Computer Information Systems Training Prepares Graduates for Lucrative, Exciting Careers

KALAMAZOO, Mich., Jan. 14, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- CIS Training Prepares Graduates for Lucrative, Exciting Careers
Computer Information Systems (CIS) is a growing Information Technology (IT) discipline with many entry-level jobs for graduates. The field also has an excellent long-term outlook. For example, the demand for Computer and Information Systems Managers is likely to grow 12 percent between 2016-2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. That's a faster growth rate than the average for all occupations. So, a CIS degree from Kalamazoo Valley Community College can offer a high-earning, satisfying long-term career.

Kalamazoo Valley has been preparing students for careers in CIS for decades and more exciting courses will soon be offered. Beginning in 2020, Kalamazoo Valley will offer a new Python Programming course and Programming logic course that will meet on Saturdays. In the fall 2020 a new Web Application programming course and Certified Ethical Hacker course will be added.
Kalamazoo Valley's CIS graduates are employed in excellent paying careers at Bronson Healthcare, KalamazooRESA, Van Buren County IT Services, and at other area businesses. CIS instructor Christine Gearig explained that computer technology is a vast field with many disciplines and sub-disciplines. "Students often struggle to understand what a Computer Information Systems degree means for them," Gearig said. "It's easy to confuse Computer Science and Computer Information Systems degrees."

Gearig explained that a Computer Science (CS) degree is intended for students who want to pursue hard core computer programming. Students learn to build software. "The emphasis is on math and problem-solving for software creation," Gearig said. "However, in real-world environments, most companies don't develop their software. They purchase ready-made applications from vendors and then customize them for their business requirements. The business of choosing the right software and customization requires less computer programming skills and more understanding of business needs. Computer Information Systems curriculums are designed to teach students how to use the right technology effectively for businesses."
Computer Information Systems majors learn about topics like system analysis, information architecture, information organization and management, and business consulting. CIS professionals help businesses choose the right technology.

Kalamazoo Valley Community College graduate Jennifer Lim needed a career change. After more than eight years of raising her children and earning a degree in Spanish and international business, Lim wanted to do something different. Lim said she loved solving puzzles, and putting broken things back together. So, she decided a career in computers and information sciences might be a great fit. After a year of training, testing and course work at Kalamazoo Valley, Lim said, she was quickly hired as a technology site coordinator, helping multiple schools throughout southwest Michigan keep their technology and computer systems up and running.

"I couldn't do my job without that training," Lim said. "The program really sets up for a global certification. So anyone can get that certification, and then you can use it anywhere in the world. It's the same one the U.S. government uses for all of their training. So, I like to tell all the students that I've spoken with, if you get the certification - as long as you get a visa - you can work anywhere in the world the government will let you."

For More Information
Linda Depta, Director of Marketing and
Director of the KVCC Foundation and Director of Development
ldepta@kvcc.edu or 269.488.4821

SOURCE Kalamazoo Valley Community College