OLLU CISS Program

Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) offers bachelor's degrees in Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) that prepare graduates to become leading professionals in information systems and technology in all industries. OLLU has been designated as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) . It is part of an elite group of colleges and universities nationwide to receive the designation.

The programs prepare graduates for the wide ranging field of information technology through hands-on experience with emerging technologies in the areas of:

  • Computer and Network Security Foundations
  • Database Management
  • Information Assurance and Security
  • Network Administration
  • Operating Systems
  • Programming
  • Systems Analysis and Design

    • The CISS programs are tied to the federal government's objectives that encourage training and development of skilled professionals in order to protect the nation's information technology infrastructure. Graduates of the program are prepared to help develop, manage and protect computers and networks in government, medical centers, financial centers in virtually every sector of the economy

    Computer Information Systems and Security Degrees Offered

    Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Information Systems and Security

    The Bachelor of Science (BS) in CISS focuses on the technological components of Computer Information Systems and Security. Students get comprehensive knowledge in information systems and computer technology to prepare them to work in variety of industries to manage an organization’s information systems.

    View the degree plan and course descriptions for the BS in CISS.

    Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Computer Information Systems and Security

    The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in CISS emphasizes the business aspects of CISS. The degree prepares students to protect the valuable information technology assets of an organization. Students pursuing the BBA complete core business courses as well as specialized CISS courses.

    View the degree plan and course descriptions for the BBA in CISS.

    Bachelor of Applied Studies (BAS) in Computer Information Systems and Security

    The Bachelor of Applied Studies (BAS) in CISS is designed for IT professionals and technical school and community college students with an associate’s degree in information technology or telecommunications. Credit from the associate’s degree in an IT field is applied to the bachelor’s degree.

    View the degree plan and course descriptions for the BBA in CISS.

    Minor in Computer Information Systems and Security

    The minor in CISS pairs well with many of the majors offered at OLLU to enhance a student’s knowledge of computer programming, hardware and operating systems.

    View the degree plan and course descriptions for the minor in CISS.

    Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Computer Information Systems and Security

    A certificate in Cyber Security is available to all Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) programs. Students must earn a grade of C- or higher in al of the CISS core courses and in 12 credit hours of additional cybersecurity courses.

    Also available to non-CISS majors, particularly those already pursuing a minor in CISS who take an additional 18 hours to earn the certificate.

    View the Cyber Security Certificate degree plan here.

    Hands-On Opportunities

    Students studying CISS at OLLU have multiple opportunities to gain hands-on experience that prepare them to develop, manage and protect computers, information systems and networks in virtually any sector.

  • Computer Lab - A dedicated CISS lab and virtual machine technology are available for students to access specialized software and leading-edge tools.
  • Security Lab – A limited-access lab allows students to analyze actual malware samples and other sensitive cybersecurity tools while isolated from the university's main computer network.
  • Penetration (Pen) Testing and Incident Response – Students test computer systems and networks to see if they are able to survive hacks or attacks.
  • CyberSaints Team – participation on this team further develops students' skills and knowledge through regional and national cybersecurity and information technology competitions.

    • Additional Information

    Commitment to Community and Service-Learning

    As part of OLLU’s dedication to community service and service-learning, there are courses within the CISS curriculum that are specifically designed for students to take their knowledge into the community. Recent community service projects include teaching seminars to senior citizens on online safety and building an app for a local nonprofit organization.

    Internships and Careers After OLLU

    Although not required, CISS students are strongly encouraged to pursue an internship while they are studying at OLLU. Students have gained invaluable experience by being able to take what they have learned in the classroom to some of the top companies in San Antonio and across the country. Many of the students who complete an internship have been offered jobs even before graduating with their degree.

    Center for Information Assurance Management and Leadership

    Students in OLLU’s CISS program have access to the University’s Center for Information Assurance Management and Leadership (CIAML). The center was created to provide access to high-quality information assurance and security policies, procedures, standards and guidelines for the industry, the government and higher education. It serves as a resource for students and the community.

    Learn more about the CIAML here.

    Earn a Bilingual CISS Degree

    Spanish-speaking students can earn a bilingual CISS degree with through the Biliterate Certificate Program. Spanish-speaking students take specialized Spanish classes and fulfill a portion of their major requirements by taking courses taught in Spanish.

    Learn more about the Biliterate Certificate Program here.