Computer Information Systems and Security
Get started on your Journey
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) offers bachelor's degrees in Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) that prepare graduates to become leading professionals in information systems and technology in all industries. OLLU has been designated as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is part of an elite group of colleges and universities nationwide to receive the designation.
The programs prepare graduates for the wide-ranging field of information technology
through hands-on experience with emerging technologies in the areas of:
- Computer and Network Security Foundations
- Database Management
- Information Assurance and Security
- Network Administration
- Operating Systems
- Programming
- Systems Analysis and Design
The CISS programs are tied to the federal government's objectives that encourage training and development of skilled professionals in order to protect the nation's information technology infrastructure. Graduates of the program are prepared to help develop, manage and protect computers and networks in government, medical centers, financial centers in virtually every sector of the economy.
Additionally, Our Lady of the Lake University is a member of the Visual Paradigm Online Academic Partner Program and has access to Visual Paradigm Online software and other resources. The use of Visual Paradigm Online provides a hands-on learning experience for CISS students allowing them to apply system analysis and design concepts using real-world tools.
OLLU also offers a Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity
CISS Degrees and Programs Offered
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in CISS focuses on the technological components of Computer Information Systems and Security. Students get comprehensive knowledge in information systems and computer technology to prepare them to work in a variety of industries to manage an organization’s information systems.
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in CISS emphasizes the business aspects of CISS. The degree prepares students to protect the valuable information technology assets of an organization and serve in a liaison role between information technology and the other business functions of an organization. Students pursuing the BBA complete core business courses as well as specialized CISS courses.
The BBA in CISS is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). ACBSP is a leading specialized accreditation association for business education, supporting, celebrating and rewarding excellence on a diverse global scale.
The Bachelor of Applied Studies (BAS) inn CISS is designed for IT professionals and technical school and community college students with an associate’s degree in information technology or telecommunications. Credit for the associate’s degree in an IT field is applied to the bachelor’s degree.
The minor in Applied Computer Technology minor provides a foundation in computer technology, hardware, operating systems and software that complement a variety of majors and open paths to technology-based careers within a wide range of fields.
Applied Computer Technology minor degree plan and course descriptions
The minor in Applied Cybersecurity provides a foundation in network security and technology, and computer hardware and operating systems. Network security and technology are a part of virtually every business and organization today. Pairing this minor with a variety of majors will provide insight into the unique network and technology issues in a business or organization.
Applied Cybersecurity minor degree plan and course descriptions .
The minor in Coding and Application Development builds skills in computer programming, database analysis and design, and information systems analysis and design. Students in the minor will learn how to define problems and design solution algorithms to solve complex business issues, and design and manage databases to meet organizational needs -- skills that are highly sought in many career fields.
Coding and Application Development minor degree plan and course descriptions .
The minor in CISS pairs well with many of the majors offered at OLLU to enhance a student’s knowledge of computer programming, hardware and operating systems.
A certificate in Cybersecurity is available to all Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) programs. Students must earn a grade of C- or higher in all of the CISS core courses and in 15 credit hours of additional cybersecurity courses.
Also available to non-CISS majors, particularly those already pursuing a minor in CISS.
Spanish-speaking students can earn a bilingual CISS degree with through the Biliterate Certificate Program. Spanish-speaking students take specialized Spanish classes and fulfill a portion of their major requirements by taking courses taught in Spanish.
Learn more about the Biliterate Certificate
Studying CISS at OLLU
Community and Service-Learning
As part of OLLU’s dedication to community service and service-learning, there are courses within the CISS curriculum that are specifically designed for students to take their knowledge into the community in the form of service projects. The service-learning experience allows students to gain valuable experience in a real-world environment working with a non-profit organization to design and document a system.
Internships and Work Experience
CISS students are strongly encouraged to pursue an internship while studying at OLLU. Students have gained invaluable experience by taking what they have learned to some of the top companies in San Antonio and across the country. Many students who complete an internship have been offered jobs before graduating. Some students also have the opportunity to work on campus in the IT Department or the School of Business and Leadership.
CyberSaints
CISS students at OLLU have the opportunity to join the CyberSaints student organization. Becoming a member of the CyberSaints allows for students to network with industry professionals, participate in regional and national competitions, keep up to date on industry trends, and explore leadership opportunities among other benefits.
Center for Cyber Leadership
Students in OLLU’s CISS program have access to the University’s Center for Cyber Leadership (CCL). The center was created to serve the cybersecurity community by providing information assurance policies and procedures.
Faculty
Full-time faculty members in the Computer Information Systems and Security Department and the School of Business and Leadership have extensive professional and academic experience. Most have doctoral degrees and/or professional certifications. Seasoned practitioners who teach selected courses complement full-time professors as adjunct faculty. View School of Business Faculty.
Hands-On Opportunities
Students studying CISS at OLLU have multiple opportunities to gain hands-on experience that prepare them to develop, manage and protect computers, information systems and networks in virtually any sector:
Computer Lab – A dedicated CISS lab and virtual machine technology are available for students to access specialized software and leading-edge tools.
Security Lab – A limited-access lab allows students to analyze actual malware samples and other sensitive cybersecurity tools while isolated from the university’s main computer network.
Penetration (PEN) Testing and Incident Response – Students test computer systems to see if they are able to survive hacks or attacks.
CyberSaints Team - Participation on this team further develops students’ skills and knowledge through regional and national cybersecurity and information technology competitions.
New Four-Year, Tuition-Lock Guarantee – Today's Price, Tomorrow's Degree
Take advantage of OLLU’s one-to-one, private education without worrying about a price increase during four years of consecutive undergraduate study.
The Today’s Prices, Tomorrow’s Degree tuition lock is just one of the many ways the university provides you a great value to help you access a private education. You will not be a statistic at OLLU, but instead will receive individual guidance and mentorship on your path to a four-year degree, all with the reassurance that your tuition rate will not increase.
Learn More