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
- 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
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 take 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, concentration, elective certificate, and elective and distribution 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
| Distribution | Major | Electives | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 units | Core courses: 8 units Concentration: 4 units |
Certificate courses: 4 units Other electives: 15 units |
45 units |
In addition to the core courses, major concentration, elective certificate, and elective courses, students complete 14 units of distribution courses that includes a writing requirement and courses from three areas. Two distribution courses focus on diversity and inclusion, one course within the United States and one course within global perspectives. Students complete a philosophy course on professional ethics for one of the four humanities distribution courses.
Distribution
- English 111 Writing Seminar and 205 Intermediate Composition (2 units)
- Humanities (4 units)
- Scientific Inquiry and Quantitative Reasoning (4 units)
- Social Sciences (4 units)
More about the Online Information Systems Degree
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 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.
Online Registration for Information Systems Degree
Registration for courses opens 8 to 10 weeks before each quarter and is accessed CAESAR, Northwestern's online student records system. View course registration timelines and instructions on the Registration Information page.