Graduate FAQS

Computer Information Systems (CIS) is a blend of computer and business. A student pursuing this degree will take business courses such as Accounting, Decision Science, Finance, Marketing, and Management along with computer related courses. Computer related courses include programming (two courses minimum), systems analysis and design, information management etc. CIS students establish a robust foundation that prepares them to pursue either a business career with a strong understanding of how technology (leading edge and contemporary) facilitates achieving business objectives or a technology career with a strong understanding of how business objectives drive computer information systems toward achieving business goals. Computer Science (CS) is a blend of mathematics and the computer. Computer courses in CS tend to be more technical, such as compiler design, whereas computer courses in CIS tend toward business applications

What is the difference between Computer Information Systems and Management Information Systems? 8/6/2005

Georgia State University does not offer a bachelors degree in Management Information Systems (MIS), but other institutions in the state system such as the University of Georgia do. Computer Information Systems (CIS) is a blend of computer and business. A student pursuing this degree will take business courses such as Accounting, Decision Science, Finance, Marketing, and Management along with computer related courses. Computer related courses include programming (two courses minimum), systems analysis, information management etc. Typically, MIS programs are business related as are CIS programs, but MIS programs are usually less technical, focusing more on the management of computer resources and less on application development or programming.

If I get a degree in Computer Information Systems, what kind of a job can I get? 1/26/2007

Finding a computer information systems related job depends on the courses you take, your performance in these courses, and any work experience and additional knowledge you have. There are a wide range of positions that you might hold. These include systems analyst, project manager, software engineer, and more. Please see the careers page for more information.

I already have a degree in __________. I want to get into computer field. Should I try for another bachelors degree or try for a masters. 8/6/2005

There is no single answer to this question. Factors to consider are how many courses you have completed that count toward the new degree. Persons not possessing a business degree will have to take many courses to obtain a business background, before either type of degree can be awarded. Persons who can make use of the knowledge of the previous degree and their work experience may be better off pursuing a masters degree. Persons who cannot use previous degree courses or work experience may be better suited to another bachelors. Statistically, the masters degree provides the most rewards for the time invested, however entrance into the computer job market is skill based.

I took a computer course at ____ college, but I didn’t get credit for it when I transferred. How can I? 8/6/2005

Credit for courses taken at another institution is granted on the basis of what level the course was taken at and the course content. These factors are compared with the GSU course. If the student feels the transfer credit was denied erroneously, the student can obtain additional documentation such as syllabus, textbook, homework assignments etc. and petition the department for credit. The process of a syllabus review begins and ends with the Office of Academic Assistance. The student does NOT apply to the CIS Department directly. Evaluation criterion is the similarity of the transfer course to the GSU course.

I took some college courses years ago then dropped out. Now I am back in school and it seems it will take me forever to finish. What can I do? 8/6/2003

The bachelors degree program is designed to ensure that every graduate has some knowledge of several areas besides those pertaining to the degree major. Examples are: Humanities, Natural Science, Mathematics, and Social Sciences. Students who think that they have gained sufficient knowledge of any of these subjects through life and or work experience may be able to get course credit by examination through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). Students who wish to explore this option should contact the University’s Testing Center at 404-651-2217.

How long will it take me to finish my degree? 8/6/2005

The answer to that question depends on how many courses the student plans on taking each semester. A full time student is defined as one who takes at least 15 semester hours each semester. A student who works full time may not be able to carry that many hours. Students should determine how many hours are remaining in their degree program and divide those hours by the number of hours carried each semester. The result will determine how many semesters the student must attend to obtain the degree. This time may be shortened if the student takes courses in the summer. A word of caution to students who are working and are returning to school after a long absence. Take only the number of courses that you can devote sufficient time to. The number of courses taken can be increased after a successful GPA is achieved.

Can I take a prerequisite concurrently with the course that requires that prerequisite? 10/25/2006

Check with the course instructor. Typically prerequisites must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better before taking any course that requires that prerequisite.

How can I find out more about the content of each course? 8/2/2005

There are generic syllabi for each course on this web site http://www2.cis.gsu.edu/cis/program/syllabus/index.asp . You may either use the search engine to find a particular course or look under "Academic Programs" on our Web site.

Can I take a course at another university and apply it toward my degree at GSU? 8/6/2005

Yes. One of the reasons all of the University Systems of Georgia switched to the semester system was to allow for such activities. Cross registration is now allowed with any accredited university in Georgia. In the Atlanta area, these include: Emory, Georgia Tech, Oglethorpe, and UGA. To take advantage of this, the student must have a syllabus from the course he/she wishes to apply toward their GSU degree program approved by the CIS Department Academic Program Director at least three weeks prior to Phase I registration.

Why are there so few courses offered for the Summer Semester? 8/6/2005

Faculty at ALL universities work under academic year contracts. This is for Fall and Spring Semesters, ONLY. Teaching for the Summer Semester is by volunteers only. Most faculty work on their research during the summer months. Thus, the summer schedule of classes is always minimal. Core courses are generally the only courses that we guarantee over the summer session. A student should NOT plan to take electives during this time…chances are they will not be offered.

What are the job prospects after graduation? 1/22/2007

CIS majors will hold the 3 of the top 8 growth jobs over the next 8 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Also, see Hot CIS Jobs.

What programming languages should I take to fulfill my programming requirements? 4/4/2008

Under the new curriculum, some "tracks" do not require taking a programming language. Please see the curriculum diagram

What is the minimum GPA for a CIS major? 10/25/2006

CIS majors are required to maintain the same minimum GPA as other RCB Students. Currently, this is a 2.5 GPA. Students who do not meet this requirement, but are close, may obtain a one-time only waiver through their College advisor in the Office of Academic Assistance (OAA).

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