Woman with long microlocs sits at a desk smiling with hands on keyboard

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS)

computer icon for 4 week courses

4-Week Courses

Start sooner and finish faster with our innovative course design.

calendar icon for year round enrollment

Year-Round Enrollment

Our admissions team reviews applications year-round.

graduation cap icon for alumni community

240K+ Alumni Worldwide

Become a member of NU’s global community.

Home » Programs » Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS)

Learn how to solve organizational challenges using computers and related technologies.

There is great and growing demand in the corporate world for people who can bridge the gap between businesses and technologies and integrate all elements of the enterprise into a comprehensive network of information systems. National University’s BS in Information Systems is designed to help you develop the ability to use technology to address the operational, tactical, and strategic challenges facing organizations and businesses in today’s complex marketplace. 

NU’s information systems degree is available online or in-person and allows you to choose a career-focused concentration in business management or information management. Our curriculum includes a capstone experience during which you may work with a business in your community to gain real-world experience in the field.

WASC icon

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Course Details

Program Prerequisite

  • 1 course; 4.5 quarter units

Prerequisite: ENG 102

Introduces students to college-level inquiry and research strategies. Develops the ability to find, identify, evaluate, and use information effectively and ethically to investigate a topic of scholarly inquiry. Practices communication of information using software applications and written research papers. Explores the nature of information as valued, constructed, and contextual while reinforcing the ethics of intellectual property and citation.

*ILR 260 Information Literacy must be taken before taking any courses in the BSIS program.

Requirements for the Major

  • 17 courses; 76.5 quarter units

Core Requirements

  • 13 courses; 58.5 quarter units

Overview of core concepts related to the emerging interconnections between technology, the organization, and information management.

Forms of data, gap analysis, model building, and interpretation will form the foundation for students to ethically appFoundation of project management – project integration, scope, time, cost, quality, human resources, communications, risk, and procurement. The focus is on the concepts, skills, tools, and techniques involved in information technology project management. Students will develop a project plan using Microsoft Project.ly data analytics to facilitate modern knowledge discovery techniques.

Prerequisite: CIS 301

This is the first of the two-course sequence providing comprehensive coverage on IT infrastructure architecture. It introduces IT infrastructure architecture and building blocks. It also covers infrastructure non-functional attributes such as availability, performance, and security. Specific topics include cloud computing fundamentals, availability and performance concepts, security concepts, infrastructure building blocks including data centers, networks, storage, computers and servers, operating systems, and end user devices.

PrerequisiteCIS 314 with a minimum grade of C. This is a continuation of CIS 314. Therefore, students must possess the necessary fundamental knowledge to continue.

This is the second of the two-course sequence providing comprehensive coverage on IT infrastructure architecture. It introduces IT infrastructure architecture and building blocks. It also covers infrastructure non-functional attributes such as availability, performance, and security. Specific topics include cloud computing fundamentals, availability and performance concepts, security concepts, infrastructure building blocks including data centers, networks, storage, computers and servers, operating systems, and end user devices. Infrastructure management is also explored.

Comprehensive introduction to the planning, analysis, design, and implementation of contemporary information systems. Students will examine the role and responsibility of a System Analyst. Several approaches to system requirements are also covered.

Prerequisite: CIS 320 with a minimum grade of C. Students must possess the necessary fundamental knowledge to continue.

Fundamentals of database systems. An introductory approach to developing database applications; students learn to evaluate a business situation and then build and design a database application. The focus is from systems design to distribution and integration of the system through hands-on experience. Core theories and ideas of database management systems are also covered.

Prerequisite: CIS 315 and CIS 350 

Explores the design, selection, implementation and management of enterprise IT solutions. The focus is on applications and infrastructure and their fit with the business. Students learn frameworks and strategies for infrastructure management, system administration, data/information architecture, content management, distributed computing, middleware, legacy system integration, system consolidation, software selection, total cost of ownership calculation, IT investment analysis, and emerging technologies.

PrerequisiteCIS 421, or CSC 422

This course covers the aspects of information security on computer systems and networks. Information is becoming a valuable asset and security is vital in maintaining its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This course explores aspects of securing a network such as identifying threats, vulnerabilities, and assets that aid in planning, risk analysis, and implementation of security policies. Other topics include security management practices, security models and architectures, and business continuity, disaster recovery, and incident response planning. In addition, legal, ethical, and professional issues are analyzed. This course, together with CIS 475, may help students prepare for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) exam.

PrerequisiteCIS 350

This course introduces students to the emerging field of Artificial Intelligence, its potential applications and technologies. Students will be provided a basic understanding of what is inside Artificial Intelligence. Students will learn the different stages involved in a typical AI Project. They will also be introduced to machine learning models, neural network, deep learning algorithms, and data mining methods.

Analysis of the values, ethics and ideologies in computing and their applications to current issues in computer industry within the contemporary sociocultural setting. Focuses on ethical decision-making in computing matters. Students develop an ethical outlook on a wide variety of workplace issues in computing through case study, debate and readings.

PrerequisiteCIS 310 and CIS 430 and CIS 423 and CIS 435 and CIS 475 and CSC 350

A precursor to the final IS/IT product development capstone course. Students research their area of interest and learn how to apply project management tools in the preliminary development process of their final project product. Grading is by H, S or U only. It is important to note that the capstone course sequence CIS490A, CIS490B, and CIS490C must be taken in consecutive months. In case a student is not able to successfully complete this course sequence in consecutive months, the student will be required to start with CIS490A in the future, whenever this course sequence is offered.

PrerequisiteCIS 490A with a minimum grade of S. CIS 490B is a continuation of CIS 490A. Therefore, students must complete CIS 490A successfully to continue.

A capstone hands-on project in the student’s area of interest. Students apply skills learned, principles, topics and tools that have been taught throughout the program to develop an IS/IT specific product. Grading is H, S or U only. It is important to note that the capstone course sequence CIS490A, CIS490B, and CIS490C must be taken in consecutive months. In case a student is not able to successfully complete this course sequence in consecutive months, the student will be required to start with CIS490A in the future, whenever this course sequence is offered.

PrerequisiteCIS 490B with a minimum grade of S. CIS 490C is a continuation of CIS 490B. Therefore, students must complete CIS 490B successfully to continue.

This is a continuation of CIS490B. Students apply skills learned, principles, topics and tools that have been taught throughout the program to develop an IS/IT specific product in the student’s area of interest. It is important to note that the capstone course sequence CIS490A, CIS490B, and CIS490C must be taken in consecutive months. In case a student is not able to successfully complete this course sequence in consecutive months, the student will be required to start with CIS490A in the future, whenever this course sequence is offered.

Students must complete one of the following concentrations in order to complete the degree:

Concentration in Business Management

Academic Program Director: Lu Zhang; lzhang@nu.edu

The Business Management Concentration empowers students to cultivate a profound comprehension of fundamental business principles. This is achieved through the exploration of diverse subjects including management theories, organizational structures and behavior, adept communication, team leadership, human resource management, and the fundamentals of marketing. Furthermore, students will acquire the skill to leverage information systems in order to bolster organizational strategies, thereby securing a competitive edge within the industry.

Requirements for the Concentration

  • 4 courses; 18 quarter units

Introduction to the roles of managers and the vision, mission and goals of organizations. Investigates management theories and explores the four primary functions of managers: Planning, Organizing, Leading and Controlling. Covers issues related to human resource management, organizational structure and behavior, creative problem solving, effective communication, and the management of teams, change and innovations.

Overview of Information Systems (IS) infrastructure and its utilization in today’s global business environment. The use of technological tools and the role of information systems will be discussed from the organizational strategic, tactical and operational view. Students learn how to choose and utilize information and knowledge to gain competitive advantage in the industry.

This course is the introduction to contemporary marketing theory and practice in both the local and global marketplace. Basic concepts of marketing are examined with an emphasis on marketing positioning, segmentation and targeting as well as product development and distribution.

PrerequisiteCIS 421

This course takes a management perspective in exploring the acquisition, development and implementation of plans and policies to achieve efficient and effective information systems. Students will address topics relating to defining the IS infrastructure and the systems that support the operational and strategic needs of the organization. The course examines developing a framework that will allow leaders of organizations to assess existing IS infrastructures and emerging technologies as well as how these technologies affect organizational strategy.

Concentration in Information Management

Academic Program Director: Lu Zhang; lzhang@nu.edu

The Information Management Concentration goes even further by immersing students in the latest advancements of information systems technologies, tools, practices, and strategies, enhancing their understanding and proficiency in the field.

Requirements for the Concentration

  • 4 courses; 18 quarter units

PrerequisiteCIS 350

Focuses on two aspects of website management: technical and business aspects. An introduction to Web languages and technologies is made with some in-depth coverage of HTML and CSS. How to manage people, content, and suppliers is covered in the business focus

PrerequisiteCIS 435

This course covers different topics in the emerging field of Artificial Intelligence, its potential applications and technologies. It discusses the basics of natural language processing, data visualization, and computer vision. Tools available to implement AI will also be covered. Students will create data visualizations and machine learning models for industry-relevant applications.

PrerequisiteCIS 474

This course covers the technical aspects of information security for computer systems and networks. Various topics of information security will provide students with an understanding of the tools and technologies used to design secure information systems and networks. With the understanding of what security is, this course discusses access control mechanisms, methods of attack, and secure protocols. It includes how to secure telecommunications networks and the Internet. Cryptography is discussed in regards to privacy and secrecy. There is an emphasis on physical security followed by application and system development security. In addition, there will be a discussion of vulnerability assessments and penetration testing and an examination of digital forensics. This course, together with CIS 474, may help students prepare for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) exam.

PrerequisiteCIS 421

This course takes a management perspective in exploring the acquisition, development and implementation of plans and policies to achieve efficient and effective information systems. Students will address topics relating to defining the IS infrastructure and the systems that support the operational and strategic needs of the organization. The course examines developing a framework that will allow leaders of organizations to assess existing IS infrastructures and emerging technologies as well as how these technologies affect organizational strategy.

Hear From Our Students

Degree and Course Requirements

To receive a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, students  must complete at least 180 quarter units, 45 of which must be completed in residence at National University, 76.5 of which must be completed at the upper-division level, and a minimum 69 units of the University General Education requirements. In the absence of transfer credit, additional general electives may be necessary to satisfy total units for the degree. Students should refer to the section on undergraduate admission procedures for specific information on admission and evaluation. All students receiving an undergraduate degree in Nevada are required by State Law to complete a course in Nevada Constitution. 

Specializations

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS) program and Business Management specialization are for those interested in applying computing technologies to a variety of business challenges. It links business and technology by focusing on the organizational applications of computers and related technologies. Instruction and coursework will develop your ability to apply technology tools to operational, strategic, and managerial challenges facing businesses in every field.

Learn More

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS) program and Information Management specialization are for those interested in applying computing technologies to a variety of business challenges. It links business and technology by focusing on the organizational applications of computers and related technologies. Instruction and coursework will develop your ability to apply technology tools to operational, strategic, and managerial challenges facing businesses in every field.

 

Learn More

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 42,000 job openings for computer and information systems managers are projected each year, and the demand continues to grow as firms increasingly expand their operations to digital platforms. The field can also be lucrative. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $159,010 in 2021, with the highest 10% earning more than $208,000.*

NU’s information systems degree, which is available online or in-person, is designed to teach you how to help determine the information technology goals of an organization and take responsibility for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.

Our curriculum offers a choice of career-focused concentrations in Business Management or Information Management, allowing you to focus your studies on a specific area of interest. Coursework links business and technology and includes IT courses in systems analysis, database management systems, project management, enterprise architecture, IT infrastructure, and IS strategy, management, and acquisition.

*SOURCE: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm?link_id=CTMK-44573.41816#tab-5

A BS in Information Systems can be your gateway to a wide range of in-demand careers, from software developers and quality assurance analysts to network and computer systems administrators. Some of the top job titles* posted in this field include:

  • Software Engineers
  • Business Systems Analysts
  • Business Analysts
  • Systems Engineers
  • Systems Administrators
  • Project Managers
  • Systems Analysts
  • Information Systems Security Officers
  • Software Developers
  • Data Analysts
  • Network Engineers
  • Cybersecurity Analysts
  • IT Project Managers
  • Information Security Analysts
  • IT Specialists
  • IT Managers
  • Data Engineers
  • Solutions Architects

Information systems is also a field with a high demand for professionals with up-to-date knowledge and skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. Much of this demand is being driven by an increasing need for cybersecurity and cloud computing across all sectors of the business world.

Employers of professionals with key skills in computer science, IT, and project management are spread across every industry. Top employers posting jobs fall into consulting services, healthcare, federal agencies, defense industry, and others, including:

  • Deloitte
  • Anthem
  • Accenture
  • Raytheon Technologies
  • General Dynamics
  • Humana
  • Qualcomm
  • Sirius Computer Solutions
  • National Security Agency
  • Peraton
  • Leidos
  • Cerner
  • United States Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Ernst & Young
  • 3M

**SOURCEEmsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/ (Report viewed: May 9, 2022). DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for Informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.  Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.

The area of information systems is robust and offers numerous pathways to satisfying careers. To provide the industry with highly skilled professionals on the cutting edge of the market’s current and expected needs, National University’s BS in Information Systems degree offers career-focused specializations. Once you complete the core courses, you’ll have the opportunity to take four upper-level courses in one of two concentrations:

Business Management – This specialization requires students to complete four business courses to develop necessary skills in:

  • General models of business
  • Business models
  • Business process design and management
  • Organizational theory
  • Business strategy
  • Evaluation of business performance
  • Analysis of organizational performance.
  • Analysis of individual and team performance
  • Business analytics
  • Business intelligence

Information Management – In this specialization, students will choose four (4) upper-division undergraduate courses from the School of Engineering and Computing programs to create their own specialized concentration. This concentration requires prior approval from the Academic Program Director.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS) Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of National University’s degree in Information Systems, you’ll be able to:

  • Apply analytical and critical thinking skills, and information systems concepts for solving organizational problems
  • Discuss the potential global impact of specific information systems solutions
  • Evaluate and implement organizational planning, design, and integration of information systems solutions in competitive environment
  • Plan and design organizational communications infrastructure and networking topology
  • Improve strategic information management procedures and processes
  • Identify innovative and efficient solutions to solve organizational problems

Hear From Our Faculty

Watch our video to hear Dr. Ron Uhlig explain how information systems are at the heart of most enterprises today, including diverse fields like healthcare and criminal justice.

Admissions

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.

Man in a button-down shirt smiles at a young boy in glasses who also wears a backpack
4-WEEK COURSES
Our course structure is built to make earning your degree accessible and achievable, one month at a time, so you can start sooner and finish faster.

Why Choose National University

  • Four-Week Courses
  • 190+ Degree Programs
  • Online or In Person
  • Year Round Enrollment
  • Military Friendly

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.

Headshot of NU student Cecilia, a woman with long dark hair who is wearing glasses and a tan sweater.

“Balance life and business – may seem difficult but it’s not impossible. Stick with it and great things will follow.”

-Cecilia M., Class of 2011

A mother sits on a couch with a laptop and smiles at her toddler-aged son, who is looking forward.
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
We know your life may not happen on a 9-5 schedule, so we offer courses online or in-person at locations across California.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems program links business and technology across fields as diverse as healthcare and criminal justice. NU’s BSIS degree will serve you in the corporate world and beyond.

As an IS professional, you’ll be responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing computer-related activities for your organization. You’ll also help determine the information technology (IT) goals of the organization and take responsibility for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.

Yes, it can be a lucrative career choice. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $159,010 in 2021, with the highest 10% earning more than $208,000.*

They’re similar in that they both deal with the usage of computers and technology, but there are differences between the two. Generally speaking, IT professionals specialize in hardware and software and are responsible for helping people within organizations or businesses perform their work properly and effectively to achieve their objectives.

IS professionals function as a bridge between technology and people. They organize and analyze data to provide useful information to the employees who are responsible for making important operational and managerial decisions within their companies.

The components of an organization’s information system include its hardware, software, data, people, and processes. These components collect, store, organize, and distribute data throughout an organization. Successful organizations prioritize and maximize their information systems to make informed, data-driven decisions.

white scholarship oppotunities icon

The Key Grant Scholarship

Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.