Computer Information Systems Major
Program Overview
Curriculum
Resources
Computer Information Systems Minor
Math, Science, and Technology Homepage
Office of Academic Advising
Faculty and Staff
Honors Program
Student Societies and Clubs
Current Courses
Next Semester Courses
The computer information systems program, within the college's Division of Math, Science, and Technology is designed to meet the challenges of a relatively young, dynamic, and growing field. The CIS curriculum is consistent with recommendations outlined by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). Emphasis is placed on programming languages, data structures, distributed data processing, multimedia database systems, database management, networks and data communications, and information systems organization.
The CIS curriculum is upgraded regularly through surveys of skills needs, ongoing dialogue with information technology business leaders, technical professionals, and monitoring of the business environment and technological trends. CIS curriculum provides a combination of technical skills, business skills, and hands-on experience to meet the needs for "the right person with the right skills at the right time." CIS Curriculum provides hands-on opportunity for students to gain real-world experience in high technology industry and technical careers. Professionals with real-world experience are in classroom at all levels.
Online Program
The computer information systems major is available online. CIS online courses have learning outcomes identical to those of classroom-based courses. To make CIS online classes as efficient, personal, relevant, and successful as those in our campus-based program, we use electronic tools such as email, the World Wide Web, interactive multimedia tools, electronic discussion boards, and chat rooms. The CIS program was one of NSU's online degree programs selected for U.S. military personnel through a competitive process. The CIS program participates in several federal and military programs including the DANTES Distance Learning Program and the U.S. Army's eArmyU online initiative. The CIS program is also part of Southern Regional Electronic Campus (SREC).
Following is a typical calendar of classes for the CIS online programs. Note that NSU's academic year is divided into three terms - Fall, Winter, and Summer. Fall and Winter are 16-week sessions. Summer is a 14-week session.
Thinking Ahead
The rapidly expanding fields of information systems and computer science provide many opportunities for individuals with a degree in CIS/CS. Graduates can look forward to challenging careers in the following areas:
- Computer Scientists: generally design computers, conduct research to improve their design or use,
and develop and adapt principles for applying computers to new uses.
- Database Administrators: work with database management systems software in testing, coordinating
changes to, and implementing computer databases.
- Computer Support Specialists: provide assistance and advice to users, interpret problems, and provide
technical support for hardware, software, and systems.
- Network/Systems Administrators: install, configure, and support an organization's systems.
- Telecommunications Specialists: assist with the interfacing of computer and communication equipment.
- Computer Security Specialists: plan, coordinate, and implement an organization's information security
measures.
- Computer Engineers: work with the hardware and software aspects of system design and development.
- Software Engineers: design and develop both packaged and system software.
- System Analysts: oversee the development process for new software and hardware, plan the design and
structure of the new program, and create step-by-step instructions for it.
- Computer Programmers: write computer code with detailed program instructions that tell the computer what to do to perform a certain function.
Dual Admission Option
Please refer to the Dual Admission Web site for additional information.
