Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems – Networking, Programming

A Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS) from the School of Media and Design prepares graduates to find meaningful and interesting careers in the fast-growing information systems technology field.

Why Computer Information Systems?

Organizations need knowledgeable employees comfortable with computer hardware, software, and networking. Graduates of the CIS or the Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Systems (CSEC) program will be able to plan, design, construct and explain the secure operations of computer systems and networks to both technical and non-technical audiences. They can also select, install, configure, program, protect, administer, and apply applications and computer systems to aid organization managers to make informed decisions and support their missions.

The B.S. in Computer Information Systems is a 120-hour degree program designed to prepare students with the technical, interpersonal, ethical, and industry knowledge they need to become information systems professionals. The CIS course curriculum incorporates the best guidance from professional organizations, regional businesses, and national-level recommendations for technical curriculum development. This enables our curriculum to reflect current and leading-edge knowledge and skills. The CIS program also continues to incorporate emerging technologies and practices of the global environment in which we live.

The CIS and CSEC majors share foundation and advanced courses in computer hardware, networks, telecommunications, operating systems, programming, website development, database systems, systems analysis, and management of technology and IT personnel. The theoretical knowledge and experiential skills covered in both degree plans provide students a foundation for multiple career paths in these technical fields.

Professional Development Series

Preparing students to successfully enter the working world is a fundamental part of the CIS program. As part of that preparation, the CIS program has developed a three-course professional development series in which students explore the various career opportunities available to them, understand industry norms and expectations, and develop the materials needed to enter the workforce.

This one-hour course introduces students to various information systems career opportunities and is taken in the first semester of the junior year. In it, students hear from business and community leaders who will explain their current and future CIS needs.

Seminar

Class assignments include:

• Creating a professional presence on the internet using social media;
• Developing a resume and cover letter;
• Researching internship opportunities in your field of interest;
• Job interview strategies and mock interviews;
• Professional dress and appearance.

Internship

Building on the Seminar course, students engage in practical work experience in the field of computer information systems through a monitored work experience with an employer. Options for internships include local businesses or industry or government groups involved in the areas of the student's chosen interest in the U.S. or abroad. Students must obtain an internship before registering for this course and register with UIW Career Services; therefore, coordination and planning are required.

Additional class assignments include:

• Class discussions on student experiences with their ongoing internship;
• Developing and presenting professional elevator pitches;
• Exploring options for the senior capstone project;
• Brief technical report on the internship experience.

Senior Capstone Project

This course is the culmination of all CIS coursework and learning and is generally taken in the final semester of the curriculum. In the capstone course, students will put their skills, knowledge, and experiences to work in creating a solution to an existing issue that will help an organization and demonstrate readiness to enter the workforce as a CIS professional.

Examples of previous capstone projects include:

• An automated penetration testing computer system;
• A lightweight firewall proxy server using Raspberry Pi;
• Home automation with security monitoring capabilities;
• An original student gaming application;
• Network architecture planning and system optimization methods;
• Biometric identification and proximity device authentication integration;
• Various virtual reality projects using 3D developmental platforms.

CIS Concentrations

Students can further tailor their program by selecting from one of three concentrations. Within the first year of study as a CIS major, students select and work toward completing one CIS concentration. Upon completion of the concentration, students will have developed the skills needed to demonstrate proficiency in this area.

Cyber Security

In addition to mastering the foundational concepts presented in the degree program’s core courses, students pursuing the Cyber Security concentration specialize in securing the networks and information that users and organizations rely on using such methods as cryptography, digital forensics, intrusion detection/prevention systems, network penetration testing and more.

Networking

The Networking concentration provides a deep understanding of digital networks and network services—such as, email systems, cloud computing, intrusion detection/prevention systems—that are critical to organizations large and small. From installation to management to maintenance, students master concepts and techniques critical to the field.

Programming

With an emphasis on programming languages and website development, the Programming concentration is ideal for students who aspire to create exciting and dynamic websites, programs, systems, databases, and other digital platforms. Students also gain hands-on experience with advanced scripting languages.

University of the Incarnate Word

Opportunities in computer information systems are growing at a much more rapid pace than other professions in the U.S., according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Not only do several CIS jobs report a high median wage, but the outlook is extremely promising, with some CIS-related occupations showing a projected growth rate of up to 30 percent in the next 10 years. The extensive career preparation that students receive as part of the CIS program helps ready them for management positions, because, in addition to learning the technical aspects of computer information systems, they will have learned teamwork, problem-solving, visual modeling, applied project management, and business processes. As a general rule, graduates of UIW's CIS program secure interesting and frequently lucrative jobs in San Antonio and the surrounding areas.

• Computer Programmer
• Computer Scientist
• Database Administrator
• Director of Information Technology
• Engineer
• Facilities Manager
• Information Officer
• Management Information Systems
• Network Consultant
• Project Manager
• Software Publisher
• Support Specialist
• Systems Analyst
• Systems Designer
• Technology Officer
• Web Developer