Business Information Systems
Learn about the Bachelor of Commerce - Business Information Systems major from Dr Yvette Blount, a lecturer in the Department of Accounting and Corporate Governance.
Macquarie University's new Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Business Information Systems will provide graduates with an in-depth understanding of information systems concepts and issues, enabling them to fully participate in the increasingly globalised business community.
About Business Information Systems
In today's connected world it is imperative that information technology works effectively and efficiently for organisations to achieve their business objectives. Organisations use IT and web technology to engage customers more effectively, boost employee productivity and improve operating efficiency. Having an understanding of information and communication technology (ICT) is important across all industry sectors from health, security, mining, retail, education, government, to finance, hospitality, business and management. Business Information Systems professionals or Business Analysts coordinate the design of new information systems to improve business efficiency, effectiveness and in turn an organisation's competitive advantage.
Business analysts are involved in many areas including:
- evaluating business needs, and contributing to the design and development of a business solution
- working closely with developers and end users to ensure technical compatibility and user satisfaction
- ensuring timelines and budgets are met, and overseeing the implementation of a new system
- writing user manuals
- providing or co-ordinating training to users of a new system
Our degree
The Business Information Systems (BIS) major is jointly offered by the Department of Accounting and Corporate Governance and the Department of Computing. It is one of twelve majors belonging to Macquarie's Bachelor of Commerce. Students may choose to study the BCom with a single major in Business Information Systems or do a double major. Both options amount to the same workload and take over 3 years full time to complete. By combining the BIS major with other disciplines, graduates will further increase their career choices.
Business Information Systems Skills
Studying business information systems will provide you with skills that will be valuable in any industry. These skills include:
- An understanding of information systems and business alignment and requirements
- An understanding of information systems related risks and controls in business environments
- Analytical and reporting abilities
- Time management and personal organisation
- An understanding of user needs and a business outcome approach
- A logical approach to problem solving and an investigative and inquisitive mind
What you study
- Business information systems
- Design and data management
- Information systems for management
- Information systems audit and assurance
- Information systems project
Where can you go?
BIS graduates are in high demand and can find diverse roles within all industries. Roles on offer can include:- Business analyst
- Information systems auditors
- Information systems coordinator
- Management information systems analyst
- Project officer
Business Analysts can progress to senior consulting roles, liaising with top-level management. They can take indirect moves within an organisation, such as, developing specific technical expertise in a systems architect role, or move to project management or account management positions. Others can take a more strategic business direction, either within their organisation or with a management consultancy firm.
How much can you earn?
According to MyCareer website, Business Analyst salaries in Australia range from $55,000 to $187,720 with an average salary of $94,566.