McCarthy

Admission

The Department of Information Systems follows the W. P. Carey School of Business policies and procedures for admission to its undergraduate professional program in Computer Information Systems.

To be considered for admission to the Computer Information Systems major, a student must meet the W. P. Carey School of Business admission requirements and have a grade of “C” (2.00) or higher in an introductory computer science course as specified by the school.

Due to resource limitations, admission to the program is very competitive. Applicants are reviewed using a portfolio approach. Among the factors considered are cumulative GPA, skill course GPA, transfer GPA and institution (if applicable), SAT or ACT scores, work experience, demonstrated community involvement and leadership skills, and responses to questions in the professional program application.

Computer Information Systems—BS

Computer Information Systems (CIS) involves the design, development, and maintenance of information systems that support both business operations and managerial decision-making. Students majoring in Computer Information Systems develop familiarity with software application development, database development, and network deployment. Special emphasis is placed on business process workflows, systems integration, and project management. The focus throughout the program is on using information technology to add value to organizations. Specific skills include Java, Visual Basic, SQL, Oracle, Access, network security, and Web services. Students also acquire problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and team-building skills.

A degree in Computer Information Systems offers a diverse range of job opportunities in a variety of industries, including entertainment, national defense, transportation, education, healthcare, and finance. Information systems is also a key component in the success of other functional business areas such as accounting, supply chain, finance, and marketing.

Entry-level information systems positions include database administrator, systems analyst, network administrator, project manager, systems administrator, and consultant. Long-term career aspirations for a student with a CIS degree include chief information officer (CIO), chief technology officer (CTO), chief knowledge officer (CKO), chief security officer (CSO), and chief executive officer (CEO). The average beginning salary is in the mid to high $40,000s.

U.S. News amp; World Report ranks the ASU CIS program among the nation’s top 20 public and private programs.

The major in Computer Information Systems consists of the following courses:

Return to W. P. Carey School of Business main page.

Return to Table of Contents page or return to Top of page.