Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Sciences Online
Gain a valuable, integrated skillset that encompasses computer science, business and engineering to give you an edge in your career.
Apply by:
12/26/24
Start class:
1/16/25
Program Overview
Explore our B.S. in Computer Information Sciences online program
Become a technology career standout with the essential understanding of computer architecture, organization and systems you will gain in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Sciences degree from Lamar University. The coursework in this online bachelor’s degree in computer and information science program covers software design, various computing languages, and how integrating these systematically can help businesses operate more efficiently. You will learn to utilize concepts of structured programming, including software development methodology, data types and control structures.
This online CIS degree program gives you the knowledge and skillsets, including those of designing, building, maintaining and improving computer-based systems, to help businesses, nonprofits and governments achieve their goals through better use of technology. As a graduate, you will be prepared to apply your knowledge of computer systems architecture, database design and network system administration to the information networks that are fundamental to the operations of a broad range of industries.
With practical coursework and experienced faculty, you will be career-ready from day one.
In this program, you will learn:
- Societal Awareness: Understand the impact of computer technology on society at large, on the workplace environment, and on individuals.
- The Scientific Method: Gather requirements, analyze, design and conduct simulations or other computer experiments and evaluate and interpret the data generated.
- Computer Science Technology Skills: Show expertise in the main content areas of computer science including discrete and continuous mathematics including skills in logic and proof writing, analysis and design of algorithms, formal languages and computability theory, operating and database systems, computer architecture and computer networks and distributed computing concepts.
- Software Fundamentals: Demonstrate the ability to use fundamental computer science knowledge to design, document, implement and test software solutions to a wide range of problems, using at least two high-level programming languages.
- Societal Awareness: Understand the impact of computer technology on society at large, on the workplace environment, and on individuals.
- The Scientific Method: Gather requirements, analyze, design and conduct simulations or other computer experiments and evaluate and interpret the data generated.
- Computer Science Technology Skills: Show expertise in the main content areas of computer science including discrete and continuous mathematics including skills in logic and proof writing, analysis and design of algorithms, formal languages and computability theory, operating and database systems, computer architecture and computer networks and distributed computing concepts.
- Software Fundamentals: Demonstrate the ability to use fundamental computer science knowledge to design, document, implement and test software solutions to a wide range of problems, using at least two high-level programming languages.
Possible CIS careers:
- Data scientist
- Network architect
- Systems analyst
- Web developer
- Software engineer
- Data scientist
- Network architect
- Systems analyst
- Web developer
- Software engineer
Per Credit Hour
$314*
Transfer Credits
Up to 90 hours
Credit Hours
120**
*Distance learning fee is included in the tuition listed
Tuition
Discover the value of our low-cost tuition
The following is the tuition breakdown for students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Sciences online. Our tuition is affordable and can be paid by the course.
| Program | Per Credit Hour | Per Course |
|---|---|---|
| B.S. in Computer Information Sciences | $314 | $942 |
*University fees are included in the tuition listed. University fees are able to be covered by Financial Aid if you choose to apply and are qualified.
Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice due to action by the Board of Regents or the Texas State Legislature.
Total program cost depends upon transfer hours and program advisement relevant to program requirements. For more information, contact a Lamar University enrollment specialist.
Transfer your credits and stay on budget
Your prior college experience can help reduce your tuition! Use our Tuition Estimator to calculate how affordable a degree can be when you apply previously earned academic credits toward an LU online program.
Transcripts sent from other colleges and universities will be evaluated, and accepted credits will be added to the student’s Lamar record. The Tuition Estimator is not a guarantee or predictor of the number of credit hours that will be accepted. Amount of transfer credits accepted varies by program. View the desired program’s webpage for information about its transfer credit parameters.
Financial Aid
Ready to get started on your degree program online but need help finding ways to fund your education? We can help you discover student financing sources that include grants, loans and other payment options. Learn more about financial aid here.
Tuition breakdown:
Per Credit Hour
$314*
Calendar
Milestones to guide your student journey
Our Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Sciences online program features multiple start dates to accommodate your busy schedule. Find the start date that works best for you and apply before the application deadline associated with it.
| 8 week courses | Program Start Date | Application Deadline | Document Deadline | Payment Due | Last Class Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2 | 10/14/24 | 9/23/24 | 9/30/24 | 10/7/24 | 12/12/24 |
| Spring I | 1/16/25 | 12/26/24 | 1/2/25 | 1/9/25 | 3/7/25 |
| Spring II | 3/17/25 | 2/24/25 | 3/3/25 | 3/10/25 | 5/7/25 |
| Summer I | 5/29/25 | 5/8/25 | 5/15/25 | 5/20/25 | 7/31/25 |
| Fall 1 | 8/21/25 | 8/7/25 | 8/7/25 | 8/15/25 | |
| Fall 2 | 9/29/25 | 9/15/25 | 9/15/25 | 9/23/25 |
Now enrolling:
Apply Date
12/26/24
Class Starts
1/16/25
Have questions or need more information about our online programs?
Ready to take the rewarding path toward earning your degree online?
Admissions
Follow our streamlined admission requirements
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Sciences online program has specific requirements that applicants must meet to enroll. Please read the admission guidelines to ensure you qualify.
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- Official Transcripts
All applicants must complete an application packet, consisting of:
- Complete online application and pay an application fee of $25
- Submit official transcripts from all high schools, colleges and universities you have attended
- All transcripts are required regardless of accreditation. Only regionally accredited institutions will be eligible for transfer credit.
- Be eligible to re-enter all colleges and/or universities previously attended
- Verify specific requirements associated with chosen degree program
High school graduates who have not attended college before are considered entering freshmen – even if they received college credit while in high school through dual credit, AP or IB programs. Transfer students with fewer than 18 hours of college credit also must meet admission requirements for entering freshmen.
Incoming freshmen must do the following to qualify for unconditional admission to Lamar University:
- Receive a diploma from an accredited high school
- Complete at least 14 high school credits in college preparatory courses: 4 credits in English, 3 credits in mathematics, 2 credits in laboratory sciences, 2.5 credits in social sciences (U.S. history, U.S. government, and world history or world geography) and 2.5 credits in college preparatory electives (preferably including 2 credits of foreign language)
- Meet the test-optional admission criteria or achieve a minimum composite score on the ACT or SAT through the secondary review criteria. (Click here for criteria)
- Submit your high school transcripts via Trex, Speedy, Escript or as a PDF from your high school counselor to [email protected].
Send all required documents to:
Lamar University Online Admissions
PO Box 10017
Beaumont, TX 77710
OR
Submit electronically to [email protected]
All applicants must submit official, sealed transcripts from each institution attended to the Admissions Office. All degrees must be from a regionally accredited institution. Send transcripts to: Lamar University, P.O. Box 10017, Beaumont, Texas 77710
Check to see if the program is offered to residents in your state before applying by clicking here.
Courses
B.S. in Computer Information Sciences Curriculum
The Lamar University Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Sciences online features the same quality instruction from supportive faculty as our on-campus programs. Coursework builds your proficiency in understanding computing, operating systems, programming languages, database design, network system administration, and artificial intelligence. COSC 4272 must be taken in your last semester. Note: this program is not accredited by ABET.
Students will have a choice of CPSC 4363, COSC 4345 or CPSC 4361
Students are required to take MATH 2413 and MATH 2318. In addition, students will have a choice of either MATH 1342, 3370 or BUAL 2310
Students are required to take MATH 2413 and MATH 2318. In addition, students will have a choice of either MATH 1342, 3370 or BUAL 2310
COSC 1172: Think, Speak, Write
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 1
The objective of this course is to give students experiences that convey the five main activities of a person working in the area of computer science: reading, listening, thinking, speaking, writing and cooperative interaction. Designed for incoming freshmen. Corequisites: COSC 1173 and COSC 1336
COSC 1173: Programming Laboratory
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 1
Practical applications of concepts learned in Computer Science 1336 (COSC 1336). Hands-on instruction in programming in an object-oriented language, developing, debugging, and testing programming projects. Corequisites: COSC 1336 and COSC 1172 Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
COSC 1174: Fundamentals of Computing II Lab
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 1
This course is the lab which accompanies COSC 1337. the topics covered include advanced concepts of Java programming, such as inheritance, polymorphism, Graphical and graphics, exceptions, events, etc. Prerequisites: COSC 1173 and COSC 1336 with a minimum grade of B in each.
COSC 1336: Programing Fundamentals I
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Introduces the fundamental concepts of structured programming. Topics include software development methodology, data types, control structures, functions, arrays, and the mechanics of running, testing and debugging. This course assumes computer literacy. Corequisite: COSC 1172 and COSC 1173 Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
COSC 1337: Programming Fundamentals II
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Review of control structures and data types with emphasis on structured data types. Applies the object-oriented programming paradigm, focusing on the definition and use of classes along with the fundamentals of object-oriented design. Includes basic analysis of algorithms, searching and sorting techniques, and an introduction to software engineering. Prerequisite: COSC 1336 with a minimum grade of B Offered: Fall, Spring
COSC 2336: Data Structures
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course describes applications of programming techniques, introducing the fundamental concepts of data structures and algorithms. Prerequisites: COSC 1337 with a minimum grade of B.
COSC 2372: Computer Organization Assembly Language
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course introduces the computer organization and assembly language. Prerequisite: COSC 1336 with a minimum grade of B.
COSC 2375: Discrete Structures
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course presents discrete mathematical structures for computer science and mathematics. Topics include: logic and methods of proof, structures of sets and functions, Boolean algebra, recursion, fundamentals of algorithms, permutations and combinations, discrete probability, graphs and trees, randomized search and optimization, and their applications. Prerequisites: MATH 2312 with a minimum grade of C.
COSC 3304: Intro to Algorithm Design and Analysis
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course is intended as an intermediate course to the design and analysis of algorithms for some of the most frequently encountered combinatorial problems. The course aims to provide familiarity with general algorithmic techniques, performance measures, analysis tools and problem areas. In this course, we will focus on developing an understanding of the algorithmic design process: how to identify the algorithmic needs of an application and apply algorithmic design techniques to solve those problems. The students will also learn how to identify problems for which no exact, efficient algorithm is known. More specifically, topics include: Fundamentals (Basic Programming Model, Data Abstraction, Bags, Queues, and Stacks, Analysis of Algorithms), Sorting (Elementary Sorts, Mergesort, Quicksort, Priority Queues, applications), Searching (Symbol Tables, Binary Search Trees, Balanced Search Trees, Hash Tables, applications), Graphs (Undirected Graphs, Directed Graphs, Minimum Spanning Trees, Shortest Paths), Strings (String Sorts, Tries, Substring Search, Regular Expressions, Data Compression), Context (applications). Prerequisites: COSC 2336 and COSC 2375 with a minimum grade of C in each.
COSC 3325: Computer Law and Ethics
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course introduces the ethical style of good writing in computer science and presents the social, legal, philosophical, and economic issues related to computers. Prerequisites: COSC 1336 with a minimum grade of B.
COSC 4272: Senior Assessment
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The objective of COSC 4272 is to assist students in their preparation for searching a permanent position after graduation or in their application for a more advanced graduate degree.
COSC 4302: Operating Systems
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
To introduce the major concept areas of operating systems principles develop an understanding of the organization and architecture of computer systems at the register-transfer and programming levels of system description and the inter-relationships between the operating system and the architecture of computer systems. Prerequisite: COSC 2336 with a minimum grade of C. Offered: Fall, Spring
CPSC 4317: Computer Networks
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Study of problems and limitations associated with interconnecting computers by communication networks. Network architecture, signals, message and packet switching networks, network topology, routing, flow control, capacity assignment, protocols, coding and multiplexing. Prerequisite: COSC 2336, MATH 2413. Offered: Fall
CPSC 4315: Network System Administration
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Topics include system security, shell programming, setting up user accounts, system configuration, system startup, management of file systems and disks, and backup and restore operations. Prerequisite: COSC 2336. Offered: Summer
CPSC 4340: Database Design
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Logical and physical database system organization; logical models; design issues; secondary storage considerations. Design issues emphasizing the normal decomposition theory of the n-ary relational data model, the RM/T model and an introduction to logical implementations of databases. Prerequisite: COSC 2336 2375 with a minimum Grade of C for each.
CPSC 4360: Software Engineering
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Systems analysis, software requirements analysis and definition, specification techniques, software design methodologies, performance measurement, validation and verification and quality assurance techniques. Prerequisite: COSC 2336. Grade level of C. Offered: Fall, Spring.
CPSC 4361: Secure Software Engineering
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course covers five main secure software engineering topics, such as security, defensive programming, reliability, program understandability and programmer misconception. Pre- or co-requisite: CPSC 4360 with a minimum grade of C.
CPSC 4363: Cybersecurity Systems
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides a hands-on study of various attacks and defending techniques on computer software and hardware, including malware, OS security, web security, smartphone security and hardware security. Basics of C programming, OS and HTML will also be covered. Prerequisite: COSC 2336 with a minimum grade of C.
COSC 4345: Cybersecurity Networks
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides a hands-on study of various network attacks and defending techniques, including main vulnerabilities of TCP/IP protocols, attacks on DNS servers, DoS attacks, Firewalls, VPN's, TLS and Blockchain. Basics of TCP/IP protocols and cryptography will also be covered. Prerequisites: COSC 2236 with a minimum grade of C.
MATH 2413: Calculus & Analytical Geom I
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 4
Functions, limits, derivatives of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions, curve sketching, related rates, maximum and minimum problems, definite and indefinite integrals with applications. Prerequisites: MRS 800 or C or better in MATH 2312 or its equivalent.
MATH 2318: Linear Algebra I
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course introduces and provides models for application of the concepts of vector algebra. Topics include finite dimensional vector spaces and their geometric significance; representing and solving systems of linear equations using multiple methods, including Gaussian elimination and matrix inversion; matrices; determinants; linear transformations; quadratic forms, eigenvalues and eigenvectors; and applications in science and engineering. Prerequisite: MATH 2413 with a minimum grade of C.
MATH 1314: College Algebra
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, determinants, matrices, systems of equations, binomial theorem, exponential and logarithmic functions, theory of equations.
BUAL 2310: Business Analysis I
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Introduction to the quantitative methods of analysis as applied to business problems. Topics of study include collection of data, statistical description, probability theory, probability distribution, sampling theory, estimation of parameters and testing hypothesis. Prerequisite: MATH 1325 or MATH 1324.
MATH 3370: Intro Theory Statistical Infer
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A calculus-based introduction to statistics, probability, special probability distributions, nature of statistical methods, sampling theory, estimation, testing hypotheses. Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in MATH 2414 or its equivalent. Prepares for: MATH 4380 Offered: Fall, Spring
Communication - 6 Hours
Mathematics - 3 Hours
Life and Physical Sciences - 6 Hours
Language, Philosophy and Culture - 3 Hours
Creative Arts - 3 Hours
American History - 6 Hours
Government/Political Science - 6 Hours
Social/Behavioral Sciences - 3 Hours
Component Area Options - 6 Hours
Mathematics - 3 Hours
Life and Physical Sciences - 6 Hours
Language, Philosophy and Culture - 3 Hours
Creative Arts - 3 Hours
American History - 6 Hours
Government/Political Science - 6 Hours
Social/Behavioral Sciences - 3 Hours
Component Area Options - 6 Hours
ENGL 1301: Composition I
Duration: 8 & 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Basic forms of expository writing. Frequent themes. Collateral reading in articles and essays of a factual and informative type.
COMM 1321: Business and Professional Speech
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Application of the fundamentals of speech production to the needs of the professional person. For non-communication majors only.
MATH 1324: Mathematics for Business and Social Sciences
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The application of common algebraic functions, including polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and rational, to business, economics and the social sciences are addressed. The applications include mathematics of finance, including simple and compound interest and annuities; systems of linear equations; matrices; linear programming and probability, including simple value. Prerequisites: TSI complete or TSI exempt. Students with a TSI score of 336 or higher, or with a S in MATH 0370 may take this course with co-requisite course MATH 0224. Students who are registered for MATH 1324 and MATH 0224 are not allowed to drop these courses due to the state's TSI compliance requirements.
BIOL 2306: Environmental Science
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An introduction to contemporary environmental issues and human interactions with ecosystems. Not to be used as a biology major course.
CHEM 1306: Chemistry for Allied Health Sciences
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Survey of elementary inorganic/organic chemistry and gas laws for allied health science majors. Prerequisites: (High school chemistry or CHEM 1375 with a grade of "C" or better) and (Mathematics Readiness Score>= 700 or MATH 1314 or higher with a "C" or better).
CHEM 1308: Biochemistry for Allied Health
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Elementary survey of structure, function and metabolic processes of molecules in organisms. Designed for students majoring in health sciences. Prerequisites: CHEM 1306, CHEM 1106. Offered: Summer
CHEM 1311: General Chemistry I
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Algebra-based review of chemical laws and theory for science, engineering and preprofessional majors. Prerequisites: Mathematics Readiness Score >=700 or MATH 1314 or higher with a C or better
CHEM 1312: General Chemistry II
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A continuation of CHEM 1311. Theories of solutions, equilibrium, thermodynamics and kinetics. Prerequisites: CHEM 1311 and CHEM 1111 both with a C or better.
GEOL 1390: Intro to Environmental & Physical Geology
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course is an introduction to the relationship between human activities, geologic resources and processes and environmental quality. Topics include the relationship between human populations and geologic hazards, as well as how human activities may increase the chances of geologic hazards occurring. Emphasis will be from the geologic perspective, but will include all basic sciences. Field trips are an integral part of this course. Offered: Fall, Spring
SPSC 1301: Space Exploration
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course is intended to provide a basic understanding of many aspects of space exploration, including discovering the physical make-up of the universe and evidence surrounding its origin, learning the discoveries made in the solar system and evidence surrounding its origin. This course in addition to lecture material will include a class project to assess teamwork skills.
ENGL 2300: Close Reading II
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A close reading of related themes, authors or periods and/or a close viewing of films with related themes or makers. The course will focus on literature, the arts, politics, philosophy or culture. It will not take the place of other 2000 level courses that require ENGL 1301 and 1302. It will not take the place of ENGL 1302. It is intended for students who do not take 6 hours of composition. Course may be repeated when content varies. Pre-requisite: English 1301.
PHIL 2306: Ethics
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A historical examination of theories and principles of social and personal conduct ranging from Plato and Aristotle to Mill and Nietzsche. Applications to current issues. Prerequisite: ENGL 1301 Offered: Fall, Spring.
ARTS 1301: Art Appreciation
Duration: 8 & 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An introductory course emphasizing the understanding and appreciation of visual arts (painting, sculpture, and architecture).
COMM 1375: Film Appreciation
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A survey of the field of film with emphasis on current trends in cinema, past and present directors, and the historical development of film. Satisfies the Fine Arts core curriculum requirement.
COSC 1324: Introduction to Computer Game Development
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The synthesis of computer games with a focus on the artistic elements of games, including graphics, animation, audio and narrative.
DANC 2304: Dance Appreciation
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A survey of the art of dance and its role in world cultures, history and current issues. This course satisfies the fine arts core for non-dance majors. Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
MUSI 1306: Music Appreciation
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Survey of music for non-music students. Covers the major style periods from the Renaissance to the present with emphasis on the development of basic listening skills and critical thinking. Requires attendance at instructor-specified recitals or concerts.
MUSI 1309: Jazz History and Appreciation
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A survey of the development and history of Jazz as a musical form from its origins in earlier styles to the present. Covers the major styles and musicians with an emphasis on the development of basic listening skills and critical thinking. May require attendance at instructor specified recitals or concerts.
MUSI 1310: History of Rock & Roll
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A survey of the development and history of Rock Music from its origins in earlier styles up to the present. Covers the major styles and musicians with an emphasis on the development of basic listening skills and critical thinking. May require attendance at instructor-specified recitals or concerts. No Prerequisites.
HIST 1301: History of The United States, 1763 to 1877
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
United States history from the revolutionary period through reconstruction.
HIST 1302: History Of The United States, 1877 To The Present
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
United States history from the post-reconstruction period to the present.
HIST 2301: History of Texas
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Texas history from the beginning to the present time.
POLS 2301: Introduction to American Goverment I
Duration: 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The national and Texas constitutions; federalism; political socialization and participation; public opinion and interest groups; parties, voting, and elections.
POLS 2302: Introduction to American Government II
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The legislative, executive, and judicial branches and the bureaucracy; policy formulation and implementation including civil rights and civil liberties, domestic and foreign policies.
ECON 2301: Principles of Economics I (Macro)
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Emphasizes monetary theory; national income analysis; fluctuation and growth; public finance; international trade; and current economic problems.
ECON 2302: Principles of Economics II (Micro)
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Introduction to economic principles; allocation of resources; determination of output and prices; distribution; and managerial economics.
ENGL 1302: Composition II
Duration: 8 & 15 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Forms of expository and analytical writing. Topics from composition suggested from wide reading in at least two of the three genres: prose fiction, poetry, and drama. Research paper required.
BUAL 2310: Business Analysis I
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Introduction to the quantitative methods of analysis as applied to business problems. Topics of study include collection of data, statistical description, probability theory, probability distribution, sampling theory, estimation of parameters and testing hypothesis. Prerequisite: MATH 1325 or MATH 1324.
