University of Arizona

What you'll study

This programme blends business fundamentals from the Eller College with applied computing and systems coursework. You study core business topics such as accounting, finance, marketing and organisational behaviour alongside information-systems specific subjects including database design, systems analysis and design, enterprise systems (ERP), networking fundamentals and IT project management.

Typical modules and topics include:

• Introduction to Information Systems — foundations of how information supports business processes and decision‑making.
• Programming for Business — introductory programming and scripting commonly used for data manipulation and automation.
• Database Management — relational database design, SQL and data modelling.
• Systems Analysis & Design — methods for requirements gathering, modelling, UML and systems specification.
• Data Analytics and Business Intelligence — data visualisation, descriptive analytics and introducing predictive methods for business contexts.
• Networks and Security — fundamentals of networking, security principles and risk management for information assets.
• Enterprise Applications — study of ERP systems, integration, and business process redesign.
• IT Strategy and Governance — aligning IT with organisational strategy, governance, compliance and ethical issues.
• Capstone / Practicum — an applied project or internship that brings together technical and business skills to solve a real organisational problem.

Students typically complete a combination of major core units, elective concentrations (for example analytics, cybersecurity, or IT management), general education requirements and experiential learning such as internships or practicum projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants need an accredited high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions consider academic record, strength of curriculum, and other supporting materials. Recommended preparation includes coursework in mathematics (college preparatory algebra and ideally pre‑calculus or calculus), English and exposure to computing or problem‑solving coursework where available.

Specific expectations include:

• A competitive high school GPA and completion of standard college preparatory subjects.
• Recommended prior study in mathematics; some familiarity with computers or introductory programming is advantageous but not always required.
• For transfer applicants, completion of relevant college coursework with a satisfactory college GPA and any prerequisite courses the programme lists (for example introductory programming or statistics).
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test or approved waiver pathway.

Because admissions criteria and prerequisite course lists can change, applicants should consult the University of Arizona admissions pages and the Eller College curriculum guidance for the most current requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of roles that span business and technology. Typical job titles include systems analyst, business analyst, IT consultant, data analyst, application developer, IT project manager, ERP consultant and information security analyst. Employers span sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, retail, government and consultancy firms.

The degree provides skills relevant to:

• Designing and implementing information systems to support business objectives.
• Translating business requirements into technical solutions and managing deployment projects.
• Working with data to produce actionable insights and support decision making.
• Managing IT resources, vendors and governance frameworks.

Many students supplement coursework with internships, certification (for example in database, project management or cloud technologies) and campus career services to improve employability and transition into entry‑level professional roles.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona’s business and information‑systems programmes are delivered through the Eller College of Management, which emphasises experiential learning and close links with industry. Students benefit from applied labs, faculty with practical and research expertise in information systems, and structures that support internships and corporate engagement.

Additional strengths include access to career services and networking events, student organisations and project opportunities that connect students with local and national employers, and multidisciplinary collaboration across computing, engineering and business disciplines. These resources help students build both the technical and professional skills employers seek in information‑systems roles.