Six Degrees of Computer Science

In some ways Information Systems attacks the same basic problem as Information Technology, in that it is focused on making computer technology work for people and organizations.

However, while IT is more concerned with the technology itself, Information Systems focuses more on business related issues. They are interested in questions like: “What information does the enterprise need?”, “How is that information generated?”, “Is it delivered to the people who need it? Is it presented to them in ways that permit them to use it readily?”

Information Systems degrees generally have a blend of courses in technology, business, and communications. IS professionals must understand both technical and organizational factors so they can serve as a bridge between the technical and management groups in an organization.

Typical careers:

1. Computer Systems Analyst

Education:

Because IS jobs tend to have significant business and management responsibilities, they are more likely to require a Bachelor’s degree than IT jobs.

An Information Systems degree will combine technical knowledge and business knowledge in different degrees. Some IS programs have a more technical focus, with a core of technical skills like an IT professional. Other programs are much more business focused and have technical courses that don’t focus on developing practical skills, but instead focus on understanding how technologies are used so that the IS practitioner can manage people with the more applied skills.

Knowledge Domains:

This diagram illustrates the knowledge areas required in this field. A 5 represents a very high degree of required expertise while 1 represents a minimal amount.