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Computer Information Systems

Students at computers.

 

Western’s Computer Information Systems Program offers you a quality education in the area of network management, information technology and system analysis and design through synergistic teaching, research, and hands-on learning. What can you do with a B.S.B.A. in Computer Information Systems? Career opportunities in one of the hottest fields of employment include software designer, application developer, systems analyst and information technology management.  

Students in the Information Systems Program have access to a state-of-the-art laboratory where faculty teach network and data communications concepts. 
  
Students have access to software not available to other students on campus, and get hands-on practice wiring, installing, and administering local data networks, developing dynamic World Wide Web applications, and analyzing, designing, and building complete business applications using Microsoft Access, MySQL, or Oracle’s integrated database tools.

The B.S.B.A in Computer Information Systems requires 120 total hours – 42 Liberal Studies hours, 36 Business Core hours, 21 major hours, and 12-16 general elective hours, depending on Liberal Studies courses completed.

Students who wish to finish their degree in eight semesters can follow a prescribed program of study

For those who have chosen a major outside the College of Business, a minor in computer information systems will make you stand out from the rest of the pack—you’ll have knowledge from your major and knowledge about how businesses use networks and information systems to achieve competitive advantage. That extra knowledge gives you a competitive advantage and makes you more employable.

There are three minors available. The first is a minor in Computer Information Systems.  The second is in Cybersecurity.  Visual Analytics for Decision Making is the third minor. Each is 18 total hours.

There are numerous internship opportunities for students. In some cases internships are established through a faculty member in your major. Oftentimes students find part-time jobs in an area related to their field of study. When this happens, students should discuss with their academic advisor the possibility of receiving college credit. Generally, three hours of general elective credit can be earned for a minimum of 200 hours of experience.

Advantages

  • Three (possibly more) hours of course credit which counts as a general elective towards your degree
  • Compensation
  • Relevant entry-level experience
  • Ability to make a more informed career decision and to be ahead of peers who do not have experience in the field
  • Future contacts and references/networking opportunities

How to Apply and Prepare

  • Visit WCU Career Services and obtain information about resumes, job searches, and interviewing
  • Attend Career Services seminar on Resume Writing and schedule an appointment with Career Services for resume assistance
  • Attend Interviewing Skills and Job Search Seminars
  • Become involved in the appropriate student organization
  • Attend Career Fairs

Once you accept an internship offer, with permission from your academic advisor register for the internship course to obtain three hours of elective credit. All students must keep a work log, submit a written report and make a short presentation to faculty and students about their work.

Participating in student clubs and organizations is a great way to enhance your educational experience and also looks good on your resume.

Beta Gamma Sigma is the international honor society for students enrolled in AACSB-accredited business programs, like those in WCU’s College of Business. Juniors, seniors, and graduate students are identified, invited, and inducted into the honor society each spring. The chapter advisor is Dr. Steve Ha, iha@wcu.edu.

Study Abroad programs are a great way to expand your horizons and at the same time earn college credit toward the completion of your academic program. If you want to gain international experience and exposure and a distinguishing edge in today's competitive job market, then studying abroad is for you. Academically, studying abroad is not only a fun way to earn credits, but it also exposes you to different teaching methods and perspectives on academic topics.

Western's Study Abroad opportunities are designed for both undergraduate and graduate students. These opportunities consist of programs that are one semester or an entire academic year, or even just for the summer. Each program has its own distinctions and prerequisites. Learn more about these opportunities.

Computer Information Systems Faculty

H. Kevin Fulk

Associate Professor

Ph.D., CIS

Will Kapakos

Associate Instructor

M.B.A., CIS

Faculty Emeritus
William Perry, Ph.D.
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