Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems

Preparing students to successfully enter the working world is a fundamental part of the CIS program. As part of that preparation, the CIS program has developed a three-course professional development series in which students explore the various career opportunities available to them, understand industry norms and expectations, and develop the materials needed to enter the workforce.

This one-hour course introduces students to various information systems career opportunities and is taken the first semester of the junior year. In it, students hear from business and community leaders who will explain their current and future CIS needs.

Seminar

Class assignments include:

• Creating a professional presence on the internet using social media
• Developing a resume and cover letter
• Researching internship opportunities in your field of interest
• Job interview strategies and mock interviews
• Professional dress and appearance

Internship

Building on the Seminar course, students engage in practical work experience in the field of computer information systems through a monitored work experience with an employer. Options for internships include local businesses or industry or government groups involved in the areas of the student's chosen interest in the U.S. or abroad. Students must obtain an internship before registering for this course and register with UIW Career Services; therefore, coordination and planning is required.

Additional class assignments include:

• Class discussions on student experiences with their ongoing internship
• Developing and presenting professional elevator pitches
• Exploring options for the senior capstone project
• Brief technical report on internship experience

Senior Capstone Project

This course is the culmination of all CIS coursework and learning and is generally taken the final semester of the curriculum. In the capstone course, students will put their skills, knowledge and experiences to work in creating a solution to an existing issue that will help an organization and demonstrate readiness to enter the workforce as a CIS professional.

Examples of previous capstone projects include:

• An automated penetration testing computer system
• A lightweight firewall proxy server using Raspberry Pi
• Home automation with security monitoring capabilities
• Original student gaming application
• Network architecture planning and system optimization methods
• Biometric identification and proximity device authentication integration
• Various virtual reality projects using 3D developmental platforms

In addition to mastering the foundational concepts presented in the degree program’s core courses, students pursuing the Cyber Security concentration specialize in securing the networks and information that users and organizations rely on using such methods as cryptography, digital forensics, intrusion detection/prevention systems, network penetration testing and more.

The Networking concentration provides a deep understanding of digital networks and network services—such as, email systems, cloud computing, intrusion detection/prevention systems—that are critical to organizations large and small. From installation to management to maintenance, students master concepts and techniques critical to the field.

With an emphasis on programming languages and website development, the Programming concentration is ideal for students who aspire to create exciting and dynamic websites, programs, systems, databases and other digital platforms. Students also gain hands-on experience with advanced scripting languages.