Computer Information Systems
What is CIS?
A Computer Information Systems (CIS) degree prepares a student to work in a variety of technical fields by equipping them with both business and technical knowledge. Students gain hands-on experience designing, implementing, and securing the advanced technologies that make organizations thrive. From systems analysis to cybersecurity, from cloud computing to enterprise software, and now the integration of artificial intelligence into business processes, CIS graduates are uniquely positioned to solve real-world problems and drive innovation across industries.
CIS Careers
CIS Department Vision
We provide our students with the education to become Information Technology leaders. Our cutting-edge, career-focused programs and learn-by-doing teaching will make our graduates recognized nationally for their outstanding Information Technology expertise, innovative problem-solving ability, and effective interpersonal and communication skills.
Mission Statement
The Computer Information Systems (CIS) Department educates students for successful careers as information technology professionals. The CIS program is recognized both regionally and nationally. Faculty have top academic credentials and industry experience and are committed to quality teaching and to working with students on relevant research that strengthens professional IT practice and teaching. In keeping with Cal Poly Pomona’s unique polytechnic approach to education, CIS students learn both theory and current practice in a strong, common core and in specialized courses. Using a hands-on, learn-by-doing approach, students apply cutting-edge technologies and problem-solving approaches to course projects and real-world problems. The result is graduates who are ready to excel in the technology-driven business world.
Supporters
Avanade and Mitchell C. Hill have played pivotal roles in advancing the Computer Information Systems (CIS) Department at Cal Poly Pomona. In 2014, Avanade donated $500,000 to establish the Mitchell C. Hill Center for Applied Business Information Technology, a student‑run data center and cloud lab that embodies Cal Poly’s “learn by doing” philosophy. Ongoing support from Avanade has helped many students afford their education, gain professional skills in internships and find rewarding careers. Recently, through Avanade’s generosity and guidance, hundreds of students gained experience in a university-wide hackathon.
Dr. Wagner, founding chair of CIS, created a program that was revolutionary in bringing the power of technology to the business school. His leadership and values of hard work, solution seeking and learn-by-doing exemplify the CIS program today. Funding from the Wagner Endowment helps the CIS department promote these values through classroom and extracurricular activities. The endowment awards scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence and promote the values of leadership and learning in the CIS department. The endowment also supports faculty research projects, student projects, and campus events related to information technology.
Brian C. Lange Memorial Endowment and the Lange Faculty and Student Fellowships program were established to honor his memory and legacy at his alma mater. The Brian C. Lange Memorial Endowment provides for fellowships for students and faculty. Brian Lange graduated in 1982. He took a wide variety of computer courses, including assembly language, advanced computer programming, and Data Processing Management. He also took time at CPP to take Archery and a Wines class.