Information Technology: Academic Information

Undergraduate degrees

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and the Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity provide a deep foundation in the math, science, and technology of the field, as well as teaching career essentials such as communication in the workplace and technical writing.

IT core requirements include courses covering programming, computer organization and platform technology, information security, managing IT projects, and systems integration. Electives give students the opportunity to focus on their area of interest and career plans and include options like emerging technology in cybersecurity, applied data analytics, data visualization and cloud computing, to name a few.

In addition to coursework, students complete a three-credit-hour capstone project.

Learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Cybersecurity in the KU Catalog.

Information Technology minors

The minor in Information Technology covers a variety of professional disciplines, including software development, systems administration and analysis, network support, web development, cybersecurity, and computer and information research science. A student completing this minor in IT might design and build data communication networks, write and test code for applications and software programs, provide support to users and organizations, or implement security measures to protect computer networks and systems. 

The minor in Applied Cybersecurity provides students with practical, hands-on training in cybersecurity, the first line of defense in outsmarting hackers, frustrating cybercriminals, and keeping sensitive data safe.

The minor in Applied Data Analytics covers data analytics, operational analytics, big data, and data-management-related career pathways. Applied data analytics involves analyzing data sets to uncover trends, patterns, and actionable insights that can help solve real-world problems. Professionals in this field use various tools and techniques, including statistical analysis, data visualization, and machine learning algorithms, to turn raw data into valuable information.

To declare one of these minors, a student must have a minimum 2.0 cumulative KU GPA and be degree-seeking.

Learn more about the minor in Information Technology, the minor in Applied Data Analytics, and the minor in Applied Cybersecurity in the KU Catalog.

Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)

The MSIT curriculum focuses on the applied aspects of technologies and practices used to provide digital services to customers within the industry.

These focus areas range from telecommunications, software development, cybersecurity, systems management, policy construction, and legal/regulatory concerns around tech use in an evolving world.

Graduate students are expected to learn and demonstrate competency in solving real-world problems with real-world technologies.

Additionally, courses in the program require students to organize into work groups, complete collective assignments, and practice peer leadership to accomplish goals.

Graduates of the program will be able to analyze and solve complex technological issues and feel comfortable assuming managerial or executive roles in their organizations.

Learn more about the Master of Science in Information Technology in the KU Catalog.

Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity

The Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity is a 12-credit graduate-level certificate designed to provide advanced knowledge of information security concepts, governance, fundamental and emerging technologies in network security and computer systems security, as well as proficiency in security policies, procedures, risk management, and audit.

The purpose of this graduate certificate is to offer a practitioner-oriented credential in the information security area to students who are seeking an opportunity for more focused study.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity in the KU Catalog.

Graduate Certificate in Software Engineering and Management

The Software Engineering and Management certificate program is designed primarily for industry practitioners who are involved in software engineering activities and who would like to enhance their formal education in software engineering and acquire the most modern development practices without completing a full master's degree.

The program is also for individuals who have a formal education in computing and who would like to acquire software engineering education to apply for software engineering positions.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Software Engineering and Management in the KU Catalog.