What Are the Courses in a Computer Information Systems Undergraduate Degree?
If you're a whiz at math, love to keep data organized and enjoy working with computers, then you might excel in a field like computer information systems. Keep reading to find out more about this type of degree.
Overview of an Undergraduate Degree in Computer Information Systems
Undergraduate degree programs in this area of study will train students to build, maintain and analyze information systems. Core courses of an undergraduate degree in computer information systems focus on information systems technology, mathematics and communications.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisAreaOfStudy">Important Facts About This Area of Study</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td> Prerequisites </td><td> High school diploma or equivalent; recommended courses, like physics, chemistry and intro to psychology</td></tr>
<tr><td> Specializations </td><td> Computer forensics, database management, business and management, health information systems, systems analysis and integration, web game programming</td></tr>
<tr><td> Online Availability </td><td> Blended</td></tr>
<tr><td> Possible Careers </td><td> Systems security analysts, systems developers, data analysts</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $99,270 (for all computer systems analysts)</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 9% growth (for all computer systems analysts)</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---CoreCoursesInComputerInformationSystems">Core Courses in Computer Information Systems</h3><p>These courses introduce students to fundamental concepts in information systems technology, such as how to design a database, algorithms and information systems for specific organizations, like banks or hospitals. These core courses may also include instruction on systems management, information security and software engineering. At the University of South Carolina, which is approved by ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), for example, specific classes in the undergraduate computer information systems program teach:
</p><ul><li>Algorithm design
</li><li>Information systems analysis and design
</li><li>Information systems development
</li></ul><h3 id="section---MathCourses">Math Courses</h3><p>In addition to the core courses, a B.S. in Computer Information Systems prioritizes mathematics. These classes prepare students to tackle computer issues such as designing algorithms that require a high level of algebra, statistics and other mathematical fundamentals.
</p><h3 id="section---CommunicationsCourses">Communications Courses</h3><p>The core courses of an undergraduate degree in computer information systems often include a few communications classes. IT professionals need to be able to explain how to use information systems to professionals of various backgrounds who may not have much computer-related experience. These classes help students learn how to translate technical jargon into easily understandable language. Illinois State University, another ABET-accredited school, offers communications classes such as:
</p><ul><li>Technical writing
</li><li>Public speaking
</li><li>Professional speaking</li></ul>