A Computer Information Systems degree can help you build a career in different fields. The multifaceted learning approach combined with invaluable real-world exposure of these programs enables students to become well-rounded IT professionals.
We are living in an increasingly digitalized world and the future will only bring more of it. As a result, skilled personnel in this sector can expect to enjoy lucrative careers. For instance, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a massive 32% increase in jobs for Information Security Analysts between 2018 and 2028.
What Is Homeland Security?
Homeland Security refers to America’s national efforts to safeguard against anything that harms national interests and endangers people’s lives. These include threats of terrorism, natural disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, etc.), and organized crime, etc.
The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is the primary organization overseeing such matters. It regularly works in coordination with other law enforcement agencies to neutralize any threats to American sovereignty.
What Is Transcription?
Transcription is typically defined as the process of converting voice recordings into written transcripts. Usually, transcription is quite common in healthcare, law, and translation services sectors. Medical transcriptions are made by converting physicians’ voice notes into text format.
What Is Computer Information Systems?
The modern workplace simply cannot function without computers and other information technology (IT) tools. And to maintain the functionality of their technical systems, organizations require IT specialists. Thus, Computer Information Systems is the study of utilizing technological applications to meet work needs and achieve organizational goals.
What Can You Do With a Computer Information Systems Degree?
A Computer Information Systems degree can enable you to work as a Software Developer, Database Designer, Computer and Information Systems Manager, Computer Programmer, Information Security Analyst, Web Designer, Network and Computer Systems Administrator, Data Modeler, Help Desk Technician, etc.
The compensation details and career outlook for some of these occupations, as reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, are provided below.
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Systems Managers, also known as IT Project Managers or IT Managers, are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating all computer-related activities within an organization. They establish a company’s information technology goals and then implement computer systems to achieve those goals.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $146,360 | 11% | $156,390 | California | 75,700 |
| New York | $190,390 |
Information Security Analysts
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $99,730 | 32% | $104,210 | Virginia | 15,010 |
| New York | $121,750 |
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
In this day and age, every organization needs efficient computer networks to get work done properly. And the maintenance of such setups within a company is the responsibility of Network and Computer Systems Administrators. They install and support wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), intranets, network segments, and other communication systems.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $83,510 | 5% | $88,410 | 35,890 | Texas |
| Maryland | $110,890 |
What to Expect from a Computer Information Systems Degree?
A degree in Computer Information Systems will teach you about Computer Architecture, Database Development, Computational Mathematics, Information Systems Design, Computer Networking, Website Development, Operating Systems, Data Structures, Information Security, Object-Oriented Design, Visual/Interactive Programming, Server Security, Business Application Development, etc.
How to Choose a Computer Information Systems Degree?
When deciding upon a program to pursue, you need to consider a few things. First and foremost, you need to confirm the accreditation status of a particular degree. After that, you should also look at the curriculum, cost, research and specialization options, campus location, residential facilities (for schools outside your town/city/state), future prospects, etc.
Computer Information Systems Degree Admission Requirements
Admission requirements depend upon the level of a degree as well as the preferences of a particular institution. For example, joining an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s program usually involves getting a High School Diploma or GED (General Educational Development) Certificate.
You may also need a good score on a standardized entrance exam such as the ACT (American College Testing) or the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test). Similarly, entry to most reputed Master’s programs usually depends on your undergraduate GPA among other things.