Computer Information Systems (CIS) Major
The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems (CIS) provides an educational foundation for students planning a career in the analysis, design, and implementation of information systems. Students will be prepared for careers as programmers, systems analysts, application software developers, and technology specialists. Students who have a strong interest in technology and its application, yet who are not primarily interested in the scientific and mathematical aspects of computer science should find this program a good fit.
Information Systems (IS) is the study of the application of computer technology in organizations. It is founded on two major reference disciplines, computer science and management. Unlike computer science students, IS undergraduates must complete some accounting and finance course work. IS involves no course work in engineering or scientific computing, and the mathematics courses are practical and applied. Traditionally, the IS undergraduate curriculum has been divided into two sections: MIS, where the emphasis has been on managing information systems (the business side of IS), and CIS where the emphasis has been on the application of computer technology on information systems.
Benefits and Distinctives
- Students receive an educational foundation for planning a career in the analysis, design, and implementation of information systems.
- Students whose career plans will take them into the business world, ministry, or onto the mission field as technology enablers benefit from a degree that allows them a specific focus on information systems.
- This program prepares students to function at a professional level using computer technology.
Career Opportunities
- Systems programmer
- Application analyst
- Software developer
- Technology specialist
What About Internship and Graduate School Opportunities?
Students seeking internships rely on departmental announcements, Internet postings, and networking via faculty-to-industry contacts. Through these means, students gain hands-on experience with real-world relevance in various fields related to their interests. In addition to transitioning into one of APU’s 26 master’s degree programs or 7 doctorates, many students continue graduate-level study at other prestigious Southern California universities such as University of Southern California (USC), University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Loyola Marymount University, and Pepperdine University.
