Computer Information Systems Cougar Map
The Cougar Map is intended to guide you with suggestions for potential activities and career paths that can help you along your educational journey. Although everyone has different abilities, experiences and challenges, this Cougar Map can be used with the help of your advisors to prepare for the future you want with a clear vision of your college-to-career pathway. Please refer to the SXU Academic Catalog and academic planning resources for detailed degree requirements.
If you would like to print out the Cougar Map, please view the Computer Information Systems Cougar Map (PDF).
| Competence (major/minor, summer suggestions, academic research) | First Year | Second Year | Third Year | Fourth Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Explore scholarship opportunities. Feeling stressed? Visit the Counseling Center for stress-relief tips. Seek out tutoring in the Learning Center/Writing Studio for courses. |
Become familiar with the HUB and CIDAT for all your technical needs. Learn to read programming codes and gain computer problem-solving skills. Consider earning the Cisco Academy Certification. |
Design and maintain relational databases and algorithms to solve moderate to complex problems. Explain the need for security mechanisms in major spheres of computing, including databases, networks and web applications. |
Begin work on your topic for your Senior Seminar independent research project. Explain operating systems concepts. algorithms and the larger social and ethical context of computing. Design and build a medium-scale software project. |
|
| Character (Service, global perspective, study abroad, clubs/RSOs, volunteering) |
Consider joining a student club or intramural sports team. Enroll in Cougars LEAD that supports leadership development and begin working on your leadership certificate. |
Get involved with service opportunities through Campus Ministry. Volunteer at organizations to utilize your art skills to help others or contribute to a cause. |
Take on a leadership role within a student club or organization. Consider participating in a spring break service trip or study abroad. |
Volunteer at middle schools and high schools that have student-focused computer programs. Mentor younger students to take on leadership roles in campus organizations. |
| Career Success (career or grad school prep, internships, jobs) |
Complete your SXU Handshake profile for student employment with the help of the Center for SUCCESS. Attend SXU's career-related events throughout your time at SXU and network with professionals. Research career options for computer science majors. |
Create a LinkedIn profile and make connections within your academic and personal circles. Explore and apply for internship opportunities on Handshake or with organizations such as Navistar, Palos Health, or Panduit. Apply for on-campus employment in the HUB, CIDAT or University Relations to sharpen your technical and web design skills. |
Apply for internship opportunities through Handshake or at organizations such as IBM, Applied Systems, U.S. Cellular, ACE Hardware Corporate or Warrior Invictus. Research graduate schools and prepare for post-graduate academic/professional exam(s), if applicable. |
Ensure that your LinkedIn or other professional social media accounts reflect all your recent experiences. Explore entry-level full-time opportunities related to your skills. Apply to graduate schools, if applicable. |