Computer Information Systems, Certificate

Prepare for a future with innovative, diverse, technology-based organizations in the ever-changing field of computer science and IT. The certificate in computer information systems offered through Saint Louis University's School for Professional Studies 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 SLU's School for Professional Studies, this 18-credit certificate program offers you a flexible option to meet your personal career goals. With six start terms each year, you can begin working toward your education at any time. All courses are offered entirely online in eight-week terms, making advanced education more accessible for working professionals.

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.

Admission Requirements

• Age: 22 years or older (exceptions may be made)
• Work Experience: At least three years or the equivalent
• Education: High school diploma or composite GED score of at least 2250
• Interview: Successful completion of a meeting with an academic coach (this can be done over the phone or on campus)
• Grade Point Average: Minimum transfer cumulative GPA of 2.5 (unless qualified for conditional admittance)
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all institutions attended

Admission Procedures

Step 1 — Complete Application

Complete the application for admission online at https://www.slu.edu/online. Applications are accepted and processed on a rolling basis. Students are encouraged to apply for admission at least one month before the term in which they wish to enroll.

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Step 2 – Request Official Transcripts

Have official transcripts mailed directly from all previously attended colleges to:

School for Professional Studies
Attention: Eric Miller
3840 Lindell Blvd
St. Louis, MO 63108

Official transcripts may also be emailed directly to Eric Miller at eric.miller@slu.edu.

Applicants seeking a degree or certificate who have not earned a bachelor’s degree must obtain official transcripts for all previous college course work. If students have never attended college or have less than 15 credits of transferable college credits they will need to provide official high school or GED transcripts.

Applicants seeking a certificate who have a bachelor’s degree need only provide an official transcript from their primary higher education institution or evidence of a high school diploma or GED.

Non-degree applicants only need to provide unofficial copies as needed for prerequisites.

Step 3 — Meet with Academic Coach

Contact an academic coach to discuss the status of the application and educational and career goals. Students may schedule an appointment to speak with an academic coach on campus or over the phone/Zoom by calling 314-977-2330 or emailing sps@slu.edu.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

There are two principal ways to help finance a Saint Louis University education:

• Scholarships: awarded based on academic achievement, service, leadership and financial need.   The School for Professional Studies offers numerous scholarships and awards specially for new students.
• Financial Aid: 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: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov

For information on other scholarships and financial aid, visit the student financial services office online at http://finaid.slu.edu.

Gainful Employment Disclosure

The U.S. Department of Education requires (per 34 CRF Part 668) that all institutions participating in the federal Title IV student financial assistance programs (Pell Grants, federal student loans, etc.) publicly disclose certain data regarding all academic programs designated as "Gainful Employment" programs per DOE definitions.  

Gainful Employment Disclosure

1. Graduates will be able to analyze a problem, and to identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
2. 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.
3. Graduates will be able to communicate effectively with a range of audiences about technical information.
4. Graduates will be able to make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
5. Graduates will be able to function effectively on teams to establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, manage risk, and produce deliverables.