Bachelor of Arts: Information Systems Major (4-Year)

Number of credits required from Athabasca University: 30 credits.

Maximum credit awarded in this program for prior learning through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) processes: 9 credits.

Program Learning Outcomes

As a result of completing this program, students should be able to

• evaluate information for its relevance and reliability.
• answer specific questions and find ways to solve problems related to information systems.
• work with others on information systems projects and contribute relevant feedback to achieve project goals.
• distinguish the differences between different types of information systems.
• distinguish the differences between information and data.
• determine the costs and benefits of particular systems before developing or designing them.
• document system interfaces and their function relating to information systems.
• demonstrate an understanding of the different ways information systems are used by different groups of users.
• demonstrate an understanding of the design and models of traditional information systems for further development.
• plan procedures for system failure and data backup.
• transfer data between systems and mediums using a range of data storage devices.
• direct and manage information systems with a demonstrated understanding of how electronic data processing can benefit individuals, firms and institutions.
• operate an information system over a network.
• convert different types of files for use in an information system.

Possible Career Options

• Business Systems Analyst
• User-Support Specialist
• Data Administrator
• Trainer
• Programmer
• Webmaster
• Information Analyst
• Helpdesk Support

Possible Further Education Options

At Athabasca University

• Master of Science – Information Systems (MScIS)
• Master of Arts – Integrated Studies (MAIS)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Education in Distance Education (MEd)
• Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Distance Education Technology
• Master of Counselling (MC)
• Post-Graduate Certificate in Counselling

At Other Educational Institutions*

• graduate studies in information systems or other related/unrelated disciplines
• law
• education
• police studies

* Entrance requirements vary among educational institutions. It is the students’ responsibility to research the entrance requirements of other educational institutions.

Updated March 25, 2009