Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Systems

Hone your information technology (IT) skills with the Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Systems Major (BSc-CIS). This program will build the skills you need to develop and run computer-based systems in business, education, and other fields that process, use and manage information.

Athabasca University’s BSc-CIS curriculum balances the two broad areas of Computing and Information Systems:

• computer science (developing infrastructure and systems for organizational processes)
• information systems (acquiring, deploying, and managing IT resources)

Why take the Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Systems?

The knowledge and skills acquired in the BSc-CIS will help you utilize new IT and incorporate it into your organization's strategy, planning and practices. You will be well equipped for managing departmental and individual IT systems.

You will also be ready for graduate studies at AU and other universities.

The successful student graduated from the program will be able to

• Apply knowledge and skills through critical thinking and logical reflection to analyze problem situations and identify the requirements of possible solutions to fit customer/organizational needs;
• Demonstrate collaborative or independent work to analyse information systems and match information and communication technology (ICT) solutions to requirements;
• Report scientific knowledge and findings in written, visual and verbal forms and to communicate scientific arguments effectively;
• Demonstrate professionalism and appreciation of ethical practice in science in the real world and build solutions in accordance with recognized approaches to good practice in ICT design and management

In order to achieve these outcomes, students will

• accomplish the specification, design and implementation of ICT solutions that address business problems and requirements
• build applications using software components particularly in an organizational environment
• model solutions to problems before or as part of the process of implementation
• build solutions in accordance with recognized approaches to good practice in ICT design and management
• identify the extent to which technological and/or organizational solutions, processes and techniques are effective
• adopt an efficient approach for information gathering, filtering and manipulation
• proficiently use information systems in an organizational environment to accomplish organizational goals and requirements
• make effective use of tools, methods and procedures to design, build and evaluate information systems
• efficiently learn new tools, technologies and methods that are required to be used by an ICT professional
• think logically and creatively
• perform effective research using a range of methods and sources
• adopt a methodical and rigorous approach to problem analysis and problem solving
• manage ICT development process
• manage ICT infrastructure to address business needs
• use effective project management methodologies to increase the chances of ICT project success
• make informed decisions and effective choices about ICT construction and management using practical and theoretical knowledge
• identify appropriate technologies and methods necessary to deliver products and services, related to current and future ICTs, that satisfy client needs
• use a critical and reflective awareness of the context, including the ethical and legal imperatives, in which professional activities are undertaken, when creating and/or managing ICT solutions
• competently practice appropriate professional skills, taking into account the ethical, social and legal dimensions that relate to those skills   
• make effective use of the theories and models that underpin the application of those skills
• communicate clearly through a variety of electronic communication technologies to a variety of audiences
• present to a range of audiences reasoned arguments addressing a given technological opportunity
• conduct an informed debate on the merits and demerits of ICT solutions with others in the ICT industry as well as occupying other organizational roles
• efficiently work in and manage groups
• adopt a useful and productive role in a team
• allocate and undertake tasks leading to successful ICT projects
• apply knowledge of systems development lifecycles to accomplish successful ICT projects
• efficiently learn new tools, technologies and methods
• constructively reflect on past performance and future goals
• adopt a methodical and reflective approach to the acquisition of new skills and knowledge of ICTs

Possible career options

• Computer and Network Operator
• Computer Programmer
• Customer Support Analyst
• Data Administrator
• Systems Quality Assurance Analyst
• Database Analyst
• Helpdesk Technician
• Information Systems Consultant
• Software Development Specialist
• Software Support Specialist
• Systems Auditor
• Systems Security Analyst
• Web Technician
• Web Designer
• Webmaster

• Completion of high school in an English-speaking country.
• Completion of 15 university credits from a recognized English-speaking university, or 1 year at a non-university post-secondary institution with an overall average of 75% (GPA of 3.0).

English is the language of instruction and communication in SCIS graduate programs.

Proficiency in English is an essential requirement for admission to SCIS graduate programs. Although working and studying online requires a different level of English language skills than does the classroom situation, students must nevertheless be able to communicate effectively with faculty, administration, and with other students.

For more information on the English Language Prociency Requirements for Graduate Studies please refer to the AU graduate calendar.

• Minimum score of 6 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• Minimum score of 60% on the Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL).
• Minimum score of 80 on the Michigan English Language Battery (MELAB) test.
• Minimum score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE).
• Minimum score of 213 on the computer- or paper-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL PBT), with 4.5 on the Test of Written English (TWE).
• Minimum score of 80 with an essay score of 20 on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT).
• Successful completion of AU’s English Language Proficiency Program with an overall average of 75% (GPA of 3.0).
• See the English Language Proficiency Requirements Policy for further details.

How to apply

You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.

• How to enrol in an undergraduate program

Make sure we get your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.