Business Information Systems

College of Saint Mary offers a certificate and a minor in Business Information Systems.

The BIS certificate provides a solid foundation to support employment in the computer information technology field. The certificate consists of 30 credit hours of business information systems courses with an option for the student to complete 3 to 6 credit hours of internship. Internships help students attain experience in the information technology field when they have not had previous work experience in this area. The certificate can be tailored to meet the needs of the student and the future employer by selecting different course options.

The BIS minor is appropriate with other programs, such as education, mathematics, paralegal studies, art, business analytics and strategic communication, and business leadership.

Degrees and Certificates

Courses

BIS 101: Introduction to Computers

This is an introductory course in the theory and use of computers. Students will learn how hardware, software, and people work together in an information society. Students with minimal skills will learn to enhance their personal productivity and problem solving skills by applying information technologies to problem situations and by designing and using small information systems for individuals and groups. Topics explored will include the difference between system software and application software, computer files and data storage, computer architecture, local area networks, the Internet and applications that include Internet, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation applications.

BIS 140: Programming Concepts

This course provides an introduction to elementary computer programming. It lays a foundation for subsequent language specific programming languages that are taught in later courses. The course presents object oriented and procedural software engineering methodologies in data definition and measurement, abstract data type construction and use in developing screen editors, reports and other IS applications using data structures including indexed files. It includes the use of logical and physical structures for both programs and data. Programming in traditional and visual development environments that incorporate event-driven, object-oriented design is explored. Language independent topics include variables, expressions, statements, sequential execution, selection, iteration, subroutines, simple data structures, structured programming, algorithm development, and debugging.

BIS 143: Application Programming using C++

This course provides an introduction to elementary computer programming using the C++ language. Topics covered include variables, expressions, statements, sequential execution, selection, iteration, subroutines, simple data structures, structured programming, algorithm development, and debugging.

BIS 211: Structured Programming I - COBOL

This is an introductory course in the application of COBOL. The course presents the student with generalized techniques for analyzing, designing and developing computer programs using COBOL. This course emphasizes structured design and modularization. Students are introduced to design aides such as pseudo code, structured flow charts and hierarchical charts.

BIS 220: Advanced Business Applications

This is a course in the theory and use of information systems as a tool for organizing, analyzing, and presenting information in a variety of modern professional environments, such as accounting, marketing, productions, sales, etc. Topics include data and information flow throughout the information system: data management using database creation and manipulation, data analysis using spreadsheets, data presentation using multimedia presentation graphics software and desktop publishing, and the integration of Internet resources into each area.

BIS 221: Fundamentals of Information Systems

In order to succeed in business, companies must understand how to leverage technology. This course provides an overview of the role and use of information systems in supporting business processes and decision-making, gaining competitive advantage, and enabling electronic commerce and enterprise collaboration. Core concepts/disciplines covered include: collaboration systems, hardware/software, databases, systems development, business intelligence, networks and telecommunications, e-commerce/web 2.0, security, and process management. The subjects discussed in the course prepare students in business majors to integrate their management, accounting, finance, and marketing knowledge with information technology.

BIS 230: Principles of Electronic Commerce

Online commerce is everywhere today, reshaping many aspects of our lives. This course provides an overview of E-commerce as it impacts business functions such as accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing as well as addressing online security and safety Course may be useful for anyone interested in the Internet. (Also listed as BUS 230)

BIS 330: Project Management

This course will provide the student with an understanding of methods and practices in the field of project management. Project and program management is one of the fastest growing professions in today's business world. This course will study the functions involved in project and program management and allow the student to develop a full understanding of every aspect needed to become a competent project management professional. Students will use project management software for an assigned project during the semester. (Also listed as BUS 330)

BIS 331: Database Systems

This course presents theoretical and practical aspects of database management systems. Students will gain experience with a relational Database Management System (DBMS). Course work includes analyzing database requirements, designing a relational database using the normalization process, and implementing the design using a relational database application. This course covers information systems design and implementation within a database management system environment. Conceptual, logical, and physical data models, and modeling tools; models for databases: relational; design tools; data dictionaries, repositories, warehousing, and data mining; database implementation including user interface and reports; multi-tier planning and implementation; data conversion and post implementation review.

BIS 350: Hardware and Software Architecture

This course provides technical topics related to computer systems with emphasis on the components, functions, and relationships between hardware architecture, systems software, applications software, and their implementation in the business setting. Principles and application of computer hardware and software will be presented through lecture of the theoretical underpinnings, installation, configuration, and operational laboratory experiences.

BIS 360: Computer Networks

The focus of the course is on the technological and managerial implications of hardware, software, and communications as they relate to information systems networking. Students will gain in-depth experience of networking and telecommunications fundamentals including LANs, MANs, WANs, intranets, the Internet, and the WWW. Data communication and telecommunication concepts, models, standards, and protocols will be studied. Installation, configuration, systems integration and management of infrastructure technologies will be practiced in the laboratory. This course provides an in-depth knowledge of data communications and networking requirements including networking and telecommunications technologies, hardware, and software. The students study the ISO OSI Reference Model in-depth.

BIS 365: Information Systems Security

The course encompasses all areas of security including: personnel security, security regulations, physical security, transmission security, risk analysis, emission security, and cryptographic security.