B.B.A. in Computer Information Systems

Computer and Information Systems managers are vital in bringing a human component to the technological needs of their organizations.

CIS professionals use computers to solve business problems. As a CIS major at JMU, you’ll be ready for a career that requires both the business knowledge and the technical skills to help clients design, build and deliver competitive computer-based solutions. You'll receive up-to-date course work in application development; architecture, networking and security; business intelligence; consulting and more.

After graduation, you'll join a network of loyal JMU alumni whose success in senior- and mid-level management positions is built on a foundation of solid technical skills and integrative business knowledge.

The Computer Information Systems (CIS) major at JMU prepares students for professional careers that require both the business knowledge and the technical skills to help clients design, build and deliver competitive computer-based solutions. Computer and information systems managers play a vital role in the technological direction of their organizations and must stay abreast of the latest technology to ensure the organization does not lag behind its competitors.

JMU's CIS program was recognized as one of the top ten undergraduate information technology programs in the United States (TechRepublic, 2008) and is part of the nationally recognized JMU College of Business. Professors in the program use a variety of teaching methods including projects, cases, and business simulations to prepare graduates with strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills; effective communication and presentation skills; hands-on experience; and the ability to work effectively in individual and team-oriented environments.

Several features of JMU's CIS program are distinctive:

• Outstanding placement of graduates : the JMU CIS program is viewed as a prime recruiting school by many leading employers throughout the mid-Atlantic region.
• Coursework in a variety of specialties.
  • Business intelligence
  • Business process management
  • Computer forensics
  • Computer security management
  • Information technology consulting
  • Information technology project management
• Excellent opportunities for internships and job-related work experience through JMU's Handshake program and an active JMU CIS alumni network of over 3,100 graduates.
• Active student chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) : Students regularly compete in the National Collegiate Conference, network with industry professionals, engage in service-learning projects, and expand their leadership skills by serving as chapter leaders.

We know that success requires equal parts intellect and action. At JMU, that’s what Being the Change is all about.

When students graduating from James Madison University proudly walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, they’re more than just educated. They’re members of a fellowship of doers. They know how to make things happen. They’ve honed their ability to think critically. They’ve learned the importance of a strong work ethic and they’ve become committed to and skilled at collaborating with others. Diplomas in hand, they leave campus determined to live lives of meaning and pursue careers of purpose.

Only two hours from Washington D.C., JMU is fast becoming one of the nation’s leading lights in higher education. That’s because students enjoy unusually engaged relationships with world-class faculty who are at JMU because they want to pursue knowledge and teach talented students.

JMU students, faculty and alumni are using equal parts intellect and action to succeed in every sort of pursuit: they’re boosting innovation and discovery, leading in business, advancing culture, improving health care, reforming education, renewing civil society, competing in athletics — they’re Being the Change in every imaginable way.