Information Systems (IS) deals with the use of information technologies in businesses and organizations. Organizations will thrive only if they effectively make use of, design, and implement information systems to meet the organization's tactical and strategic needs. Successfully managing the development and use of information systems presents a difficult challenge, given the rapid pace of technological change. IS specialists must possess a thorough understanding of the technology and the knowledge to use that technology to support core business functions.

Why Information Systems?
Students take a set of courses that emphasize technical knowledge, such as computer programming and database management as well as courses that consider how to manage the development and use of information technology in organizations. Undergraduates with an option in IS are qualified to enter business as an entry-level business applications programmer, a business applications programmer/analyst, or as an entry-level business analyst. The strong general business background of our students allows them to assume greater responsibilities quickly and to become lead programmers or systems analysts.

Admission
Admission to the IS Option is competitive and based on the same criteria as admission to the Foster School of Business; however, admission to the Foster School does not guarantee admission to the IS Option.


Objective
The objective of the IS Option is to certify that students in the Undergraduate Program have completed a sequence of courses designed to provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to master the use of computer and telecommunications technology in businesses and organizations.

Core Courses in the IS Option
IS 300 Introduction to Information Systems
IS 310 Fundamentals of Business Information Technologies
IS 320 Fundamentals of Application Programming
IS 410 Business Data Communications
IS 445 Database Management
IS 460 Systems Analysis and Design

Students are encouraged to take at least one of the following courses:

IS 423 E-Business System Development
IS 461 Systems Implementation
IS 490 Selected Topics in Information Systems
IS 495 Practical Experience in Information Systems
IS 499 Undergraduate Research