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. Review required Laptop Specification see https://www.pct.edu/media/1111/download .

Remediation Strategies

All incoming students must meet placement requirements in math. Students are expected to remediate any deficiencies as explained in the College Catalog (see https://www.pct.edu/catalog/admissions-policy). Students will not be allowed to enroll in required Information Technology (CIT) and Security (IAS) courses until all remediation of mathematics (through MTH008) is complete.

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

• demonstrate knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to software and database development.
• demonstrate proficiency in the core information technologies such as programming, networking, web development, database, and security.
• analyze, assess, develop, deploy, and maintain secure software solutions for IT related problems.
• apply necessary problem-solving, collaboration, organizational, and project planning skills to accomplish a common goal.
• identify and explain the professional, social, ethical, and legal issues surrounding IT and the associated responsibilities of IT professionals.
• consider management principles and their impact in the IT discipline.
• communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using language appropriate for the intended audience.
• identify, evaluate, and explain the local and global impact of computing applications on individuals, organizations, and society.
• identify and explain the need for continuing professional development in the IT discipline.

Performance Standards

Students must complete all required major courses in the Software Development & Information Management major (those courses with the alpha designator CIT, EET, LAS, and MTH) with a grade of "C" or higher. Additionally, any course approved for use as a Directed BSI Elective must also be completed with a grade of "C" or higher.