Program Details
Bachelor of Business Administration, Major in Computer Information Systems
Bachelor of Business AdministrationJames Madison University
The Computer Information Systems (CIS) degree at JMU prepares students for professional careers that require both the business knowledge and the technical skills to help clients design, build and deliver competitive computer-based solutions. Computer and information systems managers play a vital role in the technological direction of their organizations and must stay abreast of the latest technology to ensure the organization does not lag behind its competitors.
JMU's CIS program was recognized as one of the top ten undergraduate information technology programs in the United States (TechRepublic, 2008) and is part of the nationally recognized JMU College of Business. Professors in the program use a variety of teaching methods including projects, cases and business simulations to prepare graduates with strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills; effective communication and presentation skills; hands-on experience; and the ability to work effectively in individual and team-oriented environments.
Several features of JMU's CIS program are distinctive:
- Outstanding placement of graduates: the JMU CIS program is viewed as a prime recruiting school by many leading employers throughout the mid-Atlantic region.
- Course work in a variety of specialties.
- Business intelligence
- Business process management
- Computer forensics
- Computer security management
- Information technology consulting
- Information technology project management
- Excellent opportunities for internships and job-related work experience through JMU's Handshake program and an active JMU CIS alumni network of over 3,100 graduates.
- Active student chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP): Students regularly compete in the National Collegiate Conference, network with industry professionals, engage in service-learning projects, and expand their leadership skills by serving as chapter leaders.
Program Overview & Guidance
| Program Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Considerations for Selecting Degree | Computer Information Systems (CIS) professionals use computers to solve business problems by planning, analyzing, designing and managing information systems. Typical careers include Business Analyst, IS Consultant, Business Applications Developer, Security Consultant, Database Analyst, and Project Manager. Skills that help in these careers include problem solving, interpersonal skills, analytical thinking, and technical skills. The CIS major trains you to talk to a client to determine what the client’s business problem is and to determine how to solve it with an information system. You’ll take courses in application development, architecture, networking, security, business intelligence and consulting. In addition, you’ll develop a solid grounding in business knowledge with courses in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, operations, statistics and strategy. |
| Considerations When Selecting Courses |
Students interested in the BBA degree at JMU are encouraged to complete the equivalents of these JMU courses: COB 191/MATH 220, COB 202, COB 204, COB 241, COB 242, COB 291, ECON 200, ECON 201 and MATH 205/235. Calculus (MATH 205 or 235) and Statistics (COB 191 or MATH 220) are important prerequisites to COB 291. COB 241 is a prerequisite to COB 242 at JMU. CIS majors are advised to complete the required Principles of Programming Course or an equivalent during their first two years and before applying to the College of Business.
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| Program Requirements Beyond Specific Courses | |
| Doing More With Your Degree | The College of Business's Office of Professional Development and Engagement (PDE) provides College of Business students with professional development opportunities to enhance your academic experiences. They work closely with alumni, employers, and community partners to provide you with experiential learning opportunities such as Career Treks, internships, and a one-credit sophomore-level course for professional development. Learn more at https://www.jmu.edu/cob/professional-development-and-engagement/index.shtml. You can minor in almost anything at JMU. If you are considering adding a minor, use your minor to further explore an interest, develop skills, or complement your major. While you can pursue any of the minors offered at JMU, CIS majors frequently choose minors in the College of Business (such as Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, and Economics) or the College of Integrated Science and Engineering Minors (such as Geographic Information Systems, Integrated Science and Technology, and Computer Science). While CIS majors can participate in a wide range of study abroad experiences offered by JMU, there are 3 programs specifically designed for CIS majors: Semester in Antwerp, CIS in Europe (summer), and International Considerations of Web Design & Development in Argentina (summer). You can explore all the programs offered by the Center for Global Engagement here: https://www.jmu.edu/global/abroad/advising/program-types.shtml |
| Program Successes & Highlights | The JMU Computer Information Systems (CIS) major is a successful undergraduate program with over 600 majors. The program is ranked number 17 of CIS degree programs nationwide by College Factual spring 2020. The CIS program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. In response to industry guidance and the evolving world of ‘big data’, JMU introduced an undergraduate minor in Business Analytics that is in its seventh year with over 40 students (students must apply). CIS majors may also complete a BSAN concentration. CIS majors enjoy excellent job prospects with mean starting salaries over $71,000. Based on College of Business class of 2019 data, 97% of the sample population of CoB graduates are employed, in graduate school, continuing education or are engaged in other career-related endeavors within 6 months of graduation. In the CIS major alone, the majority (74%) had received full-time IT employment offers prior to graduation. |
Program Credit Requirements
If you wish to see how your credits may apply, you can:
- Contact the institution where a staff member can help you map your credits to the requirements for this program.
- View the program requirements listed in the institution's catalog.
Applicable Admissions Agreements
The table below lists admissions agreements between James Madison University and partner institutions that may guarantee admission to this program if you meet the required criteria. Click on the title name of the agreement to view a summary of those criteria.
You can view the full text of these Agreements in the Resource Center
What If I Have An Associate Degree Or Credit For Prior Learning?
| Transfer Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Associate Transfer Degree Completion | Completion of an approved transfer associate degree will guarantee fulfillment of JMU's General Education requirements. https://www.jmu.edu/transfer/VCCStransfer/ASDegrees.shtml |
Completion of Associate Degree Concurrent with High School |
| Credit for Prior Learning | JMU accepts and reviews AP, IB, CIE and CLEP for all students with eligible scores, which may be different than at your prior institution. JMU will complete an independent review of the test score to apply credit to the JMU student record. Credit for prior learning (CLEP) is awarded on a per case basis for Adult Degree (Individualized Studies Majors) and RN-BSN students only and in consultation with the department of expertise, with the exception of military service credit. Credit for learning acquired in military service is awarded by the registrar's office using the ACE guide credit recommendation for study/experience listed on the military transcript and in consultation with the department of expertise. |
| Did You Know That... |
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College Level Information
| College Fit Guidance | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Is This College Right For Me? | JMU is a mid to large size institution that behaves more like a smaller institution. Faculty and staff hold students as the top priority. JMU has a 96% satisfaction rate. 89% of classes have less than 50 students. JMU is the #1 most recommended public University in the US by the Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education; JMU is the #1 Best College for Employment in Virginia according to U.S. Department of Education statistics compiled by Zippia. JMU has the highest post-graduation job levels of all Virginia colleges. |
| Transfer Student Catalog Year | Catalog year determined by first semester of attendance. |
| First Year Student Catalog Year | Catalog year determined by first semester of attendance. |
| Applying for Guaranteed Admissions | Transfer applicants applying through the Guaranteed Admissions Agreement must submit a Letter of Intent prior to applying to JMU. Requirements and forms are available at: https://www.jmu.edu/admissions/apply/transfer-GAA.shtml |
Where Can This Degree Transfer
| Institution | Title | Degree | Award Name | Award Level | Delivery Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wytheville Community College | Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree in Science: Computer Science Specialization | Associate | Associate of Arts and Sciences | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Averett University | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Averett University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person, Online |
| Germanna Community College | Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Arts and Sciences | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| J Sargeant Reynolds Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Laurel Ridge Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| New River Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering-Computer Sciences Major | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Northern Virginia Community College | Computer Science, A.S. | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Tidewater Community College | Associate of Science - Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | Online |
| Virginia Western Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Engineering - Computer Science Specialization | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Wytheville Community College | Associate of Science in Science Degree Computer Science Major | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Christopher Newport University | Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Major in Information Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Richard Bland College | Associate of Science-Math/Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Radford University | BS in Information Science and Systems | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| The University of Virginia's College at Wise | Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems, Major in Management Information Systems | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Bridgewater College | Data Science & Analytics Major - BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Information Systems, Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Careers Where This Degree Applies
| O*Net Code | Name | Description | Parent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15-1299.07 | Blockchain Engineers | Maintain and support distributed and decentralized blockchain-based networks or block-chain applications such as cryptocurrency exchange, payment processing, document sharing, and digital voting. Design and deploy secure block-chain design patterns and solutions over geographically distributed networks using advanced technologies. May assist with infrastructure setup and testing for application transparency and security. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.00 | Computer Occupations, All Other | All computer occupations not listed separately. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 25-1021.00 | Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
| 15-1299.08 | Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1221.00 | Computer and Information Research Scientists | Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 11-3021.00 | Computer and Information Systems Managers | Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming. | Management Occupations |
| 15-1243.01 | Data Warehousing Specialists | Design, model, or implement corporate data warehousing activities. Program and configure warehouses of database information and provide support to warehouse users. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1243.00 | Database Architects | Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.06 | Digital Forensics Analysts | Conduct investigations on computer-based crimes establishing documentary or physical evidence, such as digital media and logs associated with cyber intrusion incidents. Analyze digital evidence and investigate computer security incidents to derive information in support of system and network vulnerability mitigation. Preserve and present computer-related evidence in support of criminal, fraud, counterintelligence, or law enforcement investigations. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.03 | Document Management Specialists | Implement and administer enterprise-wide document management systems and related procedures that allow organizations to capture, store, retrieve, share, and destroy electronic records and documents. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.02 | Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians | Assist scientists or related professionals in building, maintaining, modifying, or using geographic information systems (GIS) databases. May also perform some custom application development or provide user support. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.05 | Information Security Engineers | Develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. Design and implement appropriate security controls to identify vulnerabilities and protect digital files and electronic infrastructures. Monitor and respond to computer security breaches, viruses, and intrusions, and perform forensic investigation. May oversee the assessment of information security systems. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.09 | Information Technology Project Managers | Plan, initiate, and manage information technology (IT) projects. Lead and guide the work of technical staff. Serve as liaison between business and technical aspects of projects. Plan project stages and assess business implications for each stage. Monitor progress to assure deadlines, standards, and cost targets are met. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.04 | Penetration Testers | Evaluate network system security by conducting simulated internal and external cyberattacks using adversary tools and techniques. Attempt to breach and exploit critical systems and gain access to sensitive information to assess system security. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1252.00 | Software Developers | Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1255.01 | Video Game Designers | Design core features of video games. Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies. Create and maintain design documentation. Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.01 | Web Administrators | Manage web environment design, deployment, development and maintenance activities. Perform testing and quality assurance of web sites and web applications. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1255.00 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
Cost To Complete