Transfer: Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business, Business Administration, Computer or Information Sciences, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
Programs in business information systems prepare students to oversee the efficient use of computer hardware and software systems. Persons trained in business information systems may work in job classifications such as computer operators, peripheral equipment operators, computer programmers, computer systems analysts, data processing technicians and managers, software engineers, network managers, trainers, consultants, and a variety of technical support positions. Most business, industry, government, and educational organizations employ personnel with expertise in business information systems.
Successful work experience in entry level positions as computer and peripheral equipment operators and computer support technicians in small firms may lead to advancement to jobs with greater responsibility and complexity.
Computer equipment operators oversee the efficient use of computer hardware systems. Duties vary with the size of the installation, the type of equipment used, and the policies of the employer. Computer operators set controls, load supplies for the equipment, and monitor and respond to computer messages. They assist programmers in systems analysis and debugging operations.
Computer support technicians work in various capacities to assist other users. They may maintain networks, troubleshoot software and hardware problems, perform upgrades, test new products and applications, install new equipment, train employees and users, and provide general support to all end users in a work environment.
Computer programmers write, update, and maintain instructions (programs) that list the steps that computers must execute to perform various tasks. System programmers maintain the software that controls an entire computer system. Applications programmers usually are oriented to business, engineering, and science and write programs to handle specific jobs. In software development companies, programmers work with experts from various fields to create new programs for specific applications like graphics, computer-aided design, animation, or educational instruction.
Computer systems analysts define business, engineering, or scientific problems and design their solutions using computers. This process may include planning and developing new computer systems or devising ways to apply existing systems to operations completed by some less efficient method.
There are no universal education and/or training requirements for business information system workers because computer applications are so widespread and varied that employer's needs also vary greatly. Management and technical programming positions at large firms require a bachelor's degree in business, computer sciences, computer information systems, mathematics, or related disciplines.
Many technical support and supervisory positions require flexible combinations of educational training and work experience. An associate degree coupled with extensive knowledge of and experience with the software programs typically used by businesses may qualify an individual for a wide range of responsible positions with growth opportunities. Entry level positions as computer operators, equipment operators, and data entry personnel provide community college students with the work experience to advance to more responsible and technical positions.
Business information systems workers must be adaptable and willing to learn because technology changes so rapidly. They must be able to work independently and as part of a team. They should possess good communication skills and be able to work under pressure. Patience, persistence, ingenuity, and imagination are required for some positions. The ability to work with abstract concepts and do technical analysis is important for systems programming and management jobs.
