A quality online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Information Systems (CIS) program prepares graduates for a wide array of in-demand career opportunities. For instance, with coursework in subjects like enterprise architecture, systems analysis and design, and information resource management, the online B.S. in CIS program from Florida Institute of Technology readies students for high-growth jobs ranging from application systems analyst to data analytics manager to a variety of specialized roles in enterprise resource planning.
What Is Enterprise Resource Planning?
According to industry software leader SAP, “Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is a software system that helps organizations streamline their core business processes — including finance, HR, manufacturing, supply chain, sales, and procurement — with a unified view of activity and provides a single source of truth.”
ERP has been implemented for decades across various industries in order to improve the efficiency of business processes — from product planning to manufacturing and from sales to inventory management. However, the recent rise of mobile technology, big data, cloud-based computing, the rapid evolution of AI technologies and other digital-related advances are transforming the field of ERP.
Modern ERP systems are capable of increasingly greater magnitudes of complexity. Today’s businesses rely heavily on ERP systems — and the professionals and software providers that make ERP accessible. Given this, it’s no surprise that the global ERP software market is growing quickly.
2023 estimates of market value differ depending on factors like definitions or categories of ERP software, services, and solutions, with valuations ranging from $51 billion (according to Gartner research) to $171.7 billion (as reported by Blue Link). Yet, regardless of the daylight between differing categorizations and valuations, most every data source projects continued rapid growth in the sector.
The ERP Professional
ERP professionals can expect to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. In addition to being proficient in verbal and written communication, these individuals should have strong analytical and organizational skills, as well as the ability to find innovative solutions to various challenges.
Attaining a bachelor’s degree in CIS or a related discipline can provide individuals with an entry point into the field of enterprise resource planning. Experience and further education can help ERP professionals compete for the best jobs and advance their careers to even higher levels. Employers may also require candidates to be proficient with ERP software or have knowledge or experience relevant to a particular industry, such as healthcare, or to a particular business process, such as supply chain management.
The following are a few of the potential career paths in the growing field of enterprise resource planning, including salary data from Robert Half Inc’s 2025 Salary Guide:
ERP Business Analyst
ERP business analysts and consultants must have a strong grasp of how potential ERP solutions converge with business needs and goals. Typically, these professionals assist with implementing and maintaining ERP systems, with responsibility for business systems analysis, workflow analysis and technical communications.
Specific job duties can include:
- Developing and implementing ERP solutions
- Customizing and configuring workflow to facilitate ERP integration with other applications
- Identifying and troubleshooting issues with ERP systems
- Producing user guides
The annual starting salaries of ERP business analysts in the United States range from $99,250 to $140,750, with a median salary of $120,750.
ERP Systems Analyst
An ERP systems analyst may act as a liaison between technical support staff and end users, collaborating with stakeholders to design and implement ERP solutions aimed at optimizing company processes. This includes regularly providing expertise and guidance relating to ERP systems.
Typical job duties may include:
- Upgrading and/or implementing ERP software solutions
- Troubleshooting to differentiate between user and system errors
- Identifying how multiple applications interface with each other and with an entire system
- Analyzing workflow, process improvement and business practices to streamline and optimize ERP system operations
ERP systems analysts earn annual starting salaries ranging from $106,500 to $152,750, with a median salary of $128,750 per year.
ERP Technical Developer
ERP technical developers may be responsible for recognizing and evaluating potential problems within ERP systems, and developing and implementing appropriate responses to resolve those issues. They may also be tasked with upgrading enterprise resource planning systems in conjunction with evolving client business needs and organizational processes.
Daily job functions can include:
- Analyzing and testing ERP-related functions
- Developing and maintaining project plans for ERP system enhancements
- Interdepartmental collaboration to ensure that ERP solutions complement organizational priorities
- Training and supporting end-users
The annual starting salaries for ERP technical developers range from $113,250 to $159,500, with a median salary of $139,000 per year.
Numerous factors play a role in determining potential salary ranges and employment opportunities, including local market conditions and a candidate’s work history and educational qualifications. As a result, prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research into their career path of choice. Regardless of which path an aspiring ERP professional chooses, graduates of a B.S. in CIS program will be in demand and well positioned to pursue lucrative and engaging high-level careers in the field.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online B.S. in CIS program.
