When students graduate with this major, what are they prepared to do? Computer information systems is a mix of technology and business. This field is not about hardware; our graduates don’t build computers. Instead, they figure out how a company can best use computers as a business tool. For example, they may set up computer systems to track inventory, manage sales or keep track of payroll. Our graduates also make sure any technology put in place suits the company’s needs and works reliably. Most graduates become either a programmer/analyst, someone who plans and analyzes computer programs (instructions that tell the machine what to do), or an information technology service manager, someone who designs and maintains computer networks for a business or large corporation.
Why should students consider this field? The world’s economy is technology-driven. There are a healthy number of jobs available in this field and openings are likely to increase. Many jobs have good starting salaries. Also, graduates may find opportunities to advance: CEOs are now being chosen from this field because this area carries a lot of weight in the current business climate.
Why should students interested in this field choose Missouri State? Our students are well-rounded! First, they get the experience of being at a major university. Next, they are studying at a business school. Finally, they get specialty training. This gives them flexibility to stay in their field or branch out into another area. They can also stay here to earn a master’s degree or go on to other graduate programs, including law school. Lastly, we have been offering this type of training for a long time and have built relationships with many corporate partners.
How are students in this major trained for the real world? Our professors make sure the courses are rigorous enough that the students are truly prepared. If the classes are too easy, students may like that at first — but it backfires on them later. Once a school gets that kind of reputation, companies won’t hire their graduates because the students are not good at their jobs. We also encourage students to do internships and help them find those opportunities. The trend is that companies hire people out of their internship pool, so it’s a dress rehearsal for real life. Students who keep good grade point averages and complete an internship almost always get job offers.
