Computer Information Systems Versus Computer Science

RIC offers undergraduate programs in Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Computer Science (CS). If you're unsure about which program might be best for you, this breakdown may provide the clarity you need:

Computer Information Systems (CIS)

Students that want to work with information technology but not necessarily “code” for a living should choose CIS. CIS focuses on the information technology used by organizations to succeed.

• Required Courses – The required courses cover information systems, programming languages (Python, SQL), computer networking, information security, databases, and systems analysis/design.
• CIS Electives – The electives courses offer students opportunities to study data analytics, data visualization, hardware/software systems, mobile application development, web design, and more. 
• Supporting Skills – Developing and supporting information technology require strong skills in business, critical thinking, and math skills.  The CIS program includes courses in all these areas. 

Computer Information Systems BS and Minor Program Specifics

Computer Science (CS)

Students that want to “code” for a living should choose CS. Computer Science (CS) focuses on computer programming and software development.

• Required Courses – The required courses cover algorithms, programming languages (Python, Java, SQL), data structures, object-oriented design, computer organization/architecture, software engineering, and operating systems.
• CS Electives – The electives courses offer students opportunities to study functional programming, software testing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, databases, networking, operating systems, web design and more.
• Supporting Skills – Writing computer programs and developing software require strong skills in critical thinking, logic and math skills.  The CS program includes courses in all these areas.

Computer Science BA, BS, and Minor Program Specifics