Learn Systems Analysis and Design

Computer information systems overlaps many other fields, so we prepare our students to face a wide range of challenges. The CIS major has a built-in minor that allows you to choose an area of interest, such as entrepreneurship or financial mathematics, that will greatly enhance your marketability after graduation.


Program Overview

Why Study Computer Information Systems at UD?

Our students learn the latest cutting edge technology through hands-on experience in labs such as VR/AR, interactive media, intelligent systems security, cyberspace, cyber-physical systems, programming languages and vision and mixed reality.

Computer science majors complete a two-semester capstone project that allows students in their senior year to work with a company in the Dayton area. Students are assigned a problem and develop a solution that will benefit the company.

Students can pursue concentrations to further their education in cyber defense*, artificial intelligence and data science and software engineering.

Students majoring in computer information systems are required to select a minor to complete their graduation requirements. This program is designed for students who seek to combine their interest in the use of computers with one or more approved areas in the arts, sciences, engineering or business.

*Students pursuing a computer science degree must apply to be part of the cyber defense concentration program.

Ready to take the next step? Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about computer information systems at UD.

Degree Information and Sample Plan

The computer information systems program emphasizes computer science concepts with particular attention to systems analysis and design.

Students majoring in computer information systems are required to select a minor to complete their graduation requirements. This program is designed for students who seek to combine their interest in the use of computers with one or more approved areas in the arts, sciences, engineering or business.

Sample Plan of Study

This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2025-26 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and your personal goals and interests. Please contact your holistic advisor if you have any questions.

Semester 1
  • ASI 150 – Introduction to the University Experience
    1
  • CPS 149 – Creative Media Applications
    4
  • MTH 116 OR 148 – 116: Precalculus Math; 148: Introductory Calculus I
    4
  • HUM 101 – Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times
    3
  • CAP Natural Science with Lab
    4
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 2
  • CPS 150 – Algorithms & Programming I
    4
  • MTH 148 OR 149 – 148: Introductory Calculus I; 149: Introductory Calculus II
    3
  • Natural Science with Lab
    4
  • HUM 102 – Marie Thérèse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good
    3
  • CMM 100 – Principles of Oral Communication
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 17
Semester 3
  • CPS 151 – Algorithms & Programming II
    4
  • CAP Faith Traditions
    3
  • MTH 207 – Introduction to Statistics
    3
  • ENG 200 – Writing Seminar II
    3
  • Minor
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 4
  • CPS 341 – Discrete Structures
    3
  • CPS 350 – Data Structures & Algorithms
    3
  • CAP Social Science
    3
  • Minor
    3
  • CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies/Practical Ethical Action
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 5
  • CPS 310 – Systems Analysis
    3
  • CPS 242 – Web Application Development
    3
  • Minor
    3
  • CAP Arts
    3
  • CAP Advanced Religious Studies
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 6
  • CPS 430 – Database Management Systems
    3
  • CPS Electives
    6
  • Minor
    3
  • CAP Diversity and Social Justice
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 7
  • CPS 490 – Capstone I
    3
  • CPS Elective
    3
  • Social and Behavioral Science
    3
  • CAP Advanced Historical Studies
    3
  • Minor
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 8
  • CPS 491 – Capstone II
    3
  • CPS Electives
    6
  • CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations
    3
  • Minor
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15
* The requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems include a minor chosen by the student in consultation with the student's academic advisor.

Admission Information

At the University of Dayton, applying is free and test scores are optional. When you apply, you'll automatically be considered for a merit scholarship.

Learn about our admission process, then apply using UD's application or the Common App.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.

To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.



Success After Graduation

Get more than your foot in the door — get ready for success. At our School of Engineering, you will have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows you to further sharpen your skills. It’s a key reason why employers love hiring our students — they can hit the ground running.


Design Your Academic Path

Combine Your Interests

Students majoring in computer information systems are required to select a minor, giving you a chance to combine your interest in the use of computers with one or more approved areas.

Association for Computing Machinery

ACM is one of the world's largest organizations for computer scientists and people interested in computers. Our students participate in ACM events such as Hack The Box.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Department of Computer Science is located in a recently renovated, 58,000-square-foot campus facility. Hathcock Hall is a stimulating academic environment that offers students cutting-edge research labs and active classroom space.

Bachelor's Plus Master's Program

The BPM degree option allows undergraduate students majoring in computer information systems to obtain both a bachelor of science and a master of science in five years.



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Ready to Study Computer Information Systems?

Let’s create your future. Now you know what we’re about: community, personal attention, hands-on learning, integrity and global thinking. Take the next step and connect with us today.

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