Computer Information Systems Degree Guide
A computer information systems degree blends computer science, information technology, and business coursework.
A computer information systems degree teaches you how to apply technology in business settings. In a computer information systems degree program, you gain the technical, communications, and organizational skills necessary to thrive as an IT professional.
If you’re interested in working with computer systems and information technology, specifically in a business context, a degree in computer information systems (CIS) can help prepare you for this career path. Given the ever-changing nature of technology and the evolution of AI, there are infinite ways to apply a degree in computer information systems in the job market.
But what exactly is computer information systems, and how does it differ from other popular degrees in computer science and information technology? In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what the field of CIS entails and whether a CIS degree is the best option for you.
What Is a Computer Information Systems Degree?
Computer information systems degrees include coursework in computer science, information technology, communications, and business. These classes develop students’ foundational understanding of information systems, computer programming, and software applications while also exploring business basics like marketing, finance, and economics.
Major-specific coursework trains enrollees to apply computer technologies to businesses’ functions and needs. Classes in marketing and business performance focus on using technology to conduct market research and analysis.
Many CIS degrees include group projects and cooperative learning activities with an overall goal of training learners to use their skills in a business environment. Practical exercises prepare students to transition into professional roles.
Computer Information Systems vs. Computer Science vs. Information Technology
If you’re interested in working with computers, you have numerous degree options. While programs in CIS, computer science, and information technology may overlap, each offers coursework designed for specific professional roles.
The computer information systems field focuses on facilitating business operations. CIS degrees integrate computer science and information technology with administrative skills, training workers to maintain databases and help companies achieve their tech-related goals. These professionals usually work in collaboration with executives and tech teams.
Computer science(CS) focuses on developing computer programs, applications, and software. CS degrees emphasize subfields like programming, cybersecurity, and software engineering. These professionals typically work within larger development teams.
Information technology (IT) is about the use of technology in practical settings. IT degree programs teach students how to keep computers working and offer technical support in professional settings. These professionals work alone or within larger technology departments.
Types of Computer Information Systems Concentrations
Some computer information systems programs offer coursework specializations, especially at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. These concentration tracks help you build deeper skills in a targeted area, preparing you for niche careers in specific subfields.
Common concentrations for CIS degrees include:
Business Intelligence: This specialization focuses on transforming the data stored in computer information systems into actionable, data-driven business insights. It engages concepts like database design, data modeling, and machine learning.- Information and Cybersecurity Management: In this concentration, learners engage with information security and cybersecurity concepts through a business management lens. Courses teach enrollees to assess, control, and reduce risk through organizational cybersecurity policy.
- Information Technology Security: While similar to the information and cybersecurity management pathway, IT security concentrations focus more on protecting computer hardware and networking systems from cyberattacks and unauthorized access.
- Accounting Software Applications: This concentration emphasizes the advanced software and technology suites corporate accounting departments use to organize and manage financial data. It pairs well with accounting coursework.
Computer Information Systems (CIS) Degrees: From Associate to Doctorate
Computer information systems programs vary in length, depth, and scope. Shorter programs, like an associate degree, introduce students to key concepts and principles, while a bachelor’s degree includes more advanced coursework. Most computer information systems careers only require a bachelor’s degree, but advanced degrees can lead to significantly higher salaries.
CIS graduate programs build even deeper knowledge, often requiring learners to specialize in a niche area of the field. A master’s degree can give professionals a competitive edge for managerial and administrative roles, while a doctorate can lead to executive positions or a career in research.
Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems
- Program Length: 2 years
- Potential Jobs: Computer systems analyst, data specialist, technology support specialist
Associate degrees in computer information systems generally take two years of full-time study. Learners complete general education classes in English, mathematics, humanities, and science alongside courses in computer science and information technology. Additional business coursework helps students apply computer-related concepts and practices in real-world settings.
An associate degree in computer information systems can lead to entry-level positions in the field as well as roles like computer support specialist, network system administrator, and computer programmer. Some associate programs also partner with nearby four-year schools to facilitate easy credit transfer toward bachelor’s degrees in computer information systems.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems
- Program Length: 4 years
- Potential Jobs: Business analyst, database administrator, network administrator
Enrollees in CIS bachelor’s programs complete four years of general education, computer science, information technology, and business coursework. These programs prepare graduates to work in e-commerce roles such as software systems developer and computer operations manager.
Common classes in a computer information systems bachelor’s degree include technical communications, finite mathematics, information systems analysis, and information security fundamentals.
Business coursework focuses on economics, supply chain management, accounting, and market analysis. Throughout the program, students learn to integrate technical and business content, often building toward a cumulative project or internship.
Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems
- Program Length: 2 years
- Potential Jobs: Data engineer, database developer, management consultant
Earning a graduate degree in CIS can advance professionals’ technical and leadership skills. A master’s degree in computer systems information typically includes a culminating thesis, portfolio, or project component. Some schools offer joint bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the discipline, allowing learners to earn both degrees simultaneously.
Most master’s degrees in computer information systems last two years. Coursework in a computer information systems master’s degree typically covers advanced software development, data management, and information technology administration. Enrollees typically focus on a niche — such as logistics technology, accounting software applications, or IT security — to develop advanced knowledge in a subfield.
With a master’s degree, workers can advance to roles like information technology manager, information technology project manager, or chief technology officer.
Doctoral Degree in Computer Information Systems
- Program Length: 4-5 years
- Potential Jobs: Computer and information research scientist, C-suite executive positions, postsecondary instructor
A doctorate in computer information systems can lead to executive business roles or positions in education. A Ph.D. in computer information systems equips graduates to lead organizations as a chief information officer and chief technology officer. The degree can also prepare workers for academic or research roles at colleges and universities.
A CIS doctorate program can last five or more years. Core classes usually cover principles, methods, and practices of computer information systems. After completing coursework, enrollees typically complete comprehensive exams and a dissertation. A doctorate in computer information systems often includes a research component, usually emphasizing quantitative and qualitative techniques in the field.
What to Consider Before Applying to a CIS Program
The three critical factors you should consider as you apply to programs are accreditation, curriculum details, and admission requirements. These elements can quickly help you determine whether an educational opportunity aligns with your learning needs.
Explore each factor in further detail below.
- 1
Accreditation for CIS Programs
You should always check a school’s accreditation status before enrolling. Institutional accreditation indicates that a college or university meets standards of academic excellence and receives recognition of validity from employers.
Programmatic accreditation is optional and applies to individual degrees or programs. This status comes from professional bodies that work in specific disciplines. For computer information systems degrees, programmatic accreditation comes from the ABET.
- 2
Ensure Your Area of Interest Is Offered
Next, review each program’s curriculum in detail. The field of computer and information science is vast, so it’s crucial to ensure every school on your list covers the subject areas you’re most interested in. Look at:
- Core courses
- Available electives
- Concentration tracks
If you have a particular specialization in mind, ensure it’s available either as a formal concentration track or through electives. In the latter case, make sure the program’s structure contains enough electives for you to pursue your area of interest at your desired level of detail.
- 3
Admission Requirements
Finally, review the program’s admission requirements, which vary by degree level and institution. Bachelor’s programs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some schools may require evidence of your aptitude in CIS-related subjects through standardized test scores or Advanced Placement (AP) coursework in mathematics and/or computer science.
Common application requirements at the bachelor’s level include:
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Standardized test scores, such as the ACT or SAT
- A personal statement or essay
Master’s programs generally require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree. Some graduate programs do require a CS undergrad degree or a related field, while others only ask prospective enrollees to complete prerequisite mathematics, technology, and statistics coursework.
What Can You Do With a Computer Information Systems Degree?
A degree in computer information systems opens career opportunities across industries. Many CIS graduates go into business or technology professions like computer systems manager, database administrator, and business data analyst.
With a degree in computer information systems, you can also work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare, and education. Common roles in these sectors include information technology specialist, computer information technology professor, and healthcare information manager.
| Computer Information Systems Careers | Median Annual Salary (2024) | Projected Job Growth (2023-33) | Minimum Degree Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $171,200 | +17% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $140,910 | +26% | Master’s degree |
| Computer Network Architects | $130,390 | +13% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Database Administrators | $123,100 | +9% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,790 | +11% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $96,800 | -3% | Bachelor’s degree |
Computer Information Systems Degree Salary
How much you can earn with a CIS degree depends on your level of education, industry, and specific occupation. Advanced degrees often lead to managerial positions, like computer information systems manager, which is among the top-earning positions for the field — their median salary was $171,200 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
According to data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), graduates with a master’s degree in CIS earned nearly $34,000 more, on average, in their starting salaries than those with only a CIS bachelor’s degree.
| Computer Information Systems Degree Level | Average Starting Salary for Computer Information Systems Majors (2023) |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | $69,955 |
| Master’s | $103,894 |
How Much Does a Computer Information Systems Degree Cost?
According to National Center for Education Statistics data, online CIS programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels each had a median cost of around $8,000 in tuition and fees. However, the cost of your computer information systems degree varies according to several factors, including:
- Institution type — public or private
- Institutional prestige and reputation
- Program delivery format
Campus-based programs are often more expensive than fully online degrees because in-person programs tend to use more institutional resources. Online degrees can also save you money by reducing or eliminating transportation and relocation expenses.
| Degree Level | Online CIS Programs | On-Campus CIS Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Associate | $2,072 | $2,430 |
| Bachelor’s | $7,806 | $12,840 |
| Master’s | $7,710 | $14,500 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Information Systems Degrees
Many computer information systems careers pay high median salaries and are projected to grow faster than average in the coming years. From these perspectives, CIS can be a good degree option if you’re interested in the subject matter and its associated career paths.
