find themselves in fantastic jobs with a lot of growth potential and personal rewards.
Online Computer Information Systems Degrees
A Bachelor of Computer Information Systems may allow you to expand your career paths exponentially.
Click on the concentration that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:
- Computer Information Systems
- Computer Information Systems – Security
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
Regardless of the specialty you select, you should still receive a strong foundation in related courses.
Computer Information Systems
This concentration looks at the CIS field as a whole and works on an executive level to ensure that they are functioning at the highest capacity within an organization. Having a high aptitude for management and a strong desire to lead can help you succeed in this concentration.
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This concentration is a highly competitive one, and although you only need a bachelor of science degree to get your foot in the door, many higher-paying jobs require a master’s degree or higher. You might want to continue your education to work in this concentration.
Computer Information Systems – Security
Security threats are a genuine part of life these days, and it’s imperative for companies always to be a step ahead of hackers. That’s where information security comes in.
Information security analysts who work in this concentration must have their finger on the pulse on what’s happening in the network security world and be able to address threats immediately and accurately.
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Having a high aptitude for being able to address and eliminate threats without over or under-reacting to them can help you succeed in this field.
Computer Science
This essential concentration can help you obtain a fantastic overview of what’s happening in the world of computer science and set you up for good career paths. One of the benefits of having a more broad computer science degree concentration is that you may specialize in other areas later on. If you want to further your education, this is a good choice.
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If you love learning about how computers work and have a naturally analytical mind, you may be a good candidate for a general computer science degree.
Software Engineering
Software engineering is one of the more lucrative areas of computer science, and it may allow you to write your own ticket in terms of career paths. People who work in software engineering design entire computer systems, so having a strong understanding of computer languages and the ability to think outside the box can help you succeed in this field.
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All of these concentrations can help open the door to a fantastic career in computers. Simply pick the one that sounds the best to you, and you are well on your way.
Computer Information Systems Curriculum & Courses
Although all colleges are different, there are a few standard on-campus or online courses that you can expect to take with your CIS degree. Check out the website for your school of choice to get the full course list of what they offer.
- Integrated Information Systems – This course can teach you about system frameworks and help you get your feet wet with coding and technology critical thinking skills.
- Computer Architecture – This class can help you learn the nuts and bolts of how computers function and teach you about the physical equipment and its software.
- Database Management – This course can teach you about the different languages that you need to know to set up and maintain database systems properly as well as the basics of data structures and how to organize data.
- Information Technology Ethics – Understanding the ethics surrounding information technology is an integral part of working in the field. This basic course can give you a good overview.
- Computer Science 101 – This beginner-level course is designed to introduce you to standard computer languages and the basics of coding and software development.
- Intro to C++ – C++ is one of the most critical computer languages in the world, and you should have a good understanding of it if you want to work with computer systems.
- Systems Analysis – A systems analysis course covers a lot of the methodology that dictates how computers function and are programmed. It’s an excellent base course for anyone who wants to work on computers.
- Project Management – Learn how to schedule projects and programs using different computer languages and to integrate projects with ongoing business operations with this course.
- Technical Communication – This course can help you obtain the basics of industry jargon, which can help you understand more sophisticated courses later on in your education.
- Computer Networking – You can learn how computers function and “talk” to each other in this critical beginner course.
If these courses appeal to you, you might be suited for a career in computers.
The best candidates for this type of career path are often analytical, data-driven, and able to solve problems meticulously. Having a good knowledge of how computers function and an interest in learning new programs and computer systems can help you succeed in this degree program.
You should also be able to understand system analysis to determine how computer systems seamlessly integrate with business operations and visualize how to best work within the computer programs and frameworks of different companies to improve them.
Since many people who work in computer science programs often end up leading departments, people management skills are also a useful attribute. Candidates that excel are often very diplomatic and understand how to solve problems in a fair and expedient fashion.
Computer Information Systems Careers & Salaries
CIS can lead to very lucrative career paths, and there may be plenty of room for you to grow in the profession. Even entry-level jobs, such as technical support specialist, typically pay quite well, and there is usually plenty of job security when it comes to this particular field.
Many of the most successful people who work with computers are continually making sure that their technical skills are on point by getting additional training and furthering their education. This is one field where ongoing education is undoubtedly useful. Also, being familiar with various computer programming languages will only be an advantage to you.
Those who have an advanced degree in this field tend to make a lot more money in the long run, such as serving as a systems analyst or as an information systems manager.
Of course, what you will make depends mostly on where you are in the United States and how competitive the job market is. The following are just ballpark estimates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the list below is generally what you can expect to make.
| Careers | Annual Median Salary |
| Information Technology Manager | $151,150 |
| Information Research Scientist | $126,830 |
| Computer Network Architect | $116,780 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $103,590 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Management Consultant | $87,660 |
| Network Administrator | $84,810 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
| Technical support specialist | $55,510 |
CIS is a solid field with a lot of growth potential. Although a computer information systems associate degree may get you started, earning a bachelor of science degree in this field may offer more opportunities for employment and advancement.
Computer Information Systems Specializations & Concentrations
During the course of your education, you will probably find yourself gravitating towards a specific type of specialty or concentration. This is good because it can help give you a leg-up on the competition after graduating.
You can show that you have a special kind of skill-set and that you know what you’re talking about when it comes to a particular area related to computers.
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These are just a few sample specialties. Every school is different, and you may easily find yourself in the position where you are branching out beyond these particular concentrations.
- Computer Forensics – This specialty can give you insight into cybercrime and helps computer systems analysts identify and eliminate threats. It’s one of the most sought-after technical skills in the industry.
- Database Management – Database administrators who work in this concentration are responsible for setting up entire computer systems that others can access on the front-end. Having excellent coding skills and a deep understanding of data structures, database management systems, and how computers work can help you succeed in this concentration.
- Information Systems Security – Like Computer Forensics, this specialty focuses on eliminating security threats, but it also deals with protecting individual users. Information security analysts who work in this concentration are often in managerial roles.
- Software Programming – This specialty deals with software development and using computer programming languages to write the computer programs that allow the computer to function properly.
- Web Development – People who work in this concentration create websites for users to access online or on intranets. They are responsible for all of the back-end coding and creation for web services.
Of course, there are plenty of other ways that these specialties can splinter off. This is just a brief overview of what you can reasonably expect.
Choosing a Computer Information Systems Degree
With so many collegiate options out there, it may seem downright overwhelming to choose where to get your degree. Everyone has different preferences, but these are a few things to keep in mind before committing to a school.
Flexible class schedules are a huge advantage to many students, especially adult learners, who value the fact that they can effectively balance their family and work-life alongside their school.
Look at the type of technology offered by the school. Do you know how to use it properly? Does it work with your personality type and particular learning style? Additionally, it’s good to check out any kind of internships or mentor programs that are offered through the school. Often you can get good job leads this way.
Make sure that the college of your choice is accredited. We will get into accreditation later in this article, but it’s an essential component of any good school. You can easily find this right on the school’s website.
Finally, think about the atmosphere of the school. Does it offer the sort of class experience that you are looking for? Are you connecting with your fellow students? All of these things are important to take into account before committing to any college.
Admissions Requirements
All schools are different, but there are some standard admissions requirements that you can expect to have to furnish before you can start your classes. Make sure that you check with your school before heading to admissions. You do not want to be in a position where you are lacking a critical document.
- Application – You will need to fill out an application before you are accepted. Make sure that you fill it out completely to avoid any delays in processing time.
- Diploma – You will need a diploma or a G.E.D. in order to enter college.
- Transcripts – Many schools require a copy of your high school transcripts, which you can easily get from your school. Some of them look for a particular grade point average as well.
- Letters of Recommendation – Although not required by all schools, many want to see letters of recommendation from trusted advisors or authority figures.
Not all schools will require everything listed above, but it’s better to have them just in case.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a stamp of approval for a school or university. It tells prospective employers that the school has been independently vetted by an objective and authoritative committee and found to have an excellent curriculum and good program.
Many employers take regional accreditation very seriously and will not even look at your application if your school has not been accredited. Find proof of accreditation on your school’s website.
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Many of them will publish it right online in a place that is easy to access. If you can’t find it, don’t hesitate to call the school and ask. If they seem evasive about confirming accreditation, it’s a red flag.
Computer Information Systems Professional Organizations
A professional organization can generally offer valuable networking opportunities as well as professional resources. Here are some relevant professional organizations to consider:
- Association for Information Science and Technology
- Association for Information Systems
- Association for Women in Computing
- CompTIA Association of Information Technology Professionals
- International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology
Being a member of an organization can often benefit both CIS students and CIS professionals in the field.
Computer Information Systems Licensing and Certification
Earning a certification can help you develop and demonstrate your knowledge in a specialty area beyond a bachelor’s degree. Here are some professional certifications within the field:
- Cisco Certifications
- CompTIA Network+ Certification
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert Certifications
Your interests and career goals can often help you decide whether its advantageous for you to pursue a particular certification.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
There is plenty of financial aid available for college, and you should take advantage of the federal, regional, and state aid that you can get. Loans are the most common type of financial assistance, and you will be expected to pay them back after your schooling is finished.
Don’t take out more than you can reasonably pay back. A loan can cover the cost of your classes, books, or even housing.
You may also get grants or scholarships. You don’t need to pay these back. They are generally a lot more competitive than loans. Grants may be given on a merit or income basis, and scholarships are generally awarded for specific achievements or specialties.
Don’t hesitate to apply for all of the scholarships and grants that you can. You never know what you will qualify for, and you might surprise yourself.
Is Computer Information Systems a Good Degree?
Computer science is an excellent degree because many of the jobs that you may get with it tend to be quite lucrative and generally offer tremendous job security. Additionally, those who major in computer science programs often find themselves working in managerial positions.
With a bachelor’s degree in this major, you may be able to get your foot in the door and start to make some serious money right after graduation.
How Much Does a CIS Major Make?
Although the salary varies depending on where you live, C.I.S. majors often make well over median wage and may even top six figures if they are good at their jobs.
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C.I.S. is typically also a very stable field that is often hiring, so the job prospects for CIS professionals are excellent, and you can usually find work at all levels.
Is a CIS Degree Hard?
Most technology-related degrees are considered hard, but if you have a passion for computers and a desire to learn new systems, you may enjoy the challenges of getting your C.I.S. degree.
Plenty of students find that they love learning about different computer systems and how they operate.
Can You Become a Software Engineer With a Computer Information Systems Degree?
The short answer is that you may be able to, but the field is quite competitive. Many people go on to get an advanced degree after earning their bachelor’s degree in order to give themselves an advantage when it comes to being hired.
The path that you choose to take is up to you.
Computer Information Systems vs Computer Science – What’s the Difference?
Computer science is largely more theoretical, and computer information systems rely more on concrete systems and applications.
It’s good to have an excellent knowledge of computer science if you want to work in any kind of computer information field because it gives you a good background and basis on which to draw.
Is a CIS Degree Worth It?
Yes, a CIS degree is worth it for many professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology jobs are set to grow at 11% over the next 10 years, way faster than the average for all occupations. Common careers in this field include web developer, network administrator, information security analyst, systems administrator, computer network architect, web services manager, and IT manager.
Since those who work in C.I.S. generally make a good living, many people consider a C.I.S. degree to be worth every penny.
If this is a field that interests you, and you want to work in the technology sector, this degree may be very useful.
What Can You Do With a CIS Degree?
You can pursue many different kinds of jobs with this bachelor’s degree, from technical support specialist to systems analyst. Many people work in the security sector, or on the back end of websites.
Others prefer to take on managerial roles where they are responsible for making sure that computer technology works across the board. Your concentration will set the tone for what kind of job you get.
How Much Does a C.I.S. Major Make?
It’s difficult to say how much you will make with your C.I.S. degree. The salary range largely varies depending on where you are in the country and how competitive the market is.
It is true that many C.I.S. graduates make well over minimum wage, even right out of school.
What Does CIS Major Stand For?
C.I.S. stands for computer information systems and is a convenient shorthand to describe that particular degree.
Is CIS a Good Degree?
Many people find C.I.S. to be an excellent degree because of the job opportunities that they have after graduation.
Since computers shouldn’t be going anywhere anytime soon, there should always be a need for people skilled in C.I.S.
What are the Requirements for Getting a Computer Information Systems Online Degree?
All schools vary, but you will generally need your admission application, any applicable application fee, transcripts, diploma, and letter of recommendation to be considered for a program.
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Some schools require a specific grade point average or a copy of your S.A.T.s as well.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online C.I.S. Degree?
Typically it takes four years to complete your online C.I.S. degree, although it could take shorter or longer depending on your schedule.
Some students prefer to accelerate their schooling, while others take longer to complete their classes because of work or family commitments.
How Much Does a Bachelor of Computer Information Systems?
Although costs vary from college to college, several online courses in C.I.S. programs are quite affordable.
You may also get loans, scholarships, and grants to offset your college costs.
What Skills Are Required for a Career in Computer Information Systems?
The best CIS professionals tend to be highly analytical, have sharp technology skills, and have a deep appreciation for computer systems and how they function.
You should also be independently motivated, have good attention to detail, and know how to communicate with people on all levels of an organization. It also helps to have a basic understanding of business processes, so that you are seen as part of a larger team.
Universities Offering Computer Information Systems Online Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Arizona State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems – Information Assurance and Security
- BS in Computer Information Systems – Systems Development
Austin Peay State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- BAS in Computer Information Systems
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Bellevue University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
The California University of Pennsylvania is a public university accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
- Bachelor’s in Computer and Information Systems
Champlain College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Dakota State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Davenport University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems
DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Florida Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
McKendree University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Mercy College is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Northwestern State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Post University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Regis University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- BS in Computer Information Systems – Cybersecurity
- BS in Computer Information Systems – Data Analytics
Saint Louis University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Southeast Missouri State University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- BA in Computer Information Systems
- BS in Computer Information Systems
The College of St. Scholastica is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- BS in Computer Information Systems
The University of Maine at Augusta is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Getting Your Computer Information Systems Degree Online
If you have wanted to take your career and life to the next level, an accredited degree in this field can help you get there. This degree can open doors to more lucrative jobs, help you rise up to management positions, and equip you with unique technology skills that make you attractive to employers.
With online degrees, you can get your college completed on your time. Plenty of schools offer flexible class schedules, so there’s no reason not to take the plunge and start the path to getting your degree today.
