Technology isn't just changing the world — it's running it. GCU's B.A. in Computer Information Systems gives you the programming foundation, data skills, and systems knowledge to build a career at the intersection of technology and business. Small classes, hands-on projects, and faculty who know your name: this is where you learn to solve real problems with real code.
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The B.A. in CIS is built around the skills that technology employers actually hire for: programming in C++ and Python, database design and management, data analytics, networks, and cybersecurity fundamentals. You won't just learn to code — you'll learn to think computationally, design systems, analyze data at scale, and understand how secure networks are built and protected. That's a technology skill set that works across industries.
Theory without practice doesn't get you hired. The CIS curriculum is built around applied learning — programming assignments, systems projects, database design challenges, and a culminating Applications Project (CS450) that gives you a real portfolio piece before graduation. You'll use industry-standard tools including Python, C++, SQL, and data visualization platforms — the same tools employers expect you to know.
Data is the most valuable resource in the modern economy — and the ability to work with it is one of the most in-demand skills in any technical field. GCU's CIS program gives you a dedicated foundation in data analytics through CS212 Data Analytics for Business — covering data visualization, regression analysis, logistic analysis, clustering, and K-nearest neighbors — using Excel, Python, and industry-standard analytics tools. This isn't a single elective; it's woven into the program's core.
At GCU, you're not a student ID number. Small class sizes mean you work directly with faculty — including Dr. Dae Wook Kim, Program Coordinator and a published researcher in computer science. Students with strong interests in a specific area can pursue independent research through CS306 Topics in CS/CIS or CS414 Research Problem in CS/CIS — building the kind of academic record that opens doors to graduate school and competitive technical roles.
In today’s economy, technology literacy isn’t optional — it’s essential. And the professionals who understand both the technical and business dimensions of information systems are among the most sought-after in the workforce.
GCU’s B.A. in Computer Information Systems bridges that gap. The program provides a rigorous foundation in programming — starting with C++ in CS123 and expanding into Python, object oriented design, and data structures — alongside systems-level coursework in database management, network architecture, and cybersecurity. The result is a graduate who can code, analyze data, design and query databases, understand how networks operate, and apply cybersecurity principles — a combination that’s genuinely marketable across technology, healthcare, finance, government, and beyond.
The program is structured progressively. In the first two years, you build your core programming and systems skills. In the upper years, you go deeper — into data analytics, applied networks, and your choice of technical electives in topics such as cybersecurity, network administration, or specialized CS topics. The program culminates in CS450 Applications Project, a capstone course in which you design and build a complete software application — the portfolio centerpiece you’ll bring to job interviews and graduate school applications.
The Department of Mathematics, Computer Science & Physics is home to faculty who are both exceptional teachers and active researchers. Class sizes are small, office hours are real, and faculty advisement is personalized. Whether you’re aiming for a technical role in software development, data analysis, IT management, or cybersecurity — or planning to continue to graduate study in computer science or information systems — the CIS program gives you the foundation to get there.
GCU’s B.A. in Computer Information Systems is a great fit if you:
Technology skills are in demand across every sector of the economy. Here’s where GCU CIS graduates build careers.
| Career | Entry Salary | Mid-Career Salary | Experienced Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $72,000–$90,000 | $124,300 | $150,000–$180,000+ |
| Information Security Analysts | $65,000–$82,000 | $117,800 | $140,000–$170,000+ |
| Database Administrators | $60,000–$78,000 | $102,100 | $120,000–$145,000+ |
| Network & Computer Systems Administrators | $58,000–$72,000 | $93,400 | $110,000–$130,000+ |
Job Outlook
Technology occupations are among the strongest in the country for long-term growth:
New Jersey’s technology sector is one of the largest in the northeastern US, with major employers concentrated in the NJ-NYC corridor including pharmaceutical companies, financial services firms, and government agencies.
To earn this degree, students must successfully complete at least 120 credits, including General Education requirements and the major requirements below.
A minimum of 33 semester hours of computer science and information systems courses are required for the Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems, including:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CS123 | Computer Programming I | 4.0 |
| CS126 | Computer Programming II | 3.0 |
| CS220 | Python Programming | 3.0 |
| CS227 | Data Structures | 3.0 |
| CS231 | Introduction to Database Systems | 3.0 |
| CS450 | Applications Project | 3.0 |
| IS224 | Introduction to Business Analytics | 3.0 |
| IS320 | Management Information Systems | 3.0 |
| Select from the following electives: | 8.0 | |
CS212 | Data Analytics for Business | |
CS225 | Computer Architecture | |
CS306 | Topics in CS or CIS | |
CS326 | Survey of Networks & Telecommunications | |
CS327 | Computer Network Administration | |
IS122 | Introduction to Cybersecurity | |
| Total Credits | 33.0 | |
Admissions Requirements First-Year Students
Note: A background in math (Algebra II or Precalculus minimum recommended) is helpful preparation for the CIS program. CS123 Computer Programming I requires placement — contact the department for details on the placement process.
Transfer Students
By the time you earn your B.A. in Computer Information Systems from GCU, you’ll be able to:
Q: What’s the difference between Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Computer Science (CS)? A: Both programs build strong programming and technical skills — but with different emphases. The B.A. in CIS is applied and systems-oriented: it focuses on how technology is used to solve business and organizational problems, with emphasis on databases, data analytics, networks, and cybersecurity alongside programming. The B.S. in Computer Science is more theoretical and mathematically rigorous — it includes calculus through Calculus II, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and upper-level courses in algorithms, machine learning, and AI. If you’re drawn to applied technology work and systems thinking, CIS is the right fit. If you want to build algorithms, do machine learning research, or pursue a technical CS graduate degree, the B.S. in CS may be a better path.
Q: Do I need to know how to code before I start? A: No prior programming experience is required. CS123 Computer Programming I starts from the beginning — introducing you to programming using C++, from fundamental concepts through selection structures, loops, functions, arrays, and classes. Placement into CS123 is required, but the department can walk you through that process.
Q: What programming languages will I learn? A: The core curriculum teaches C++ (CS123, CS126, CS227) and Python (CS220, CS212) — two of the most widely used languages in software development and data science respectively. Database coursework introduces SQL through CS231. Electives in network administration introduce you to Linux and Windows server environments.
Q: Is there a cybersecurity option in this program? A: Yes. IS122 Introduction to Cybersecurity is one of the electives available in the CIS program, covering cybersecurity principles, threat landscapes, and defense mechanisms. Students interested in a deeper cybersecurity focus should also consider GCU’s Cybersecurity Administration Minor, which can be added to the CIS degree. (Note: The Cybersecurity Administration Minor includes Rize Education consortium courses — the required consortium disclosure appears on that program’s page.)
Q: Can I do independent research as a CIS student? A: Yes — CS306 Topics in CS or CIS and CS414 Research Problem in CS or CIS both provide structured research opportunities for students who want to go deeper in a specific area. Research is conducted under faculty supervision and can count toward the major elective requirement. Talk to Program Coordinator Dr. Kim about your interests.
Q: What can I do with a CIS degree if I don’t want to be a programmer? A: Many CIS graduates pursue careers that are more analytical or systems-oriented than pure software development — roles like database administrator, business intelligence analyst, IT project manager, systems analyst, and network administrator all draw heavily on CIS skills. The data analytics emphasis in the curriculum (CS212) is also excellent preparation for business analyst roles across industries.
Q: Is there a CIS Minor available? A: Yes. The CIS Minor requires 19 credits: CS123 (or equivalent), CS126, CS220, and three additional CS/IS courses numbered CS111 or above (including IS122, IS224, and IS320). It’s an excellent addition for Business Administration, Marketing, or Finance students who want to add a technology credential to their degree.
Q: When should I apply? A: GCU uses rolling admissions — apply any time. Priority deadlines are November 1, January 1, and March 1. Applying early gives you the best access to merit scholarships, housing, and financial aid.
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