Description
The computer information systems (CIS) major is designed for the student who is interested in pursuing a career that combines business and technology. Specifically, the program graduates will learn how to utilize various technologies to improve the organization’s processes, operations, and security. This major consists of courses in computer programming, database design and management, and network administration. The program’s in-depth practical application of computer technology prepares the graduate to enter the workplace as a well-versed technology professional. Many graduates of this bachelor’s degree program elect to continue their education at the graduate level by pursuing a Master's in Digital Transformation and Innovation.
CIS students will develop a portfolio of essential skills valued by employers. They will become problem-solvers who know how to think analytically, assess business problems, and design the best technology solutions to improve business performance.
Outcomes
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, graduates will be able to:
1. Demonstrate technology skills in software development, database design, network administration, and cloud-computing services.
2. Communicate technical and non-technical information to specific audiences in varied formats.
3. Formulate technology solutions to improve organizational performance.
4. Demonstrate professional competencies related to contemporary careers.
Policies
Students must earn a minimum GPA of 2.00 in the major. Furthermore, the lowest acceptable grade is a “C” in all major courses. No student, regardless of major, will be permitted to advance to the next major course without earning a grade of “C” or better in the prerequisite course(s). When a grade below a “C” is earned in a major course, the student must repeat that course. The lowest acceptable grade in Stevenson Educational Experience (SEE) courses is a “D,” with the exception of ENG 151 and ENG 152, for which the lowest acceptable grade is a “C.” If a SEE course is required for the major the lowest acceptable grade is a “C.”
A course may be repeated twice without special permission. Students must apply in writing to the dean of the school in which the course resides to attempt a course for a third time.
Requirements
The courses listed below are required for completion of the bachelor's degree in computer information systems. Students must also complete the requirements for the Stevenson Educational Experience (SEE).
Specific pre- and co-requisites for each course are listed in the course descriptions.
Major Requirements
| CDF 308 | Technology Law | 3 credits |
| GEN 200 | Writing and Research for the Adult Learner | 3 credits |
| IS 135 | Computer Applications for Business | 3 credits |
| IS 140 | Information Systems Architecture and Design | 3 credits |
| IS 150 | Relational Database Design & SQL | 3 credits |
| IS 201 | Modern Information Systems | 3 credits |
| IS 231 | Network Technologies | 3 credits |
| IS 232 | TCP and IP Communication Protocols for Windows and UNIX | 3 credits |
| IS 235 | Advanced Windows Server Architecture & Administration | 3 credits |
| IS 240 | Computer Programming I | 3 credits |
| IS 241 | Computer Programming II | 3 credits |
| IS 252 | Advanced SQL Query Design with Oracle & SQL Server | 3 credits |
| IS 320 | Human-Computer Interaction | 3 credits |
| IS 330 | Business Application Programming | |
| IS 365 | Writing for IS Applications | 3 credits |
| IS 431 | Exchange Server & Messaging Systems | 3 credits |
| IS 432 | Network Security-Firewalls, IDS, and Counter Measures | 3 credits |
| IS 444 | Mobile Application Development | 3 credits |
| IS 481 | IT Project Management | 3 credits |
| MGT 210 | Business Writing | 3 credits |
| MGT 300 | Applied Business Analytics | 3 credits |
Minor in Information Systems
A minor in information systems is available. Students who wish to pursue a minor in information systems may choose any six IS courses from the computer information systems program. IS 135 will count toward the minor. The lowest acceptable grade is a “C“ in all IS courses. All course prerequisites must be met to be eligible to take the selected course for a minor. Please see a student success coach for more information. Specific information regarding minor requirements may be found in the Academic Information section of the catalog.
Other Options
The bachelor's to master's option is available for students majoring in computer information systems who wish to combine their bachelor’s coursework with work toward a master’s degree in one of Stevenson’s graduate programs. Students choosing this option may earn their master's degree in as little as one year after their bachelor's degree. Interested students must formally apply for entrance into a bachelor's to master's option in their junior year. Once admitted into this program, students develop an educational plan in consultation with their student success coach. For more information on this program see the Admissions section of this catalog.