Career Paths & Opportunities
Information Systems Career Pathways
The Information Systems emphasis equips students with the expertise to bridge the gap between business and technology, focusing on leveraging computing solutions to enhance organizational efficiency. Here are some key career opportunities and the relevant skills developed through this program:
1. IT Project Manager
Organizations like Google, Amazon, Intuit, Oracle, and Comcast hire IT Project Managers to oversee technology initiatives. They coordinate teams, budgets, and timelines to implement enterprise software and cloud systems solutions.
Key Skills:
- Project management methodologies (Agile, Scrum) from CS392M Project Management & Enterprise Software
- Leadership principles from MGT310 Management Theory
- Software development processes from CS322E Software Engineering
2. Cloud Administrator/Cloud Solutions Architect
Companies like Amazon (AWS), Cloudflare, Oracle, and Tesla employ cloud specialists to manage infrastructure on platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Their responsibilities include ensuring scalability, security, and performance for business applications.
Key Skills:
- Cloud computing expertise from CS311C Cloud Administration
- Operating systems knowledge from CS321O Operating Systems
- Networking principles from CS312N Networking Principles & Architecture
3. Database Administrator
Employers like Oracle, Intuit, Comcast, and NBC Universal rely on Database Administrators to design, maintain, and secure databases, ensuring seamless access to business-critical data.
Key Skills:
- SQL and relational database management from CS342D Database Management Systems
- Foundational programming skills from CS121P Introduction to Computer Programming
4. Business Systems Analyst
Nike, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, and other organizations hire analysts to evaluate business processes and recommend technology solutions, such as SAP or Oracle ERP, to improve efficiency.
Key Skills:
- Business acumen from ACC210 Accounting Fundamentals I and MGT310 Management Theory
- Enterprise software systems knowledge from CS392M
- Solution design expertise from CS322E Software Engineering
5. Web Administrator/Developer
Companies like Google, Amazon, Electronic Arts, and nonprofits like Grace Community Church seek professionals to manage and develop websites. Responsibilities include ensuring functionality, security, and a smooth user experience using JavaScript and cloud platforms.
Key Skills:
- Web development from CS122J JavaScript Essentials
- Networking concepts from CS312N
- Cloud administration from CS311C
6. Information Security Analyst
Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, and Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab hire analysts to protect organizational data through cybersecurity techniques like threat analysis and encryption.
Key Skills:
- Cybersecurity principles from CS351S Computer Security
- Networking knowledge from CS312N
- Cloud infrastructure expertise from CS311C
7. ERP Consultant
Organizations like Oracle, Intuit, and Comcast employ ERP Consultants to streamline business operations and implement and customize enterprise resource planning systems like SAP or Oracle.
Key Skills:
- Enterprise software knowledge from CS392M
- Business process understanding from ACC210 and MGT310
- Project management skills from CS392M
8. IT Consultant
Google, Amazon, and Windstream hire IT Consultants to guide businesses in aligning technology strategies with organizational goals and integrating systems to drive success.
Key Skills:
- Business knowledge from ACC210 and MGT310
- Technical expertise from CS342D Database Management Systems and CS311C Cloud Administration
- Communication skills honed in CS492S Senior Seminar
Additional Career Opportunities
- Graduate Studies: The rigorous curriculum, including mathematics and science electives, provides a strong foundation for pursuing graduate degrees in information systems, business analytics, or MBA programs with a technology focus.
- Entrepreneurship: The skills of project management and cloud administration equip graduates to launch tech-based startups.
- Ministry and Nonprofits: With a foundation in biblical principles, students can apply their IT expertise to ministry settings, supporting organizations like Answers in Genesis or Grace Community Church.