Computer information systems careers continue to grow and evolve as technology changes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics*, the demand for computer and technology jobs is expected to increase by 12% from 2018-2028, which is faster than the average for all occupations. During this time, about 546,200 new jobs are expected within this sector, thanks to the advent of cloud computing, Big Data, the Internet of Things and other technology trends in the information technology industry.
What Can You Do with a Computer Information Systems Degree?
Computer information systems (CIS) jobs are available in a wide range of industries, and the career possibilities are far-reaching. Whether you’re looking to obtain an associate’s degree in CIS, a bachelor’s degree in CIS or a bachelor of business administration in computer information systems either option can be a solid base for any CIS career path. Some even go on to seek master’s degrees in information technology. Some career paths include the following.
Computer Systems Analyst
Job opportunities in this field are projected to grow by 9% from 2018-2028, thanks to the need for cloud computing and cybersecurity skills. Computer systems analysts constantly work to improve and streamline their companies’ systems by integrating knowledge of both the business and IT worlds. As of September 2019, the median annual wage for a computer systems analyst was $88,740. A bachelor’s degree in computer or information science is typically required for this position.
Computer Programmer
The main function of computer programmers is testing and creating code for software and applications. Most in this career have a bachelor’s degree, but some companies will consider hiring candidates with an associate’s degree. Since this occupation can be outsourced to other countries, employment is projected to decrease by 7% from 2018-2028. In 2018, the median salary for computer programmers was $84,280.
Computer and Information Research Scientist
This career usually requires a master’s or doctoral degree after earning a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field. Computer and information research scientists are responsible for finding new ways to access computer technology, and new ways to utilize current technology in various fields. Employment in this career is expected to increase by 16% from 2018-2028. The 2018 median salary for this occupation was $118,370.
Software Developer
As of May 2018, the average salary for a software developer was $105,590. To become a software developer, a bachelor’s degree in computer science is needed as well as experience in programming. Primary duties in this occupation are application development, creating computer programs and working on underlying systems that control networks.
Information Security Analyst
As cybersecurity becomes more critical due to increasing cyberattacks, this position continues to grow. The BLS estimates that this occupation will grow by 32% from 2018-2028, much faster than average. Information security analysts are responsible for their company’s cybersecurity and preventing those cyberattacks. They map out plans to make sure there are no vulnerabilities in their systems. Most analysts have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, and the average salary in 2018 was $98,350.
How Much Money Can you Make with a CIS Degree?
In May 2018, the median annual wage of computer and technology careers was $86,320, which is 123% higher than the median annual wage for all occupations.
Required Skills for CIS Jobs
Many types of job opportunities exist within the computer information systems field. These mentioned above are just a few that are available. Others include quality assurance specialist, data analyst, network engineer, systems security administrator and IT consultant all the way up to VP of IT and CTO levels. Common skills required in the CIS field are:
- Problem-solving abilities
- Flexibility in a team environment
- Change management
- Project management
- Ability to understand user requests and experience
- Organizational skills
- Knowledge of C++, Java, Visual Basic and SQL
IT businesses that typically employ those in the CIS field are Microsoft, Oracle, IBM and Accenture.
What Other Industries Hire CIS Professionals?
IT service companies are not the only industries looking for people with CIS knowledge. These IT professionals can be found in almost every other industry. For example, the proliferation of medical technology is accelerating the demand for information system assistance in the healthcare administrative sector. According to Robert Half’s salary guide healthcare providers seek specialized positions like:
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) and Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
- Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA)
- Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
These healthcare IT jobs all require coding, patient information management and computer information system administration. Moreover, CIS degrees are valuable to industries like finance and insurance, education, manufacturing and telecommunications.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Technology Occupations, on the internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm (November 20, 2019).
National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth. Degree and/or certificate program options do not guarantee career or salary outcomes. Students should conduct independent research for specific employment information.
