Computer Information Systems, Certificate
Prepare for a future with innovative, diverse, technology-based organizations in the ever-changing field of computer science and IT with a certificate in computer information systems offered through Saint Louis University's School for Professional Studies.
The certificate provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to be competitive in today's market. You can choose to specialize in data analytics or cybersecurity, providing you with expertise that is in demand in modern organizations.
As part of the Saint Louis University School for Professional Studies, this program offers enterprising adults like you a flexible option to meet your personal and career goals. With multiple start dates available, you can begin working toward your certificate at any time. All courses are offered in eight-week terms through SLU Online, making advanced education more accessible for working professionals.
Faculty
As a student in the School for Professional Studies at Saint Louis University, you’ll learn from exceptional faculty who are leading experts in their fields. They bring real-world knowledge to the classroom and are dedicated to your professional success. Learn more on our faculty page.
Careers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the computer science and database industry is expected to grow by 12% through the year 2024, adding 488,500 new jobs. Job opportunities within this field have a broad range of salaries.
Students in the data analytics concentration may pursue a career as a market research analyst, data analyst or in business intelligence. Learn how to collect, analyze, interpret and present information obtained from data drawn from multiple, often disparate sources of organizational data.
Students in the cybersecurity concentration may pursue a career as a cybersecurity analyst, web developer, computer network architect or information assurance engineer. Gain the skills needed to secure information assets of an organization and ensure that data can be created, accessed and modified by only those with the requisite privileges. Upon completion, you will be prepared for employment opportunities in a variety of businesses and organizations.
Tuition
| Tuition | Cost Per Credit |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | |
| Standard Tuition | $650 |
| Active Duty/Veteran (TA eligible or GI Bill); First Responders | $295 |
Additional charges may apply. Other resources are listed below:
Information on Tuition and Fees
Scholarships and Financial Aid
There are two principal ways to help finance a Saint Louis University education:
- Scholarships: Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, service, leadership and financial need. The School for Professional Studies offers numerous scholarships and awards specifically for new students.
- Financial Aid: Financial aid is provided in the form of grants and loans, some of which require repayment.
To determine eligibility for financial assistance, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early for maximum consideration. FAFSA is available online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.
For information on other scholarships and financial aid, visit the student financial services office online at https://www.slu.edu/financial-aid.
- Graduates will be able to analyze a problem and to identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
- Graduates will be able to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the discipline.
- Graduates will be able to communicate effectively with a range of audiences about technical information.
- Graduates will be able to make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Graduates will be able to function effectively on teams to establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, manage risk and produce deliverables.
Admission Requirements
- Completed application
- High school diploma or composite GED score of at least 2250
- Minimum transfer cumulative GPA of 2.5 (unless qualified for conditional admittance)
- Official transcript from the most recent institution attended
- Delayed enrollment in post-secondary education
- Attends part-time for at least part of the academic year
- Works full-time (35 hours or more/week) while enrolled
- Is financially independent
- Has dependents other than a spouse
- Is a single parent
- Has other demands that make traditional education less feasible
Program Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| CIS 1600 | Introduction to Programming | 3 |
| CIS 2875 | Principles of Data Analysis | 3 |
| CIS 3300 | Database Analysis and Design | 3 |
| Specialization | 9 | |
Select one of the following Specializations: | ||
Data Analytics | ||
| Analytics and Visualizations | ||
| Survey of Machine Learning | ||
| Data Mining | ||
Cybersecurity | ||
| Cybersecurity Principles | ||
| The Fundamentals of Computer Forensics | ||
| Cyber Threats and Defense | ||
| Total Credits | 18 | |
Continuation Standards
Students must maintain a minimum of 2.00 GPA and receive a C or better in all certificate classes.