Areas of Interest

Computer Information Systems

CIS programs for Business

About the Computer Information Systems Program

A Career in Computer Information Systems Adds Up to More than 1s and 0s

Technology and greater access to information via the Internet have completely changed the way we communicate, consume content and do business both on domestic and international fronts. With continued technological advances comes the need for a highly skilled workforce with an aptitude in a variety of software applications.

Business applications are critical for office skills, financial record management, project management, database management, marketing, customer relationship management, resource management and communication on a variety of platforms. Web design applications create professional, engaging websites.

Depending on your career goals, select the application's classes for developing the skills you need. With on-campus and fully online program options, SMC offers a format that works for you.

Find the path that fits your personal ne eds and professional goals:

Degrees and Certificates

Associate in Science Degree - Business Information Worker

21 units + General Education Requirements

Certificate of Achievement - Business Information Worker

21 units

The Business Information Worker (BIW) program prepares students for entry-level office and administrative support in a variety of job positions, including general office clerks, retail salespersons, customer service representatives, receptionists, and information clerks. Students learn basic oral and written communications, basic computer application skills, including beginning Excel, Word, and Outlook, and the fundamentals of computer systems. Graduates of this program bring critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as interpersonal skills essential to the workplace. With a solid foundation in Microsoft Windows and Office, as well as strong digital and web literacy skills, students will be prepared to meet the workforce demands of today's business environment.

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Associate in Science Degree - Computer Business Applications

30 units + General Education Requirements

Certificate of Achievement - Computer Business Applications

30 units

The core of this certificate program provides advanced computer skills and business concepts that can be applied in nearly every industry. Students will learn to use Microsoft Office products, as well as other computer software applications, that can be applied in business situations to create, edit, format and publish documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases.

Students can select from three specializations within the Computer Business Applications Certificate program:

  • Social Media Specialist students will be introduced to the finer points of the most popular social media applications, including search engine optimization, HTML, and Web design.
  • Office Finance Specialist students will develop the skills necessary to handle basic accounting and bookkeeping procedures for small businesses.
  • Microsoft Office Specialist students will develop additional expertise in each of the Microsoft Office applications. This specialization assists in preparation for the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification exams.

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Other Computer Information Systems Programs

SMC & Department Resources

Department Certificate Applications

Potential Career Options

Job Title Typical Education Median Wage
Desktop Publishers Associate Degree $52,824
Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants Associate Degree $68,267
First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers Bachelor's Degree $57,524
Brokerage Clerks Bachelor's Degree $53,830
Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping Bachelor's Degree $40,664
Fundraisers Bachelor's Degree $67,633
Social and Community Service Managers Bachelor's Degree $63,212
Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes Bachelor's Degree $63,704
Credit Authorizers Bachelor's Degree $39,437
City and Regional Planning Aids Master's or Professional Degree $54,118
Procurement Clerks Associate Degree $42,349
Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products Bachelor's Degree $67,007
Online Merchants Bachelor's Degree $70,007