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.
Business Analytics Minor
Business analytics is a technical approach to analyzing problems and making business-related decisions. It uses statistical methods, management science techniques, and mathematical modeling to forecast the implications of various choices and identify the best alternatives. Business analytics focuses on the effective use of data and information to provide fact-based insights and drive positive business actions. The minor in business analytics prepares students to solve complex decision problems in a business environment with a combination of quantitative skills and hands-on expertise using current software applications.
Admission to the BSAN program is limited and competitive. Students seeking to add the BSAN minor must submit an application by November 1. Students will be admitted as a cohort each fall to start the BSAN program in the spring.
To be eligible to apply for admission, students must have completed the following:
In addition, a student must be able to take the 300-level BSAN courses on a schedule of one per semester in a three-consecutive semester period.
A complete application to the minor includes the following:
- A completed BSAN minor application form
- A letter of recommendation from COB 291 instructor
Students may use transfer and/or college credits that have been accepted by JMU to meet competency requirements. Admission is based on an average of a student’s highest grades in one course from each competency area and the letter of recommendation. Only grades earned at JMU and verified by the registrar will be used; transfer transcripts will also be reviewed. More emphasis will be placed on grades than on the recommendation letter. Following review by the BSAN Admission Committee, students will be notified about their acceptance into the minor. If accepted, students will be eligible to register for BSAN courses.
