Bringing Advanced Computing to Life
Behind every login screen on every app on any device, there's a complex array of hardware, operating systems, and databases at work.
You know it takes sophisticated knowledge to build all those systems and keep them running. Come see what sophisticated knowledge it takes to build the networks, protect the data, and create the solutions.
It's time to frame your future in Computer Information Systems with a degree from Belhaven University. Let's go.
Why You’ll Love Computer Information Systems at Belhaven
Innovative Environment
You learn in our tech-centric classrooms and labs with the latest computing infrastructure.
Small Class Sizes
Belhaven's 13:1 student/faculty ratio means personalized instruction you won't find at a larger school.
Research Opportunities
Delve deep into data usage, information assurance, and other areas of computer information systems.
Respected Mentors
Your instructors have advanced degrees and extensive professional experience.
↑ Rising Demand
Benefit from a fast-growing number of CIS and related jobs
13:1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Small class sizes mean more connection with professors and peers
1883 Founding Date
Our rich heritage of excellent educational opportunities spans nearly 140 years
3 Departments
Work with professors from CIS, CSC, and Business to get a well-balanced background
What Can You Do with a Major in CIS?
- Information security specialist
- Computer systems analyst
- Software engineer
- Web developer
- Data manager
- Network administrator
- Chief technology officer
Gain Specific Skills to Support Your Career
- Creating an interface between business & programming
- Using data visualization
- Managing projects
- Developing business analysis software
- Connecting people and technology
The Belhaven Advantage
Fuel your academic passions and expand your career options. Belhaven offers our freshmen a unique deal: double major, and we’ll pay the tuition if you need a fifth year in school. Double major in two arts programs, pair a business degree with a STEM major … the possibilities are endless!
Compare: CIS or CSC?
HOW Technology Works
The discipline of Computer Information Systems focuses solely on the practical applications of computers and the systems that gets work done.
With a heavy emphasis on the “state of the practice,” you focus on applied technology fields like networking, security, database management, and web application development.
You learn programming required to configure, maintain, and replace those computing systems, as well as coding tasks like workflow automation.
WHY Technology Works
Computer Science touches on practical applications of technology, but the primary goal is understanding the theoretical framework that undergirds all of computing technology.
This means your classes include advanced mathematics — Calculus, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, Formal Languages and Automata Theory, etc.
You also find a much greater emphasis on software engineering and programming decisions that impact the performance and stability of complex software systems.
Compare: CIS or CSC?
HOW Technology Works
The discipline of Computer Information Systems focuses solely on the practical applications of computers and the systems that gets work done.
With a heavy emphasis on the “state of the practice,” you focus on applied technology fields like networking, security, database management, and web application development.
You learn programming required to configure, maintain, and replace those computing systems, as well as coding tasks like workflow automation.
WHY Technology Works
Computer Science touches on practical applications of technology, but the primary goal is understanding the theoretical framework that undergirds all of computing technology.
This means your classes include advanced mathematics — Calculus, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, Formal Languages and Automata Theory, etc.
You also find a much greater emphasis on software engineering and programming decisions that impact the performance and stability of complex software systems.
Fact: CIS is Cool. Here’s Why.
Challenging Coursework
Your coursework focuses on coding, technology, and business principles. From there, you dig deeper into specialized areas of computer information systems:
- project management
- business analysis software development
- database management
- storytelling with data
Fundamental Knowledge
When you major in Computer Information Systems, you need a strong background in computers and an understanding of software. While you’re here, you’ll expand your talents in analysis, communications, and teamwork.
It’s all about troubleshooting, finding the answers, and efficiently deploying effective solutions.
Marketplace, Missions & Ministries All Need You
Christian missions and ministries around the world need technical experts who share our spiritual background and calling. Put your inner impulse to work in communications, privacy, data security, and more.
In other industries, you can find many opportunities:
- Information technology analyst
- System administration
- Cyber security and information assurance
- Network administration
- Business systems management
Fact: CIS is Cool. Here’s Why.
Challenging Coursework
Your coursework focuses on coding, technology, and business principles. From there, you dig deeper into specialized areas of computer information systems:
- project management
- business analysis software development
- database management
- storytelling with data
Fundamental Knowledge
When you major in Computer Information Systems, you need a strong background in computers and an understanding of software. While you’re here, you’ll expand your talents in analysis, communications, and teamwork.
It’s all about troubleshooting, finding the answers, and efficiently deploying effective solutions.
Marketplace, Missions & Ministries All Need You
Christian missions and ministries around the world need technical experts who share our spiritual background and calling. Put your inner impulse to work in communications, privacy, data security, and more.
In other industries, you can find many opportunities:
- Information technology analyst
- System administration
- Cyber security and information assurance
- Network administration
- Business systems management
Get Involved With MCS Club
Hackathons. Game nights. Leadership and service opportunities. Professional networking.
The Math & Computer Science Club (MCS) is the premiere membership organization for computing professionals. Belhaven’s chapter is a lively fellowship of computer lovers from across campus.
Computer Information Systems: What You Need to Know
Technology Integration (Starting Freshman Year)
- Python, C, and R
- Wolfram Mathematica
- Arduino Software and Hardware
- 3D Printing Software and Hardware
- AutoCAD, Inventor
- Geogebra
Research Projects
- Do a deep dive into a special area of interest. Your advisor will approve your topic and guide your progress.
Site Observation
- Observe and research various aspects of business and management fields in a real-life setting,
- Compare and contrast what you learn with the demands and expectations of our Christian worldview perspective
Internships
Structured experiences in a professional position within an approved private firm or public agency. CIS students have interned at:
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- Southern Farm Bureau
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Amazon
- CSpire
- U.S. Air Force
STEM Seminars, Site Visits & Conferences
- National Weather Service
- U.S. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
- NASA
- Raytheon
- Yates Construction BIM group
- Nissan
- Mississippi State University’s Bagley College of Engineering
- The University of Mississippi
- MAA annual LA-MS Section Conference
The Math & Computer Science Club allows students a community with social events, math and coding student support, and opportunities to join both the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) and The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM).
The “maker movement” — a celebration of creativity, curiosity, hands-on learning, and invention — is alive and well at Belhaven through our Maker Campus. As a STEM student, you’re encouraged to explore your creative side and build projects that solve real-world problems. We empower you with facilities ranging from electronics and printing labs to sculpture studios.
We also promote collaboration, especially with students from our arts programs. By harnessing the power of art and science, there’s no telling what you can accomplish.
As a science or math major at Belhaven, you may apply for the Marion Davis Ridgway and Elise Davis Endowed Scholarship. This $1,000 scholarship is awarded once per academic year to a STEM student who is pursuing a pre-professional program in the health sciences.
The scholarship can be received multiple times. You must have a minimum ACT score of 29, be admitted to Belhaven, and complete an application and interview process. March 1 is the application deadline each year.
Telling Your Story with Data
For your capstone project, you design a solution to an actual computing need on campus. Guided by your advisor, you follow the scientific research method to create a real-world product proposal.
You might even be asked to build a working prototype!
Meet Our Faculty
Dean of the School of Science and Mathematics, Professor and Yearger Chair of Mathematics and Computer Science, and Director of Engineering Partnerships
John Estes
Dean of the School of Science and Mathematics, Professor and Yearger Chair of Mathematics and Computer Science, and Director of Engineering Partnerships
Specialty Instructor of Mathematics
Kathy Hammons
Specialty Instructor of Mathematics
Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems and Director of the Computer Information Systems Program
Corky Wicks
Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems and Director of the Computer Information Systems Program
Contact Us
Office of Admission
Phone: 601-968-5940Mailing Address:
1500 Peachtree Street, Box 153
Jackson, MS 39202
For campus visit:
Jimmy Hood Welcome Center
855 Riverside Drive
Jackson, MS 39202
Fax: 601-300-2932
Verse of the Year
For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
Psalm 100:5