The Department of Library and Information Science offers a 39-credit major in information technology and informatics (ITI). This major emphasizes the evaluation, implementation, use, and management of information technologies for a wide range of organizations and corporations, as well as the social and organizational aspects of information and communication technologies. The major unites theories drawn from the humanities and social sciences with practical computer-based competencies. This combination prepares students to work in a diverse and highly competitive marketplace that demands individuals who understand the social, economic, and organizational impacts of technology locally and globally. The course of study combines rigorous thinking, problem solving, and technology skills in a program that is based on sound research and current technology applications.
Currently, New Jersey's growth industries--technology, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and finance--are either driven or heavily supported by information technology. Graduates of the major in information technology and informatics seek positions in government, health care, industry, education, finance, and other organizations where their technology skills and understanding of organizational and social informatics make them valuable employees. A representative sample of jobs includes database designers and managers, information designers and developers, web analysts and designers, electronic commerce developers, information technology analysts and information technology associates, instructional technology designers, information technology project managers, coordinators, consultants, project team leaders, and technical writers.
Upon successful completion of the major, students will be able to demonstrate these learning goals of the ITI program:
- Understanding approaches for the evaluation, implementation, use, and management of information technologies for a wide range of organizations and corporations, as well as the social and organizational aspects of information and communication technologies. A focus is on the importance of logical thinking and the need for highly developed technical skills founded in understanding contexts, principle, and processes of programming.
- Recognizing and applying the central concepts of management and organizational theory as they apply to the technological marketplace and organizational settings, and how information technology infrastructures and systems support corporate and organizational goals.
- Understanding people as the users of technology, and the social, cultural, philosophical, ethical, legal, public policy, and economic issues relating to information technologies.
- Proficiency in the analysis of problems and opportunities to which information technologies might be applied and the development of appropriate solutions including design and use of coding languages.
- Ability to apply information technology and management theories and concepts to social, professional, and civic life.
