BSBA in Information Systems

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Northern Arizona University

Program Overview

Northern Arizona University’s BSBA in Information Systems combines business knowledge with technical skills, preparing students to use technology to solve organizational problems and support business decisions. The program is ideal for students interested in databases, programming, cybersecurity, business analytics, and information technology management, while also developing a strong foundation in accounting, finance, management, and business strategy.

Curriculum Structure

The program combines business core courses, information systems subjects, general studies, and a certificate, minor, or additional coursework option. The following is a representative four-year progression based on NAU’s official academic plan; the exact course sequence may vary depending on academic planning and prerequisites.

Year 1 – Building Business and Technology Foundations

Students begin with Introduction to Computer Information Systems and Finite Math with Calculus, developing an understanding of computer systems, business technology, and quantitative problem-solving. General studies and electives also help build communication, analytical, and academic skills.

Year 2 – Developing Programming and Database Skills

Students explore Foundations of Business Programming and Database Analysis, Modeling, and Design, learning how software and databases support business operations. Courses such as Financial Accounting for Business and Principles of Economics: Micro introduce the financial and economic principles behind organizational decisions.

Year 3 – Connecting Technology with Business Decisions

Students develop their technical and analytical abilities through Python Programming for Business Analytics, Applied Business Intelligence, and Management Information Systems. These subjects help students use programming, data, and information systems to identify business needs and support better decisions.

Year 4 – Strengthening Systems, Security, and Strategic Skills

Students advance their knowledge through Management of Information Assurance and Security, Systems Analysis and Design, and Strategic Management. These courses help them assess technology risks, design business information systems, and understand how technology supports an organization's long-term objectives.

Focus Areas

Information systems, business technology, programming, database management, business analytics, business intelligence, systems analysis and design, information security, enterprise applications, e-commerce, IT strategy, business process improvement.

Learning Outcomes

Design effective information systems and data-driven solutions, analyze business information to support decision-making, use SQL and other tools to work with data, develop programming-based solutions, evaluate information security risks, communicate technical requirements to business and technical users, assess ethical and regulatory concerns, support organizational improvement through technology.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BSBA in Information Systems is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) through NAU’s W. A. Franke College of Business. This accreditation reflects the college’s commitment to recognized standards in business education and continuous academic improvement.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

NAU’s Information Systems curriculum emphasizes the combination of technical expertise and business understanding, preparing students for roles involving systems analysis, technology consulting, database administration, and network and systems administration. The university does not publish a specific employment rate or salary figure for this individual major in the official program information reviewed.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical skills by working with programming concepts, databases, business analytics, information security, and enterprise systems. The curriculum includes hands-on technical learning in both Unix and Windows environments, allowing students to understand how technology supports real business operations. Through applied coursework and a senior capstone, students learn to assess business needs, develop technology-based solutions, and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Students can build practical experience through:

Programming: Learn programming concepts through ISM 220 – Foundations of Business Programming and ISM 370 – Python Programming for Business Analytics.
Database development: ISM 310 – Database Analysis, Modeling, and Design develops skills in database structure, modeling, and design.
Business intelligence: BAN 440 – Applied Business Intelligence introduces analytical approaches for supporting organizational decisions.
Systems analysis: ISM 480 – Systems Analysis and Design helps students evaluate business requirements and design appropriate information systems.
Information security: ISM 490 – Management of Information Assurance and Security focuses on information security management and organizational risk.
Technology platforms: The official program information identifies experience with Unix and Windows environments, Microsoft Visual Studio .NET, C#, Oracle, Access, SQL, SAP, ABAP, and SAS Miner. Specific tools may vary by course offering.
Business problem-solving: Students develop data-driven solutions, assess system designs, and communicate technical requirements to business users.
Senior capstone: MGT 490C – Strategic Management allows students to integrate business knowledge and strategic decision-making.
Career preparation: NAU Career Development offers career advising, résumé reviews, internship guidance, job-shadowing resources, and career events.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BSBA in Information Systems prepares students to work at the intersection of business and technology, where organizations need professionals who can understand business challenges and translate them into effective technology solutions. Graduates can explore opportunities in systems analysis, technology consulting, database administration, information security, and business intelligence.

Typical career opportunities include: Business Systems Analyst, IT Consultant, Database Administrator, Information Security Analyst

Career services: NAU Career Development supports students with career advising, résumé reviews, internship guidance, job-shadowing resources, and career events.
Job search support: Handshake helps students explore job and internship opportunities, connect with employers, and access career events.
Employment statistics and salary figures: A specific employment rate or salary figure for the Information Systems BSBA was not identified in the official program information reviewed.
Industry connections: NAU provides employer connections and career opportunities through its career services and Handshake platform.
Accreditation value: AACSB accreditation provides external recognition of the business education offered through the W. A. Franke College of Business.
Graduation outcomes: Students complete at least 120 units, including the business core, Information Systems major requirements, and a certificate, minor, or approved additional coursework. The program develops technical, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills for technology-focused business roles.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the BSBA, graduates may pursue postgraduate study in areas such as an MBA, Information Systems, Business Analytics, Information Technology Management, Cybersecurity, or Data Analytics, depending on their interests and the admission requirements of the chosen institution.