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Information systems is a booming field that combines business and technology. Keep reading to learn how to find the right bachelor's in information systems program for you.
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With a bachelor's degree in information systems, you can gain the experience necessary to assist businesses with their data and information needs. Students in the field learn how to manage the flow of an organization's data, providing analysis and solutions to ensure smooth operations.
The importance of good data management only continues to grow for businesses that wish to remain relevant. Graduates of bachelor's programs in information systems can develop in-demand skills to gain an edge in an increasingly data-driven job market.
If you enjoy analytical thinking, have a knack for organization, and love working with digital technologies, then you may enjoy pursuing a bachelor's in information systems.
Continue reading to learn more about the information systems field, as well as the top bachelor's in information systems programs.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Bachelor's in Information Systems Programs
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#1 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Established in 1869, this Fort Worth-based university boasts 90,000 living alumni and 11,000 current enrollees. For good luck, TCU students rub the nose of a horned frog statue based on the school's mascot.
Prospective information systems majors apply to the Neeley School of Business following the second year of TCU's pre-business program. The school consults IT executives to update the curriculum with developing industry trends and technology. Students learn from experts with published works in leading industry journals.
Some courses employ a flipped classroom format. This learner-centered model opens up class time for group analysis and discussion. The program integrates opportunities for non-credit ad hoc courses geared toward career specialization. Seniors develop organizational technology solutions in a team-based capstone course.
Applying to TCU
After paying a $50 application fee, students must submit vaccination records, official transcripts, an essay, two evaluations, and an activities resume. The Neeley School of Business requires potential students to own a personal computer and obtain Microsoft Office certification.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private Accreditation: SACSCOC, AACSB Tuition: $25,830/semester Required Credits: 124 credits Program Length: 8 semesters Delivery Format: On campus or hybrid
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,570
Out-of-state
$51,570
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$32,220
Out-of-state
$32,220
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
12,273
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
3%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
University of Vermont
Burlington, VT
4 years
Online + Campus
Founded in 1791, UVM ranks fourth among medium-sized U.S. schools for the number of students who join the Peace Corps. The university maintains a list of 10,000 internships and boasts a 92% placement rate for hands-on learning experiences.
UVM's information systems program emphasizes problem-solving. A first-year seminar introduces students to the school's computer science resources. Clubs such as the Computer Science Crew and the Society of Women in Computer Science offer extracurricular enrichment.
The curriculum combines computer science topics with business fundamentals. Seniors select one of nine capstone courses in subjects such as mobile app development, data privacy, evolutionary robotics, and machine learning. An accelerated program allows participants to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years combined.
Applying to UVM
Along with the $55 application fee, students must supply recommendation letters and official transcripts. Optional test scores and essays may strengthen the application.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: NECHE Tuition:$16,392/year (in state); $41,280/year (out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,392
Out-of-state
$41,280
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,294
Out-of-state
$30,960
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
13,826
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND
4 years
Online + Campus
Established six years before North Dakota achieved statehood, UND now enrolls over 13,000 learners. The university's 521-acre campus in Grand Forks ranks as the state's largest.
The Nistler College of Business and Public Administration operates UND's information systems (IS) program. Student organizations such as the Association of Information Technology Professionals provide networking opportunities. The Pancratz Mentorship Program connects current students with alumni employed in their field.
The curriculum emphasizes computer science skills including SQL and HTML languages, Microsoft SQL Servers, markup languages, and Microsoft Access. IS majors benefit from innovative experiences like virtual field trips. The department facilitates internship opportunities with companies like the Big Four and Microsoft. Students may qualify for scholarships reserved for IS majors.
Applying to UND
UND recommends that applicants hold a minimum 2.75 GPA. Registration cannot begin without official transcripts, but students can supply self-reported grades or unofficial transcripts for faster admission decisions.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: HLC, AACSB Tuition: $377/credit (in state); $422/credit (Minnesota residents); $566/credit (out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus or hybrid
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,882
Out-of-state
$13,324
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,963
Out-of-state
$17,944
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
13,876
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Arizona State University-Polytechnic
Mesa, AZ
4 years
Campus
With over 400 faculty members honored by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, ASU fosters academic excellence in 20,000 graduates annually. The university maintains a relationship with NASA to advance space exploration.
ASU's fast-track option allows students to earn a bachelor's degree in three years. First-year students familiarize themselves with the program through Camp Carey, a series of virtual events and activities leading up to the fall semester. Resources such as seasonal recruiting events allow students to meet industry professionals, seek internships, and apply for jobs.
The program culminates in two capstone courses. An information systems capstone encapsulates knowledge and techniques gained throughout the program. The second capstone course teaches a holistic approach to business operations and stakeholder relations.
Applying to ASU
Applicants must meet one of these minimum requirements: a 3.0 GPA, minimum 22 ACT scores or 1120 SAT scores, or graduating in the top 25% of their class. Application fees start at $50 for Arizona residents.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: HLC Tuition: $5,355/semester (in state); $14,400/semester (out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 3-4 years Delivery Format: On campus or 100% online
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,175
Out-of-state
$27,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,720
Out-of-state
$23,544
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
5,243
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Baldwin Wallace University
Berea, OH
2 years
Online + Campus
With close access to Cleveland, BW has educated students since 1845. The school earned a STARS Silver rating in 2019 for its commitment to sustainability. BW students contribute over 5,000 annual community service hours in the greater Cleveland area.
BW's interdisciplinary business information systems (BIS) degree combines IT, business, and management fundamentals. The BIS major automatically incorporates a computer science minor. A required experiential learning course supplements classroom instruction through hands-on experiences such as internships, research, and study abroad.
The Bloomberg Business Research Center provides access to professional software that enables learners to earn a certification in marketing concepts. Degree-seekers develop marketing strategies for local businesses through a student-run consulting agency. Juniors and seniors take on systems analysis leadership roles in project-based courses.
Applying to BW
BW accepts applications through its website or Common App. Required materials include official transcripts, guidance counselor report forms, and essays. Applicants may also submit optional test scores and teacher recommendations.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private Accreditation: HLC Tuition: $17,683/semester Required Credits: 61 major credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,366
Out-of-state
$35,366
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,363
Out-of-state
$11,363
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
3,220
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Carroll College
Helena, MT
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Helena, Montana, Carroll College's monastery-inspired architecture reflects its Catholic roots. Carroll students enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding mountains and forests.
Carroll's computer information systems (CIS) program emphasizes computer science and programming coursework. Students can specialize in areas such as networking and security. Carroll offers a graduate school track for degree-seekers planning to continue their education.
A required CIS internship allows learners to explore professional roles. A versatile special topics course examines emerging industry trends and techniques outside the standard curriculum. Seniors gain management and software engineering experience through a team-based final project.
Applying to Carroll
Carroll only requires ACT or SAT scores for applicants with unweighted GPAs below 3.0. Admission requirements include official transcripts and an essay or personal statement.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private Accreditation: NWCCU Tuition: $18,091/semester Required Credits: 122 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,906
Out-of-state
$36,906
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,435
Out-of-state
$18,435
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
1,121
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#7 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
University of Houston
Houston, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Stationed minutes from downtown Houston, UH delivers more than 400 programs to over 47,000 students. The university's Tier One rank from The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching recognizes its high research activity.
UH's computer information systems (CIS) program prepares degree-seekers for careers in fields such as e-commerce, software development, and network administration. The university's relationship with the Association of Information Technology Professionals facilitates networking and professional development opportunities.
During the senior year, student teams apply advanced computer science and business operations techniques in a semester-long capstone project. The accelerated program allows CIS majors pursuing cybersecurity careers to apply credits toward both the bachelor's and related master's degrees.
Applying to UH
Applicants must supply official transcripts and pay a $75 fee. ACT and SAT scores may aid in admission depending on a student's class rank and GPA. CIS students must own a laptop in good condition with updated software and antivirus protection.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: SACSCOC, ABET Tuition: $6,353/semester (in state); $13,988 (out of state) Required Credits: 121 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,856
Out-of-state
$26,096
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,713
Out-of-state
$17,857
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
46,700
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Howard University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
Located near the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., Howard offers over 120 programs through its 13 schools and colleges. The Howard School of Business celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020.
Howard's Department of Information Systems and Supply Chain Management houses its computer information systems (CIS) program. Department faculty hold numerous publication credits and over 90% have earned doctoral degrees. The interdisciplinary CIS degree develops widely applicable problem-solving and analytical skills.
Students can pursue a concentration in information assurance. Degree-seekers culminate their degree with a consultancy-based capstone course and a senior project. Seminar topics such as web authoring tools, expert systems, and AI technologies fill out the curriculum.
Applying to Howard
The application process includes a $45 fee, SAT or ACT scores, and a 500-word essay. Potential enrollees must also supply official high school transcripts or equivalents and two recommendation letters.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private Accreditation: MSCHE, AACSB Tuition: $26,464/year Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,450
Out-of-state
$28,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,860
Out-of-state
$33,860
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
35%
Students Enrolled
12,065
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Pittsburg, Kansas, PSU comprises four colleges united by the mascot Gus Gorilla. The Kelce College of Business's new planned facility will meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver standards.
Prospective computer information systems (CIS) majors apply to the Kelce College of Business after completing 30 credit hours at PSU. The Kelce College Core curriculum imparts a holistic understanding of business models and operations. Quantitative decision-making classes build analytical and problem-solving skills.
CIS majors begin by studying programming languages such as Java and Visual Basic, then apply programming knowledge to business models in upper-level courses. By senior year, students begin to explore business app development and advanced database management.
Applying to PSU
Admitted PSU students applying to the Kelce College of Business need a minimum 2.5 GPA. General admission requirements include official transcripts, proof of immunization, and SAT or ACT scores (for applicants under 21).
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: HLC, AACSB Tuition: $3,872/semester (in state); $5,331/semester (Gorilla tuition program); $9,544/semester (out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,836
Out-of-state
$17,180
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,820
Out-of-state
$17,652
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
6,017
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Castleton University
Castleton, VT
4 years
Campus
Castleton's foundations reach back to 11 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed. Over 230 years later, the university offers more than 75 programs focused on undergraduate liberal arts and professional studies degrees.
Castleton's computer information systems (CIS) program emphasizes object-oriented programming through Visual Basic, C++, and Python. The curriculum fosters problem-solving and communication to prepare graduates for leadership roles. Degree-seekers explore the relationships among people, business models, and technology.
Advanced CIS courses combine business operations with programming techniques. Students learn how to secure sensitive information within an organization's network. CIS majors gain real-world experience through internships at companies like GE Aviation and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Applying to Castleton
Learners interested in the program must submit an application, official transcripts, a recommendation letter, and a 250-word essay. Castleton charges a $40 application fee. The school recommends supplying SAT or ACT scores.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: NECHE Tuition: $5,916/semester (in state); $14,400/semester (out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,832
Out-of-state
$28,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,916
Out-of-state
$11,916
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
2,369
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#11 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Kent State University
Kent, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
With over 257,000 alumni throughout the world, KSU offers abundant global networking opportunities. In 2021, the university announced a direct MBA admission program for qualifying incoming business students.
KSU's College of Business Administration houses the computer information systems (CIS) program in its Department of Management and Information Services. A combined degree program allows students to apply credits toward both the bachelor's in CIS and a subsequent MBA. CIS electives develop career-relevant skills in software development and systems analysis.
The curriculum's second year introduces topics like cloud computing systems and integrating software into business operations. Students gain familiarity with information systems such as airline reservations, mobile apps, stock exchanges, and social media. All KSU enrollees complete experiential learning and diversity-focused requirements.
Applying to KSU
Interested individuals should submit an application, official transcripts, and a $50 application fee. They may also supply optional SAT or ACT scores. The application includes a checkbox to opt out of supplying test scores.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: HLC, AACSB Tuition: $4,823/semester (in state); $9,261/semester (out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,471
Out-of-state
$21,578
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,071
Out-of-state
$22,522
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
25,854
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
NAU opened in 1899 with only 23 students and two dictionaries bound in sheepskin. Today, the university offers over 150 programs across multiple campuses. NAU maintains its main location in Flagstaff, a city noted as one of the country's best college towns.
W. A. Franke College of Business students begin with a pre-professional curriculum and can declare the information systems (IS) major after successful admission to the professional program. The IS program fosters problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
IS majors apply IT and business strategies to advance organizational objectives. Coursework covers topics such as electronic commerce strategy, web design, and network security. The curriculum's design allows IS students to take certificate courses that may increase their marketability after graduation.
Applying to NAU
Potential enrollees should submit an application, a $25 fee, and official transcripts or equivalents. First-year applicants with a minimum 3.0 GPA in core high school courses receive automatic acceptance. Scholarship consideration requires test scores.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: HLC, AACSB Tuition: $5,325/semester (in state); $7,988/semester (Western Undergraduate Exchange); $12,698/year (out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,650
Out-of-state
$26,286
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,103
Out-of-state
$20,817
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
103,140
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Saginaw Valley State University
University Center, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Located near the bay for which the town and school are named, SVSU hosts 170 student organizations across its five campuses. The 2020-21 academic year marks the university's 10th Military Friendly Silver Designation award.
SVSU's computer information systems (CIS) curriculum integrates programming knowledge with project management. CIS majors enjoy opportunities to participate in hackathons, compete in programming contests, and engage in cybersecurity research. With graduates employed at companies like Microsoft, General Motors, and IBM, the program prepares degree-seekers for diverse business and tech careers.
Multiple special topics courses allow students to examine new and emerging technologies and issues. Electives offer opportunities to advance programming skills and explore subjects such as mobile app development, AI, and cloud analytics. Seniors can develop a personal project with instructor permission.
Applying to SVSU
Applicants must submit official transcripts. The university does not require test scores or charge application fees. Degree-seekers with a 2.75 cumulative GPA or higher receive automatic acceptance.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public Accreditation: HLC Tuition: $346-$475/credit (in state); $832-$918/credit (out of state) Required Credits: 124 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,130
Out-of-state
$26,144
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,748
Out-of-state
$29,622
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
7,523
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
DU offers over 60 programs across its 10 Michigan campuses and online division. A $4 million grant from the National Science Foundation provides scholarship funds for cybersecurity students.
A designated Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence, DU's College of Technology houses the university's computer information systems (CIS) program. CIS students can specialize in programming, web and mobile development, secure software development, or database and data analytics.
All four paths cover programming languages and business foundations during the first two years. The paths diverge in the program's second half to focus on specialized topics. The curriculum culminates with hands-on learning experiences through internships, service learning, and a capstone project.
Applying to DU
Interested parties should fill out the school's free application. DU requires official transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Students can check their application status online, and an acceptance package is sent by mail.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private Accreditation: HLC Tuition: $805/credit (on campus); $815/credit (online, in state); $544/credit (online, out of state) Required Credits: 120 credits Program Length: 4 years Delivery Format: On campus or online
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,064
Out-of-state
$20,064
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,308
Out-of-state
$16,308
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
5,384
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
81%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Bachelor’s in Information Systems Degrees
Robert Morris University
Moon Township, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
Ninety-two percent of RMU graduates find employment or enter graduate programs within a year of graduation. Located in the Pittsburgh suburb of Moon Township, the school joined the Amazon Web Service Academy before any other Pennsylvania university.
RMU's School of Informatics, Humanities, and Social Sciences houses the computer information systems (CIS) program. The department conducts senior exit surveys and quality-assurance assessments to continually improve the curriculum. CIS graduates have found employment in fields such as aerospace, banking, and computer design.
Coursework emphasizes the five CIS core process groups: initiating, planning, executing, controlling, and closing. Students explore key legal and ethical issues such as software ownership, internet freedom, and international law. Around 90% of CIS graduates gain experience through internships, and 84% of all RMU graduates find jobs within their field.
Applying to RMU
RMU requires all potential students to submit an application with official transcripts or equivalents. Applicants may strengthen their chances of admission by submitting optional SAT or ACT scores. Students with a minimum 3.0 GPA receive preference.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private Accreditation: MSCHE, ABET Tuition: $990/credit Required Credits: 122 credits Program Length: 4 years full time Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,450
Out-of-state
$31,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
3,764
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
How We Rank Colleges And Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability.
This list has not been updated for 2024. Explore our rankings methodology page to learn more about how we rank programs.
Why Get an Information Systems Bachelor's Degree?
Information systems became a distinct area of study in the 1950s when the U.S. government employed a computer, the UNIVAC I, to process the U.S. census. It entered the commercial sphere in 1954 when General Electric used the same type of computer for its operations.
Needless to say, computer use has skyrocketed since then, influencing every aspect of our culture. In an increasingly connected and data-driven world, the study of information systems remains vital.
Today, Over 550,000 people work as information systems managers, and the future outlook for such roles remains strong. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 15% increase in information systems manager positions from 2022-2032.
Information systems professionals should have sharp analytical skills, an understanding of business strategy, and a strong ability to communicate clearly. This industry could be an ideal fit for tech-savvy, team-oriented problem-solvers who enjoy developing and documenting complex systems.
Graduates of a bachelor's in information systems program can make desirable candidates for roles such as computer and information manager, database administrator and architect, and computer network architect.
Information systems professionals can find work in diverse industries, such as computer systems design, company and enterprise management, and software publishing. Graduates can also pursue further education in information systems.
The benefits of earning a bachelor's degree in information systems include:
Career Opportunities: Most entry-level positions in information systems require at least a four-year degree. By earning a bachelor's degree in information systems, you can demonstrate your knowledge and experience, and increase your chances of landing a job in the industry.
Compensation: According to the BLS, workers with a bachelor's degree tend to earn more money and enjoy lower rates of unemployment compared to the national average for all workers.
Authority and Expertise: In our rapidly changing information technology landscape, businesses and institutions want to work with someone they can trust. Earning a bachelor's degree in information systems demonstrates your mastery of the field's fundamentals.
What to Expect From Bachelor's in Information Systems Programs
Students pursuing an undergraduate education in information systems can expect to take both business and technology courses for their major. Instructors prepare students to navigate complex organizations and data systems.
A bachelor's degree typically requires 120 credits of coursework. Full-time learners typically take four years to earn a bachelor's, while part-time learners may take longer to complete their degree requirements.
In addition to courses relevant to their major, students also take general education courses and electives that contribute to a well-rounded education. Depending on the institution, a bachelor's in information science may entail the successful completion of a thesis or other capstone project.
When applying to a bachelor's program in information systems, keep admission requirements in mind. Admissions offices typically request official transcripts, a minimum GPA, and a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Some applications also require either SAT or ACT test scores and a personal essay explaining your desire to study at your prospective institution.
Applying to college can become overwhelming, especially if you're applying to more than one school. Consider using the Common App to streamline your application process.
Degree Options
Prospective students interested in earning a bachelor's degree in information systems have options to customize their educational experience. Most information systems programs teach a combination of business and technology principles, and many programs allow students to choose concentrations such as security or development.
In addition, students can minor in a second discipline alongside their major. You might pick a minor that provides intrinsic enjoyment, or one that advances your professional goals. Speak with an admissions counselor to determine what course of study would provide the most enjoyable and valuable college experience for you.
Popular Courses
Business Communications: This course introduces students to the norms and practices of corporate communication. Students learn how to express their thoughts appropriately in a business setting, both verbally and in writing.
Operations Management: Operations management introduces students to the tools used to understand and optimize business processes. Students learn skills and tools to help manage the production of goods and services in their organization.
Database Design: This course teaches students how to analyze, implement, and maintain databases. Learners become familiar with database design processes and utilize software, including Oracle and SQL, to complete course projects.
Network Security: Students taking network security learn about common techniques used to breach secure networks and how to defend against them. Common topics include internet protocols, malware analysis, and network monitoring.
Introduction to Programming: This course introduces students to the fundamentals of computer programming. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, learning to write and debug code. Programming instructors expose students to a variety of exercises so they can develop the confidence to create functional programs.
How Much Will a Bachelor's in Information Systems Cost?
The cost of a bachelor's in information systems can vary depending on a number of factors. For example, in-state tuition at public schools typically costs less than studying out of state. Additionally, private schools often have higher tuition costs.
The National Center for Education Statistics estimates that the average net price of attendance for undergraduates at four-year institutions was $15,200 for public institutions and $29,700 for private nonprofit schools during the 2021-2022 academic year.
A bachelor's degree in information systems can be a worthy investment of your time and money, but it requires planning. Worried about how to pay for your degree? Many students combine grants, loans, and scholarships to finance their education.
Jobs for Bachelor's in Information Systems Graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers: Computer and information systems managers identify an organization's IT goals and implement computer-based solutions to achieve those goals. Typical duties include conducting cost-benefit analyses, managing tech-oriented teams, and communicating with vendors to ensure the proper functioning of the organization's technology systems.
Computer Network Architect: Computer network architects collaborate with an organization's management and staff to plan, implement, and manage communication networks. Network architects can advance in their careers by becoming senior network engineers, network managers, or IT managers. Most computer network architects work in computer systems design or telecommunications industries.
Computer Systems Analysts: Working as a computer systems analyst involves researching, testing, and recommending technologies to help improve an organization's efficiency. Systems analysts also write documentation to aid users and routinely test systems to ensure proper functioning.
Database Administrators and Architects: Data-driven sectors like finance and insurance often employ database administrators and architects. This role involves creating and maintaining secure databases that fit user needs, as well as preventing data loss. Database administrators also prevent the loss of valuable data, ensuring that users always have access to the information they need.
Choosing the Right Bachelor's in Information Systems Program
When selecting a bachelor's in information systems program, make sure that your prospective school holds institutional accreditation. Additionally, engineering and tech-oriented programs can seek programmatic accreditation from The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Accreditation ensures the rigor of a school or program's academic offerings.
Here are some other factors to consider when selecting a program:
Financial Aid: The price tag for college can be quite high, and a generous financial aid package goes a long way toward lowering the cost of education. College debt often means years of repayment after graduation, so factor financial aid into your decision.
Location: For in-person students, choosing a local school means less disruption to your everyday life. However, moving to a new town for school can also open new opportunities, social networks, and life experiences.
Student-to-Teacher Ratio: Bigger schools may offer a larger course catalog, but smaller schools often maintain a lower student-to-teacher ratio. A lower student-to-teacher ratio typically means smaller class sizes and more individualized attention from professors.
Should You Get Your Undergraduate Degree Online?
As you consider prospective programs, remember that many schools offer bachelor's in information systems degrees that are fully or partially online. This means that, with an internet connection and a laptop, it's possible to earn a degree without leaving your home.
Online and in-person programs offer different benefits and drawbacks. While online study affords more convenience and flexibility, an in-person program offers more face time with your peers and instructors and a more holistic educational experience.
Additionally, online courses can involve synchronous or asynchronous learning. In a synchronous course, you attend scheduled lectures and discussions, usually on a video chat. Asynchronous courses do not require scheduled attendance and often utilize pre-recorded lectures and discussion forums.
What can you do with an information systems bachelor's degree?
With a bachelor's degree in information systems, graduates can go on to work in a variety of IT-related roles, such as computer network architect or database administrator. Graduates may also wish to pursue a master's degree in information systems.
Is a degree in information systems worth it?
A degree in information systems from an accredited institution provides foundational skills and knowledge in business and technology. Though a degree does not guarantee employment, it's often the first step toward a lucrative career.
Do information systems jobs pay well?
Many information systems jobs pay exceptionally well. For example, the BLS reported that computer systems analysts made a median annual salary of $103,800 in 2023, more than double the median annual pay for all workers in the United States during the same period.
Do you need to be good at math to succeed in information systems?
Yes. Because information systems involves computer science, you'll need some facility with mathematics. Even if you don't feel that you are a "math person," you can improve your understanding of mathematics through careful study.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by ComputerScience.org. Page last reviewed June 20, 2024.
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