Computer Information Systems, Bachelor of Science
Program Overview
The Computer Information Systems (CIS) program is housed within the AACSB accredited Hasan School of Business and the CSU Pueblo National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) Education.
The Bachelor of Science in CIS prepares graduates for successful careers in the Information Technology (IT) fields. Students in the CIS Program can specialize in their field of interest through concentration areas in Cyber Security, Data Analytics, and Software Development.
Students complete a comprehensive, relevant, computer information systems curriculum that delivers high-demand knowledge, skills, and abilities in several areas such as:
- Software and web application development
- System analysis and design
- Network design and administration
- Database design and development
- Operating systems
- IT security
"I came into the CIS Program with minimal tech experience. However, the industry relevant curriculum, small class sizes, and one-on-one time with professors gave me all the experience and tools necessary to thrive in the Information Technology industry. After graduating, I received a full-ride scholarship to pursue a master’s degree in Cyber Security at the #3 Ranked Information Systems program in the U.S."
- Joshua Greer, The University of Arizona
Distinctive Aspects of the Program
The most unique characteristic of the CIS program at CSU Pueblo is the tight connection between business and engineering that is associated with the program’s history. Originally founded as a computer information systems technology degree program under the engineering school, the program has a distinctive deep technical characteristic that sets it apart from many programs housed in business schools across the nation.
Being merged into the AACSB accredited Hasan School of Business has allowed the CIS program to focus on a business applications orientation, while retaining its deep technical roots. Consequently, the graduates of this program are qualified to meet the needs of business employers who are seeking well-rounded business graduates who also have deep technical knowledge of computing.
The CIS program in the Hasan School of Business is unique in the state of Colorado. It is the only CIS program to require 52 credits hours of CIS coursework, focused on developing business-applicable, computer technology knowledge and skills.
The structure of our program is intended to prepare graduates to be competent to enter the very diverse Information Systems (IS)/IT field, from entry-level computer technicians and help desk operators, to intermediate-level programmers, systems analysts, web developers, database administrators, data analysts, to network managers, and cyber security experts. Other similar programs around the state have either a general management of information systems concentration, without developing a deeper understanding of the underlying technology, or a programming emphasis, without developing an understanding of the business environment in which information systems exist and serve.
Key Program Strengths
- Accredited by the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), the most prestigious agency for accrediting business programs.
- A modern curriculum that is current in terms of developing the skills our students need to enter the workforce within our industry.
- All faculty bring real world business experience to the classroom, which allows us to give examples drawn from personal experience of the applicability of the topics we teach to what the students can expect when they enter the workforce.
- The program's uniqueness allows our graduates to fill a significant need of employers within our region and throughout the U.S.
- We have an enthusiastic board of advisors from a broad range of industries, both public and private, to advise us on the relevance and structure of the curriculum we teach. A number of our graduates have even found positions with our advisors’ organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What kind of jobs are available for Computer Information Systems graduates?
The Business Management program prepares students to work in a wide variety of career opportunities including business analyst, systems analyst, information security analyst, business intelligence, IT support and much more. -
How long does it take to finish a Computer Information Systems degree?
A degree in Computer Information Systems is designed to be completed in four years. The degree requires the accumulation of 120 credit hours. For students completing in four years, the schedule usually involves 30 credit hours per academic year or 15 hours per semester. Some students finish more quickly by taking additional courses in the summer. Others with demanding work or family commitments may take longer to finish. -
Am I qualified for scholarships?
You may be qualified for one or more scholarships offered by CSU Pueblo. You must have an updated FAFSA on file with Student Financial Services. Visit the Scholarships page for more information. -
Who can I talk about my financial aid or my bill?
It is important to check your PAWS account regularly to ensure your aid and bill look correct. Student Financial Services is open Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is available via phone at 719.549.2753 email at financialaid@csupueblo.edu, and take walk-ins. -
Is CSU Pueblo a U.S. National Security Agency CAE institution?
CSU Pueblo is an NSA CAE institution (U.S. National Security Agency Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE). The National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) jointly sponsor National Centers of Academic Excellence.
The CAE-CDE designation is acquired by meeting rigorous cyber security curriculum and program requirements. The goal of CSU Pueblo's NSA-CAE program is to reduce vulnerability in our national information infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense and producing professionals with cyber defense expertise.
