Fact Sheets

Computer Science and Computer Information Systems @ MSUM


Computer Science & Computer Information Systems Majors
After a slight decline in recent years, demand for information technology professionals is expected to grow over the next several years. The technology industry continues to offer exciting, challenging and rewarding careers. Both Computer Science (3rd) and Computer Information Systems (6th) are listed in the top 10 degrees in demand (bachelor’s degree level) by the National Association of Colleges and Employers Research Job Outlook 2007.

The Computer Science major emphasizes the theory of computer science/programming technology and program design. Coursework prepares students to work in high technology industries.

The Computer Information Systems major is ideal for students planning a career in business or industry. The CIS major combines information systems coursework with business-related courses, preparing students to coordinate the application of information systems to business and industry.

Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (Occupational Outlook Handbook 2006-2007 edition), the latest employment projections show that five of the 12 fastest growing occupations through 2014 are in the computer industry. These occupations include network systems and data communications analysts, computer software engineers (both application and systems software), network and computer systems administrators, and database administrators. The demand for each of these occupations is expected to grow from 40 to over 50 percent. The salary for each computer-related occupation is listed in the highest salary range ($43,605 and over). All of these careers require a bachelor’s degree as opposed to a two-year degree.

Program Benefits
•    Excellent internship opportunities exist in the Fargo-Moorhead area, including Microsoft Business Solutions. More than 25 percent of our graduates complete internships in their junior or senior year to prepare for the job market.
•    Class sizes range from 10 to 20 students in upper-division courses and no more than 30 in lower-division classes.
•    An active student chapter of the ACM sponsors program contests, field trips, workshops, community service, guest speakers and social activities.
•    CS/CIS students participate in the annual Student Academic Conference, which showcases the work and talent of MSUM students.
•    MSUM offers excellent computing facilities, including the CSIS department’s two computer labs—a Windows-based lab and a Linux lab. An advanced technologies research facility lab for special projects is also available.
•    The department employs a full-time network administrator.  
•    Job opportunities within the department include career-related work in computer labs.
•    A four-year graduation guarantee is available to eligible CS/CIS majors.
•    Diverse faculty specialize in many areas within the two majors.
•    Department scholarship opportunities are awarded to qualifying CS/CIS majors.