Why study Integrated Information Technology?
Integrated information technology (IIT) combines applied computing and business. Companies have become increasingly more dependent on information technology professionals whose knowledge extends beyond the software and hardware. They need innovators who can understand business needs, apply the technology in creative ways, and be the ultimate problem-solvers. The integrated information technology field involves system design and implementation, network support and administration, database systems, website design and management, corporate training and development, health information technology, project management, technology innovation and change management.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of database administrators and web developers is projected to grow 9 and 13%, respectively, from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 32% over this period.
You would be hard-pressed to find a successful business in today's society that isn't
supported by technology professionals in key roles. Through the integrated information
technology program, you will learn how to find solutions that improve any company's
efficiency and increase revenue. You will also become a great communicator, prepared
to lead teams and projects, positioning yourself to be essential member of any business
team.
Curriculum
As a student in the Bachelor of Science in Integrated Information Technology program, you will perfect your information technology and communication skills, and you will develop an understanding of business and technological issues. During your freshman and sophomore years, you'll take required university courses such as English, history, foreign language, fine arts and social science, as well as core courses in your major. In your junior and senior years, you'll complete major courses including networking, database management, visual programming and project management. You'll round off your academic career with a senior capstone project class and an industry internship, positioning yourself for a leadership role in any business setting.
On-Campus or Online
The high-quality IIT program can be completed on-campus and online. When taking classes online, you'll learn the same material and will be taught by the same high-quality instructors as students in the classroom. Having both face-to-face and online learning options provides flexibility to earn a degree in a sought-after field. Regardless of how you take your classes, you'll have access to top-notch USC resources like the Career Center, tutoring, and campus libraries. If you want to be 100% online, just select that option when you apply to the university.
Major subjects included in the integrated information technology curriculum include:
- Thriving in the Tech Age
- Introduction to Computer Hardware and Software Support
- Introduction to Networking
- Computer Applications in Business
- Software Design and Development
- Web-Based Support Systems
- Database Systems in Information Technology
- Introduction to Human Computer Interaction
- Advanced Networking
- Management of Information Technology
- Information Technology Security for Managers
- Professional Internship
- Analysis and Applications of Project Management Software
- Project Management for Information Systems
Associated with the applied nature the IIT curriculum, you'll take business courses such as:
- Introduction to Economics
- Accounting
- Business Law
- Business Communications
- Personnel Organization and Supervision
The curriculum also includes the Carolina Core, foundational discrete math and statistics courses, science electives, and information technology electives. Independent study and special topics courses also provide unique learning opportunities.
Visit Undergrad Curricula and Courses for additional details.
Information Technology Internships
Technology, perhaps more so than many other areas of study, can only be mastered by actually "doing." That's why it's so important for students to participate in internships and other forms of experiential learning, the process of learning through experience. The IIT program includes a required internship, completed during your junior or senior year to strengthen your technological and business knowledge, skills and values.
The type of internship experience is dependent upon your career goals. For example, students who are interested in network administration are encouraged to seek an internship in a networking position. We will assist you in finding the right internship. Ultimately, completing your internship will enable you to experience both the technical and professional aspects of a business.
Capstone Projects
During the capstone design course you'll work with a real clients to successfully complete an end-to-end IT project, within a supervised class setting. Our capstone course is focused on project management for information systems and involves the application of project management software, technologies and practices to the design and implementation of real-world information technology strategies.
Recent capstone project teams developed information technology solutions for the following clients:
- Boeing Corporation
- EdTech Showcase
- MOOT Alumni Association
- FBI Security Association
- SC Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services
- Still Hopes
- The Heritage at Lowman
- USC Gift & Records Services
Extracurriculars
IIT students participate in a variety of clubs including our student chapters of:
- Association of Information Technology Professionals
- Carolina Gamers Club
- Minorities in Computing
- Women in Computing
Undergraduate research opportunities are available in the areas of database systems and data analytics, human computer interaction, user experience and design, health information technology and informatics, Internet of Things, knowledge management, and e-commerce. Undergraduate researchers get involved on a volunteer, course credit or paid position basis.
With other undergraduates in our college, computer engineering students take full advantage of living-learning communities, mentorship opportunities, study abroad, intramurals, internships, just hanging out with friends, and more.
Visit Student Experience to learn more.