General Description and Program Objective

The Master of Computer Information Systems (MCIS) program is designed for students with some experience in computer technology and planning who desire to advance their knowledge and skills in the area of the design, programming, and application of information technology systems. The emphasis is on providing students with the basic analytic skills and strong aptitude for security and IT project management. The program is also designed to help students to understand fundamental and important current issues in computer systems and information technologies. As such, the program is meant to provide students with opportunity to be prepared for employment or to pursue advanced degrees.

The program includes six (6) pre-determined core computer information systems major courses and six (6) elective courses. Every student in majoring MS in Computer Information Systems must take 6 major courses. The core computer information systems courses are as follows: Business Data Communication and Networks, Database Design and Implementation for Business, Information Systems Analysis and Design, IT Strategy and Management, Information Structures with Java, and five more. And every student can select any 6 courses from the list of elective courses based on their interest or concentration in an attempt to prepare their employment or to advance their research. The elective courses have the following two major categories: Security and IT Project Management. Elective courses are as follows: Information Technology Project Management, Distributed Software Development and Management, Agile Software Development, IT Security Policies and Procedures, Enterprise Information Security, Database Security, Network Security, Digital Forensics and Investigations, Mobile Forensics, Web Application Development, Server-Side Web Development, and Rich Internet Application Development.

However, students can choose any class in any combination depending on their purpose in employment or interest in research. Every course has an emphasis on the concepts and techniques related to computer information systems. Students who do not have computer major in the bachelor program will be required to take 5 courses of prerequisite courses. There is a strong emphasis on biblical values and theological education. Courses in computer information systems major will be taught through the lenses of Christian principles.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Master of Computer Information Systems program of study at Sierra Sates University, the student will be able to

1. Explain about advanced knowledge in the analysis and documentation of requirements for architecture, design, and implementation of computer information systems.
2. Describe the proficiency in software and computing skills as they pertain to the design and implementation of database systems, security systems, systems analysis, and design.
3. Compare current and emerging information technologies that may have strategic value for enterprise; assess where those technologies have value; and manage the implementation of those technologies in the enterprise.
4. Discriminate IT project advanced knowledge in the analysis and documentation of requirements for design and implementation of computer information systems.
5. Describe biblical and theological perspectives in the field where computer information systems play a vital role.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for admission to the Master of Computer Information Systems program, submitting proper documentation to the office of admission by the appropriate deadline:

1. Applicants for admission must hold a Bachelor of Science or equivalent degree from a university or college and must submit official transcripts for their academic work.
2. A completed application form for admission
3. Application fee
4. Recommendation Form