Studies lead to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Information Systems degree with several available areas of concentration. This degree program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology - Computing Accreditation Commission (ABET-CAC). This accreditation assures that the programs are in compliance with the latest national standards for information systems programs in the United States.

About the Program: Program Overview Program Educational Objectives Program Outcomes Areas of Concentration Bachelor-Level Internship Employers Bachelor-Level Hiring Organizations

Program Overview
The Computer Information Systems degree program focuses on using technology as a tool to manage information in the context of managing a business. The program includes a core of courses focusing on business programming, systems analysis and design, operating systems concepts, database management systems, networks and data communications, and project management. Students choose a concentration area of information systems courses and are expected to take prescribed courses in the School of Business.

Program Educational Objectives for the BS in Computer Information Systems and the BS in Information Science degree programs
Five years after graduation the graduates should be:

1. contributing to the work force in their specialty such as but not limited to software development, networking data base administration or systems analysis
2. advancing their careers via continuous learning and professional development through the attainment of professional certification, professional study and research or graduate education
3. assuming positions of leadership within their organization
4. contributing to economic development and society through the development, maintenance and management of computer-based information systems for business, government, and other organizations

RMU Program Outcomes for BS-CIS and BS-IS degree programs

1. An ability to design, implement and evaluate a computer-based information system, process, component, or program to meet desired business or organizational specifications
2. An ability to apply knowledge of information systems, programming and mathematics appropriate to the discipline
3. An ability to demonstrate sufficient background knowledge in Operating Systems, Networking, Data Communication, Database Technology, Information Systems Planning, and Project Management
4. An ability to analyze an information systems problem, define performance specifications to solve the problem and identify feasible solutions while recognizing the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations and society
5. An ability to function effectively on teams and to be able to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
6. An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for information systems practices by recognizing the need for, and the ability to engage in, continuing professional development
7. An ability to understand professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities

Areas of Concentration
Students choose a concentration area in order to add depth to their computer and information systems background. Concentration courses are chosen in consultation with a CIS advisor. Concentrations studied previously include health care information systems, network administration, office information systems, security, software development, and web design.

The Computer Information Systems major, Executive Option, provides students with accelerated formats, online delivery, and classes in a variety of student friendly formats - all utilizing applied learning. Classes are offered in the evenings and online emphasizing Pittsburgh and Cranberry locations. This unique ABET accredited, accelerated evening program allows serious working professionals to complete their degree in a most efficient and timely manner.

The concentrations focus on applications of appropriate information technologies in areas such as office automation, end-user computing, information centers, computer-supported work, performance support and executive information systems.

Cooperative Education Program
Through the University's Cooperative Education Program, qualified students in the computer information systems degree program can gain valuable experience and earn up to $35,000 toward the cost of their education! Through this program, you'll alternate semesters of academic study with up to four semesters of employment in the information technology field. By completing multiple, progressive work experiences, typically with the same employer, you'll build on what you learn in the classroom and gain professional experience that will give you a competitive edge in the job market - and still graduate in four years.

Salary Information
2006 national mean bachelor-level starting salaries by job function:

Sample Positions for Bachelor-Level Graduates
Systems analyst, telecommunications analyst, application developer, client/server operations analyst, consultant, programmer, software engineer.

Bachelor-Level Internship Employers
Aetna; America's Promise; Comcast; Bayer; Carnegie Science Center; Corporate Consulting Group; Envirotrol; Fisher Scientific; Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania; J&L Specialty Steel; Krispy Kreme; Management Science Associates; McKesson; Mellon Financial; Pittsburgh Mercy Health Systems; PNC Bank; UPMC Health System; US Airways; U.S. Steel; Vevolution; World Vision.

Bachelor-Level Hiring Organizations
Allegheny County; Baker Installations; Bayer; Community College of Beaver County; Celebro Auto Chooser; Children's Institute of Pittsburgh; Concentria; Coventry Healthcare; CTR Systems; E-Profile; Envirotrol; FedEx Ground; Fiserv; Giant Eagle; GNC; Healthtec Software; Integrated Health Systems; J&L Specialty Steel; Management Science Associates; McKesson Automation; Mellon Financial; National City Corp.; Oncology Nursing Society; PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; PC Network Services; Pittsburgh Mercy Health Systems; Pittsburgh Post-Gazette; Pittsburgh Technical Institute; R/M Analytical Services; Southwest Behavioral Health Management; Target Resources; Tissue Informatics; Total Equipment; Union Switch & Signal; University of Pittsburgh; U.S. Steel; Wesco Distribution.