What Can You Do With a Computer Information Systems Degree?

Passionate about technology? Interested in finding ways to solve complex business and organizational problems through the use of technology? If so, then a career in computer information systems could be right for you. Specifically, a bachelor's degree in computer information systems (CIS) could help you build the foundational and career-ready skills needed to meet the unique demands and opportunities of today's evolving workforce.

So, what can you do with a computer information systems degree, and what kinds of skills might you expect to build in an undergraduate CIS degree program?

What Is Computer Information Systems?

Computer information systems refers to a field that essentially bridges technology and businesses — focusing heavily on the strategic use/implementation of technology to improve operations, enhance efficiency, and solve other organizational problems. In other words, CIS centers around the practical application of technology to business operations.

CIS vs. IT: What's the Difference?

One of the most common questions people tend to have when considering a career in CIS is, "How does this field differ from information technology (IT)?"

Ultimately, the differences boil down to the fact that information technology focuses more on infrastructure and technical maintenance, whereas CIS is more about systems strategy and its practical application to business needs.

Computer Information Systems (CIS)

At a high level, CIS emphasizes business applications, systems design, and long-term strategic goals as they relate to business technology. The purpose of CIS is to improve business efficiency and operations through the strategic use of technology.

Information Technology (IT)

IT, on the other hand, is more focused on the installation, management, and support of tech tools after they have been implemented — with the goal of keeping these technical operations running as smoothly as possible through ongoing management, updates, and support. Compared to CIS, IT focuses more on infrastructure, hardware, networks, and troubleshooting than long-term strategy or solving business problems.

Demand for CIS Professionals

With so many recent advancements in technology (including the widespread adoption of AI tools to automate and streamline business processes), many organizations now rely on technology as part of their everyday operations.

Unfortunately, when technology malfunctions or doesn't work as expected, this can create endless (and costly) problems for businesses. Enter the CIS professional, who may be brought in to inform organizational decision-making surrounding the use of technology across a wide range of industries, including:

• Healthcare
• Finance
• Government
• Technology
• Retail

For reference, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the job outlook for computer and information research scientists alone will grow 20% between 2024 and 2034 as more businesses look for ways to leverage computing technology in their operations. The projected growth is much faster than the national average for all occupations and represents only a small segment of the CIS job market.

Meanwhile, the projected job outlook for computer and information systems managers is expected to grow 15% during the same time period, with more than 55,000 openings anticipated each year.

Computer Information Systems Careers to Consider

Explore a sampling of some of the most common career paths for CIS graduates below, then consider which option(s) may align best with your own goals and interests.

1. Systems Analyst

These professionals serve as a "bridge" between business needs and technology, offering tailored recommendations for IT solutions and other tech tools.

2. Business Analyst

A business analyst plays a similar role as a systems analyst, but focuses on gathering information from different business stakeholders to help systems analysts better determine tech needs.

3. Database Administrator (DBA)

A DBA is responsible for securing, managing, and maintaining all the data within an organization using secure and specialized database systems.

4. Information Security Analyst

These professionals play a critical role in maintaining cybersecurity within an organization, taking proactive steps to protect networks and systems from cyber-attacks.

5. Network Administrator

Network administrators are responsible for installing and maintaining the entire computer network infrastructure of a business or organization.

6. IT Project Manager

These professionals plan, execute, and oversee all aspects of an organization's technology projects, including the implementation of new technology to meet business goals.

7. Data Analyst

Data analysts play a critical role in working to extract valuable business insights from raw data that can be used to make more informed organizational decisions.

8. Business Intelligence Analyst

These professionals work to convert raw business data into actionable and strategic insights, relying on tech tools like data modeling software to get the job done.

9. Cloud Solutions Specialist

A cloud solutions specialist helps businesses research, design, and implement cloud solutions (like AWS or Google Cloud) to meet their unique organizational needs and goals.

10. Application Support Specialist

These professionals maintain, optimize, and troubleshoot software applications to ensure they run as designed, and that they are as intuitive as possible for users.

11. IT Consultant

These IT professionals provide tailored guidance and recommendations on IT solutions businesses may need to achieve their short- and long-term objectives.

12. Cybersecurity Specialist

Cybersecurity specialists are often hired by businesses or larger organizations to detect security vulnerabilities, manage cybersecurity solutions, and handle threats as they occur.

13. Systems Administrator

These CIS professionals are responsible for configuring and maintaining all computer systems, networks, and servers within an entire business or organization.

14. Technology Risk Analyst

A technology risk analyst works to identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with a company's computer networks and data systems.

15. ERP Specialist

An enterprise resource planning (ERP) specialist implements and maintains ERP software, bridging the gap between technical teams and business operations to keep things running as smoothly as possible.

16. IT Auditor

IT auditors play an important role in evaluating a company's overall IT infrastructure and operations to ensure efficient operation and regulatory compliance.

17. Software Implementation Specialist

These professionals manage all aspects of the implementation of a new software product, from installation and configuration to deployment and training for users.

18. Product Support Analyst

Finally, a product support analyst acts as a bridge between customers and product teams, troubleshooting basic issues to improve the quality of a software product.

Skills You Develop in a CIS Program

Although no two CIS programs are exactly alike, there are some basic technical skills and core competencies that any reputable CIS degree program will aim to instill through its curriculum.

Technical Skills

As you can probably imagine, CIS is a highly technical field. Professionals in this line of work need to possess a wide range of programming, systems analysis, network design, and cybersecurity skills to meet employer demands. Some examples of specific skills that may be developed in CIS coursework include:

• Programming and software development (Java, Python, C++, JavaScript)
• Cybersecurity and information assurance
• Database design and management (MySQL and Microsoft Access)
• Data analytics and data processing
• Network protocols, connectivity, and infrastructure management

Business and Leadership Skills

Although CIS is an inherently technical field, technical skills alone may not be enough to thrive in this industry. Ideally, a CIS degree program should also work to develop foundational competencies that encompass:

• Business acumen
• Management and leadership skills
• Organization and project management
• Problem-solving and critical thinking

In a CIS degree program specifically, students may be able to develop these kinds of skills through collaborative work, case studies, and hands-on technical assignments.

Industries That Hire CIS Graduates

While earning a degree in CIS may not guarantee you a specific job in the field, the reality is that there are many industries that hire CIS graduates to help them solve organizational problems and meet business goals.

According to the BLS, the largest employers of computer and information systems managers in 2024 were as follows:

• Computer systems design and related services (20%)
• Finance and insurance (13%)
• Information (13%)
• Management of companies and enterprises (10%)
• Manufacturing (6%)

Other industries not listed here that may hire CIS graduates include:

• Healthcare
• Government
• Public service

Is a Computer Information Systems Degree Worth It?

If you're serious about a career in tech that allows you to solve real business problems using the latest tools and technologies, then a CIS degree may be an excellent investment of your time. Not only do entry-level roles in this field typically require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in CIS, but a formal degree may also pave the way for opportunities into more advanced leadership and management roles.

A CIS degree can also be highly versatile, giving graduates the ability to pivot or further specialize based on their own strengths and interests.

Why Choose Champlain College Online's CIS Program?

When it comes to CIS degree programs, you'll find that there is no shortage of options available to you. However, if you're looking for a flexible online program with a curriculum that aligns with the real challenges and opportunities of today's CIS workforce, then Champlain College Online's BS in Computer & Information Systems may be right for you.

In this program, you'll explore industry-aligned coursework in a convenient online learning format — all while receiving personalized guidance and support from our expert faculty at every step of the way.

Take the Next Step Toward a Technology Career

Today's businesses and organizations are becoming increasingly reliant on technology — resulting in a growing need for knowledgeable and skilled CIS professionals to help them use technology to their advantage.

At Champlain College Online (CCO), we're proud to offer an online Bachelor's in Computer & Information Systems program that's designed to be completed in under four years. In this program, you'll explore coursework on relevant topics such as:

• Networking fundamentals
• Python programming
• Enterprise database systems
• Information systems design
• Network design
• Cybersecurity

Plus, with this program's 100% online format, you can enjoy the flexibility you need to earn your degree without putting other aspects of your personal or professional life on hold.

Drop us a line to request more information about our Bachelor of Science in Computer & Information Systems today, or get the ball rolling by completing your application for admission.