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Why Study Information Technology?

Companies of all sizes — and in virtually every industry — need smart, skilled information technology professionals within every corner of their organizations, from the human resources to the help desk and from the sales team to the server room — and even the executive suite.

A well-rounded, business-focused information systems degree prepares you for a breadth of positions in this rapidly expanding field. Plus, being part of an ever-evolving industry means you’ll continue to learn as technology advances and new speciality areas emerge.

Why 51���� for an Information Technology Degree Program?

The 51���� aligns its business and technology degree programs with the demands of today’s — and tomorrow’s — STEM workforce. Our computer information technology major incorporates fast-growing segments, like computer forensics.

Rooted in the Franciscan tradition, your entire 51���� academic experience will develop you into a socially responsible IT professional and an ethical digital citizen.

Business Knowledge  + Technical Know-How

An organization’s information technology infrastructure is critical to its overall success. Many major business decisions are made with the input of IT professionals; in fact, the rise of the CTO — chief technology officer role — demonstrates the important role information systems play in our day–to-day work lives.

That’s why 51����’ information technology degree ensures you have a solid understanding of large data systems and underlying infrastructures, while also providing a foundation in business management.

You’ll have two semesters of networking coursework and explore a range of relevant topics, such as:

• Computer forensics
• Data analytics
• Ethics and privacy
• Security and risk assessment
• Web programming

Real-World Learning and Professional Networking Opportunities

Many academic programs can say they offer networking opportunities, but with IT, we mean it in the literal sense. You’ll meet and network with local IT leaders through guest speaking events and job shadowing events; and you will gain real-world networking and analyst experience through internships, projects and employment.

Internships

Beyond your programming courses and real-world simulations in the classroom, you’ll get practical job experience through an internship at companies such as:

• 3Rivers Federal Credit Union
• EY
• Do It Best Corporation
• Noble County Government
• Parkview Health Systems
• Research & Capstone Projects

Pursue independent, faculty-mentored research in a topic you’re curious about, or solve a practical business problem through a capstone project.

Campus Employment 

Whether you want to become a systems administrator or work as an IT consultant, another fantastic way to prepare for your career is part-time on-campus employment:

Reginald Telemaque, an IT major and student-athlete, helped manage social media for the 51���� Cougars football team. Sam Eastman provided support to his fellow students and the greater 51���� campus as a help desk tech.

Faculty and Facilities

Dedicated Computer Lab and Network

With a dedicated computer lab — meaning it’s independent of the University’s network — you’ll have an opportunity to learn real-life troubleshooting skills through simulated server failures and network crashes.

Industry-Standard Software and Equipment 

In your classrooms and labs, you’ll have access to industry standard equipment and programs such as:

• Microsoft Visual Studio
• Unity 3D Pro
• HTC Vive Virtual Reality Headset
• Linux Operating System,
• Windows Operating System

Campus and Community Involvement

As a computer information technology major, these campus organizations might interest you:

• Criminologists in Action
• Game Meat
• Computer Science Club (404 Club Not Found)

What Can You Do With an Information Technology Degree?

You might have been drawn to the IT degree because you want to become a systems administrator or explore computer forensics. But there’s a wealth of possibilities for you in the IT field. Here are just a few roles you might find:

• Business analysts
• Computer network architect
• Computer systems analyst
• Computer systems administrator
• Information security analyst
• Programming analyst
• Software developer
• Web developer

As you gain experience or as your workplace grows its IT offerings, you could advance into supervisory or leadership positions.