Yes, the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is a new major at James Madison University that will start in Fall 2020 (upon SCHEV approval).
Yes, Information Technology is a new major that falls under the computing field, and it is part of the Department of Computer Science.
The Information Technology major is focused on highly relevant skills in fields of cybersecurity, computer networking, and end-user design and development (mobile and web development).
We go beyond the science behind computers, teaching you how to design and develop solutions in a wide range of computing and networking application areas. We will provide you with the knowledge and skills to meet the computer technology needs of business, government, healthcare, education and other organizations.
In addition to core competencies in programming and networking and other application-focused computing fields, the IT major features a junior-level project to address a community need, as well as a senior capstone project allowing students to apply the range of their abilities in a real-world context.
The computing field is large. We recommend enrolling in IT101. It will provide an insight into what you will be studying and the differences between the fields.
Our faculty are active members of their respective research communities and have a history of receiving externally funded grants. They involve students from every major in their research and publish/present at international/national research venues.
Research areas include (but not limited to): Computer Networking, Security and Cryptography, IT Education, Intelligent Transportation, and Robotics.
CS, CIS, and IT fall under the umbrella of computing. However, the IT major is more focused on the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data or information.
Currently, Information Technology is one of the highest recruiting fields in the world, and with the world being more connected, it is expected to be one of the hot topics for several years!
More questions?
Dr. Samy El-Tawab, Program Director at eltawass@jmu.edu
