Computer Information Science

Faculty:
Oakes - Chair, Collins, Herr, Pinet, Schiavo & Tunnell
Plaster Hall 223 • 417.625.9383

Mission

The Computer Information Science (CIS) Department provides opportunities for a broad undergraduate education in the many aspects of computer information technology. The program offers courses of instruction that develop a thorough understanding of current methods used in the design and implementation of computer based solutions.

Fundamental Values

Pursuant to the department’s educational mission, the faculty:

Maintains the currency of the curriculum through ongoing research and consultation with industry representatives.
Engages in professional development that allows its members to remain current in their fields and to provide technological leadership to the university community.
Is committed to the success of its students, both during and after college.

Program Goals

The Computer Information Science program will produce graduates who:

Understand and can utilize core information technologies.
Can analyze, design and implement effective technology based solutions.
Have requisite communication and quantitative skills.
Work effectively as team members.
Are committed to lifelong personal and professional development.
Conduct themselves in an honorable and ethical manner.

Curricula Options

Within this context, the Department offers the following curricula options:

Bachelor of Science in CIS-Information Technology
Bachelor of Science in CIS-Computational Mathematics
Bachelor of Science in CIS-Computer Forensics
Minor in CIS-Network Systems Administration
Minor in CIS-Information Systems
Minor in CIS-Website Administration
Minor in CIS-Information Assurance and Security
Associate of Science in CIS

The four Bachelor of Science in CIS alternatives prepare the student for graduate school or entry-level positions such as systems programmer, systems analyst, applications programmer, database administrator, computer forensics analyst, user support specialist, network administrator or website administrator.

Information Technology and Information Systems are distinguished by selected courses that develop the student’s understanding of an organization’s information requirements and procedures for designing and implementing an information system that will facilitate its management. The Information Systems option results in a minor in Business while Information Technology allows the most flexibility in selecting supporting courses.

Computational Mathematics meets the requirements for a double major in Computer Information Science and Mathematics. The student takes CIS and mathematics classes that develop an expertise in applied mathematics and the theoretical foundations of computer science. Such knowledge is required to design and implement computer solutions for a wide range of problems encountered in science and engineering.

Computer Forensics fulfills the requirements for a double major in Computer Information Science and Criminal Justice Administration. Computer Forensics involves techniques for securing computer networks as a precaution against criminal threat. In addition, it includes the identification, extraction, preservation and documentation of computer evidence for the purpose of identifying and prosecuting perpetrators of computer-based crime.

A minor or associate of science provides the student pursuing some other major with a credential and expertise in computing, an enhancement that is becoming increasingly important in almost every area of science, education, business and the arts. The Network Systems Administration alternative is designed to provide the student with the knowledge base necessary for managing local/wide area computer networks, as well as being able to provide user support and training in the area of personal computer hardware and application software. The Website Administration curriculum focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to build and provide on-going support for effective and useful Internet websites. The Information Assurance and Security minor develops the skills needed for the protection of computer networks and institutional data.

In addition to these options, the Computer Information Science Department in collaboration with other departments within the Plaster School of Business has developed a curriculum alternative that will qualify the student for a Bachelor of Science in CIS, along with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree with a selected emphasis such as accounting, finance and economics, marketing, management, international business or general business.

The nature of Computer Information Science is such that a student selecting this major should enjoy and have a talent for solving problems. The effectiveness of the CIS curricula is measured by the success of our graduates. Their average starting salaries are among the highest when compared to other majors and placement records indicate that they have enjoyed an excellent placement rate. Many hold positions as middle and upper-level managers for a wide range of organizations and several have earned graduate degrees.

Only courses in which a student has earned a grade of ‘C’ or above will satisfy departmental requirements for the major or minor in Computer Information Science.

For additional information contact:
Tracy Gilmore, Department Secretary
Plaster Hall, Room 223E • 417.625.9383 • gilmore-t@mssu.edu

Programs

Major

Minor

CIS Core

Computer Information Science

Courses

Computer Information Science