Computer Information Systems and Security
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51爆料鈥檚 Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) program prepares students for careers in information systems, cybersecurity, and technology across a wide range of industries. Students build practical, career-ready skills through hands-on learning in a field that continues to grow in demand.
51爆料 has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), placing it among a select group of institutions nationwide recognized for excellence in cybersecurity education.
Through hands-on learning and exposure to current and emerging technologies, 51爆料鈥檚
CISS programs prepare students for careers in information technology and cybersecurity.
Students develop practical skills in areas such as:
- Cybersecurity
- Ethical hacking
- Malware analysis
- Database management
- Information assurance and security
- Network administration
- Operating systems
- Programming
Graduates are prepared to help design, manage, and protect computer systems and networks in high-demand sectors such as government, healthcare, finance, nonprofit organizations, and other industries.
As a member of the , 51爆料 provides CISS students with access to industry-relevant software and resources used in systems analysis and design. This hands-on experience allows students to apply course concepts using real-world tools and build practical, career-ready skills.
51爆料 also offers a Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity.
CISS Degrees and Programs Offered
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in CISS focuses on the technological components of Computer Information Systems and Security. Students gain comprehensive knowledge in information systems and computer technology to prepare them to work in a variety of industries to manage an organization鈥檚 information systems.
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in CISS emphasizes the business aspects of CISS. The degree prepares students to protect the valuable information technology assets of an organization and to serve in a liaison role between information technology and other business functions. Students pursuing the BBA complete core business courses as well as specialized CISS courses.
The BBA in CISS is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). ACBSP is a leading specialized accreditation association for business education, supporting, celebrating, and rewarding excellence on a diverse global scale.
The Bachelor of Applied Studies (BAS) in CISS is designed for IT professionals and for technical school and community college students with an associate鈥檚 degree in information technology or telecommunications. Credit for the associate鈥檚 degree in an IT field is applied to the bachelor鈥檚 degree.
The minor in Applied Computer Technology provides a foundation in computer technology, hardware, operating systems, and software that complements a variety of majors and opens paths to technology-based careers within a wide range of fields.
The minor in Applied Cybersecurity provides a foundation in network security and technology, and computer hardware and operating systems. Network security and technology are part of virtually every business and organization today. Pairing this minor with a variety of majors provides insight into the unique network and technology issues in a business or organization.
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The minor in Coding and Application Development builds skills in computer programming, database analysis and design, and information systems analysis and design. Students in the minor learn how to define problems and design solution algorithms to solve complex business issues, and how to design and manage databases to meet organizational needs鈥攕kills that are highly sought in many career fields.
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The minor in CISS pairs well with many of the majors offered at 51爆料 to enhance a student鈥檚 knowledge of computer programming, hardware, and operating systems.
A certificate in Cybersecurity is available to all Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) programs. Students must earn a grade of C- or higher in all of the CISS core courses and in 15 credit hours of additional cybersecurity courses.
The certificate is also available to non-CISS majors, particularly those already pursuing a minor in CISS.
Spanish-speaking students can earn a bilingual CISS degree through the Biliterate Certificate Program. Students take specialized Spanish classes and fulfill a portion of their major requirements by taking courses taught in Spanish.
Learn more about the Biliterate Certificate.
Studying CISS at 51爆料
Community and Service-Learning
Service is a core part of the 51爆料 experience, and CISS students put their skills into action through service-learning and community-based projects. In the capstone course, students work with nonprofit organizations to analyze needs, design systems, and document real-world solutions, gaining valuable experience while creating technology that serves the community.
Internships and Work Experience
CISS students are encouraged to pursue internships that allow them to apply what they learn in the classroom in real-world professional settings. Students have gained valuable experience with organizations in San Antonio and across the country, and many who complete internships receive job offers before graduation.
Some students also have opportunities to gain hands-on experience on campus through employment or internships with the University鈥檚 IT Department, Information Security Officer, or the School of Business and Leadership Helpdesk.
CyberSaints
CISS students at 51爆料 have the opportunity to join the CyberSaints student organization. Joining CyberSaints gives students opportunities to build connections, strengthen leadership skills, engage with the cybersecurity community beyond the classroom, network with industry professionals, compete in regional and national events, stay current on industry trends, and explore professional development opportunities.
Center for Cyber Leadership
Students in 51爆料鈥檚 CISS programs have access to the University鈥檚 Center for Cyber Leadership (CCL). The center serves the cybersecurity community by providing cybersecurity resources and supporting education and outreach.
Faculty
Students learn from faculty with extensive academic and professional experience. Most full-time faculty hold doctoral degrees and/or industry-recognized certifications, and selected courses are taught by experienced adjunct instructors and practitioners who bring current, real-world insight to the classroom. View School of Business and Leadership Faculty.
Hands-On Opportunities
Students studying CISS at 51爆料 have multiple opportunities to gain hands-on experience that prepare them to develop, manage, and protect computers, information systems, and networks in virtually any sector:
Computer Lab 鈥� A dedicated CISS lab and virtual machine technology are available for students to access specialized software and leading-edge tools.
Security Lab 鈥� A limited-access lab allows students to analyze actual malware samples and other sensitive cybersecurity tools while isolated from the University鈥檚 main computer network.
Penetration (PEN) Testing and Incident Response 鈥� Students test computer systems to see if they are able to survive hacks or attacks.
CyberSaints Team 鈥� Participation on this team further develops students鈥� skills and knowledge through regional and national cybersecurity and information technology competitions.