CSIS is a combination of both Computer Science and Information Systems, which have some similarities, yet are quite different.
Computer science is the study of computers and computing concepts. It includes both hardware and software, as well as networking and the Internet. The hardware aspect of computer science overlaps with electrical engineering. It covers the basic design of computers and the way they work. A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science also includes courses in Math and Physics.
Topics in this science include: theory of data structures, algorithms, programming languages, networks, operating systems, compilers, databases, artificial intelligence, robotics, and graphics.
In general, Computer Science requires a study of mathematics and some physics compared to Information Systems, which is a Business-related major. Either major can give you the necessary skills to pursue careers in computer programming, systems analysis, database and more
Key Skills for a career in Computer Science:
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Career Possibilities (among many others)
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IS Bachelor’s Degrees at most universities are found in their BUSINESS departments.
As an Information Systems expert you would share a broad responsibility to develop,
implement, and manage an infrastructure of information technology (computers and communications),
data (both internal and external), and organization-wide systems; to track new information
technology and help in the organization's strategy, planning, and practices; and to
support departmental and individual information technology systems.
Computer Information Systems is the application of technology in managing the needs of businesses, so you'll get your technical skills to work in a business setting. Students in the Computer Information Systems major learn how to work with and within company IT systems to solve operations issues. That's good news if you're trying to decide between a degree in business and a degree in technology, since you can be able to choose both.
Skills for a career in Information Systems:
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Career Possibilities (among many others)
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Note: to transfer to a 4-year institution and study Information Systems, typically you will be receiving a degree in Business, so look at the Business Transfer requirements.
Area of Emphasis - Computer Programming |
Courses |
CSIS 112 – Windows Operating Systems |
CSIS 113 – Introduction to UNIX |
CSIS 119 – Intro to Computer Programming |
CSIS 165 - Assembly Language / Machine Architecture |
CSIS 250 - Intro to Python |
CSIS 293 – Intro to Java Programming |
CSIS 294 – Intermediate Java Programming |
CSIS 296 – Intro to C++ Programming |
CSIS 297 – Intermediate C++ Programming |
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Area of Emphasis - Cybersecurity and Networking |
Courses |
CSIS 113 – Introduction to Linux |
CSIS 121 – Introduction to Cybersecurity |
CSIS 125 – Network + Certification |
CSIS 250 – Introduction to Python Programming |
CSIS 263 – Security + Certification |
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Area of Emphasis - Web Design |
Courses |
CSIS 110 – Principles/Information Systems |
CSIS 112 – Windows Operating Systems |
CSIS 132 – Introduction to Web Development |
CSIS 133 – Intermediate Web Design |
CSIS 135 – Java-script Programming |
CSIS 151 – Intro to Photo-shop |
CSIS 293 – Intro to Java Programming |
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Area of Emphasis - Information Technology Support Specialist |
Courses |
CSIS 110 – Principles/Information Systems |
CSIS 112 – Windows Operating Systems |
CSIS 113 – Introduction to UNIX |
CSIS 120 – Computer Maintenance and A+ Certification |
CSIS 125 – Network + Certification |
CSIS 132 – Introduction to Web Development |
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Other classes for gaining computer skills |
Courses |
CSIS 105 – Intro to Computing |
CSIS 160 – Intro/Video Game Development |
CSIS 147 – Social Media and Internet Marketing |
Want to know more about the IS major at San Diego State University and opportunities
in the field of Information Systems? Drop by the SDSU IS Major web site On the site you can read an overview of the IS major, see job projections and a salary
survey for IS majors and read recent alumni.