What is the difference between a Computer Science major and a Computer Information Systems major?
Generally, a Computer Science (CS) major requires more math and science courses than does a Computer Information Systems (CIS) major. CS grads are trained to design hardware and operating systems software and other technically complex software; CIS students study more courses in languages, databases and techniques for designing “information systems”, that is, software systems using data (information), to perform tasks or to enable humans to perform tasks. BE AWARE (and beware) that some schools use “Computer Science” to label what is really a Computer Information Systems Department or major; but CIS is rarely, if ever, used to label a CS program. When selecting a school or major, review the course catalogue’s outline to determine which type of program is being offered as a major. If it is not clear, contact the school’s department and ask. You don’t want to waste your time and money by entering a program that is wrong for you. If one school’s program doesn’t meet your needs, look at ot
