Career Information
The use of the computer by businesses, large and small, has created new career paths for students majoring in Computer Information Systems. There has been, and continues to be, a growing demand for professionals possessing an understanding of basic business and computer information systems.
Entry level positions for Computer Information Systems majors may include the following:
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Junior Systems Analyst (Consultant) - Work with users in defining business problems/needs; provide systems specifications and system design for the user. The analyst is part of a project team. |
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Junior Application Programmer - Responsible for design and development of computer programs. |
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Junior Systems Analyst/Programmer - Performs the job of both the systems analyst and the applications programmer. |
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Computer Marketing Representative - Sells computer mainframes, mini/micro systems, special purpose systems, peripherals and supplies and/or services. |
After one or more years in an entry-level position, one can move up the career ladder. An individual's career choice and initial experience are important factors for moving into new positions such as:
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Vice President of MIS - The senior executive for all corporate information systems. Responsible for long-range planning, budgeting, and operations. |
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Director of Data Processing - In charge of all data processing at the divisional/departmental level. Responsibilities parallel those of corporate officers but may be at least partially guided by decisions made at the corporate level. |
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Director of Communications - Responsible for planning, implementing, and managing all corporate telecommunications facilities. |
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Services Coordinator/User Liaison - Interfaces between DP departments and users; represents users when operational problems occur. |
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Systems Analysis - Confers with users to define and formulate logical statements of business problems and devise procedures for solutions through use of DP systems. |
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Applications Programming - Develops, designs, and prepares computer programs. |
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Systems Analysis/Programming - Performs the functions of both the systems analysis and applications programming positions. |
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Operating Systems Programming - Programs, introduces, and maintains modifications to system software. |
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Manager of Database Administration - Plans, organizes, and schedules the activities of the database section; establishes standards, maintains dictionary, and coordinates corporate database needs. |
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Data Communications/Telecommunications Manager - Responsible for the design of data communication networks and the installation and operation of data links. |
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Data Communications Analyst - Specializes in network design, traffic analysis, and data communications software. |
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Manager of Computer Operations - In charge of computer operations, including scheduling, assignment of operators, and monitoring efficiency. |
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Production Control Supervisor - Responsible for setting up and scheduling jobs for processing so as to maximize utilization and set turnaround requirements. |
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Data Entry Supervisor - Responsible for a staff that performs data entry and verification functions. |
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Word Processing Supervisor - Responsible for supervising word processing equipment, operators, work flow, setup, and distribution of results. |
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User Services Staff - Knowledgeable in broad aspects of data processing, provides guidance to users, and helps in debugging specific problems and understanding systems procedures. |
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Technical Writer - Writes manuals for application systems for user and internal reference. |
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Remote Site Administrator - Often a DP professional in a distributed environment. Manages a remote site as an additional duty. Responsible for physical security. Sets operations priorities, supervises operations, and initiates problem-determination actions as required. |
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Minicomputer Specialist - Specialist in a single make/model/configuration of minicomputer hardware installation, application design, programming, testing, and production operation. |
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Training and Education Specialist - Organizes, prepares, and conducts training courses for DP personnel under general supervision. |
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Computer Security Specialist - Concerned with the protection of data and computer resources. |
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EDP Auditors (Accounting Oriented) - Perform detailed evaluations of systems and operational procedures. Ensure systems and procedural integrity and accuracy. |
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Field Service Engineer - Vendor-trained electronic technician who can service mechanical equipment, replace and repair malfunctioning electronic components, and perform software-problem determination. |