You’ll take core courses that introduce you to every aspect of the field, plus you’ll choose five elective courses that focus on one application or methodological area. In addition, you’ll choose a 12-credit specialization:

• Databases
• Networks
• Management of information systems
• Human-computer interaction
• Systems analysis and design
• Intelligence and decision support
• Web engineering
• Security, auditing, and crisis response

In each segment of this program, students are given a different focus: In the first year, you’ll study foundations; in the second year, understanding computing systems; in the third year, theoretical foundations and applications; and in the fourth year, integration and focus.

The B.A. and B.S in information systems are fully accredited by ABET Computing Accreditation Commission. Their curricula were developed according to the recommendations of the Association for Computing Machinery/Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers-Computer Science Joint Committee Task Force, in close cooperation with the department's industrial advisory board.

What’s the difference between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science?

The B.S. in information systems focuses more intently on technical coursework, offering the most comprehensive treatment of computers, with considerable breadth and depth in information systems and IT topics, the sciences, mathematics and applied quantitative tools, and supporting interdisciplinary studies.  Most students interested in information systems choose this program.

The B.A. program is designed for students interested in a broader range of general education courses, with more options for electives. It’s offered jointly with Rutgers-Newark.

For full details, compare the detailed B.S. and B.A. degree requirements. 

Who is this program recommended for?

Information systems is designed for students who want to work specifically in developing software applications, systems, or databases; information security; human-computer interaction; or another aspect of designing and developing systems that use information technology. (Students interested in the overall field of computing sciences typically choose the more generalized B.S. Computer Sciences and you might also take a look at our B.S. Information Technology program.)

For more help figuring out whether information systems is the right program for you, feel free to contact us.

What will I gain?

In addition to a degree from a nationally respected university, the information systems programs will give you:

• Well-honed problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• A thorough understanding of the field, bolstered by hands-on experience
• In-depth experience with your choice of application or methodological area
• A specialization in one of the above sub-disciplines
• The type of well-rounded general education coveted by employers in every field
• And more

For more details about what you'll learn, take a look at the programs' detailed curricula.

Why study information systems through CPE?

CPE gives you options. In addition to taking courses at NJIT’s Newark campus, you can enroll in online courses. You’ll have access to the same outstanding facilities and professors as full-time NJIT students, plus the flexibility you need to juggle all the aspects of your life.

Prerequisites

Beyond NJIT’s regular admission requirements, there are no prerequisites for entering the program. But some individual courses require that students have either taken certain foundational classes or passed placement tests. Check the course descriptions for more details.

Take Note

Courses in this discipline are kept relevant through frequent reassessment and modification. And because the field is always advancing, NJIT keeps pace by adding new courses regularly. Pay close attention to course offerings each semester.