[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4″]Computer information systems majors use computer technology to solve organizational problems, support business operations, and bolster managerial decision-making.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Positioned at the intersection of business and technology, a bachelor of science in computer information systems (CIS) trains undergraduates in network design, data analysis, and information systems. Undergrads can pursue concentrations in data validation and decision-making to harness data sets and help organizations improve efficiency and make business decisions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-information-systems/”]CIS degree[/hen-ui-link], graduates can pursue high-paying, in-demand careers in database management, information security analysis, business analysis, and data analytics. This degree also leads to opportunities in growing fields like machine learning, data virtualization, and artificial intelligence.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This page ranks the top online bachelor’s programs in computer information systems to help prospective majors find the best fit for their needs and career goals. This guide also compares computer science and information systems, introduces common CIS courses and concentrations, and provides salary data for CIS careers.[/hen-ui-text] ​ [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] ​ ​ [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems[/hen-ui-heading] ​ ​ [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] ​ [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-is”]What Is an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor of science (BS) in computer information systems prepares graduates for entry-level roles in the computing and technology sectors. Most colleges offer BS in computer information systems degrees. Unlike a bachelor of arts (BA), which requires more humanities and foreign language courses, a BS emphasizes analytical coursework. CIS majors complete general education courses in the social sciences, mathematics, and natural sciences.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After earning CIS degrees, graduates can pursue careers in information systems management, database management, and data analytics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]CIS programs combine technology and business. The coursework builds technical proficiency in database management, network architecture, and information security systems while also training undergrads in data analysis and decision-making. Specialized courses in data visualization, massive data management, and machine learning prepare majors for focused career paths.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to building advanced data analysis and management skills, computer information systems majors strengthen their critical thinking and analytical, organizational, and communication skills through projects and assignments. Many programs incorporate an internship to gain hands-on experience and build a professional network.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a bachelor of science in computer information systems typically takes full-time students four years. CIS majors often choose a specialization while earning their degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”cs-vs-cis”]Computer Science vs. Computer Information Systems[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science degree[/hen-ui-link] strengthens theoretical and practical tech skills, with a focus on programming languages, software development, and software engineering. In a computer information systems major, undergraduates blend technical training with a business focus to help organizations manage their information needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]CIS majors often take some computer science courses, including database management, network architecture, and cybersecurity. However, the major focuses more on applied computing and networking. While graduates with [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]bachelor’s in computer science[/hen-ui-link] degrees can pursue careers as software developers, network architects, and software engineers, CIS majors typically work in data analytics, systems analysis, and information security.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing an Online CIS Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a growing number of online bachelor of science in computer information systems programs, how can prospective students narrow down their choices? Consider factors such as cost, program length, concentration options, and [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/”]course format[/hen-ui-link] when researching online programs. The links below offer more information on choosing the right online degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns=”1″ columns-md=”2″ columns-lg=”3″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-article-card title=”How to Choose Your Major” href=”/resources/how-to-choose-your-major/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”What to Look for in an Online College” href=”/resources/what-to-look-for-online-college/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”How to Pick a College” href=”/resources/how-to-pick-a-college/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-to-expect”]What to Expect From a Computer Information Systems Major[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A computer information systems major trains students in data analysis, system design, and security. Undergraduates often take information technology and [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science courses[/hen-ui-link] to build the technical and business skills necessary for careers in CIS. This section introduces common CIS concentrations and courses.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Information Systems Concentrations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”tertiary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Artificial Intelligence”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]CIS majors with artificial intelligence concentrations study machine learning, intelligent software development, and data mining to prepare them for a career in this growing field.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Cybersecurity”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This concentration combines business and technology with a focus on information security. Coursework emphasizes network security design, cybersecurity best practices, and data recovery after breaches. Enrollees also learn to design secure networks, implement data security procedures, and create information security policies.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Data Analytics”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In a data analytics concentration, learners study data processing, data presentation, and the relationship between data and management decision-making. The concentration prepares graduates for data analysis and data science jobs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Data Validation and Decision-Making”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a data validation and decision-making concentration, majors learn to use data in business environments effectively. This concentration emphasizes data analysis, privacy, and validation.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Information Technology”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This concentration emphasizes information and technology decision-making in business settings. Enrollees earning a concentration in information technology strengthen their IT skills and add technology-focused business training to the broad knowledge of database management and network architecture of their degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Project Management”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Every organization relies on information systems, and project managers draw on their CIS skills to manage technology and information projects. Students in this concentration learn to manage information operations, resolve business technology problems, and recommend upgrades. The specialization prepares graduates for careers in CIS project management.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Information Systems Curriculum[/hen-ui-heading]

• Computer Network Architect: This course builds management and information security skills, as well as training in hardware and software for network design. Learners examine data communication networks and the architecture connecting different systems.
• Information Security Analysis: This course approaches information security from a systems management perspective by covering systems design, information systems security, and risk management.
• Information Visualization and Virtualization: CIS professionals often analyze or present data visually. This course trains majors in effective visualization techniques and visually encoding information for easier interpretation.
• Massive Data Management: Enrollees learn to manage large data sets, process big data, and create programming frameworks for data use.
• Networking and Database Systems: This course introduces students to network design, database management, and systems operation. Enrollees examine the structures and constraints of networks and databases and learn to implement information systems through databases.
• Programming Languages: CIS majors study different programming languages, including Java and Python. Most tech professionals know several programming languages and continue their education after earning their degrees.

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”employment”]What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With this versatile degree, CIS majors can work as computer network architects, [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-engineering/”]computer engineers[/hen-ui-link], database administrators, software developers, and [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/web-developer/”]web developers[/hen-ui-link]. These career paths offer above-average salaries with the potential to increase earnings after completing graduate degrees or accruing work experience. For example, a master’s or Ph.D. in computer science opens doors to supervisory, research, and academic careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The following information presents common careers for students with computer information systems degrees, including median annual wages for 2020.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption][/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Career[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”]Computer and Information Systems Managers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm/” target=”_blank”]$171,200[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”]Computer and Information Research Scientists[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm/” target=”_blank”]$140,910[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”]Computer Network Architects[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm/” target=”_blank”]$130,390[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”]Information Security Analysts[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]$124,910[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”]Database Administrators[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm” target=”_blank”]$123,100[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”]Computer Systems Analysts[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm/” target=”_blank”]$103,790[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”]Network and Computer Systems Administrators[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm/” target=”_blank”]$96,800[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] Source: [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nat.htm/” target=”_blank”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] ​ ​ [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”faqs”]Common Questions About the Computer Information Systems Major[/hen-ui-heading] ​ [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is CIS a Good Degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes. A bachelor of science in computer information systems prepares graduates for in-demand, high-paying careers. This major trains learners in computer systems management, information technology, and computer science.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Much Does a CIS Major Make?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduates with a bachelor of science in computer information systems can work in careers that pay median salaries of over $100,000 per year, such as computer systems analysts, network architects, and database administrators.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Kind of Jobs Can I Get With a Computer Information Systems Degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer information systems graduates can work as computer systems analysts, database managers, and tech consultants. They can also pursue careers as software engineers and [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/web-developer/”]web designers[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Should I Major in CS or CIS?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science, [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-engineering/”]computer engineering[/hen-ui-link], and computer information systems degrees prepare graduates for overlapping careers in tech. Students should consider their interests and career goals to find the best fit for their needs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”organizations”]Computer Information Systems Organizations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer information systems majors can join professional organizations to network with early career and experienced CIS professionals and access mentorship opportunities and job boards. Many organizations offer professional development support, educational resources, and career advancement tools.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Undergraduates and graduates can research organizations like the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.issa.org/” target=”/"_blank"”]Association for Information Science and Technology[/hen-ui-link] and the [hen-ui-link href=”https://aisnet.org/” target=”/"_blank"”]Association for Information Systems[/hen-ui-link]. Other professional associations include the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.iacis.org/” target=”/"_blank"”]International Association for Computer Information Systems[/hen-ui-link] and [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.isc2.org/” target=”/"_blank"”](ISC)²[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn more, do more.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h5″]More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”7570,7595,25066″][/hen-ui-article-row] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]