Business Information Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is BIS?
2. How "technical" is the degree?
3. What programming language(s) are taught?
4. Why is college algebra a prerequisite?
5. What math courses are equivalent to college algebra?
6. Do I have to fill-out the Computer Skills Assessment form?
7. How do you use the Computer Skills Assessment form?
8. Is the BIS degree accredited?

1. What is BIS?
Business Information Systems, refers to the use of information tools and technology for business applications. Specifically, BIS includes both the hardware (computers, networks, etc.) and the software (applications, programming languages, etc.) used in accounting, marketing, human resources, finance, and management of all types of businesses. The degree is designed for individuals desiring a business position that involves projects and problems with information systems and information technology. However, the individual will not be purely a "business" person or a "technology" person, but will be able to "bridge the gap" between the business and the technology divisions of business. Typically, this individual could have the title of "systems' analyst," "information systems specialist," or other similar titles. 

2. How "technical" is the degree?
Well, technical is a relative term, so let's consider the field of computers and information systems: In the computer world, the most technical individuals are usually the engineers (let's say to the left extreme), and the least technical are the end users (and let's put them at the right extreme). Somewhere to the left of middle are computer scientist and software developers. Somewhere in the middle, and maybe to the right of middle, are those individuals who know more about the application, in this case business, and are savvy about the technology; these are the BIS students. To be a little more direct toward the answer: the degree is not as technical as a degree in engineering or computer science (certainly), but it is technical enough to allow the graduate to talk intelligently about BIS issues with both the technical "gurus" and the application "gurus." 

3. What programming language(s) will be taught?
The BIS program teaches the use of Microsoft's "Visual Basic" (VB) programming environment. The BIS program is designed to prepare individuals to work in business positions, not programming positions (although individuals could do some programming upon completion of the BIS program). Therefore, the programming language learned is not as important as the concepts of programming. That is not to say that VB is lacking in its programming capability; in fact, it is a robust programming language. VB was chosen because of its availability, widespread acceptance in Windows, and general low cost. 

4. Why do you require College Algebra as a prerequisite to admission?
College Algebra is generally considered to be an indicator of the minimum level of competency needed for success in computer programming and information systems. It will be used throughout the curriculum, but specifically in such classes as Business Math, Business Statistics, Business Finance, and Programming.

5. What other mathematics courses are considered equivalent to College Algebra?
Students may complete the equivalent of College Algebra through the CLEP College Algebra exam or the College Algebra/Trigonometry exam. Also, several correspondence schools offer College Algebra.

6. Do I have to fill-out the Computer Skills Assessment form?
Yes, completion of the Computer Skills Assessment form is a requirement for admission to the BIS program. This is a self-administered document; therefore, it is very important that you conduct an objective evaluation of your computer skills, and provide that evaluation in the form requested.

7. How do you use the Computer Skills Assessment form?
The skills assessed on the form are considered by the Division of Adult Education at JBU to be the minimum level of computer skill needed for entry into the BIS program. In other words, you are expected to have attained the level of computer skill indicated by the content of that form. It is very important that the evaluation accurately reflect your computer skills to prevent academic failure in the BIS program.

8. Is the BIS degree accredited?
Yes, JBU has been accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) since 1962.  NCA included the BIS degree program in JBU's accreditation in February 2000.  The BIS degree program also holds accreditation from the International Assembly of Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).