Computer Information Systems

Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems program investigates the mission-critical functions of designing systems and managing information. You’ll learn how to process data so it becomes meaningful information that organizations can use to make informed decisions. You’ll also be exposed to the hardware and software concepts of information systems and understand the design and management of systems to keep data secure. Coursework covers the entire information lifecycle of collection, processing, analysis, and utilization for decision support. You’ll be prepared with a thorough background in implementing information systems and retrieving valuable information needed by managers to make effective decisions in today’s technology-driven organizations.

What You’ll Learn

As a CIS major, you’ll learn how to analyze situations involving technology, data, and digital media. You’ll start to think critically, reason clearly, and communicate effectively as an individual or in a team. With the ability to demonstrate skills in applied technologies, you will understand best practices and have practical knowledge in network communications. You’ll develop the skills needed to directly impact an organization’s strategic goals with real-world experience you can take into the job market.

Blaze Your Path

Beacon has the most creative professors allowing me to learn and have fun at the same time. The CIS program has provided me a fantastic platform for learning all about computers and networks.

— Zane Merlo

My favorite things about the CIS program are the hands-on learning experience and the excellent teachers who assist and accommodate my needs with classwork and homework.

— Tyler Asuncion

Sample Courses

Computer Hardware and Software

This course addresses concepts related to computer hardware and software. Students will learn the components that make up a computer and experience the assembly of the system. Basic concepts such as computer maintenance, installation, and configuration of computers on a network PC, and troubleshooting strategies will be implemented. The use of operating systems and diagnostic tools will be demonstrated in the course. Students will have the option to use this course as a preparation for the CompTIA+ exam.

Computer Programming Concepts

An overview of computer language concepts and how they are used for problem-solving computer errors. A variety of programming languages will be introduced.

Electronic Commerce

Explores the basic concepts and strategies for understanding expanding opportunities in relation to electronic commerce. Organizational, business, managerial, and strategic implications for electronic commerce will be examined.

Introduction to Assistive Technology

An exploration of the types of technological devices used to aid students with disabilities. Methods of matching the proper technological device with the disability are demonstrated. Methods and systems used to effectively implement and maintain the assistive technology’s effectiveness will also be explored. Areas such as funding assistive technology will be addressed.

Networking and Communications

Various types of networking concepts will be explored. A survey of different types of communications with technology will also be examined. The course will involve entry-level, hands-on networking projects.

Introduction to Game Design

An exploration of how an individual begins the process of designing a game from an idea to promoting it to a licensed game franchise. The course will follow the life cycle of game development and cover the steps of marketing and promoting a game.

Database Management

Database concepts, terminology, and implementation are reviewed. This course presents the development of schemas and entity relationships and how to apply them to current database management systems. Topics in the ethics and security of databases will be explored.

Systems Analysis and Design

An overview of systematically planning, testing, and implementing information systems in various organizations. The course explores the development life cycle of a system. Logical methodologies for designing information systems are incorporated in the form of a final project.

Business Applications

Explores various software programs used in business and the latest technology aiding organizations that seek to project future changes. Developments that impact business computer applications are examined.

Management Science

Through the use of statistical techniques, students develop an understanding of managerial decision-making processes. Students will experience statistical tools such as inferences, simple and multiple regression, and time series. The emphasis on statistics will rely on the formulation and interpretation of results. Formulas are supported by spreadsheet software.

Management Information Systems

A capstone course for Computer Information Systems. Examination of organizational structures and how each level can provide useful information. Students will explore how the organization develops and maintains an information system. A final project will be developed by applying the concepts of management information systems.

Field Experience and Internships

CIS majors are required to complete 80 hours of experiential learning and internships. The knowledge, skills, and experience you gain — in the classroom and through internships — will boost your resume and your confidence with real-world work experience. Recent internship experiences include project development, tech analysts, and software programmers.

Internships and Experiences

Career Opportunities

Students with a B.S. in Computer Information Systems can immediately begin working in the field or continue to graduate school for advanced study.

Assistive technology support
Business analyst
Systems analyst
Computer support specialist
Database management
Help desk representative

Information technology support
IT consultant
IT security analyst
Medical records clerk
Network design and maintenance
Telecommunications career

Meet Your CIS Instructors

Dr. James Fleming

Professor

352-638-9712 jfleming@beaconcollege.edu

Brenda Newkirk

Instructor

352-638-9715 bnewkirk@beaconcollege.edu

Vilma Ramirez

Instructor

352-638-9817 vramirez@beaconcollege.edu

Wayne Johnson

Instructor

352-787-3139 wjohnson@beaconcollege.edu

Meet Your General Education Instructors

Dr. Kevin Chandler

Associate Professor

352-638-9772 kchandler@beaconcollege.edu

Cathy Vinton

Instructor

352-638-9823 cvinton@beaconcollege.edu

Jodi Livingston

Instructor

352-787-1525 jlivingston@beaconcollege.edu

Tiffany Calderara

Instructor

352-638-9743 tcalderara@beaconcollege.edu

Autumn Welt

Assistant Professor

352-787-1056 awelt@beaconcollege.edu

Dr. Mary-Anne Primack

Assistant Professor

352-787-2912 mprimack@beaconcollege.edu

Dr. Patricia Konovalov

Associate Professor

352-638-9815 pkonovalov@beaconcollege.edu

Dr. Nancy Wood

Assistant Professor

352-638-9719 nwood@beaconcollege.edu