Information Technology, B.S.

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is an online program– consisting of online synchronous sessions and asynchronous modules – designed both for individuals entering the information technology field, and those seeking to advance their information technology careers. The program prepares students with expertise in various domains of information systems so that they may contribute to the strategic success of an organization. The core program provides knowledge of diverse information technology disciplines and concepts such as computer programming fundamentals, network administration and security, cloud computing, database management, and business intelligence. The program emphasizes the technical aspects of multiple facets of information technology by working in instructor-facilitated online computer lab environments. Additionally, the program helps prepare students to earn some of the CompTIA industry certifications and Credly digital badges.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program provides options for adding a specialization track in business intelligence, cybersecurity, or network administration:

• The Business Intelligence specialization provides students with additional knowledge and skills for analyzing business data to create information used in organizational decision-making. The specialization’s curriculum focuses on the use of computer software for business decision-making, business intelligence systems, and data analysis.
• The Cybersecurity specialization provides students with additional knowledge and skills pertaining to information and network security. Various cybersecurity disciplines including computer forensics, network security, cyberwarfare, and computer hacking techniques comprise the Cybersecurity specialization curriculum. The Cybersecurity specialization helps prepare students for the CompTIA Security+ certification.
• The Network Administration specialization provides students with additional knowledge and skills needed for managing information systems networks. The Network Administration specialization helps prepare students for the CompTIA Network+ certification.

Students who anticipate enrolling in a graduate program at Saint Mary’s University may take up to two graduate courses as part of the Information Technology program. The graduate course(s) may be applied toward both the Information Technology and graduate program requirements. The completion of graduate course(s) as part of the Information Technology program are subject to University policy.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Explain the fundamental information technology concepts and applications.
2. Synthesize knowledge of basic computer programming concepts.
3. Apply knowledge of information technology to design systems for business application.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of cybersecurity issues and cybersecurity administration strategies.
5. Explain the processes and technologies involved with organizational data management, database design, and relational database retrieval.
6. Demonstrate the use of cloud computing applications by organizations.
7. Communicate effectively at all organizational levels.
8. Recognize the ethical implications of information technology-related actions.
9. Work effectively with diverse populations from a culturally competent perspective.
10. Continue professional and personal development.
11. Demonstrate critical thinking skills.

Additional program outcomes for specialization tracks:

Business Intelligence

1. Utilize software systems to support common business decisions and processes.
2. Analyze data in order to optimize business operations.

Cybersecurity

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts and technologies involved in information system cyberwarfare and information technology systems hacking.
2. Apply the principles and best practices for cybersecurity incident response and digital forensics.

Network Administration

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the development, management, and maintenance of a computer network.
2. Apply the technical skills and operational facets of computer network systems.

Program Structure and Delivery

The program is fully online, with the information technology-specific courses consisting of  instructor-facilitated virtual classroom meetings and asynchronous online sessions. The communications and management courses required for the program are delivered in an asynchronous online format. The program consists of 36 core program credits which comprise the standard Information Technology core. Students have the option of adding a specialization track in Business Intelligence, Cybersecurity, or Network Administration for a total of 39 credits.