Bachelor’s in Business Information Systems (BIS) Degree

Q: How are information systems transforming business?

Information systems can help business owners gain a cost advantage over competitors and help differentiate their business by offering better customer service. One clear advantage of information systems is that they can run different scenarios and predict their likely results to help owners make informed decisions.

Q: Do information systems careers pay well?

Salary ranges can vary among business information systems careers and depend on many important factors, including education, certifications and skill level. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $169,510 in 2023.

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Business

Program

BS in Business Information Systems

Current Education Level

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

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Overview

Work With Programming, Networking and Database Management

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Information Systems (BIS) degree program teaches you competencies in the business and technology fields that can enable you to support organizations in meaningful ways. Business information systems is a subfield that involves the collection, processing and organization of raw data into meaningful insights that can help enable business managers to make well-informed decisions for the organization.^{(See disclaimer 1)} It involves programming, networking, database management and IT governance. BIS may be an ideal career for you if you enjoy working with technology and transforming raw data into insights.

Bachelor of Science in Business Information Systems

Offered By

Colangelo College of Business

Class Settings

Campus

Online

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Online: $485 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 7 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Earn Your Business Information Systems (BIS) Degree From GCU

The bachelor’s in business information systems degree from Grand Canyon University is offered through the Colangelo College of Business, but also incorporates coursework from the College of Engineering and Technology. This true interdisciplinary information systems degree can provide you with the opportunity to develop both the leadership and business know-how to lead, as well as the technology background to be competitive in business.

Flexible Learning Options to Fit Your Lifestyle

As an on-campus or online business information systems degree student, you will focus on core business topics, such as management, accounting, economics, statistics and marketing, while also diving into technology degree topics, such as database management and IT networking.

Pursue an Online Business Information Systems Degree

This business information systems degree is available via online classes, which can allow you to access higher education with greater convenience and flexibility. As an online learning student, you would receive the same quality of instruction as your on-campus peers. You can access your course materials and engage in intellectually stimulating discussions with your fellow students and instructors via our interactive digital learning platform. Work toward achieving a firm foundation in business information systems from virtually anywhere.

Attend Your BIS Degree Program On Campus

Coursework

Coursework and Topics Covered in GCU’s BIS Degree

One of the defining characteristics of a business information systems degree, as opposed to other IT degrees, is its blending of technology skills with business competencies.

In addition to the technology competencies, such as IT networking and systems administration, you will be taught course materials in the following areas:

Marketing

Microeconomic, macroeconomic and international economics

Accounting

Descriptive and inferential statistics in business

Project management

Centrality of business information systems in improving enterprise strategy

Explore Business Information Systems Fundamentals and Skills

The bachelor’s in business information systems degree program is an opportunity for you to develop a foundation in business-related technology, specifically the use of technology to keep data and systems organized.

The combination of coursework in both business and tech fields is what defines the on-campus and online business information systems degree program at GCU.

As a BIS degree student, you will examine:

Information systems development within the context of business management
IT system administration and maintenance, from operating systems to applications
Hardware and software platform technologies that can be used as a host for applications
How IT networking technologies work

You will have the opportunity to examine the fundamentals of business information systems and technology, including:

Programming

Networking technologies

Database management

Project management

IT governance

Careers

Career Paths for BS in Business Information Systems Degree Graduates

The GCU business information systems degree can provide a firm foundation in BIS competencies that may set up graduates to pursue a range of careers.

These roles may include:

Computer systems analysts

Database administrators

Network and computer systems administrators

Computer and information systems managers

$169,510

Median annual wage for computer and information systems managers as of 2023^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Accreditation

GCU Proudly Offers Institutionally Accredited Business Degrees

As an institutionally accredited school, GCU is proud to emphasize the quality of our instruction and the comprehensiveness of the curriculum. Our colleges collaborate together on interdisciplinary degree programs, which offer you an opportunity to develop a blend of competencies across fields. GCU strives to graduate well-rounded individuals who are prepared to compete in the job marketplace.

FAQ

BIS Degree FAQs

As you reflect upon your career path possibilities and options for higher education, it can be helpful to develop a better understanding of the field. Use the following frequently asked questions and answers to guide your research in business information systems.

Why are information systems important to business?

An information system enables an organization’s decision-makers to accurately assess the health and robustness of each area of the organization. Using insights derived from raw data, business managers can identify under-performing areas and implement improvements. Furthermore, information systems can enhance employee productivity, facilitate interdepartmental communications, improve operational efficiency and, in general, enhance the company’s competitive advantage.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

How are information systems transforming business?

How are information systems related to business processes?

Improving processes using business information systems helps organizations streamline everyday functions like payroll, account payables, inventory management, sales purchases, etc. It simplifies the flow of information and the process of finding data easily. Since this technology is automated and uses complex algorithms, it reduces human error. Over time, this can help businesses grow and put their resources to work in an efficient manner.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Do information systems careers pay well?

Is a business information systems degree worth it?

If you’re passionate about the potential of technology to drive business growth, then a bachelor’s in business information systems could be a good choice for you. Since all sorts of organizations could potentially rely on the insights derived from data collection and processing, and because many different industries implement IT systems, this type of degree can be a versatile choice. With competencies in business information systems, you could position yourself for the opportunity to pursue careers across sectors and industries.

Furthermore, the computer and information systems subfield is growing. The BLS estimates job growth for computer and information systems managers to be 15% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average. This indicates that employers expect to hire about 86,000 of these professionals during that time period.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Is the business information systems field a good career choice?

A career in business information systems may be an ideal choice for you if you’re interested in fulfilling an important role within an organization. Business managers and owners rely on the work of BIS professionals to drive their decision-making for the organization.^{(See disclaimer 3)} In addition, there are various opportunities in this field to specialize to position yourself to potentially pursue career advancement.

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major72 credits

Open Elective Credits8-14 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Core Courses

ACC-240

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, students examine basic accounting concepts and explore how accounting information assists business leaders in making financial decisions that increase profitability and contribute to competitive advantage. There is specific emphasis on the analysis of financial statements in the business decision-making process, budgeting, and factors businesses must consider when determining appropriate pricing of goods and services. Prerequisite: MAT-134, MAT-144, MAT-154, or higher subsequent math course.

CST-111

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides a foundation for programming and problem solving using computer programming, as well as an introduction to the academic discipline of IT. Topics include variables, expressions, functions, control structures, and pervasive IT themes: IT history, organizational issues, and relationship of IT to other computing disciplines. The course prepares students for advanced concepts and techniques in programming and information technology, including object-oriented design, data structures, computer systems, and networks. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts discussed in lecture and on gaining initial exposure to common operating systems, enterprise architectures, and tools commonly used by IT professionals. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or MAT-261.

MKT-315

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces models and practices used by contemporary marketers in fast-paced, dynamic, domestic and global markets, including the marketing concept and processes for developing, implementing, and assessing the effectiveness of marketing plans. Building from a foundational understanding of consumer behavior and marketing research, students examine the development and implementation of marketing mix strategies and tactics with an emphasis of how marketing integrates within all aspects of business.

ITT-116

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course exposes students to the fundamentals of networks and networking in IT. It then builds deeper understanding of how networks work, including the topics of LANs, WANs, service providers, packets, hubs, routers, switches, and internet protocols. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on setting up and configuring local and enterprise networks, experimenting with various topologies, and scalability planning with switches and routers.

BUS-352

4 Total Credits

BIT-415

4 Total Credits

ITT-121

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to system administration and maintenance as well as platform technologies. The course surveys operating systems, applications, administrative activities and domains, computer architecture and organization, and computing infrastructures. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on developing practical skills in configuring computer systems, deploying enterprise applications, managing user permissions, and remote administration. Prerequisite: ITT-116.

SYM-400

4 Total Credits

ECN-351

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This survey course covers the basic concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics. The course begins by addressing the fundamental concepts of scarcity, choice, opportunity cost, and comparative advantage. The course builds on these fundamentals to explain the market forces of supply and demand, market efficiency, the economics of the public sector, and the firm's behavior under competitive market conditions. The second half of the course focuses on basic macroeconomic concepts, including measurement of national income, economic growth, and productivity. In addition, this course covers the monetary system and the classical theory of inflation.

SYM-408

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the characteristics of object-relational and NoSQL databases and their application in business. The course also focuses on the main principles of object-oriented, object-relational, and NoSQL databases, and their relative advantages. Students gain working knowledge of object-relational features as implemented in standard SQL database management systems. Students also learn to manage unstructured and semi-structured data with XML. Prerequisite: SYM-400.

MGT-420

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Drawing upon real-world management situations, this course is a study of individual and group behavior in organizations through detailed coverage of the functions of management, individual differences/diversity, leadership, motivation, decision making, organizational design, and organizational change and development. Emphasis is placed on how an understanding of organizational behavior leads to effective management practice.

FIN-350

4 Total Credits

BIT-310

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces key aspects of information systems development within the context of business information systems. Students focus on systems development with an emphasis on the system development life cycle, including requirements analysis and traceability, feasibility, and cost-benefit analysis. Systems development, deployment, and post-implementation processes are also addressed.

BIT-210

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to object-oriented programming using most current business application programming languages and tools. Students will design, create, run, and debug applications. The course emphasizes the development of correct, well-documented programs using object-oriented programming concepts. Students also learn to create GUI-based programs. Prerequisite: CST-111 or ITT-111.

BIT-417

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course examines the role of governance and ethics within information technology. Topics include understanding and satisfying Sarbanes/Oxley, preparing for an information technology audit, complying with government regulations such as HIPAA, and understanding data-privacy issues. Students examine real-world case studies. Prerequisite: BIT-200, BIT-205, CST-110, or CST-111.

BIT-460

4 Total Credits

BIT-470

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive course emphasizes the centrality of business information systems in improving enterprise strategy to drive organizational success. Students learn how to help organizations achieve competitive advantage through the strategic aligning of information systems with organizational goals. There is particular emphasis on strategies for achieving organizational goals through the deployment of information technology-based solutions. Prerequisite: BIT-310.

MGT-455

4 Total Credits

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Pursue Your Passions for Business and Technology

If you are passionate about both business and technology, a degree in information systems could be the right path for you. Learn more about GCU's Bachelor of Science in Business Information Systems degree program by filling out the form on this page.

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StudyPortals. (n.d.). Everything You Need to Know About Studying Business Information Systems in 2024. StudyPortals. Retrieved Oct. 3, 2023.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer and Information Systems Managers as of May 2023, retrieved April 30, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as computer and information systems managers, nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.
TechFunnel. (2023, Feb. 8). How Management Information Systems Can Help Businesses To Grow. TechFunnel. Retrieved Oct. 3, 2023.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Systems Managers, retrieved on Oct. 3, 2023.