The Computer Information Systems (CIS) program at the University of Maine at Augusta offers associate, bachelor, and post-baccalaureate degrees that focus on developing and maintaining effective computer/management information systems. All core courses and the internship experience may be taken as distance courses. Through a wide selection of technology offerings, the program blends theory and hands-on application to prepare students for careers in the exciting fields of software systems development, network and security administration, database management, systems analysis, and e-commerce.
In addition to the degree options, the program offers a minor that provides theory and hands-on technology skills required by non-CIS professionals who need to leverage IT technologies to manage the day-to-day operations of a business. It complements almost any academic area by adding IT competency to the knowledge base acquired in a student's major field of study.
A recently launched Certificate of Health Informatics prepares students to apply information technologies to manage electronic medical data generated and stored in healthcare facilities. Student may work toward the certificate while pursuing an undergraduate major in the healthcare or information technology field.
Skills You'll Acquire
The Computer Information Systems curriculum will provide you with technical theory, applied skills, and workplace experience that will prepare you to launch an exciting career in information technology or pursue a higher academic credential. After you have completed the core requirements, you will have an opportunity to select courses that meet your individual career goals.
The program offers hands-on training in both proprietary and open-source applications that are widely used in the professional field. Many of our part-time faculty are employed full time in the area in which they instruct and bring to the class an unparalleled industry perspective.
Here are some other critical skills you’ll acquire:
| Technical | Analytical |
|---|---|
| Designing web pages Maintaining databases Using spreadsheet applications Writing computer programs |
Thinking logically Performing calculations Solving quantitative problems Understanding complex problems Evaluating software/systems |
| Communication | Organization |
| Writing instructions Creating graphs/charts Writing documentation Creating reports Using technical vocabulary Assessing needs |
Categorizing data Managing databases Defining a problem Coordinating tasks Setting priorities Providing accuracy |
Careers You Can Seek
Here’s just a partial list of the type of careers you will find in the field.
| Network Systems | Interactive Media |
|---|---|
| Administrator Network Manager |
Web Developer GIS/Computer Mapper |
| Programming & Software Development | Information Support & Services |
| Programmer Program Analyst Project Manager Web Designer |
Database Manager Data Communications Analyst Systems Analyst Database Administrator |
