College Catalog

This major provides students with strong programming and application development skills with additional focus on system development, databases, and Web development. The degree is designed to give students a broad background in programming, database administration, database design and programming, mobile application development, system design and development, mathematics, sciences, IT security, networking, Web applications, operating systems, communication, and liberal arts. Hands-on learning ensures deep understanding of all subjects.

Career Opportunities

This major prepares students for careers in programming, software application development, database design and administration, data-driven Web application development, Web and mobile programming, programming analysis, and system analysis.

Recommended High School Subjects

Students entering the major directly from high school should have a strong background in English, mathematics (college algebra and trigonometry), and sciences. Familiarity with computer programming, hardware, and software will also ease the transition.

Special Equipment Needs

A laptop/notebook computer is required for enrollment in all Information Technology majors, including Software Development & Information Management. Laptop specifications are available on the Software Development & Information Management Web page.

Transfer Procedures

Students seeking entrance through transfer into this major should strive to take courses at their respective institutions that provide competency in the following areas: pre-calculus, programming (two semesters minimum - same language preferred); database; Web technologies; networking; Unix and/or Linux. Students transferring from institutions that have articulation agreements with penn College should seek advisement from their respective institutions.

See also, the transfer standards established by the College.

Program Goals

Graduates of this major should be able to:

• assess the needs of an IT-related problem and select, develop, integrate, and administer an appropriate solution, including the appropriate application of security to protect the user's interests.
• demonstrate proficiency in the core information technologies.
• identify and explain the underlying principles upon which the core information technologies are based and how information is generated and disseminated to address user requirements.
• understand and use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for application development for Web and database technologies.
• identify and explain the importance of users and their requirements in the development and deployment of applications for Web and database technologies.
• practice effective organizational and project planning skills.
• use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify and define the computing requirements appropriate for Web and database technologies.
• communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing, using language appropriate for the intended audience.
• employ mathematical and science concepts that are necessary to the development of applications in Web and database technologies.
• apply necessary collaborative skills to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal.
• employ accepted practices and standards within the development of applications for Web and database technologies.
• identify and explain standards of professionalism as they pertain to personal and work-related endeavors.
• understand, identify, and explain the social, ethical, and legal implications of information technology and responsibilities of developers.
• identify, evaluate, and explain how changes in the IT discipline affect business, industry, and the work environment.
• identify and explain the need for continuing professional development in the IT discipline.
• understand the basic financial principles of business and how those principles affect the IT industry.

Performance Standards

Students must maintain a 'C' or greater in all Information Technology courses. All Information Technology and Information Technology Science majors use an A, B, C, and F grading scale in all BWM/CIT/CSC/IAS courses. Failure to achieve a grade of 'C' or above after the maximum attempts allowed by College policy results in withdrawal from the major. Students should work closely with their advisers and with the program faculty to ensure that they are meeting all criteria for satisfactory progress in the program.

Curriculum