Computing & Information Studies

Major / Minor

The Computing & Information Studies (CIS) department offers a range of programs that reflect the ever-present and multi-faceted nature of technology in today’s world. While we offer courses that present the theory of computer science, we also teach how to apply it through data science, visualization, and design.

CIS majors are able to choose an emphasis-Computer ScienceData ScienceDigital MediaInteraction Design, and Web and Mobile Technology-that aligns with their interests and goals. Learn more about these emphases and about specific courses in the W&J College Catalog.

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Computing & Information Studies Snapshot

Beyond the Classroom

W&J’s CIS program prioritizes hands-on practice. Activities in the classroom and off-campus internships help students apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Internships have included cybersecurity research, data migration and data analysis, and healthcare records implementation. These positions prepare them for careers in technology firms of all sizes, private companies, and nonprofit organizations, as well as rigorous post-secondary programs.

Our students find success before they even leave campus. Jakerra Lance ’22 earned a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) with the University of Austin Texas through the National Science Foundation, and used her skills as a CIS and history double major to work on an independent visualization project with the Cyberinfrastructure Research 4 Social Change REU site.

CIS majors also apply their skills at local non-profit organizations with an unmet technology need during their capstone course, Service Learning Project Management. Our students have worked with WashPa Outdoors, Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA (DVSSP), Washington County Food Bank, and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) on projects ranging from creating a local bird-finding app, promoting conservation education, and analyzing information security management.

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