[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]A computer information systems degree blends computer science, information technology, and business coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A computer information systems degree teaches you how to apply technology in business settings. In a computer information systems degree program, you gain the technical, communications, and organizational skills necessary to thrive as an IT professional.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re interested in working with computer systems and information technology, specifically in a business context, a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-information-systems/”]degree in computer information systems[/hen-ui-link] (CIS) can help prepare you for this career path. Given the ever-changing nature of technology and the evolution of AI, there are infinite ways to apply a degree in computer information systems in the job market.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]But what exactly is computer information systems, and how does it differ from other popular [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]degrees in computer science[/hen-ui-link] and information technology? In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what the field of CIS entails and whether a CIS degree is the best option for you.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Computer Information Systems Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer information systems degrees include coursework in computer science, information technology, communications, and business. These classes develop students’ foundational understanding of information systems, computer programming, and software applications while also exploring business basics like marketing, finance, and economics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Major-specific coursework trains enrollees to apply computer technologies to businesses’ functions and needs. Classes in marketing and business performance focus on using technology to conduct market research and analysis.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many CIS degrees include group projects and cooperative learning activities with an overall goal of training learners to use their skills in a business environment. Practical exercises prepare students to transition into professional roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Information Systems vs. Computer Science vs. Information Technology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re interested in working with computers, you have numerous degree options. While programs in CIS, [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science[/hen-ui-link], and information technology may overlap, each offers coursework designed for specific professional roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]computer information systems [/hen-ui-text]field focuses on facilitating business operations. CIS degrees integrate computer science and information technology with administrative skills, training workers to maintain databases and help companies achieve their tech-related goals. These professionals usually work in collaboration with executives and tech teams.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Computer science(CS)[/hen-ui-text] focuses on developing computer programs, applications, and software. CS degrees emphasize subfields like programming, cybersecurity, and software engineering. These professionals typically work within larger development teams.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Information technology (IT)[/hen-ui-text] is about the use of technology in practical settings. [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-information-technology/”]IT degree programs[/hen-ui-link] teach students how to keep computers working and offer technical support in professional settings. These professionals work alone or within larger technology departments.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Types of Computer Information Systems Concentrations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some computer information systems programs offer coursework specializations, especially at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. These concentration tracks help you build deeper skills in a targeted area, preparing you for niche careers in specific subfields.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common concentrations for CIS degrees include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Business Intelligence: [/hen-ui-text]This specialization focuses on transforming the data stored in computer information systems into actionable, data-driven business insights. It engages concepts like database design, data modeling, and machine learning.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Information and Cybersecurity Management: [/hen-ui-text]In this concentration, learners engage with information security and cybersecurity concepts through a business management lens. Courses teach enrollees to assess, control, and reduce risk through organizational cybersecurity policy.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Information Technology Security[/hen-ui-text]: While similar to the information and cybersecurity management pathway, IT security concentrations focus more on protecting computer hardware and networking systems from cyberattacks and unauthorized access.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Accounting Software Applications[/hen-ui-text]: This concentration emphasizes the advanced software and technology suites corporate accounting departments use to organize and manage financial data. It pairs well with accounting coursework.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Information Systems (CIS) Degrees: From Associate to Doctorate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer information systems programs vary in length, depth, and scope. Shorter programs, like an associate degree, introduce students to key concepts and principles, while a bachelor’s degree includes more advanced coursework. Most computer information systems careers only require a bachelor’s degree, but advanced degrees can lead to significantly higher salaries.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]CIS graduate programs build even deeper knowledge, often requiring learners to specialize in a niche area of the field. A master’s degree can give professionals a competitive edge for managerial and administrative roles, while a doctorate can lead to executive positions or a career in research.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 2 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Computer systems analyst, data specialist, technology support specialist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate degrees in computer information systems generally take two years of full-time study. Learners complete general education classes in English, mathematics, humanities, and science alongside courses in computer science and information technology. Additional business coursework helps students apply computer-related concepts and practices in real-world settings.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree in computer information systems can lead to entry-level positions in the field as well as roles like computer support specialist, network system administrator, and computer programmer. Some associate programs also partner with nearby four-year schools to facilitate easy credit transfer toward bachelor’s degrees in computer information systems.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 4 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Business analyst, database administrator, network administrator[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Enrollees in CIS bachelor’s programs complete four years of general education, computer science, information technology, and business coursework. These programs prepare graduates to work in e-commerce roles such as software systems developer and computer operations manager. [/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common classes in a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-information-systems/”]computer information systems bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-link] include technical communications, finite mathematics, information systems analysis, and information security fundamentals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business coursework focuses on economics, supply chain management, accounting, and market analysis. Throughout the program, students learn to integrate technical and business content, often building toward a cumulative project or internship.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 2 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Data engineer, database developer, management consultant[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a graduate degree in CIS can advance professionals’ technical and leadership skills. A master’s degree in computer systems information typically includes a culminating thesis, portfolio, or project component. Some schools offer joint [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/accelerated/bachelors-to-masters/”]bachelor’s and master’s degrees[/hen-ui-link] in the discipline, allowing learners to earn both degrees simultaneously.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most master’s degrees in computer information systems last two years. Coursework in a computer information systems master’s degree typically covers advanced software development, data management, and information technology administration. Enrollees typically focus on a niche — such as logistics technology, accounting software applications, or IT security — to develop advanced knowledge in a subfield.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a master’s degree, workers can advance to roles like information technology manager, information technology project manager, or chief technology officer.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Doctoral Degree in Computer Information Systems[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 4-5 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Computer and information research scientist, C-suite executive positions, postsecondary instructor[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A doctorate in computer information systems can lead to executive business roles or positions in education. A Ph.D. in computer information systems equips graduates to lead organizations as a chief information officer and chief technology officer. The degree can also prepare workers for academic or research roles at colleges and universities.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A CIS doctorate program can last five or more years. Core classes usually cover principles, methods, and practices of computer information systems. After completing coursework, enrollees typically complete comprehensive exams and a dissertation. A doctorate in computer information systems often includes a research component, usually emphasizing quantitative and qualitative techniques in the field.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What to Consider Before Applying to a CIS Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The three critical factors you should consider as you apply to programs are accreditation, curriculum details, and admission requirements. These elements can quickly help you determine whether an educational opportunity aligns with your learning needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Explore each factor in further detail below.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Accreditation for CIS Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You should always check a school’s [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]accreditation status[/hen-ui-link] before enrolling. Institutional accreditation indicates that a college or university meets standards of academic excellence and receives recognition of validity from employers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Programmatic accreditation is optional and applies to individual degrees or programs. This status comes from professional bodies that work in specific disciplines. For computer information systems degrees, programmatic accreditation comes from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.abet.org/” target=”_blank”]ABET[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Ensure Your Area of Interest Is Offered[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Next, review each program’s curriculum in detail. The field of computer and information science is vast, so it’s crucial to ensure every school on your list covers the subject areas you’re most interested in. Look at:[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Available electives[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Concentration tracks[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Finally, review the program’s admission requirements, which vary by degree level and institution. Bachelor’s programs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some schools may require evidence of your aptitude in CIS-related subjects through standardized test scores or Advanced Placement (AP) coursework in mathematics and/or computer science.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common application requirements at the bachelor’s level include:[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Letters of recommendation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Standardized test scores, such as the ACT or SAT[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A personal statement or essay[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Computer Information Systems Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A degree in computer information systems opens career opportunities across industries. Many CIS graduates go into business or technology professions like computer systems manager, database administrator, and business data analyst.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a degree in computer information systems, you can also work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare, and education. Common roles in these sectors include information technology specialist, computer information technology professor, and healthcare information manager.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Careers You Can Pursue With a Computer Information Systems Degree[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Information Systems Careers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Projected Job Growth (2023-33)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Minimum Degree Required[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm” target=”_blank”]Computer and Information Systems Managers[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Careers”]$171,200[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]+17%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm” target=”_blank”]Computer and Information Research Scientists[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Careers”]$140,910[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]+26%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Master’s degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm” target=”_blank”]Computer Network Architects[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Careers”]$130,390[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]+13%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm” target=”_blank”]Database Administrators[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Careers”]$123,100[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]+9%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]Computer Systems Analysts[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Careers”]$103,790[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]+11%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm” target=”_blank”]Network and Computer Systems Administrators[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Careers”]$96,800[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]-3%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Information Systems Degree Salary[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]How much you can earn with a CIS degree depends on your level of education, industry, and specific occupation. Advanced degrees often lead to managerial positions, like computer information systems manager, which is among the top-earning positions for the field — their median salary was $171,200 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to data from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://naceweb.org/job-market/graduate-outcomes/first-destination/class-of-2023/interactive-dashboard” target=”_blank”]National Association of Colleges and Employers[/hen-ui-link] (NACE), graduates with a master’s degree in CIS earned nearly $34,000 more, on average, in their starting salaries than those with only a CIS bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Average Starting Salaries for Computer/IT Management Majors (Includes CIS)[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Information Systems Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Average Starting Salary for Computer Information Systems Majors (2023)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Degree Level”]$69,955[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Information Systems Degree Level”]$103,894[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Much Does a Computer Information Systems Degree Cost?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to National Center for Education Statistics data, online CIS programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels each had a median cost of around $8,000 in tuition and fees. However, the cost of your computer information systems degree varies according to several factors, including:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Institution type — public or private[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Institutional prestige and reputation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program delivery format[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Campus-based programs are often more expensive than fully online degrees because in-person programs tend to use more institutional resources. Online degrees can also save you money by reducing or eliminating transportation and relocation expenses.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Median Annual Tuition Cost of Computer and Information Sciences Degrees, 2020[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Online CIS Programs[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]On-Campus CIS Programs[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$2,072[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online CIS Programs”]$2,430[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$7,806[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online CIS Programs”]$12,840[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$7,710[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online CIS Programs”]$14,500[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Information Systems Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is computer information systems a good degree​?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many computer information systems careers pay high median salaries and are projected to grow faster than average in the coming years. From these perspectives, CIS can be a good degree option if you’re interested in the subject matter and its associated career paths.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What do computer and information systems managers do​?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]CIS managers help employers identify their technology needs and performance characteristics, then select hardware and software platforms for meeting those needs. They also plan and manage implementation projects, contribute to organizational IT policy, and supervise support-level CIS staff.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Computer information systems vs. computer science​: Which degree should I get?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To decide between CIS and computer science programs, figure out your learning and career interests. General computer science degrees cover information systems, but maintain a core focus on technology, its applications, and related hard skills. Computer information systems blends computer science with business management, so a CIS degree may match your needs better if you prefer a more interdisciplinary career in technology.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do you need a bachelor’s or master’s degree to work in computer information systems?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Whether you need a bachelor’s or master’s degree to work in computer information systems depends on your career plans. You can qualify for many entry-level CIS positions with only a bachelor’s degree. However, employers may prefer candidates with master’s degrees when filling vacancies at the managerial level. While a bachelor’s degree can also open doors to management positions, you may need additional certifications or more years of experience.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1284,1286″][/hen-ui-article-row]