Dec 21, 2024  
Undergraduate Catalog 2024-2025 
    
Undergraduate Catalog 2024-2025

Information Systems, B.S.



Description

A Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems (BS-IS) is a four-year undergraduate program that focuses on the study of technology, business, and their integration to help organizations achieve their goals. This degree equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, implement, and manage information systems in various business contexts.

Key aspects of the curriculum include:

Information Technology: Students learn about hardware, software, databases, networking, and cybersecurity, gaining a solid foundation in the technical aspects of information systems.

Systems Analysis and Design: Students learn to analyze business requirements, design systems to meet those needs, and manage the implementation of information systems projects.

Programming and Software Development: Introductory courses in programming languages such as C # or Python help students understand software development principles and processes.

Database Management: Students learn to design, implement, and manage databases using technologies like SQL and NoSQL.

Data Analytics: Courses cover predictive analytics and data mining to help students make data-driven decisions.

Project Management: Students learn the principles of managing information systems projects, including planning, executing, and monitoring projects to ensure successful delivery.

Business Education: Courses in accounting, economics, marketing, operations management, and business ethics and law provide students with a strong understanding of business principles and how information systems support organizational objectives.

What careers can this major prepare you for?

BS-IS graduates can pursue various career paths, such as Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Consultant, Information Systems Manager, Information Security Analyst, Software Developer, Project Manager, or Web Developer. They are well-prepared to bridge the gap between technology and business, helping organizations leverage information systems to improve efficiency, decision-making, and competitive advantage.

What skills are development within this major?

The BS-IS program typically focuses on developing a range of skills that are essential for success in the field of information systems. These skills include:

Technical Skills: Students learn programming languages, database management, systems analysis and design, networking, and cybersecurity.

Business Skills: BS-IS programs often include courses in business fundamentals, project management, and organizational behavior to help students understand how information systems integrate with business processes.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Students develop the ability to analyze complex systems, identify problems, and develop effective solutions.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial in the field of information systems. Students learn to communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, write documentation, and present their work.

Data Management and Analysis Skills: Students learn to manage and analyze large datasets using various tools and techniques, such as data mining, data warehousing, and business intelligence.

Software Development Skills: Many BS-IS programs include coursework in software development methodologies, such as Agile and Scrum, and students gain hands-on experience in developing software applications.

Cybersecurity Skills: With the increasing importance of data protection and privacy, BS-IS programs often include courses in cybersecurity to help students understand how to secure information systems.

IT Project Management Skills: Students learn how to plan, execute, and manage IT projects, including risk management, resource allocation, and stakeholder management.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The field of information systems is constantly evolving, and BS-IS programs emphasize the importance of staying up-to-date with new technologies and best practices.

Admission to Major


MAJOR DECLARATION STANDARDS

  • Completion of the required introductory coursework with a final grade of C or better.

Pre-BS Degree: Information Systems Major Declaration Course Requirements

  1. ENG 100/ENG 101 - College Writing I 
  2. ENG 102 - College Writing II  
  3. MTH 148 - Mathematics for Business Majors I or MTH 167 - Precalculus Mathematics I (MTH 148 preferred)
  4. BUS 201 - Applied Business Statistics
  5. IST 203 - Spreadsheet Skills and Applications 
  6. IST 305 - Information Systems in the Business World 
  7. OSM 202 - Introduction to Business Analytics
  8. FIN 201 - Personal Financial Planning or ACT 221 - Introductory Accounting I 

Hours Required for Degree


Minimum hours required for degree: 120

Minimum hours required for major: The Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Systems requires completion of 37 credits from the Business Core, 33 credits from the Information Systems major core, 2 courses (6 credit-hours) from any upper division 300/400 College of Business course and 5 courses (15 credit-hours) from any 300/400 Information Systems courses or courses from a list of approved electives.

College Requirements


See college page  for college requirements.

Major Requirements


General education math requirements will be fulfilled with MTH 167  and OSM 202  to to satisfy M/QL and major requirements; math courses require completion of courses with a final grade of C or higher.

Transfer students must complete at least fifty percent of Information Systems major coursework at Cleveland State University.

Business Core Preferences: 9 Credit Hours


Students must select one course from each of the following three categories.

Electives: 21 Credit Hours


Students are required to take the following elective courses:

  • 2 Upper Level (300/400) College of Business courses in any discipline
  • 5 courses from any 300/400 Information Systems courses or courses from a list of approved courses