Tech careers report strong demand. According to CompTIA’s State of the Tech Workforce 2024 report, jobs in tech will grow at twice the rate of overall employment in the coming decade, with particularly high demand for roles such as data scientist, cybersecurity analyst and software developer.  

Earning a degree in computer information systems or computer science prepares graduates for in-demand tech jobs. While both disciplines develop tech skills, their focuses, degree requirements and career paths differ. Keep reading for a breakdown of the characteristics of computer information systems versus computer science. 

Defining Computer Information Systems and Computer Science

What’s the difference between computer information systems versus computer science? The two fields both require strong computing skills, but their main focus differs. While computer information systems emphasizes applied data management, computer science encompasses theoretical and practical applications.  

What Is Computer Information Systems?

Computer information systems is the study of data management with technology. Businesses, government agencies and other organizations rely on technology to store and transfer information. Computer information systems programs build the information infrastructure and cyber management skills to carry out these tasks.  

With a computer information systems degree, graduates help businesses manage their data efficiently and securely. Professionals may design data networks to organize and distribute data. Or they may specialize in an area such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence or business analytics.  

What Is Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computers, including the theoretical and practical applications of computing systems. Focus areas within computer science include software development, database systems and programming languages. 

A degree in computer science builds the technical knowledge and skills for diverse tech roles. Degree-seekers gain hands-on experience working with computer systems, programming languages and technical tools.  

Computer Information Systems vs. Computer Science: Degree Requirements

The course requirements for a computer science and computer information systems degree overlap. Both programs often include classes in computer programming, cybersecurity, computer operating systems and applied computing.  

Common computer information systems courses include: 

• Information systems 

• Web development 

• Data security 

• Information system project management 

Computer information programs may also offer concentrations in areas such as data analytics, business administration, artificial intelligence or cybersecurity. 

Common computer science courses include: 

• Software engineering 

• Database systems 

• Artificial intelligence 

• Computer architecture 

At the undergraduate level, both computer information systems and computer science degrees will require general education courses, typically focused on the social sciences, mathematics and natural sciences. Graduate programs offer greater opportunities to specialize degrees in computer information systems or computer science.  

Career Outcomes for Computer Information Systems vs. Computer Science

Degrees in computer information systems and computer science lead to job opportunities in tech, management and related fields. Nearly half of all computer and information technology (IT) majors work in computer or IT jobs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While there is some overlap in career outcomes between computer information systems versus computer science, examples of potential graduate careers include the following. 

Computer Information Systems Degree Career Outcomes

• Information security analyst: Cybersecurity specialists protect sensitive information and implement recovery plans in the case of security breaches. They test networks to identify weaknesses and implement preventive plans.  

• Computer systems analyst: These analysts evaluate an organization’s technology needs and design systems to meet them. They leverage technology to improve operational efficiency.  

• Computer and information systems manager: Managers in tech oversee areas such as cybersecurity, IT infrastructure and software development. They bring a blend of technical and business training.  

A computer information systems degree can also lead to roles such as data analyst, information systems manager or IT consultant.  

Computer Science Degree Career Outcomes

• Software developer: These developers design applications to complete tasks on computers, smartphones and other devices. They also create operating systems.    

• Database administrator: Database administrators and architects specialize in managing data, including financial data and personal identifying information. They develop secure databases and train authorized users on safety procedures.  

• Web developer: Specialists in web development create websites and applications. They use programming languages like JavaScript to create interactive features and the look of websites and applications while also managing the technical performance.  

Other common careers with a computer science degree include computer network architect, information security analyst and computer programmer. A master’s in computer science prepares graduates for roles such as computer network administrator, software architect or IT business analyst.  

Computer Information Systems vs. Computer Science: Salary and Job Outlook

Both computer information systems and computer science report strong salary and job outlooks. Professionals with a bachelor’s in a computer or IT field earn a median salary of $95,000, according to BLS data. These degrees also prepare graduates for careers in high-demand areas. 

Computer Information Systems Salary and Job Growth Data

Which computer information systems tech careers have the highest earning and employment potential? The following fields have a strong outlook, according to salary and job growth data from the BLS.  

Information Security Analyst

• Median annual salary (2023): $120,360 

• Job outlook (2023-33): 33 percent 

Computer Systems Analyst

• Median annual salary (2023): $103,800 

• Job outlook (2023-33): 11 percent 

Computer and Information Systems Manager

• Median annual salary (2023): $169,510 

• Job outlook (2023-33): 17 percent 

Computer Science Salary and Job Growth Data

The following salary and job growth data from the BLS shows a strong outlook for jobs in these computer science fields.

Software Developer

• Median annual salary (2023): $132,270 

• Job outlook (2023-33): 18 percent 

Database Administrator

• Median annual salary (2023): $117,450 

• Job outlook (2023-33): 9 percent 

Web Developer

• Median annual salary (2023): $92,750 

• Job outlook (2023-33): 8 percent  

Earn Your Tech Degree at SEMO Online

Ready to take the next step in your tech education? SEMO Online offers flexible computer information systems and computer science degrees. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems builds foundational computing, cyber management and information infrastructure skills. You’ll gain real-world experience through real-world projects and an internship while focusing your education through a track in artificial intelligence, business administration or cybersecurity.  

The Master of Science in Applied Computer Science can help you break into tech or advance your career through core courses in cybersecurity, cloud computing and artificial intelligence. You’ll also choose electives to customize your course of study.  

Reach out to SEMO Online today to learn more about programs offered through the Harrison College of Business and Computing.