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2025-2026 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Information Systems

Website: cis.gvsu.edu/information-systems-major

Degrees Offered

Undergraduate and graduate computing programs at Grand Valley State University are offered by the College of Computing. Computing programs prepare students for high-demand and rewarding careers.

One of the strengths of the computing programs at Grand Valley is flexibility. We offer B.S. degrees in artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, data science, human centered computing, information systems, information technology, and software engineering. All programs share faculty, courses, and laboratory resources. Also, by choosing electives and minors in related subject areas, students can further tailor their degrees to fit their individual needs and career goals. We offer minors in computer engineering, computer science, data science, healthcare information systems, information security systems, information systems, and information technology.

Computers play important roles in virtually every aspect of our lives. Technological advances are extending the influences of the computer even further and many more applications of the computer remain to be discovered. For example, expert systems model the knowledge and strategies of experts in an area so others may benefit. Such systems have been developed for medical diagnosis and treatment, automotive engine analysis, and many other fields.

Information systems majors study the use of computers in organizing and processing information. This includes such topics as database management systems, networking and distributed computing, network management, and systems analysis. Cognate courses emphasize communication skills and business fundamentals. The degree includes the equivalent of a minor in business.

Mission

The mission of the College of Computing at GVSU is to serve West Michigan and the world by advancing technological innovation. Through experiential learning, industry collaboration, and cutting-edge research, the college empowers students and lifelong learners to become leaders and contributors who will shape the future of technology and enrich their communities.

To enable students to attain this goal, the computing faculty have two primary responsibilities. First, we will offer a solid conceptual foundation required for a career in information technology. Second, we will provide direct, experiential knowledge of technology necessary to be a productive user/producer of information technology.

To achieve these goals, we

  • work continuously to keep our curriculum relevant to our mission;
  • ensure that work-relevant experience is part of every class;
  • establish and nurture industrial contacts;
  • establish an integrated, supported internship experience for computing majors; and
  • provide all students, regardless of their major interests, fundamental knowledge of computers and information processing.

Information Systems Programs Student Outcomes (SOs)

By the time of graduation, information systems students will be able to do the following:
SO-1: Analyze a complex computing problem to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
SO-2: Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program's discipline.
SO-3: Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
SO-4: Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
SO-5: Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program's discipline.
SO-6: Support the delivery, use, and management of information systems within an information systems environment.

Information Systems Programs Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

Three years after graduation, our typical information systems alumni are expected to be computing professionals who:

  • PEO-1: continue to develop their professional knowledge and skills;
  • PEO-2: behave ethically while contributing to their profession and to society; and
  • PEO-3: use technical, communication, teamwork, and leadership skills to design, build and manage effective information systems.

Accreditation

The Information Systems (BS) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commissions General Criteria and Program Criteria for Information Systems and Similarly Named Computing Programs.

College of Computing Advisory Board

The College of Computing Advisory Board (CISAB) is composed of the college dean and leading computing experts nationwide. The board meets twice each year and advises the school on curriculum development and continuing education. It serves as an important interface between the college and the computing community.

Program Requirements

The following programs are available:


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