Major Description

The Information Technology (IT) program provides the opportunity for students to obtain the skills to be a key player in building information systems to improve the business operations and decision-making of twenty-first century organizations. IT students learn that in today’s ever changing global business environment, the ability to collect, organize, store, and transform vast amounts of business data into accurate, timely, and understandable information has a significant impact on an organization’s performance.

The IT professional must have a thorough understanding of business principles, technologies, and methodologies to effectively create technological business solutions that address the operational and decision-making needs of organizations.The IT program is based on a balance of business fundamentals and of skills in the analysis, design, and implementation of information systems. The IT student learns how to effectively lead and/or participate in cross-functional teams through courses that focus on interpersonal skills including problem solving, team building, and written/verbal communication.

The IT student course of study includes theoretical and practical discussion of information technology, including the design and usage of databases, networking, information security, computer programming fundamentals, knowledge management, and other current topics. The IT student will have opportunities to put classroom theory to practical use through course-based application problems, internships, and practicums.It is anticipated that upon graduation IT students will assume entry-level departmental line and staff positions with titles such as business analyst, system analyst, information systems specialist, programmer analyst, or information systems consultant.

As IT graduates gain industry experience, they are likely to assume roles as managers or senior technical staff.This major is not intended for students interested in computer programming or highly technical computer related areas of study such as computer engineering.

Major Requirements

Students majoring in Information Technology are required to take Computer Science 130, Computer Programming I. Computer Science 230, Computer Programming II, is highly recommended. Information Technology majors may also take other courses in the mathematics and computer sciences department as non-business and/or free electives.

In addition to the business core requirements, students majoring in Information Technology must complete Information Technology 321, 322, 331, and 370; and either Information Technology 220,332, 471, or 472 (3 credits).

Course Descriptions