Department of Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics

Dr. Art Gowan, Department Head
Phone: (540) 568-8796
Email: gowanja@jmu.edu
Location: Zane Showker Hall, Room 234
Website: http://www.jmu.edu/cob/cis

Professors
M. Busing, T. Dillon, A. Gowan, S. Kruck, D. Lending, I. Markham, M. Mitri, R. Pal, S. Palocsay, S. Stevens

Associate Professors
C. Guo, P. Wang

Assistant Professors
D. Babik, A. Connolly, J. Ezell, K. Lamsal, J. May, L. Novoa, E. Torabi, B. Vaziri

Instructors
L. Atkins, C. Cole, L. Dutt, J. Jewett, S. Lough, L. Tchommo

Mission Statement

The Department of Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics is committed to:

Educating students by creating an active, experiential learning environment that prepares them to apply knowledge of information systems, operations, business analytics and business for the betterment of organizations and society; and
Serving the academic community and business communities through appropriate research and service.

Objectives

Computer information systems (CIS) is offered as a major through the Department of Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics. This program prepares business students for careers as information systems professionals. The program of study focuses on the development and management of information systems in a business environment. Students develop the technical skills and organizational insights required to analyze, design, implement and administer information systems. The CIS curriculum includes hands-on projects, laboratory exercises, case analysis and business simulations to build strong technical and analytical skills, effective oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work independently and in team-oriented environments. Students are offered the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and co-op programs. The department faculty endorses the program educational objectives listed below.

The CIS B.B.A. program will produce graduates with the ability to:

Analyze a problem and identify the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
Apply sound analysis and design methodologies toward creating technological solutions for the enhancement and improvement of business processes.
Implement system solutions using state-of-the-art software development, database, telecommunications and security technologies in a global business environment.
Assess security threats risks to technology assets and suggest security controls to prevent, detect and repair the security threats.
Communicate effectively, in both oral and written form, in order to serve as liaisons between business-oriented end users and technically-oriented computing specialists.
Work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams with the ability to manage themselves and their colleagues.
Develop self-directed, lifelong engagement in the profession and professional development.

Career Opportunities

Computer information systems professionals analyze business opportunities and problems, then design and build solutions using the power of information technologies. Students in the CIS program gain the business and technical skills that will prepare them to move quickly from technical to leadership roles within the organization.

Consultant
Business Analyst
Business Intelligence Specialist
Computer Forensics Specialist
IT/IS Auditor
IT/IS Consultant
Risk Analyst
Security Consultant
Systems Analyst
Telecommunications Analyst
IT/IS Manager
Application Development Manager
Business Owner (IT/IS Industry)
Chief Information Officer
Chief Security Officer
Data Warehousing Manager
Information Systems Manager
Program Manager
Project Manager
IT Operations Professional
Database Administrator
Information Technology Trainer
Network and Systems Administrator
Security Specialist
Software Engineer
Web Developer

Co-curricular Activities and Organizations

The JMU Chapter of the National Association for Information Systems (AIS) was started in 2014 and serves to advance knowledge and to promote excellence in the practice and study of information systems. Along with providing premier networking opportunities with top consulting firms, AIS provides student members the ability to engage in national student competitions, in-house tutoring activities, professional development workshops, and various fundraising and social events.

Accreditation

The B.B.A. in computer information systems is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)’s Computing Accreditation Commission.