Bachelor of Science in Computer Systems


AVAILABLE: Online | Mixed Mode
REQUIRED CREDITS: 180
LOCATIONS and START DATES: Online: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer


Is the bachelor's in Computer Systems program for me?

Information is the core of our economy and a vital part of our everyday lives. Are you interested in learning how to protect that information, or how to design, build and manage the networks that carry that information around the world? People with these critical abilities are in great demand. Our B.S.C.S. is a perfect way to gain these competitive skills. You'll also receive the hands-on, practical training you need from experienced practitioners. Upon graduation, you’ll be able to join one of the fastest growing occupations or move on to a master's level program. We offer B.S. in Computer Systems students these program emphasis options:
  • Health Information Systems
  • Information Security
  • Networking
  • Programming
  • Systems Development

You can earn a computer systems degree fully online or you may take some coursework in class. If you choose online, you still get the same great instruction by the same practicing professionals. You will also have access to all CityU's great resources on "Blackboard" - our virtual classroom. Use this program to log in to get assignments, discuss topics with your classmates, collaborate on projects and check your grades. Basically, everything you do in class but without the commute.

What will I learn in the bachelor's in Computer Systems program?

As a CityU student, you’ll discover the ways in which people and computers work together, in particular the processes developed to integrate technology into the workplace. Along with information technology ethics, our faculty will focus on teaching core computer technologies, which include operating systems, networking, programming, web design and security. You’ll also highlight on manipulating data from acquisition and storage to communications and display.

Our programs also are based upon certificate programs for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

The educational objectives of this program are as follows and will prepare you to:

  • Successfully compete as professionals throughout careers in information technology.
  • Effectively evaluate, integrate and implement technology products and systems in a global environment.
  • Appropriately integrate state of the art technologies to meet business requirements.
  • Effectively contribute as a technical member or leader of a multi-functional team.
  • Communicate well with both technical and business partners orally and in writing.
  • Engage in life-long learning, remain current in their field, and uphold high ethical standards.

What can I do with my bachelor's degree in Computer Systems?

Depending on the route you take, your B.S.C.S. degree will allow you to apply for positions as an information security specialist or manager, systems integrator, software tester, network operator, network manager or network designer. You also may qualify to become an industry practitioner.

Why CityU?

  • Because you want an education that's relevant to what's happening in the real world, right now.
  • Our faculty teach what they do for a living, not just what's in the book. They're smart, successful people who can help you get there, too.
  • You can get an education without sacrificing your lifestyle. Attend class on a schedule that works best for you.

How to get started:

  1. Chat with an admissions advisor or call 888.42.CityU
  2. Apply now
  3. Order your official transcripts from other schools you attended
  4. Submit application with application fee
  5. Start classes and change your life for good


CNSS logo
The Information Assurance Courseware Evaluation (IACE) Program of the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS) has certified that City University of Seattle Information Security course of study meets the National Training Standard for Information Systems Security (INFOSEC) Professionals, NSTISSI No. 4011 (valid through June 2017). Students completing the program will receive a certificate documenting their completion of the CNSS recognized program.

Lower-Division Requirements (90)

College Writing: 5
College Mathematics: 5
Humanities: 15
Social Sciences: 15
Natural Sciences/Mathematics: 15
Electives: 25
Preparatory Courses (10)
IS 201
MATH 141

Upper-Division Requirements (90)

Undergraduate Core (45)
If you are taking the Programming, Systems Development, or Health Information Systems emphasis, you may choose one of the following: CS 481 or IS 345.
For Information Security and Networking emphasis, take only CS 481.
BC 301
CS 481
IS 306
IS 312
IS 340
IS 345
IS 350
IS 470
IS 471
Choose one of the following:
CS 302
IS 330
Capstone Requirements (10)
CS 495
CS 496

Emphasis Requirements (35)

Health Information Technology Emphasis (35)
This emphasis provides students with a solid background in the systems and processes used in healthcare. You will gain an appreciation for the specialized systems and requirements for privacy (HIPAA) and certification (21 CFR Part 11) required to ensure that healthcare systems meet patient and provider requirements. The emphasis helps prepare you for an exciting future in the field of health information technology.
CS 310
CS 416
CS 430
CS 432
IS 308
IS 410
IS 472
Information Security Emphasis (35)
This emphasis introduces and reinforces the most recent developments and standards in managing and maintaining information security systems. The Information Security emphasis ensures that students achieve mastery of concepts and ideas related to modern Information Security management and administration. This emphasis area is designed to help students who are seeking to develop and improve upon their knowledge and understanding of Information Security management as well as their careers by updating their knowledge and reinforcing lifelong learning in a dynamic and rapidly changing Information Security industry.
CS 416
IS 308
IS 410
IS 461
IS 464
IS 468
IS 472
Networking Emphasis (35)
Developing a comprehensive understanding of data and broad-band communications, including multi-media applications and integrated services networks, the Networking emphasis helps students demonstrate mastery of communications architectures and protocols across a broad variety of services including wired, optical and wireless carriers across voice, video and data services. The emphasis area includes topics in network design, performance modeling, capacity planning, traffic shaping, service management, fault management, quality of service, routing and switching, coding, security, and other areas at the Telco/Service Provider and enterprise network levels. The emphasis is designed for students who are seeking to develop and improve their knowledge and understanding of networks, to prepare for careers in telecommunications providers or enterprises and to reinforce lifelong learning.
CS 300
CS 330
CS 332
CS 436
CS 492
IS 320
IS 410
Programming Emphasis (35)
Designed to introduce and reinforce the most recent developments and standards in programming, this emphasis will help students who are seeking to develop and improve upon computer programming skills, as well as their careers by updating their knowledge and reinforcing lifelong learning in a dynamic and rapidly changing computer programming industry. The student will learn multiple techniques in different computing languages, and be able to apply those skills directly to their job.
IS 320
IS 365
IS 375
IS 381
IS 423
IS 425
IS 438
Systems Development Emphasis (35)
Covering the lifecycle development of software products as well as the processes to continuously improve the development of software and the capability of people to develop and manage software products in a global environment, the emphasis has been designed in cooperation with industry leaders to meet the most critical needs of business and government. Upon completion of this emphasis area, the graduate will have depth of knowledge in systems development and management.
CS 416
IS 308
IS 320
IS 410
IS 430
IS 440
IS 450