Undergraduate

What is information systems?

The human side of computing.

Information systems (IS) are everywhere, from the phone in your pocket to scientists studying the polar ice caps. At its core, IS focuses on the entire system of information, knowledge, delivery and use involved in computer technology.

In our IS program, you will investigate the societal impact of technology, dealing with real and imminent challenges. With the help of our faculty members, you will study, design, develop, and evaluate information technologies to address the needs of a broad range of individuals and organizations.

You will be able to leave UMBC with technical skills like programming, database management, and web design, as well as the business skills required to help you excel in your career.

Learn more about information systems study.

Why IS @ UMBC?

Flexible Focus

Our undergraduate program is designed to give you options for applying information systems to your career.

Business Hero

We offer a Bachelor of Arts in Business Technology Administration (BTA) for students who like to problem solve. This degree allows you to learn the basics of computer technology and how to apply it in a business setting. Students learn the skills to be successful managers, analysts and administrators. For example, you could help a business implement a new cloud solution or troubleshoot server issues.

Tech Expert

Our Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (IS) is for students who want an in-depth technical and conceptual understanding of the IS field. This degree enables you to not only understand computer technology but to practice and advance it. You could design an app that improves learning or help protect online privacy.

Certificates

Whichever program you choose, we offer a wide variety of undergraduate certificates to supplement your interests. From web development to MBA prep, certificates can help you supercharge your education. Certificates can only be earned in conjunction with majoring in one of our undergraduate programs.

View all of our Certificate Programs.

Minor in Information Systems

For those interested in the power of information systems but majoring in another program at UMBC, we offer a six-course minor option.

Learn more about the Minor in Information Systems.

Accelerated Programs

With four options to accelerate, qualified IS students can set themselves apart from the crowd.

Accelerated programs, also called combined programs, enable students to add a Bachelors AND Masters degree to their resume with only one additional year of study (on average). This saves you time and money.

We currently offer four combined programs:

Scholarships

We believe IS students are among the best in the university, and we want to honor that high achievement. We offer several scholarships specifically for students studying Information Systems.

Visit our Scholarships page to learn more.

Research Opportunities

UMBC is one of the few universities committed to undergraduate research, and the IS Department takes this mission seriously. For students interested in pursuing research, we have five main research areas: Artificial Intelligence and Knowledge Management, Data Science, Health Informatics, Human-Centered Computing, and Software Engineering.

Check out our Undergraduate Research Opportunities.

 

What Can I Do With an IS Degree?

IS majors can go on to:

  • Work with companies like Amazon or UPS to bring autonomous drone deliveries to market
  • Lead the development of smart cities around the world
  • Protect people, businesses, and governments from cyber warfare
  • Give scientists and researchers better tools for fighting climate change
  • Help businesses big and small harness technology for success
  • Make government services more secure, efficient, and effective
  • Design the next software that revolutionizes an industry
  • Much more…
Internships

Internships are a great way to get real work experience while finishing your degree. They allow you to accelerate your studies through practice in exchange for course credits that count towards completing your degree. Many IS students make connections during their internships that last throughout their careers.

Learn more from our Career Center.

Graduate Study

After graduating, many students choose to pursue graduate studies at the Masters and PhD levels in a diverse set of programs. Our department offers opportunities for students to continue their education both online and on-campus. View our graduate programs.

Career Outlook

A career in information systems means you can choose from a variety of job types and know you will be in demand. According to the U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics, jobs in computers and information technology are projected to grow 12% between now and 2028, well above the average for all occupations. In 2020, the median annual wage for computers and information technology jobs was $86,320, more than twice the national average.

Certain subsets of the technology industry, like cybersecurity and data science, have job growth and average salary numbers much higher than those above.

Explore the Occupational Outlook Handbook for specifics.