A major in Computer Systems Analysis prepares students to apply programming and systems analysis principles to the selection, implementation, and troubleshooting of customized computer and software installations across the systems development life cycle. It includes instruction in computer hardware and software; the compilation, composition, execution, and operation of information systems; low- and high[1]level programming languages; programming and debugging techniques; installation and maintenance testing and documentation; process, data flow, and user needs analyses and documentation; cost-benefit analyses; and specification design. Focus is on the entire systems development life cycle including requirements gathering, feasibility analyses, project estimation, system design, quality assurance, implementation, integration, security, documentation, and testing. Established quantitative metrics will be used for identifying project objectives and ensuring quality throughout the systems development life cycle. Students will learn to apply project management principles to a variety of computer-based information systems projects.
In Missouri, there is a large projected growth in computer-related jobs with a growth rate of 14%. There are approximately 4.4 K job openings each year.
“Companies spend millions of dollars on firewalls and secure access devices, and it's money wasted because none of these measures address the weakest link in the security chain: the people who use, administer and operate computer systems.”
Kevin Mitnick
This major will serve students who are interested in computer systems analysis, software development, computer programming, and/or information systems development. It will also serve students who are more interested in the other aspects of systems development including requirements gathering, design, system testing, project management, and quality control.
The Computer Systems Analysis major will prepare students for either immediate employment or graduate study. Graduates with this major typically pursue a career as a systems analyst, business systems analyst, requirements engineer, software developer, programmer, quality assurance engineer, or project manager in a wide variety of business, non-profit, and industry organizations. Students will also be prepared to enter a wide range of graduate programs in related computing disciplines.
The course offerings in Computer Systems Analysis serve majors as well as students majoring in other fields. The lower-level courses present an introduction to information systems concepts and to structured programming. The advanced courses are designed for extended study and include exploration of the theoretical and technical aspects of Computer Systems Analysis. A two-semester capstone experience provides the student opportunity to participate in a comprehensive systems project.
All courses are taught in a computer laboratory setting, permitting experimentation with the practical application of theoretical concepts. Student learning is achieved by applying a problem-based approach focusing on critical thinking, technological understanding, and interpersonal communications. Students are encouraged to participate in Westminster’s internship program as early as their sophomore year.
The Computer Systems Analysis major will prepare students for either immediate employment or graduate study. Graduates with this major typically pursue a career as a systems analyst, business systems analyst, requirements engineer, software developer, programmer, quality assurance engineer, or project manager in a wide variety of business, non-profit, and industry organizations. Students will also be prepared to enter a wide range of graduate programs in related computing disciplines.
