An online computer information systems degree is a solid choice as CIS is one of the fastest growing areas of computer science. Becoming an information systems professional requires esteemed knowledge in science, mathematics, computer technology, as well as the theories and concepts coinciding. With an online BS in computer information systems, students are prepared for entry-level work in industries from business to nonprofits and government organizations. Those considering further education may find success in leadership roles up to an executive level, which could make the cost of a bachelor’s degree seem inconsequential. However, online computer information systems degree programs can come with a hefty price tag. With a difference in tuition of over $150,000 between the most expensive and cheapest programs, even a BLS projected 10% rise in job growth over the next ten years might not be enough to pay off student debt in a reasonable time frame.
GetEducated has compared 50 online computer information systems degree programs from 40 regionally accredited online schools to create this ranking. Below is our editorially independent “Best Buy” list for affordable BS in computer information systems. Take the time to research the most economic programs best fit to personal goals before diving into this academic pathway.
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Average Cost (In-state): ~$56,700
Least Expensive: Seminole State College of Florida ~ $13,587
Most Expensive: Duquesne University ~ $166,821
Our data-driven research creates a truly reliable system of scientific rankings. There are no fancy formulas here. We meticulously calculate total full-time tuition—including any fees—for the most accurate total cost. Our rankings cannot be bought, and therefore factually showcase the cheapest BS in computer information systems. The online computer information systems degree programs listed above the gray dividing line are official 2020 “Best Buys” and cost less than the national average.
Most Affordable Online BS in Computer Information Systems
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Seminole State College of Florida | (FL) | $13,587.60 $46,886.40 | In-State Out-of-State |
2 | Eastern Florida State College | (FL) | $13,951.20 $54,880.80 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | Purdue University Fort Wayne | (IN) | $34,920.00 $83,844.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
4 | Austin Peay State University | (TN) | $35,422.00 $48,862.00 $29,376.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
5 | University of Maine at Augusta | (ME) | $35,967.25 $43,348.25 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | Southeast Missouri State University | (MO) | $36,900.00 | All Students |
7 | Champlain College | (VT) | $38,310.00 $30,150.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
8 |  Southern New Hampshire University | (NH) | $38,550.00 $27,150.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
9 | Dakota State University | (SD) | $42,150.00 $43,794.00 $30,000.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
10 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana | (LA) | $45,000.00 $23,040.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
11 | Pennsylvania Western University | (PA) | $45,144.00 $47,064.00 $36,504.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
12 | Saint Leo University | (FL) | $46,725.00 $31,125.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
13 | LeTourneau University | (TX) | $48,475.00 | All Students |
14 | Liberty University | (VA) | $48,492.00 $30,100.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
15 | Indiana Institute of Technology | (IN) | $48,530.00 | All Students |
16 | Franklin University | (OH) | $49,417.00 $31,065.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
17 | The College of Saint Scholastica | (MN) | $51,200.00 | All Students |
18 | Park University | (MO) | $51,240.00 $30,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
19 | Baker College | (MI) | $51,800.00 $32,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
20 | Regent University | (VA) | $52,260.00 $34,860.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
21 | Bellevue University | (NE) | $52,900.00 $31,900.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
22 | Los Angeles Pacific University | (CA) | $54,080.00 $48,680.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
23 | McKendree University | (IL) | $55,325.00 $30,125.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
24 | Bellevue University | (NE) | $55,875.00 $33,650.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
25 | MidAmerica Nazarene University | (KS) | $56,334.00 | All Students |
26 | Loyola University New Orleans | (LA) | $56,500.00 | All Students |
27 | Upper Iowa University | (IA) | $58,630.00 $30,070.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Walden University | (MN) | $61,385.00 | All Students | |
Saint Francis University | (PA) | $62,080.00 | All Students | |
Florida Institute of Technology | (FL) | $63,240.00 $31,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Monroe University | (NY) | $65,104.00 | All Students | |
National University (School Merged) Bachelor of Science in Information Systems 14 | (CA) | $66,600.00 | All Students | |
Southwestern College - Kansas | (KS) | $68,800.00 $31,600.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Post University | (CT) | $68,800.00 | All Students | |
Regis University | (CO) | $69,600.00 | All Students | |
Parker University | (TX) | $77,010.00 $30,690.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
City University of Seattle | (WA) | $79,110.00 $29,880.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Saint Louis University | (MO) | $79,720.00 $37,120.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Mercy College | (NY) | $82,112.00 | All Students | |
Davenport University | (MI) | $100,480.00 $67,960.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Duquesne University | (PA) | $166,821.00 | All Students |
14 Options for this program have changed since publication.
Accreditation Note
To qualify for a ranking, a program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table.
ACBSP Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
ABET Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
Rankings Note
These online college rankings are based on a GetEducated Fall 2020 review of regionally accredited online computer information systems degree programs. Total cost includes full-time tuition and fees and was valid at the time of collection and specific to the online learning program. School profiles for the online bachelor degree programs in our directory may reflect a slightly different cost based on different editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated sticker price for the entire online degree including fees. Actual costs may vary by student. Factors such as transfer credits, prerequisite courses, professional licensing and financial aid availability will affect final cost.
Editorial Note
Online schools do NOT pay to be included in any GetEducated online degree ranking. These rankings are editorially independent, open to any regionally accredited or candidate college that offers a bachelor degree that is available at least 80 percent through online learning and that is open to enrollment by the public. If your online college is regionally accredited and not currently reviewed by GetEducated, please contact us for inclusion.
These rankings of the cheapest online schools for computer information systems may NOT be re-posted online or reprinted in any format without a license from GetEducated ®. Consumer finance bloggers and writers can contact our editors for a free custom article on the best online BS in computer information systems for use on your website. Our mission: Help consumers GetEducated ® about the best online colleges for cost and credibility.
Online Computer Information Systems Degree Career Guide
If you have an interest in technology, and want to take this interest into a rewarding career, then perhaps a computer information systems online degree would be the perfect education. Teaching you both the details of computer systems and the tech needs of businesses, these four-year degrees are perfect for launching your exciting career in the tech industry.
BS in Computer Information Systems: Program Overview
A computer information systems online degree gives you a deep understanding of computers, software, and networks, but the specific classes and topics can vary. Ultimately, these programs combine computer science and business concepts to make you a highly-desirable job candidate. Topics can include everything from software programming to creating computer systems. It can also include courses focusing on the technology needs of modern businesses and organizations.
Again, the specific coursework can vary, but you can likely expect classes with names like “Introduction to Programming,” “Database Management,” or “Structured Systems Analysis.” Business-focused classes can include course like “Business Telecommunications” or “Introduction to Business Intelligence.”
In the end, these course give you a strong technical background, a deep understanding of technology theories, and a knowledge for how businesses and organizations can utilize these resources.
A BS in computer information systems requires four years of study. However, if you have taken college classes in the past, it’s possible that you could complete a bachelor’s of science in computer information systems in less time.
Careers with an Online Computer Information Systems Degree
With a strong understanding for computer systems, and a real-world grasp of how these systems are used by organizations, you’ll be well-equipped for a variety of jobs.
Computer Systems Analysts
- Salary: $90,920
- Education: Bachelor’s
- Experience: None
- Growth: 7%
Computer systems usually (but certainly not always) operate smoothly and efficiently. But when they don’t, organizations and businesses call on computer systems analysts to diagnose the problem, offer viable solutions, and improve the network. These professionals may consult with company leaders, research emerging technologies, and create ways to improve a system or solve actual problems.
With a median salary over $90,000, system analysts enjoy strong annual earnings. However, if you can work your way to the top 10%, this tech career can bring salaries over $147,000 a year.
Network & Computer Systems Administrator
- Salary: $83,510
- Education: Bachelor’s
- Experience: None
- Growth: 4%
While a computer systems analyst is essentially responsible for fixing and improving a network, the administrator is more concerned with the day-to-day operations. They may install hardware, download appropriate software, or maintain a network’s security. You might say that while an analyst is responsible for fixing network problems, an administrator is responsible for ensuring problems never occur in the first place.
This is an important job for many organizations, so they are willing to pay excellent salaries, including median salaries over $83,000. The top 10% in this field can expect salaries over $132,000, making this a great option for tech-savvy graduates. Growth, however, may be stagnant, as demand in healthcare could create gains, but cloud computing could reduce the need for in-house administrators.
Computer & Information Systems Manager
- Salary: $146,360
- Education: Bachelor’s
- Experience: 5 years or more
- Growth: 10%
The planning, coordination, and execution of computer systems often comes down to the leadership of system managers. These highly-experienced leaders plan and direct the installation and maintenance of systems, and they usually lead other IT professionals.
This is clearly a high-paying position, with median salaries over $146,000 and the to 10% earning over $208,000. However, this is not an entry-level position. These leadership roles require at least five years of experience, as well as a deep understanding of management and business principles in addition to your tech training. For this reason, supplementing an online computer information systems degree with business classes is a good idea.
Additional Requirements, Including Licensing & Exams
Few of these careers will require licensing, but you may need further education to land the careers you desire.
For many, classes in business and management will be important in addition to a BS in computer information systems. These may not be a required aspect of the job application, but companies are more likely to hire job candidates who understand and appreciate issues like budgeting and leadership, as well as how systems are used by organizations.
Continued education is also important. Staying up to date on the latest tech issues through trade publications and informal education will help you maintain a strong understanding for important technology issues.