Computer information systems professionals use technology to help businesses. The demand for qualified professionals in the field has increased in the past year and is projected to continue growing. Getting a degree from one of the best schools for computer information systems will open up many job opportunities in the tech industry.
Attending one of the best computer information systems colleges will prepare you for a successful career in technology by teaching you research skills, network administrative skills, and software development. This article takes a comprehensive look at the best computer information systems universities and the career opportunities you’ll be able to pursue with a degree from one of these schools.
Best Computer Information Systems College and University Rankings: Top 10 Computer Information Systems Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University Online | AZ | Online | 117 |
| Boston University | MA | Hybrid | 42 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | PA | In-person | 25 |
| Colorado State University | CO | Hybrid | 148 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | FL | Online or in-person | 202 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | IL | In-person | 122 |
| Southern New Hampshire University | NH | Online | 136 |
| University of Houston | TX | In-person | 179 |
| University of Pennsylvania | PA | Online or in-person | 8 |
| University of Texas at Austin | TX | In-person | 38 |
Computer Information Systems School Rankings: Best Computer Information Systems Colleges and Universities
The best computer information colleges and universities offer well-rounded programs, have strong faculties and provide a wealth of resources and opportunities for students. While you might think you have to attend a school with an extremely high academic reputation, there are options for everyone no matter your lifestyle, educational background, or financial situation. Let’s take a closer look at the best schools for computer information systems.
Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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The Best Schools for Computer Information Systems: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
The best schools for computer information systems offer types of college degrees and university programs such as associate degrees, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degrees. Some of the best computer information systems schools also offer undergraduate and graduate certificate programs and PhD programs in this field of study.
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Computer Information Systems Community College Certificate
A computer information systems community college certificate is a great option for students that want short-term programs. These programs usually last weeks, or at most, a few months. Certificates provide the hands-on experience using industry-standard hardware, software, and operating systems that is required to pursue employment in the tech industry.
Computer Information Systems Associate Degree
A computer information systems associate degree is a two-year undergraduate degree. These programs are designed to provide you with analysis skills, programming skills, problem-solving skills, and foundational knowledge. An associate degree will help you pursue an entry-level digital information career within a variety of businesses and organizations.
There are two main types of Associate Degrees in Computer Information Systems. Associate of Science degrees are foundational degrees used to pursue secondary undergraduate education. Associate of Applied Science degrees are designed to prepare graduates to start careers after graduation.
Computer Information Systems Bachelor’s Degree
A computer information systems bachelor’s degree is a four-year undergraduate degree. Bachelor’s programs aim to give students the basic technical skills and knowledge necessary to get jobs in the computer information systems industry. Bachelor’s degrees are also necessary for people who want to continue their education in a graduate program.
Bachelor of Science degrees are the most common types of bachelor’s degrees you can get in the field of computer information systems. A BS focuses mostly on theory and research. Another common type of Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems is a Bachelor of Engineering. This degree is focused on practical applications of the field of study.
Computer Information Systems Master’s Degree
A Computer Information systems master’s Degree is a two-year graduate degree. Master’s degrees are great for career advancement and for transitioning into new career paths. These programs are designed to cover a wide range of topics such as software development, data management, systems operations, and programming knowledge.
Many master’s degree programs offer specialization and concentration options in fields like data management, web application development, and IT security. The most common type of master’s degree available for those that want to pursue graduate education in computer information systems is a Master of Science. An MS focuses on the technical, theoretical, and research aspects of computer information systems.
Computer Information Systems Graduate Certificate
A computer information systems graduate certificate is a postsecondary education certificate awarded to students upon completion of certain graduate coursework. Graduate certificates prove a student’s mastery of certain aspects of computer information systems. These certificates can be used to pursue employment or to satisfy the academic requirements of a master’s degree.
Computer Information Systems Doctorate
A computer information systems doctorate is a four to six-year graduate degree. This is the highest degree a student can obtain in this field of study. A PhD in Computer Information Systems will give you knowledge of advanced topics in computer information systems, as well as research skills needed to pursue a variety of positions.
PhD programs are designed to prepare students for careers in the academic field. Pursuing a doctorate degree will ensure you earn a higher annual salary. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals with doctoral degrees earn $1,885 per week, while professionals with master’s degrees make $1,545 per week.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Computer Information Systems Schools: Other Computer Information Systems University Rankings
Some of the best computer information systems schools are Arizona State University, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pennsylvania, and Illinois Institute of Technology. We’ve gathered these schools into different rankings, such as the best schools with dual degrees or accelerated programs. Read on to find out how different universities might work for you.
Best Online Computer Information Systems Schools
- Florida Institute of Technology Online. Florida Tech offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate computer information systems programs that you can take online. You will have the flexibility to study material and complete assignments wherever you want, and have the opportunity to engage with your classmates and professors through different platforms.
- Southern New Hampshire University. SNHU offers a fully online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems that’s accredited by the ACBSP. Moreover, SNHU is one of the most affordable universities. Their tuition rate is lower than average and they haven’t raised their costs in ten years. They also offer a variety of financial aid options.
- University of Pennsylvania Online. UPenn offers a fully online master’s degree. This self-paced program is specially designed for people without a background in computer science that want to break into tech. Graduates with a Penn Engineering online degree have landed high-paying jobs at companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.
Best Community Colleges for Computer Information Systems
- Fullerton College. This school offers a computer information systems associate degree designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in tech. Fullerton College is part of the North Orange County Community College District, and has an open admission policy for all of its undergraduate programs.
- North Shore Community College. NSCC offers a computer information systems Associate of Science designed for students that want to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program. NSCC is a public university accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
- Rockland Community College. RCC offers a 63-credit Associate of Science in Computer Information Systems. This program prepares students to transfer to a bachelor’s program. RCC has numerous transfer agreements with a wide variety of universities to ensure its students can pursue further undergraduate education.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Computer Information Systems
- Arizona State University. ASU offers a variety of computer information systems bachelor’s degree programs. There is also a focus on flexibility, and students have options that allow them to earn undergraduate degrees in-person or online. ASU offers both dual degrees and accelerated programs.
- Florida Institute of Technology. Florida Tech offers fully online computer information systems associate and bachelor’s degrees. By enrolling in one of Florida Tech’s programs you’ll be able to pursue an undergraduate education at your own pace at one of the best computer information systems colleges.
- University of Texas at Austin. UT offers four dual degree programs in computer information systems. This school is a great option if you want to pursue two undergraduate degrees at the same time, or if you want to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in a short amount of time.
Best Graduate Schools for Computer Information Systems
- Boston University. The Metropolitan College at Boston University offers a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems that can be earned online or in person. This degree has a wide variety of concentration options for students to choose from. BU is great for students that want to work while earning their degree, since classes are mostly taken in the afternoons.
- Carnegie Mellon University. CMU offers a Master’s and a PhD in Information Systems Management. The master’s degree program can be completed in less than two years and offers five different pathways for its completion. The PhD program is designed to prepare students for careers in research.
- Colorado State University. CSU offers a Graduate Certificate in Business Information Systems and a Master’s of Computer Information Systems. Both programs can be completed fully online or in person. Moreover, CSU offers graduate students plenty of opportunities to gain professional experience while they pursue their degree.
Best Computer Information Systems Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- Illinois Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration /Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. This dual bachelor’s degree program from Illinois Tech combines foundational knowledge and skills of business administration and computer science. Through this program, you’ll be able to participate in a variety of internships to gain professional experience while earning your degrees.
- University of Houston | Accelerated Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity. UH’s dual degree program will let you earn a Bachelor’s and a Master’s in Information Systems in five years or less. You’ll also be able to pursue a specialization in cyber security by enrolling in this program.
- University of Texas at Austin | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Master of Science in Information Studies. This is one of two five-year dual degrees offered by UT. This interdisciplinary program offers students the option to tailor their individual programs to focus on their interests.
Best Schools With Accelerated Computer Information Systems Programs
- Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, Accelerated Program. This accelerated program allows students to finish their bachelor’s degree in only three years. This option is available both for students that want to earn their degree in person and those that want to earn their degree online.
- Saint Louis University | Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Information Systems Accelerated Program. The SLU accelerated dual degree program is designed for students that want to pursue graduate education in information systems right after getting their bachelor’s degree. This dual degree can be completed in as little as five years and can be earned fully online.
- University of Houston | Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity Accelerated Program. UH’s accelerated degree program offers students the opportunity to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in less than five years. Students need to complete a total of 127 credits to graduate from this intensive program.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Computer Information Systems Worth It?
Yes, it is worth going to graduate school for computer information systems. Master’s degrees and graduate certificates are great for career advancement. These programs refine and tailor your technical skills, preparing you for high-paying positions in the industry. PhDs, on the other hand, are necessary if you want to pursue careers in research or in academia and give you a strong foundation to pursue even higher-paying positions.
What Jobs Can You Do With a Computer Information Systems Degree?
Some of the jobs you can do with a computer information systems degree are computer and information systems manager, network and computer systems administrator, and software developer.
The best computer information universities ensure students gain the technical and business skills necessary to pursue their career goals by offering rigorous foundational courses and also by having an internship requirement. Jobs in this field are generally very well-paying.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Computer Information Systems?
You can earn between $61,000 per year and $67,000 per year with an undergraduate degree in computer information systems, according to PayScale. Earning a graduate degree can help you earn a higher annual income. With a master’s degree or a PhD in Computer Information Systems, you’ll be eligible for jobs with a median salary of more than $100,000 per year.
Highest-Paying Computer Information Systems Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Master’s degree | $159,010 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | Master’s degree or PhD | $131,490 |
| Software Systems Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s or master’s degree | $99,270 |
| Software Applications Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $98,636 |
| Computer Programmer | Bachelor’s degree | $93,000 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | Bachelor’s or master’s degree | $80,600 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | PhD | $79,640 |
| Computer Support Specialist | Associate degree or bachelor’s degree | $57,910 |
Best Jobs With a Computer Information Systems Degree
The best jobs with a computer information systems degree are computer systems and network administrator, information security analyst, computer information systems manager, and research scientist. In order to do some of these jobs, you might need a specific degree level, like a master’s degree. The following list outlines the best jobs available for each degree level.
How Can I Pay for Computer Information Systems School?
You can pay for computer information systems school by applying to a variety of financial aid options. These include grants, scholarships, work-study jobs, and fellowships and assistantships. Undergraduate and graduate students can apply to most of these financing options, but teaching and research assistantships are only available to graduate students.
- Grants. This is a financial aid option that doesn’t require any repayment. Grants often cover expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, and books. Only some computer information systems schools offer grants, but there are a variety of federal grants that are available to undergraduate and graduate students.
- Scholarships. Most schools offer this kind of financial aid. Scholarships are often awarded based on academic or athletic achievement. To receive a scholarship, you’ll often have to meet criteria like having a high GPA, participating in community service, and having extracurricular activities.
- Work-Study Jobs. This federal aid program allows students to work part-time and earn money to pay for their education expenses. Most of the employment is community service work and work related to the student’s field of study. This financing option is only available to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in schools that participate in the Federal Work-Study Program.
- Assistantships and Fellowships. Graduate students support faculty members with teaching and research responsibilities, such as helping with lectures, reviewing papers, and carrying out other administrative tasks. In turn, they receive stipends and fee waivers to help cover education expenses.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Computer Information Systems School for You
There are many factors that go into selecting one the best computer information systems colleges. You should consider the school’s accreditation, the format of the offered programs, the cost, the curricular content, and the dual or accelerated degree options. Below, we unpack some of these topics to help you choose the best computer information systems school for you.
Format
Many colleges offer in-person, hybrid, and fully online computer information systems degree programs. It’s an element to consider before applying to an academic program. Choose a format that suits you and allows you the flexibility to work or maintain a healthy study-life balance.
Dual Degree and Accelerated Degree Options
Dual degrees are awarded to students that complete the coursework of two separate academic programs, such as two bachelor’s degrees in different fields, at the same time. Accelerated degrees allow students to earn their degree in less than the usual time allotted for study. Choosing one or both degree options can help you achieve your career goals faster.
Employment Outcomes
Before applying to a computer information systems degree program, take the time to check the school’s employment outcomes. A high employment rate means that the institution makes sure that students gain the necessary skills and experience to become computer information systems professionals.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Computer Information Systems?
No, it doesn’t matter what college you go to for computer information systems. Earning your degree at a highly reputable school might come in handy when you start applying to jobs right after school. If you don’t have a lot of professional experience, recruiters might evaluate you based on the school you attended. But, in the long run, only your technical experience and accomplishments will matter.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Computer Information Systems University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Computer Information Systems
We ranked the best computer information systems schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by U.S. News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our computer information systems university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of computer information systems degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Computer Information Systems
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Best Computer Information Systems Schools FAQ
Getting a degree in computer information systems usually takes between two years and six years. Associate and master’s degrees typically take two to three years to complete, while bachelor’s degrees are typically earned in four years. A PhD can take up to six years, though it varies depending on the student and on the program.
It’s hard to get a degree in computer information systems. In order to get your degree, you’ll have to take advanced technical courses, such as calculus and statistics, and you’ll have to learn technical skills such as programming. Even though earning a degree can be challenging, computer information systems is a rewarding career path.
With a computer information systems degree, you can do a wide variety of jobs in the tech industry. These include software developer, computer and information systems manager, research scientist, security analyst, and network administrator. Professionals with a computer information systems degree typically make somewhere between $60,000 and $159,010 per year.
Yes, computer information systems is a good career choice. Getting a computer information systems degree will give you the knowledge and technical skill required for a variety of high-paying positions in the tech industry. According to BLS, occupations in this field are projected to grow 13 percent in the next decade, which means that getting a degree from one of the best schools for computer information systems is a smart career choice.
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