The growing trajectory of technology in business heightens demand for professionals with expertise in computer information systems. Degree options like the online computer information systems (CIS) programs from Florida Institute of Technology provide students with the skills and technical knowhow needed to launch a career in the field.
Beyond gaining a foundation for success in an undergraduate program, specialized CIS professionals can sharpen skills, stand out amongst the competition and increase their salary potential by obtaining CIS certifications. While some CIS certifications require a bachelor’s degree and professional experience, others are open to aspiring CIS professionals.
General Project Management and Information Systems Certifications
While many CIS professionals seek certification in various computer science specializations, generalist certifications are also common, especially for entry-level workers. For instance, the Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals offers four certification examinations: Associate Computing Professional (ACP), Certified Computing Professional (CCP), Certified Data Processor (CDP) and Certified Systems Professional (CSP). These types of certifications could help aspiring professionals with an associate degree in CIS pursue relevant careers.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers several certifications that can also be applicable to CIS professions, such as Certified Associate in Project Management (requiring no previous experience) and Project Management Professional (requiring three to five years of previous experience). The intent of these certification programs is to validate skills and knowledge in project management processes and systems spanning a variety of industry applications. A great deal of modern CIS work surrounds project management in the information technology (IT) sphere. As such, graduates of programs like Florida Tech’s online Bachelor of Science in CIS can earn a project management certification to bolster their qualifications for high-level IT project management careers.
Information Systems Certifications Requiring a CIS Degree and/or Related Experience
Professionals can home in on their specific career aspirations through pursuing more specialized certification. These types of certifications often have more specific education and experience requirements. They may focus on a subfield such as cybersecurity or information systems auditing, or they may center around vendor-specific software applications and solutions. Examples include the following:
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
CISA certification demonstrates the ability to assess systems for areas of vulnerability and effectively suggest approaches to mitigate problems through control, process and policy — while ensuring compliance with IT and business standards. Candidates are typically information systems audit and security professionals. Candidates must have a minimum of five years’ professional experience, or a combination of education and work experience. Certified professionals must also comply with the Code of Professional Ethics and complete mandated Continuing Professional Development (CPE) hours.
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
CRISC certification designates professionals who identify and solve risks through Information Systems (IS) controls. Launched in 2010, this certification assesses an IT professional’s ability to optimize risk management from inception to action through maintenance. CRISC certification requires at least three years of relevant professional experience, as well as ongoing CPE and Code of Professional Ethics adherence.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The CISSP certification recognizes advanced competency in cybersecurity leadership professionals. Prospects must have five years of appropriate professional experience, though a bachelor’s degree in a related field like CIS or computer science can satisfy one year of required experience. Candidates without the required professional experience can still earn Associate of ICS2 designation by passing the CISSP exam and continuing to build on their work experience. CISSP-certified professionals must also comply with the ISC2 Code of Ethics.
Microsoft Role-based Certifications
As an example of vendor-specific certification options, Microsoft offers a host of credentials related to the company’s numerous software applications and solutions such as 365, Azure, GitHub, Power BI, Fabric and more. Professionals may seek certification according to both role and software platform, such as Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate or Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert. Certifications require completing an exam and may require prerequisite certifications and regular renewal.
Cisco Certifications
Cisco offers certifications in myriad IT specialties at entry, associate, professional, certificate and expert levels. Examples of IT subfields covered by Cisco certifications include cybersecurity, data centers, security, DevNet, enterprise and design. While many Cisco certifications do not have formal requirements around experience or education, candidates must have substantial experience, skills and knowledge, commensurate with the level of exam content.
Launch an In-demand, High-paying Career With the Right Education and Certifications
Job growth in CIS professions is skyrocketing. In fact, CIS is central to three of the eight fastest growing occupations in the country, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Professionals who leverage their education and experience to ascend the ranks in CIS roles can also expect substantial compensation. For instance, BLS reports that computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of $171,200 in 2024. Those who aspire to such high-level positions can begin their career journey by earning a degree in CIS from Florida Tech. With a degree in hand, CIS professionals can further their job opportunities by pursuing specialized certifications in their area of interest. From there, the sky is the limit.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online CIS programs.
