Computer Information Systems Associates Degree: Career Options for Graduates

Published Sep 14, 2009

RSS Feed

The field of computer information systems presents a variety of career options to those who study it. Graduates of associate degree programs in computer information systems are qualified to work in many technology careers in areas that include network administration, systems management, programming and computer information systems security.

Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems Career Summary

Two of the most common computer information systems (CIS) careers are in CIS management and CIS security. Computer information systems managers are usually employed by a single company or institution to oversee computer and network technologies. Daily tasks for CIS managers can include network troubleshooting and setting up new computer systems. The responsibilities of computer information systems security professionals are generally focused on ensuring the security and accessibility of information on servers or networks. Graduates of associate degree programs in CIS are eligible for entry-level positions in this field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), www.bls.gov.

Other Career Options for an Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems

Graduates of associate degree programs in CIS don't have to work in the computer information systems field. Since computer information systems associate degree programs teach students a variety of computer skills, graduates of these programs may be eligible for other IT jobs. For example, if a student takes classes in a variety of programming languages, he or she might work as a computer programmer after graduating. Depending on the classes, CIS program graduates may work as web developers, network administrators, web designers, systems analysts or technical support agents.

Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems Career Advancement

With experience, computer information systems professionals may be eligible to take higher-paying jobs in management or other supervisory positions. However, according to BLS, the most competitive candidates for these upper-level positions in CIS are those with the most current technological education. Those wishing to advance in this field can improve their chances by taking continuing education classes after earning their degree. It may be helpful for graduates of computer information systems associate degree programs to earn bachelor's degrees as well, because over 70% of workers in this field have bachelor's or higher degrees, according to O*Net, www.onetcenter.org.

Featured School Choices: