Online Degree in Information Systems
Information systems is the branch of computer science that focuses on analyzing the information and communication needs of organizations and devising IT solutions that meet cost requirements and promote the organization's strategic goals. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Information Systems program examine current and emerging technologies, gain strategies for analyzing and modeling data, and develop communication skills to work collaboratively.
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- Design, program, execute and test software applications using Java and Python to solve business problems
- Apply knowledge of business technology systems, such as telecommunication, database systems, and web development, to meet information and communication needs of business and enterprises
- Develop decision making and communication skills needed for the integration of business processes by studying relevant business information technologies in collaborative teams
- Create computer systems project-based solutions to enterprise needs, managing all stages of software development through the stages of analysis, design, and implementation
- Demonstrate the use of various hacking tools used in cybersecurity attacks; explain their functions and explore mitigation strategies
To prepare graduates for diverse career paths in a range of fields, the Bachelor of Science in Information Systems offers an interdisciplinary and customizable curriculum. Students complete eight core courses in Information Systems and choose a major concentration in Programming, Data Science, or Artificial Intelligence. Information Systems students also select an elective certificate comprised of four courses from outside of the major.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems degree requires 45 units total, including the major core, concentration, and elective certificate courses, as well as writing and foundational disciplines requirements, and elective courses.
Core Courses
Complete all eight
- CIS 110-DL Introduction to Programming
- CIS 130-DL Tools and Technology of the Web
- CIS 313-DL Telecommunication and Computer Networks
- CIS 317-DL Database Systems Design and Implementation
- ORG BEH 368-DL Project Management
- CIS 345-DL Information Security
- CIS 370-DL System Analysis and Design
- CIS 395-DL Capstone
Major Concentrations
Choose one
Elective Certificates
Choose one
Elective certificates provide students with the opportunity to build skills in a wide range of areas to meet career objectives and earn a stand-alone credential to demonstrate expertise in the professional arena.
Degree Requirements
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
| Writing & Foundational Disciplines | Major | Electives | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing: 2 units Foundational Disciplines: 12 units |
Core courses: 8 units Concentration: 4 units |
Certificate courses: 4 units Other electives: 15 units |
45 units |
To earn the Bachelor of Science degree, students complete a total of 45 units, including a writing requirement, a foundational disciplines requirement, and the major core, concentration, and elective certificate requirements, and electives.
Two writing courses (ENGLISH 111 and 205) and courses in three foundational disciplines—humanities, scientific inquiry and quantitative reasoning, and social sciences—are required. Two courses in the foundational disciplines requirement apply perspectives on power, justice, and equity: one course focused within the United States and one course focused globally. A philosophy course on professional ethics is also required.
See detailed Bachelor of Science degree requirements.
More about the Online Information Systems Degree
MS in Information Systems for SPS Graduates
Students who complete the Bachelor of Science in Information Systems degree can apply for the MS in Information Systems for SPS Graduates in Northwestern School of Professional Studies and apply undergraduate courses to that degree—saving both time and tuition.
To apply to the master’s degree program, the following two undergraduate courses should be completed during the bachelor's degree program with a grade of B or higher:
- CIS 313-DL Telecommunication and Computer Networks
- CIS 317-DL Database Systems Design and Implementation
Students can apply to the master’s program while the Information Systems bachelor's degree program is still in progress; they should submit the application for the master’s program within the final two quarters of their bachelor's degree program. Applicants who meet admissions criteria are granted conditional acceptance, with full acceptance contingent on successful completion of the undergraduate program.
View the MS in Information Systems for SPS Graduates program to learn more.
Online Information Systems Degree Admission & Transfer Policy
Application to Northwestern University School of Professional Studies bachelor's degree programs is completed online. Once admitted, many students create a shorter path to degree completion by applying transfer credit. View detailed application instructions and transfer credit policies on the Admission & Transfer Policy page.
Online Information Systems Degree Course Schedule
Explore Online Information Systems course descriptions and schedules.
Online Information Systems Degree Tuition & Financial Aid
The School of Professional Studies offers competitive tuition rates for undergraduate courses. The Tuition & Financial Aid page lists current per-course tuition rates in addition to financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
Registration for Online Information Systems Degree
Registration for courses opens 8 to 10 weeks before each quarter and is accessed via CAESAR, Northwestern's online student records system. View course registration timelines and instructions on the Registration Information page.