Computer Information Systems

Related Subjects

Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

Picture of circuit board inside a computer

The Computer Information Systems program is a two-year sequence of classes designed to prepare a student for employment in the computer area as a microcomputer support person or programmer, and aims to produce a person with general problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities that can be applied to microcomputer problems. Students learn to program in a high-level programming language and to apply programming concepts in a variety of environments. Students become proficient as users of several operating systems, and learn technical support information about MS-DOS. Students learn how to configure and modify the hardware components of a microcomputer system. In addition, the program provides a strong foundation in basic business and accounting principles and practices. The program also develops the students' verbal and written communication skills, including training in software documentation.

CIS Job Descriptions

Computer programmers write detailed instructions that list in logical order the steps the computer must follow to organize data, solve a problem, or do some other task. They test the operation of programs to be sure instructions are correct and will produce the desired information. If errors occur, programs must be changed and rechecked until they produce the correct results. They prepare instruction sheets for computer operators who will run the programs. Applications programmers write software to handle specific jobs. System programmers maintain the software that controls the operation of the entire computer system.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the federal government expect this category to grow by 31% through the year 2005. Currently there are over 538,600 computer programmers. The average starting salary for programmers was $28,000 in 1995. The average salary was $37,500 for all programmers.

Computer systems analysts plan and develop methods for computerizing business and scientific tasks or for improving computer systems already in use. They discuss systems goals with management, determine information to be used, how it is to be processed, and the type and frequency of reports to be produced. They use techniques, such as mathematical model building, sampling, and cost accounting, to plan the system. When they finish with the design, they then prepare charts and diagrams that managers and others can understand.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the federal government expect this category to grow by 113% through the year 2005. Currently there are over 431,100 computer systems analysts. The average starting salary for system analyst was $29,000 in 1995. The average salary was $47,000 for all computer system analysts.

Picture of Windows Logo. Computer network specialists schedule the installation of hardware,supervise uncrating and placement of equipment, and test the operating system. They maintain support of software products. They provide up-to-date information on new software developments and programming changes or enhancements. They give the expert knowledge necessary to analyze customer needs. They arrange educational programs to train customer personnel before, during, and after installation.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the federal government expect this category to grow by 113% through the year 2005. Currently there are over 431,100 computer network specialists. The average starting salary for network specialists was $29,000 in 1995. The average salary was $48,500 for all network specialists.

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CIS Staff

Mike Stansbury
Lead CIS Instructor
Phone: (541)440-4701
Email: Mike.Stansbury@umpqua.edu

Susan Stansbury
CIS Instructor
Phone: (541)440-4701
Email: Susan.Stansbury@umpqua.edu

John Blackwood
CIS Instructor
Phone: (541)440-7686
Email: John.Blackwood@umpqua.edu

David Johnston
CIS Instructor