Computer Information Technology
Bachelor of Science
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Program Intro
As a computer information technology major, you’ll take courses that span knowledge areas including computational thinking, programming, networking technologies, operating systems, information assurance, web systems technology and database design and implementation.
Department of Computer Information Technology and Graphics
Our faculty members have a wealth of real world experience and are leaders in their respective disciplines. You’ll benefit from their mentorship and training in real-life laboratories and other settings. It’s a comprehensive combination of theoretical and hands-on preparation for a career in the field.
Program Educational Objective One
The program will produce graduates that are information technologists with applied research, critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Program Educational Objective Two
The program will produce graduates that are professionals, leading industry direction with excellence in providing solutions to business needs.
Program Educational Objective Three
The program will produce graduates that are future information technology leaders.
Program Educational Objective Four
The program will produce graduates that are life-long learners who have a commitment to service within the community.
Program Educational Objective Five
The program will produce graduates that are citizens of the world, sensitive to state, national and global initiatives through technological solutions.
Graduates of the Computer Information Technology program have an:
- a.) Ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the program’s student outcomes and to the discipline.
- b.) Ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
- c.) Ability to design, implement and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs.
- d.) Ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal.
- e.) Understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security, and social issues and responsibilities.
- f.) Ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
- g.) Ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations and society.
- h.) Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in, continuing professional development.
- i.) Ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practices.
- j.) Ability to use and apply current technical concepts and practices in the core information technologies.
- k.) Ability to use and apply current technical concepts and practices in the core information technologies of human computer interaction, information management, programming, networking, web systems and technologies.
- l.) Ability to effectively integrate IT-based solutions into the user environment.
- m.) Understanding of best practices and standards and their application.
- n.) Ability to assist in the creation of an effective project plan.
Curriculum Overview
Our program blends theory, applied research and experiential learning in all the vital aspects of IT, including networking, database administration, security and project management.
First year courses covers pervasive themes in IT, organization issues, and history of IT, IT and its related informing disciplines, application domains, computer math, and other IT topics.
Sample Courses
- ITS 10000 – Information Technology Fundamentals
- ITS 13500 – Operating Systems Technologies
- ITS 14000 – Introduction To Computer Algorithms And Logic
Your second year covers in-depth discussions of object-oriented programming and application development through integration.
Sample Courses
- ITS 24500 – Integrative Programming
- ITS 26000 – Applied Database Technologies
- ITS 27000 – Internetworking Technologies
Topics include confidentiality, integrity, authentication, non-repudiation, intrusion detection, physical security, and encryption. Extensive laboratory exercises are assigned.
Sample Courses
- ITS 35000 – Systems Assurance
- ITS 35200 – Disaster Recovery And Planning
- ITS 36000 – Distributed Application Architecture And Design
In your final year, you’ll cover defensive programming techniques, bounds analysis, error handling, advanced testing techniques, detailed code auditing, and software specification in a trusted assured environment.
Sample Courses
- ITS 44000 – Mobile Application Development
- ITS 45000 – Software Assurance
- ITS 45200 – Computer Forensics
Highlights
The program is hosted in a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, designed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and National Security Agency, with a special focus on Network Security Administration.
The designation symbolizes that our curriculum meets the national standard of cyber defense education.
Outcomes
Through classroom and lab interaction with experienced faculty, applied research and experiential learning, you’ll begin your professional work with the confidence and knowledge to be successful in a dynamic, competitive field.
Scholarships
There are a number of scholarships available for students in this program, including:
- John and Sam Maniotes Scholarship
- Department of Defense Cyber Scholarship Program
- Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Scholarship
- NSF CyberCorps Program
Beyond the Classroom
We encourage you to get involved in activities like:
- IT Club
- Cyber-Security Club
- Cyber-Incident Response Club
Career Paths
This degree prepares you for a number of careers in the field, including:
- Software developer
- Web developer
- Mobile app developer
- Database analysts and developer
- Computer security specialist
Employers
Our alumni work with some of the most innovative organizations across the region and around the world, including:
- Community Healthcare System
- Arcelor Mittal
- NiSource
- Cerner Corporation
Accreditation
The Computer Information Technology program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET. This ensures that the program is independently reviewed and meets quality expectations set by experts in the field.
I was very glad that I took the computer information technology program when I applied for PNW. The CIT program was really prepared to teach the real tech skills which were popular in industry.
One of the great things about Purdue Northwest, other than the amazing professors, was the student community. The ability to work and network with students from different fields was advantageous on both an educational and a personal level.
All of the hands-on training I’m receiving at PNW is helping me narrow down exactly what I want to do once I graduate.
I like that my classes cover a wide variety of technological skills: programming, web design, project management, networking, and computer security. My teachers have experience in the topics they teach and can provide real-world examples. I also participated in the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for Undergraduates.
Meet the Faculty
Professor, Computer Information Technology
Michael Tu is a professor of computer information technology and director of the Center for Cybersecurity.
Take the Next Step
See how a PNW degree opens doors, from corporate boardrooms to non-profit leadership.
