Information Systems

Today, computers and information systems are a part of daily life. You get paid because your employer uses an information system for payroll. You sign up for college courses through an information system with online registration. You conduct searches through Google, interact with friends on Facebook and MySpace and place orders with "e-tailers" like Amazon and eBay - all of which are information systems.

Maryville's Information Systems program prepares you for both the business and technical aspects of designing, developing and implementing information systems. You will gain foundational knowledge about desktop and Web applications, organization and team building, problem solving and traditional enterprise information systems in an academic setting. This is important because once you begin your career, taking time out to learn these things becomes much more difficult.  Plus, employers are much more interested in candidates they don't have to train.  Combined with a thorough management and liberal arts curriculum, our program will put you on a direct path to success.

 

Program Features

Student Involvement
Since you'll be part of the School of Business, we invite you to participate in the Maryville Business Organization (MBO). This group provides avenues for you to develop professional contacts and learn about issues that affect local businesses.

Internships
Although an internship is not required for the information systems major, we encourage you to take advantage when opportunities arise. Internships provide invaluable, practical experience that you just can't get in the classroom. Plus, you'll meet contacts who can help you procure a full-time position after you graduate.

You can take an internship during your junior or senior year. Depending on how many hours you work, you can earn two to six credit hours.

Maryville's location enhances your internship opportunities. Hundreds of employers in West County need interns, and often hire the very best upon graduation. Plus, you will likely find yourself in classes with both traditional day students and working professionals. A diverse student population helps you meet all kinds of people, many of whom can offer personal insight into the professional world.

 

Professional/Career Opportunities

Possibilities Abound
People from many functions of business are often trained in, or work largely with, information systems, even if their titles suggest otherwise. As an information systems graduate, you will likely be hired as a programmer, systems analyst, business analyst, database manager, information project manager, engineer or Web developer. With experience, you might become a consultant or open your own firm.

Employment opportunities in the field of information systems are keeping pace with the rapid evolution of computer technology. Some of our recent grads have been hired by major corporations, including Edward Jones, Southwestern Bell Telephone, Maritz, Deutsche Financial and Intuit.

In Print
In 2006, computer IT/analyst was ranked seventh by Money/CNN Best Jobs in America. Here are highlights from what they said:  "$83,500 average pay; 36 percent 10-year growth; 67,300 annual job openings."

Why It's Great
Seems like the entire world is at the mercy of information technology, thanks to the rapid spread of computers and swell of the Internet. These jobs pay well, from desktop support technician to Webmaster to database work. Entry-level analysts make $60,000 and above. Senior database specialists and IT managers command six-figure salaries and decent bonuses. A bachelor's degree is enough to get started.

 

Degree Offerings and Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems

 

• Bachelor of Science in Information Systems with an Emphasis in Web Design & Development 
• Bachelor of Science in Information Systems with an Emphasis in Application Design & Development

Minor in Information Systems

 

Admission Requirements
If you're interested in joining our information systems program, you only need to meet the general admissions requirements for the university.