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Computer Information Systems
The Computer Information Systems major equips you with the skills to design, implement, and manage technology systems. With a focus on applications and information technology, you’ll gain expertise in programming, networking, databases, and systems analysis—preparing you for careers in software development, IT management, business analysis, and more.
Experiential Learning
- Courses in programming, networking, databases, and information systems, along with business communication and project management
- Research opportunities working closely with faculty in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, and web application development
- Internship opportunities with organizations such as Walgreens, Caterpillar, the Federal Reserve, Bank of Chicago, ProducePro, and Illinois Mutual Insurance
- Networking, career development, and programming competitions through the Association for Computing Machinery student chapter
Program Details
Required Courses – 56 hrs.
- CS 101: Introduction to Programming (4 hrs.)
- CS 102: Data Structures (3 hrs.)
- CS 200: Advanced Programming Concepts and Languages (3 hrs.)
- CS 210: Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms (3 hrs.)
- CS 220: Computer Architecture (3 hrs.)
- CS 370: Database Management Systems (3 hrs.)
- CS 480: Social and Professional Issues in Computing (2 hrs.)
- CIS 393: Web Technologies and Systems (3 hrs.)
- CIS 430: Information Technology Infrastructure (3 hrs.)
- CIS 445: Integrative Programming and Technology (3 hrs.)
- CIS 475: Computer Information Systems Analysis. Design and Integration (3 hrs.)
- CIS 491: Computer Information System Project Management(3 hrs.)
- MTH 120: Discrete Mathematics (3 hrs.)
- MTH 111: Elementary Statistics (3 hrs.)
- PSY 101: Principles of Psychology (3 hrs.)
- PSY 320: Human Factors Psychology (3 hrs.)
- COM 292: Organizational Communication (3 hrs.)
- or M L 354: Maximizing Effectiveness in Organizations (3 hrs.)
- or COM 300: Communication Theory (3 hrs.)
- ML 350: Managing for Results in Organizations (2 hrs.)
- or M L 250: Interpersonal Effectiveness in Organizations (2 hrs.)
- ENT 385: Technology Entrepreneurship (3 hrs.)
- or ENT 381: Entrepreneurship for Non-Business Students (3 hrs.)
- or ENT 280: Entrepreneurial Creativity (3 hrs.)
Elective Courses (choose one) – 3 hrs.
- MIS 379: Information Systems Security (3 hrs.)
- CIS 415: Applied Cryptography (3 hrs.)
- CIS 435: Computer Networks and System Security (3 hrs.)
- CIS 495: Software and Web Applications Security (3 hrs.)
Degree Concentrations
Take your career any way you want! Explore the different degree concentrations that we offer so you can personalize your education.
Love video games? This concentration introduces you to game design, programming, and production while building your skills in systems, networking, and software development. Want to dive deeper? Add an interactive media minor or double major.
Data is everywhere—and so are the opportunities to use it. Learn how to analyze big data, use AI and machine learning, and solve real-world problems in business, healthcare, social media, and more.
Bring ideas to life by designing and developing mobile apps and wireless networks. You’ll learn how to build secure, user-friendly mobile experiences while strengthening your skills in programming and web technology.
Want to fight cyber threats? This concentration gives you the skills to protect information and stop hackers in their tracks. Learn about network security, cryptography, and cybersecurity strategies used by top companies and government agencies.
Career Opportunities
- Network, systems, or database administrator
- Software developer or engineer
- IT project manager
- Business or systems analyst
Graduates have launched careers at companies like DoubleVerify, Facet Technologies, Illinois Mutual Life Insurance, and Samsung.
Minors
The Computer Game Technology minor provides students with essential background, understanding, knowledge, and skills in the practice of computer game software design and development.
The computer science and information systems minor, which is open to all students, gives you a foundation in software development and computer science basics.
You can customize the minor by choosing electives in databases, networking, software engineering, security, gaming or mobile computing. It’s often paired with engineering and interactive media majors.
The data science minor, which is open to all students, gives you a basic understanding of tools to gather and understand large amounts of data.
These tools are important for economic management, wealth creation, life and health improvement, and other applications in engineering, science, business, health care and education. The minor is a valuable addition to business, science and engineering majors.