What Are Computer Information Systems? Definition, Degree, and Careers

Computer information systems (CIS) are used to collect, organise, and distribute data. They are crucial for organisations managing large amounts of data electronically. Familiarity with information systems is valuable in all industries due to the high demand for professionals who can develop data management solutions. Many companies rely heavily on information systems to stand out against competitors. 

Explore the field in more detail to see what you can do with a degree in computer information systems and determine if it’s the proper path for your career goals.

What are computer information systems?

Computer information systems is a broad term. It refers to managing communications between hardware and software on data storage and management devices. Examples of these devices include databases, cloud storage, and servers. Computer information system architecture depends on the collected data and how an organisation plans to use it. Computer information systems professionals determine the most efficient setup and handle hardware and software integrations.

Is computer information systems a good degree?

Whether or not a systems degree fits you depends on your career goals and interests. If you pursue a bachelor's degree in computer information systems, you'll gain foundational expertise in programming, software systems, and technology. Your coursework will likely vary depending on the programme you choose. However, you can expect to focus on these key concepts:

• Programming: You will likely take programming classes in popular industry languages like Java and C++. These courses prepare you with the expertise in coding and computational system architecture to develop software efficiently.

• Web design: In web design, you will learn to create websites and applications that function well and make them visually appealing. This helps make websites more enjoyable and easier to use while contributing to more users.

• Data analytics: Data analytics is an important part of computer information systems, as analytical thinking leads to informed decision-making. To do this effectively, you will learn to manage large amounts of data. 

• Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is crucial to information systems due to the need to protect information and devices housing essential data. Technical skills you'll gain from cybersecurity courses include planning safeguards and creating backup plans against potential cyberattacks.

• IT project management: IT professionals are typically involved with numerous projects. Therefore, project management is a skill you'll learn in your computer information systems programme to understand and navigate the project lifecycle. This includes planning, organising, controlling, and monitoring projects and using tools to control costs and risks.

What is the difference between computer information systems and computer science?

Computer science more broadly deals with designing systems or software that can solve a particular issue. In contrast, computer information systems focus on how to use that software in various contexts.

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

University of London

DEGREE

Learn More

Can you get a computer information systems job without a degree?

Employers may consider accepting candidates without a degree but with equivalent work experience and skills. For example, if you earn relevant certification, work on personal projects, complete an internship, and develop a portfolio to showcase your knowledge, you can find work opportunities within computer information systems. 

Certificates and online systems degree programmes

If earning a degree isn't part of your plans, you might consider enrolling in online courses to help you build the necessary skill set and credentials. Below, we've compiled a few free and paid options from accredited universities and industry leaders in technology:

• Information Systems Specialisation. This beginner-friendly, self-paced course covers core concepts like IT project management and business analysis. By the end, you can specify business requirements as information system specifications and earn a certificate from the University of Minnesota for your resume. 

• Information Systems Auditing, Controls, and Assurance. This beginner-level online course is free through the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. You'll earn a shareable certificate and gain foundational knowledge in risk management, change management, IT management, and information security (INFOSEC).

• The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking. In this online course led by Google, you'll receive a full overview of computer networking and troubleshooting. By the end, you'll understand the standard protocols involved with TCP/IP communication and cloud computing. You'll also earn a career certificate from Google. 

Essential skills for computer information systems professionals

Critical workplace skills that can help you in your studies and your profession include problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills. Some of the technical aspects of this skill set include: 

• Business processes and management expertise: CIS jobs have many overlapping areas between business and technology. Understanding fundamental business concepts like resource and task delegation, project management, and cross-departmental communication is vital to CIS operations.

• Technical knowledge: Specific technical knowledge will vary depending on the position, but generally, CIS employees should have a foundational knowledge of industry best practices, an understanding of computer hardware, and some experience with at least one programming language. It’s helpful to have skills in many different software and technologies to be ready to handle whatever the job requires. If you're unsure where to start, consider browsing job posts to understand which skills are in demand in your field of interest. 

• Mathematics: CIS professionals should have a foundational knowledge of algebra, statistics, calculus, geometry, and algorithms. A firm grasp of these mathematical subjects will allow for a much deeper understanding of what is happening on a mathematical level with analysis programs and coding functions.

What can I do with a computer information systems degree?

Earning a degree in computer information systems comes with plenty of work opportunities. Jobs in computer and information technology are amongst the fastest-growing fields, making now a great time to get your start in information systems.

Systems analyst

Average annual salary: £8,50,000 [1]

Responsibilities: As a systems analyst, you will design and review efficient IT systems to identify improvement opportunities. You need to understand systems, hardware, and the end user's goals to do this effectively.

Software developer

Average annual salary: £7,00,000 [2]

Responsibilities: Your job responsibilities as a software developer will rely largely on your programming skills. In this role, you will write code for developing software applications and perform tests to maintain software. The type of software you develop can range from mobile applications to those for desktops.

Programmer analyst

Average annual salary: £4,50,000 [3]

Responsibilities: As a programmer analyst, you will help improve your organisation's efficiency by considering its needs and using information system knowledge to create systems and software to improve processes. This position includes designing and maintaining relevant software.

Learn more about computer information systems with Coursera

Computer information systems include several components, such as hardware, software, data, and more. With the knowledge and skills of information systems, you can start your career in this diverse, growing field. 

An online, self-paced course like Introduction to Computer Information Systems Specialisation, offered by the University of California, Irvine, can be a great place for beginners to start. After learning the fundamentals, you'll practise using productivity tools and earn a shareable certificate to add to your resume.