Information technology, business software, mobile platforms—information systems are reinventing the way we do business. Computer-savvy people with programming and development skills are in demand in the business world. When students' skill set includes training in business solution development, they're a hot commodity.

Business Information Systems (BIS) is a two-year diploma program. It includes four academic semesters and a six-month paid co-operative education work term. The Business Information Systems program starts with a solid foundation in business basics with a focus on information technology functions and learning how to use them to develop meaningful business solutions. This includes training in:

• Software development languages (Visual Studio.NET, Java, COBOL) • Computer hardware, networking and operating systems (Windows, Unix and Linux) • Data gathering, modeling and database management systems (Oracle, SQL Server 2000) • Retrieval techniques of databases and programming languages (SQL, PLSQL, ADO.NET, JDBC) • Target platforms, including Windows application development, networked software development, web application development (XHTML, JavaScript, ASP, Java)

Students will use cutting edge technology in servers, programming and mobile apps. Students will have opportunities to develop or enhance actual production applications, and build hands-on skills in systems analysis, design methodologies and project management.

Graduates can apply to transfer into degree programs at the University of Regina's Paul Hill School of Business, the University of Regina's Computer Science department, the University of Lethbridge and Athabasca University.

Students are job-ready at graduation. Students could work as a software developer, systems analyst, programmer analyst, web/mobile app developer or help desk support. As students gain experience, explore opportunities in IT management or build specialized skills in database administration, advanced web development, project and network management. Students could also build a name for themselves as a private consultant or independent contractor.