Computer Information Systems vs. Computer Science: Differences Explained

In a modern, globalized world, people rely on various technologies for even the smallest of tasks. From banking to ordering take-out and health records to birth certificates, numerous systems and sciences come together to make these technologies possible. 

Understanding the differences between computer information systems (CIS) and computer science (CS) is crucial for making important education and career decisions. While education in either field can lead to a rewarding career, a master’s degree in computer information systems focuses on the relationship between information technology (IT) and business. 

What Are Computer Information Systems?

Computer information systems (CIS) refers to the network of systems used to collect and organize data. At its core, it focuses primarily on how hardware and software work together on various devices as they store and manage information. Some common examples of CIS devices include cloud-based storage and applications, servers, and databases. 

Professionals working in the CIS field may take on many roles related to the best, most efficient integrations of hardware and software in specific fields or organizations. Earning a master’s degree in CIS teaches students how to achieve the following outcomes: 

• Execute IT projects from start to finish
• Create applications for highly specific uses
• Design networks that support current and future IT implementations
• Build the relational databases specific to certain needs and use best practices
• Identify and evaluate risks associated with IT applications
• Design client-facing web applications

Typical Degree Skills in CIS Programs

When comparing CIS vs. CS degrees, CIS degree programs focus on a very broad but specialized set of skills, giving aspiring professionals a strong understanding of topics such as the following. 

Database Management

Database management skills are essential for creating or choosing specific database software for a client’s or employer’s specific needs. In some cases, CIS professionals design the code themselves or build the tools required to monitor performance within or between departments. 

Computer Forensics

Computer forensics refers to the ethical and legal protection of an organization’s information. It also includes protecting and recovering digital data. A solid understanding of digital information storage types and the ability to retrieve lost data can serve organizations well. 

Data Analysis

Some roles may require data analysis skills, especially when collecting or using information to make business-related decisions. Developing analytical tools, creating graphs and charts, and monitoring trends can all play vital roles in a business’s ultimate choices. 

Information Systems Security

Information systems security focuses on building, selecting, and using various security tools to protect networks and data. For example, students may learn to build firewalls to help detect unauthorized access.

Project Management

Project management is essential for leading teams and creating solutions that work for individual businesses’ needs. A good understanding of each phase of a project gives students the tools they need to reach their goals effectively and efficiently. 

Business Principles

Students also typically learn about business principles, including basic business models, which can help them better use technology to meet their employers’ or clients’ unique needs. 

What Is Computer Science?

Whereas CIS tends to focus on the way networks and data benefit businesses, computer science leans more toward the theoretical and historical. It also focuses on data structures, algorithms, and the ways in which computers and networks are designed from the ground up. Combining engineering, mathematics, probability, and electronics, CS is related to computer information systems but exists as its own discipline. 

Professionals working in computer science take on varied roles, ranging from software developers to cybersecurity analysts. A graduate-level CS program helps students do the following:

• Use algorithms and critical thinking to solve various problems, as well as analyze and implement solutions
• Use engineering and software development skills to create software solutions that meet specific requirements 
• Identify how computer architecture, systems, and hardware integration work, along with developing an understanding of the interactions between software and hardware components
• Understand the role of ethics and effective communication in forming strategies, advocacy in computing, and leading teams solving complex problems
• Use research to fill in knowledge gaps and communicate findings in both written and oral formats, thereby contributing to the overall field 

Typical Degree Skills in CS Programs

Though CIS and CS curricula share some basic coursework and commonalities, their focuses are quite different. 

Programming Languages

CS graduates learn to be proficient in multiple languages, including popular options like JavaScript, C++, and Python.

Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Cybersecurity continues to grow increasingly more important. Students in CS programs learn the cybersecurity basics to protect data, systems, and networks from attacks. 

Robotics

Robotics contributes significantly to many industries, ranging from manufacturing to healthcare. CS students learn the foundations of robotics, including the basic algorithms and programming languages, which can give robots the ability to act autonomously and effectively. 

Machine Learning

Machine learning uses data analysis to make decisions, which continues to grow more important as the use of data-driven technologies grows. The ability of machine learning to make predictions can significantly help many businesses make important decisions. 

Blockchain

Using a clearly defined and distributed ledger system, blockchain ensures decentralized and completely secure data management. Storing and transmitting tamper-proof documents, such as electronic health records, relies on blockchain technology. 

Cloud Computing

From Google Cloud to Amazon Web Services (AWS), cloud-based servers give computer scientists the ability to build online applications with enhanced security. Understanding these platforms gives computer scientists and developers the expertise to manage cloud-based applications and deploy them seamlessly. 

Data Structures

Organizing data through the appropriate structures optimizes problem-solving performance, especially when the software is reliable and completely scalable. Students who learn data structure basics are better equipped to reliably manage data, both online and off. 

Software Development

Students learn about DevOps practices and Agile methods to create applications that work together, update more frequently, and provide a better overall quality to the end user throughout their lifetime. 

CIS vs. CS: Differences in Career Outcomes

The differences in computer information systems vs. computer science degree programs are significant, but the relationships between the two are best highlighted in their career outcomes. 

Career Outcomes for CIS Graduates

Career outcomes for CIS graduates tend to focus on the links between the way businesses use data and technologies and how those technologies can be improved or made more secure. Three popular careers include information security analyst, computer and information systems manager, and database administrator. 

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts design, implement, and maintain security measures to protect networks and systems within organizations. This involves monitoring for security breaches, using firewalls and other security software to protect vital information, and developing an organization’s security standards and practices. They are also involved in disaster recovery, developing and implementing contingency plans that maintain continued operations in emergency situations. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), information security analysts earned a median annual income of $124,910 as of May 2024. The BLS projects that positions are expected to increase by 29% between 2024 and 2034—significantly faster than the labor market as a whole. 

Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems managers plan, implement, coordinate, and direct all of an organization’s computer-related activities. They analyze a company’s IT needs, making recommendations for new software or equipment. They may also work alongside cybersecurity professionals to develop processes for preventing IT threats. 

As of May 2024, computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of $171,200, according to the BLS. Positions in the field are projected to grow by 15% between 2024 and 2034, an average of 55,600 openings per year throughout that decade. 

Database Administrator

Database administrators and architects are directly responsible for creating and maintaining systems for storing and securing data. Much of the role involves determining users’ needs, then designing and building new databases to meet those requirements. These professionals also work to prevent data loss, ensure databases are free from operational errors, and update permissions for users. 

According to the BLS, database administrators and architects earned a median annual salary of $104,600 as of May 2024, with the highest paid 10% earning more than $209,000 annually. Employment in the field is projected to grow 4% between 2024 and 2034, with about 7,800 new openings per year. 

Career Outcomes for CS Graduates

Computer science graduates often choose careers based in development or engineering, with some going into cybersecurity. Three of the most common careers include software developer, data scientist, and network and computer systems administrator. 

Software Developer

Software developers design the programs and applications that billions of people use each day around the world. They spend much of their time determining end users’ needs and designing or developing software to meet those needs. They may focus on one specific piece of software or design entire systems, ensuring that everything works together through testing and maintenance phases. 

The median annual salary for software developers was about $133,080 as of May 2024, according to the BLS, with the highest 10% earning more than $211,450 each year. The number of positions is projected to increase by 16% between 2024 and 2034, resulting in a net gain of 267,700 jobs over the decade. 

Data Scientists

Data scientists use a variety of tools and techniques to extract important information from vast amounts of data. In the course of doing so, they may perform tasks such as choosing relevant and meaningful data, devising methods for collecting that data, and using a variety of models and algorithms to validate their choices. When presenting their findings to stakeholders or employers, they often rely on data visualization software to produce meaningful charts and graphs. 

The median annual salary for data scientists was $112,590 as of May 2024, with the highest 10% of earners bringing home earnings of more than $194,410 annually, according to the BLS. The number of positions is projected to grow 34% between 2024 and 2034, making it one of the fastest growing in all of computer science. 

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Network and computer systems administrators install and maintain organizations’ overall systems of computers and networks. They determine needs and install both hardware and software to meet them, optimize systems’ performance, add users to networks and assign their permissions, and train others to use the systems. Though they may work in both networks and systems, most specialize in either one or the other, often working as part of a team. 

According to the BLS, network and computer systems administrators earned a median annual salary of $96,800 as of May 2024, with the highest-paid 10% earning more than $150,320 annually. About 14,300 new openings are expected each year between 2024 and 2034. 

Become a Computer Information Systems Professional with New England College

After weighing the differences between computer information systems and computer science, your degree path may be clearer. If you prefer to work in systems management, combining technological expertise with business acumen, computer information systems may be the right choice for you. 

New England College’s Master of Science in Computer Information Systems degree is a good option for anyone drawn to a career in information security analysis, computer and information systems management, and database administration, and it applies to a wide range of information technology careers. 

Find out how New England College can help you reach your career goals with a master’s degree that suits your needs. 

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