Why Choose Computer Information Systems?
The Associate in Applied Science degree, offered through the College of Business at Ferris, prepares students to support computing systems by providing programming, systems analysis, network administration, and some database management skills.
Entry-level positions include such jobs as: programmer/analyst, network administrator, systems analyst, computer support specialist, and other related positions in the field.
This program has close relationships with industry through a program advisory board and offers internships as a practical hands-on experience. The hands-on approach gives graduates a real-world look at their professional field.
Career Opportunities
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), some of the fastest growth jobs for 2008-2018 are in computer and computing-related positions. The BLS also predicts that professional and service occupations will increase the fastest, and will account for over 50% of the total job growth during the decade.
Furthermore, many sources predict a shortage of much needed IS professionals despite rumors and actual off-shore outsourcing of programming positions over the next several years. New Information Systems positions are needed to reflect this changing landscape and to be current with technologies.
Computers and Information Systems have become essential to all aspects of business and life. Professionals are needed to relate the problem-solving abilities of a computer system to an individual business department, corporation, or a multi-national enterprise.
Curriculum
The CIS program provides maximum flexibility for students, and easily changes with the market place. The curriculum core is aligned to a national standard (IS 2002) produced by the ACM, AITP, and AIS professional societies. This core was created from skills and attributes listed in thousands of job advertisements for IS positions.
The Associate in Applied Science degree is aligned to easily flow into the four-year BS degree in CIS if so desired.
Admission Requirements
New Students: 2.5 high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale) and two of the three criteria below: (1) English ACT score of 16 or higher, or SAT Writing score of 370 or higher; (2) Math ACT score of 19 or higher, or SAT Math score of 460 or higher; (3) Reading ACT score of 19 or higher, or SAT Reading score of 430 or higher.
Transfer Students: Combined college or university GPA of 2.35 (on a 4.0 scale) from all institutions attended. GPA is based on completion of 12 credit hours or more. Transfer equivalency for FSU ENGLISH 150 or placement during the first semester at FSU which would require an ACT English score of 16 or higher; Compass score 70 – 100. Transfer equivalency for FSU MATH 115 or placement during the first semester at FSU which would require an ACT Math score of 19 or higher; Compass Algebra score 46 - 74 and HS Algebra with 2.0.
Exceptions for New and Transfer Students: Applicants not meeting the above criteria but having a 2.35 High School GPA and at least a 16 ACT in Math or Reading (2.00 Overall GPA for Transfer Students) can be considered for conditional admission in a College of Business Pre-Program. Any mitigating circumstances will be considered on an individual basis by the College of Business Dean’s Office.
Pre-Program students must complete a minimum of 12 FSU credits (excluding developmental courses) with a 2.35 GPA; courses must include ENGL 150 and MATH 115 before being considered for admission into their program of choice. Students must meet admission criteria for their chosen degree program by the time they have earned 30 credits.
More Information:
Additional guidance can be found on the College of Business Webpage under the Admissions tab.
Graduation Requirements
The Computer Information Systems program at Ferris leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree. Graduation requires a minimum 2.0 GPA in core classes, in the major, and overall.
More Information
Accountancy, Finance & Info Systems
119 South Street BUS 212
Big Rapids, MI 49307-2284
Phone: 231-591-2434
Email: AFIS@ferris.edu
The College of Business is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP.) Next Accreditation Review is February 2018.
http://www.acbsp.org/p/st/ld/&sid=s1_001
