Computer Information Systems, B.S.

Program of Study

The Computer Information Systems program at CSUSM combines computing essentials with coursework in other areas including business, economics, and social science. Both theoretical foundations and practical applications are emphasized in the CIS program to equip our students with programming, system design, data processing and analysis capabilities to address emerging challenges in the Information Age. Our CIS program focuses on the interplay of human, information, and computing technologies in various domains, preparing students for careers in information management, data engineering, information systems analysis, and ERP software solutions, as well as for entrance into graduate and professional schools.

Students majoring in Computer Information Systems cannot minor in Computer Science.

The educational objectives of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems at CSUSM are to produce graduates who, within three or five years after graduation, are able to:

1. Be engaged in professional practice as innovative problem solvers with a strong work ethic;

2. Demonstrate the ability to work effectively as a team member and/or leader in an ever-changing professional environment; and

3. Continue their life-long learning such as progressing through an advanced degree or certification in programs in information systems and other professionally related fields.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems are expected to be able to:

1. Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
6. Support the delivery, use, and management of information systems within an information systems environment

Career Opportunities

Hundreds of job advertisements looking for Computer Information Systems professionals appear in newspapers, professional magazines and newsletters. Due to the enormous demand, degree holders in Computer Information Systems have multiple paths to reach their career goals. They can easily find jobs with excellent pay in many businesses and industries in positions such as: programmers, system analyst/engineer/managers, software analyst/engineer/managers, database managers, network/telecommunications administrators, customer service representative/managers, computer instructors, technical trainers, technical support, management information system managers, and sales representatives.

Preparation

High school students are encouraged to take four years of English, four years of mathematics including trigonometry, one year of biological science, and one year of physical science. Courses in calculus, physics, and computer programming are recommended. Experience in clear, concise, and careful writing is valuable for success in all courses.

Transfer Credits

A maximum of thirty-two (32) lower-division units including courses in computer science, mathematics, and science may be applied toward the preparation for the major requirements. Of the thirty-two (32) units, twelve (12) units must appropriately match the description for CS 111 , CS 211 , and CS 231 ; five (5) units must appropriately match the description for MATH 160 *; and eighteen/nineteen (18/19) units must appropriately match the description for ACCT 201 , ACCT 202 , ECON 201 , ECON 202 , MATH 242 , PSYC 100  / SOC 101 .

*Three (3) units of the above-transferred courses will count toward the lower-division General Education requirements in Area B4.

Special Conditions for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

All courses counted toward the major, including Preparation for the Major courses, must be completed with a grade of C (2.0) or better. No more than a total of three (3) units of either CS 498 or CS 499 may be applied to the major. A minimum of fifteen (15) upper-division units counted toward the major must be completed at Cal State San Marcos.

Computer Information Systems

General Education (48 Units)

General Education Requirements  

Preparation for the Major (46-50 Units)

Major Requirements (27-29 Units)

Minimum Total (120 Units)

The minimum number of units required for this degree is 120.