A degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS) prepares students to set up, repair and maintain computer networks and systems for a variety of large and small businesses and organizations. This growing field combines elements of computer science and information technology.
CIS classes introduce students to software and hardware, while teaching them how to analyze and solve computer issues. Courses in computer science, numerical analysis and robotics prepare graduates for careers in business, management, computer support or other IT-related positions.
The list below, courtesy of College Factual, breaks down the top 10 places to get a degree in computer information systems in the U.S. based on their overall quality. The programs offered by these colleges and universities help lead students to successful careers in the business world. Payscale data contributed to the salary estimates.
1. New Jersey Institute of Technology: Newark, N.J.
The New Jersey Institute of Technology is one of the top public polytechnic universities in the country, featuring a multidisciplinary curriculum that introduces students to the business world while equipping them with technological and computing-based skills.
The Department of Information Systems at NJIT is dedicated to teaching students the fundamentals of computing and instilling an understanding of the role this specialization plays in business. Students work collaboratively to design and evaluate computer systems that support business operations.
Graduates of this program have found successful careers, earning an average early career salary of $50,000 and an average mid-career salary of $109,000.
2. James Madison University: Harrisonburg, Va.
James Madison University is a public research university with a strong history of providing a quality education, setting up students to become leaders in their fields.
The computer information systems major combines business knowledge with technical computer skills to help students develop and understand systems used for business operations. Students in this program take business classes in the nationally recognized JMU College of Business, which supplements their understanding of computer systems and the important role they play in helping organizations function smoothly.
Many top employers recruit graduates from the JMU CIS program, leading students to find jobs earning an average early career salary of $61,000, rising to $104,000 at the mid-career level.
3. Bentley University: Waltham, Mass.
Bentley University is a private university with one of the nation’s top business schools. The university combines it strong business curriculum with liberal arts classes to give students a holistic view of the business atmosphere.
Bentley is a top choice for CIS majors because the program allows students to take these comprehensive business classes along with computer science and programming courses to gain a thorough understanding of the role computer systems play in maintaining productive operations. Students have access to the latest programming applications in Bentley’s high-tech facilities.
Hands-on learning experiences equip graduates with the skills to enter the workforce competent and able to analyze and solve information systems problems. Graduates of this program earn average early career salaries of $64,000 and average mid-career salaries of $104,000.
4. Carnegie Mellon University: Pittsburgh
Founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1900, Carnegie Mellon University is historically a technical school. The university offers a challenging curriculum that pushes students to think creatively and become innovators in their field.
Carnegie Mellon has numerous majors related to computer information systems, including computer science, computational biology, human-computer interaction and robotics. Each of these programs offers an in-depth look at computer systems, robotics, programming and theory. CIS graduates of Carnegie Mellon find careers earning an average early and mid-career salary of $58,000 and $107,000, respectively.
Top ranked schools for a degree in computer information systems
5. University of Pennsylvania: Philadelphia
The University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League school that offers top programs in numerous disciplines. This prestigious university was in 1740 and has continued to offer an education focused on increasing knowledge and developing practical skills.
The modern computer was developed by Penn Engineering in 1946 and, since then, the computer and information science program has worked to provide students with a cutting-edge curriculum. Undergraduates have the opportunity to major in computer science, computer engineering, digital media design, networked and social systems engineering, computational biology or computer and cognitive science. Each of these programs is designed to teach students how to interact with and solve information systems problems, while understanding how these systems fit into the business world.
Graduates of Penn earn an average early career salary of $62,000 and an average mid-career salary of $118,000.
6. Georgia Institute of Technology — Main Campus: Atlanta
Considered one of the top technological research universities in the nation, Georgia Institute of Technology offers a challenging curriculum that trains students in developing and maintaining computer information systems.
With a dedicated College of Computing, Georgia Tech supports a program that pushes students to think innovatively about computing systems. Classes allow students to work collaboratively in developing programs and solving issues.
Georgia Tech graduates from the CIS program have found jobs at some of the leading technology companies in the world as consultants, engineers, developers and more, earning an average early career salary of $55,000 and an average mid-career salary of $100,000.
7. California Institute of Technology: Pasadena, Calif.
The California Institute of Technology is a private research university that is renowned for its engineering and science programs. The Department of Computing and Mathematical Sciences at Cal Tech is highly selective and only admits students who have an advanced understanding of math, science and engineering.
The computer science program allows students to tailor the program to their interests, so they learn the fundamentals of computing while specializing in areas such as databases, graphics, learning and vision, and networking and distributed systems.
Graduates of Cal Tech are well equipped for a technology-based career, earning an average early career salary of $59,000, increasing to $104,000 at the mid-career level.
8. Yale University: New Haven, Conn.
Yale University is the second Ivy League school to make this list of top 10 CIS programs. The university is respected as a leading research institution and provides students with a comprehensive education.
Computer science at Yale is rooted in engineering and mathematics, but pushes students to take classes in other disciplines to further develop their understanding of how these areas work collaboratively. As students advance through the program and increase their technical knowledge, they are introduced to new theories and practices, culminating with a senior capstone project. The capstone allows seniors to perform their own research and solve a complex problem with computers.
This project also gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge before entering the work force. Yale CIS grads go on to earn an average early career salary of $59,000 and the highest average mid-career salary of the schools on this list at $130,000.
9. Regis University: Denver
Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1877, Regis University is one of 28 Jesuit schools in the United States. The university offers a values-centered curriculum that helps expand knowledge and prepare students for prosperous careers.
The College of Computer and Information Sciences offers an ABET-Accredited CIS degree program that teaches students how to use technology to solve business problems. Thanks to a unique virtual-lab, students enter the professional world with the ability to manage various applications and systems. The average early career salary for a Regis graduate is $54,000, jumping up to $91,000 at the mid-career level.
10. Duke University: Durham, N.C.
Duke University is a private research university, well-known for its selectivity and high academic standards.
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers students the opportunity to concentrate in computer engineering and digital systems. This concentration focuses on how computers operate. Students learn how to design systems while gaining the skills to troubleshoot issues and solve complex problems. Carefully-selected classes help students think logically and analytically and allow them to handle advanced topics, such as networking, nanocomputing and computer architecture.
This inclusive program equips students with the skills to manage numerous systems and support operations in the business world. The average early career salary for a Duke graduate is $58,000, rising to an average of $110,000 at mid-career.
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