About Computer Information Systems
Computer information systems (CIS) is a rapidly growing field that enables graduates to design, develop, and manage information technology systems. Many CIS graduates work with companies' IT systems, analyzing issues and ensuring all programs are kept up to date and working well. While working toward this degree, students take classes in computer science, numerical analysis, software, hardware, and computer technology. These classes equip students with strong computer skills and teach them to perform complex analytical tasks.
Degree Information
Almost every company in the world is managed through computers, which means almost every company in the world needs a CIS graduate. For that reason, CIS jobs are some of the fastest growing and highest paying jobs in management. The Buffalo State computer information systems program prepares students for entry-level positions, such as programmer, systems analyst, or network support in the computer field, and provides them with the technical knowledge and managerial skills necessary for a wide range of subsequent career paths. There is a growing demand in all sectors for individuals with this combination of capabilities.
- Application Software Specialist
- Artificial Intelligence Programmer
- Business Application Developer
- Business Decision Support Specialist
- Chief Information Officer
- Client/Server Software Developer
- Computer Control Programmer
- Computer Graphics Specialist
- Computer Support Specialist
- Database Designer/Administrator
- EDP Auditor
- ERP Administrator
- Help Desk Assistant
- Human Computer Interaction Specialist
- IS/IT Manager
- Interface Programmer/Designer
- Internet/Intranet Manager
- Management Analyst
- Management Consultant
- Operations Research Analyst
- Programmer
- Quality Assurance Engineer
- Scientific Programmer
- Software Engineer
- System Programmer
- Systems Analyst
- Telecommunications Planner
Information Processors Association (IPA): The official student club of the CIS department, it provides web hosting for Buffalo State students, alumni, and clubs, and invites guest speakers to discuss topics of interest in the IT field.
High Performance Computing (HiPerC): This student organization promotes the learning, application, and advancement of high-performance computing across multiple disciplines.
On-Campus Employment: On campus, Information Technology completes installation, repair, and support for campus computers and networks. The E. H. Butler Library hires students for the Help Desk and as assistants in the library.
As an institution, Buffalo State backs its commitment by putting substantial financial resources behind faculty-mentored undergraduate research. The Undergraduate Research Office promotes, supports, and funds undergraduate research in all academic areas—from the sciences to the arts—and for all committed students. More than 400 students present their research through posters and performances each year at the Student Research and Creativity Conference. They also compete for Undergraduate Summer Research Fellowships, which support eight weeks of paid research activity.
Internships enable students to use the skills acquired in the classroom in real-world settings. Students have completed internships at such noted companies and organizations as:
- Algonquin Studios
- Bank of America
- Catholic Health System
- Center for the Development of Human Services
- Citigroup
- Erie County
- FedEx
- HSBC
- M&T Bank
- National Fuel
- People, Inc.
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Strong Affiliations
CIS is part of Buffalo State’s School of the Professions, which is filled with award-winning faculty, professional accreditations, and a vibrant student body.
Excellent Faculty
Our faculty is committed to teaching and learning as its primary responsibilities, with secondary emphasis on applied scholarship and instructional development. Due to small class sizes, students receive plenty of individualized attention.
Advanced Technology
Students are educated in the use of a broad range of software used for academic research and by government and business.
Scholarships
The staff at the Information Technology Exchange Center (ITEC) established a scholarship given to a student who shows promise in the use of computing and technology. Since 2004, ITEC has awarded $55,000 to 57 recipients, not all of whom are CIS majors.
