What is Computer Information Systems and what do they do?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Retrieved 6/20/2016):

Computer and information systems managers, often called information technology (IT) managers or IT project managers, plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They help determine the information technology goals of an organization and are responsible for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.

The median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $131,600 in May 2015.

Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for computer and information systems managers will grow as firms increasingly expand their business to digital platforms.

Often times, parents and students are unclear as to the difference between say, computer science, management information systems, information technology, and computer information systems. There’s certainly a lot of overlap to be sure. While we are a fairly technical program, being housed within the College of Business adds context to the subjects we teach and about which we conduct research. Therefore, the emphasis is on developing solutions for real world problems that organization might face.

What is Marketing and what do they do?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Retrieved 6/20/2016):

Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers plan programs to generate interest in products or services. They work with art directors, sales agents, and financial staff members.

The median annual wage for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers was $124,850 in May 2015.

Employment of advertising, promotions, and marketing managers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. Advertising, promotions, and marketing campaigns will continue to be essential for organizations as they seek to maintain and expand their share of the market.

Where are CIS alumni working?

  • CorpHealth, Inc. – Database Administrator
  • Bank network analyst
  • Taylor and Hill — Cost Control Analyst
  • The Planet Internet Services, Inc. — NOC Engineer
  • Wal-Mart – Programmer
  • School Technology Director
  • Americredit — Tier One Help Desk Technician
  • City of Waco — Computer Analyst (Database Manager)
  • Buxton Company – IS/Planning Manager
  • Fiesta Pages / Rio Grande Publishing Co. — Publishing Manager
  • Hotel Reservations Network (AS/400 Prog/Analyst)
  • US General Services Administration — IT Specialist
  • Dell Computers Austin– Business Analyst/Application Architect

What is the difference between the BAAS, the BBA, and the BS in CIS?

Great question. These are three different degrees offered in CIS that are targeted to three different groups of potential students:

  • BAAS is well suited for more non-traditional students who come in with significant, relevant work experience and/or relevant community college work.
  • The BBA is more business oriented and well suited for incoming freshmen who have a talent for technical things but an eye on advancing within an organization to higher leadership positions.
  • The BS is for those who have a greater interest in learning the technical details of systems.