The College of St. Scholastica's Computer Information Systems (CIS) program is a flexible option for students that prepares them for a variety of career options in computing.
The College of St. Scholastica's Computer Information Systems (CIS) program is a flexible option for students that prepares them for a variety of career options in computing. Students can earn a Bachelor's degree with concentrations in Software Development, Business Analysis, Health Informatics, or Mathematics. Students can also double-major in fields such as Biology, Business, Psychology, or even English, to make connections to other interests. Other programs at St. Scholastica include minors in Data Analytics and Computer Science Education (for elementary or secondary education majors), both of which are growing areas of need nationally and within the state.
Unlike traditional computer science programs which provide a background focused on theory, the CIS program focuses on providing students practical experiences they can utilize immediately in their careers. Students are required to complete a senior project for a client and an internship as well as many projects within other major courses. Another difference with other CS programs is that students are not required to complete any math courses as part of the major. If students earned scores of 3, 4, or 5 on AP Computer Science Principles or Computer Science A, both of them can be used to fulfill major requirements. Classes are held in computer labs and limited to about 25 students in a section, allowing students and faculty to connect and develop lasting relationships.
Graduates of the CIS program have gone on to work at Microsoft, Target, Securian Financial Systems, Travelers Insurance, etc. and at a number of consulting firms. Students often start as software developers, database specialists, or systems analysts and then progress to senior management and engineering roles.
St. Scholastica is test-optional (does not require an ACT or SAT score for admission) and utilizes the common app. CSS also provides many opportunities for financial aid, making it a cost-effective option for students and families. Many CIS students also find on-campus work in the IT department, allowing them to put the knowledge from their CIS courses to use immediately.
If you are interested, students can request more information, meet their admissions counselor and more on this page. Tom Gibbons (tgibbons@css.edu) is the CIS department chair and also often meets with students interested in a CIS major to answer questions.