Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Person-to-Person Advising
Penn States College of Information Sciences and Technology prides itself on a personal touch in all that we do. This is particularly true
of finding your way through your degree requirements, making course decisions, working out career plans, and simply figuring out what
is best for you.
E-advising
Academic Advising (http://ist.psu.edu/advising)
The IST Advising Center provides information on IST, SRA, and Data Sciences curriculum, minors, and degree requirements.
Campus Colleges Offering the Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Sciences and Technology
Campus Colleges Offering the Bachelor of Science Degree in Security and Risk Analysis
Penn State Altoona (SRAAL)
Penn State Berks (SRABL)
Penn State Harrisburg (SRACA)
Penn State University Park (SRA)
Penn State World Campus (ISTBS)
2
Information Sciences and Technology (ISTBS)
Bachelor of Science Degree Options
The ISTBS major within the College of Information Sciences and Technology offers three options.
In this option you will design software applications and integrate information technologies to meet a specific need and work on projects
like developing applications for smartphones. If you enjoy working with unfamiliar software and computer languages, troubleshooting
problems when things do not work, and thinking logically to solve complex problems, this is the option for you.
This option examines how information technology can enable and support processes within and between businesses. You will analyze
the needs of an organization, formulate and implement technology-based solutions, and evaluate the outcomes, working on projects
like designing a software application to store genetic information used by researchers.
How businesses and other organizations use information technologies is the focus of this option. Did you ever wonder how Starbucks
uses Twitter and other social media to promote its brand? Information Context can help you explore the possibilities. You are
encouraged to think creatively and pursue opportunities that will allow you to see firsthand how people, information, and technology
interact.
3
ISTBS Major Requirements
To earn your Bachelor of Science degree in Information Sciences and Technology, you must complete at least 125 credits. For
suggestions on fulfilling your requirements, see the semester-by-semester Recommended Academic Plans in this book. You may wish
to speak to your academic adviser because completion of some major requirements may also satisfy general education requirements.
To keep track of your academic progress, check the online degree audit available through eLion. If you have any questions, make an
appointment with your academic adviser.
ELECTIVES: 8 credits
Depending on how you satisfy your world language requirement, this number could change. See your academic adviser for details.
The courses marked with an asterisk (*) must be completed with a grade of C or better.
4
ISTBS Common Required Courses
Common Required Courses are taken by all students majoring in the B.S. in Information Sciences and Technology independent of their
option. All common required courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.
Beginning with the Fall 2016 semester, many IST courses have enforced prerequisites. All courses that are listed as a pre-requisite
course must be completed or scheduled to complete before a student can enroll in the desired course.
5
Other IST Courses
Additional courses offered by the College of Information Sciences and Technology. Not all courses are offered every semester.
Semester specific course offerings can change. Please check with your academic adviser.
The College also offers special topic courses numbered IST 297/397/497 that take an in-depth look at a variety of topics or
special areas of interest. These courses may be available for one or more semesters, and may count towards your ISTBS degree
requirements. Check the IST website at http://ist.psu.edu/current-students/featured-courses for current offerings.
Engaged scholarship opportunities can be explored in the form of Research Projects (IST 294/494) and Independent Studies (IST
296/496) with IST faculty members. See your academic adviser for details.
6
Other IST Courses (continued)
7
Other IST Courses (continued)
8
Other IST Courses (continued)
9
ISTBS Option Courses
Each option in the ISTBS curriculum has 9-12 credits of prescribed coursework that distinguishes the focus of study. All prescribed courses must be
completed with a grade of C or better. Not all courses are offered every semester, and semester specific course offerings can change. Please
check with your academic adviser.
Information Systems: Design and Development
IST 311 is a required course (3cr)
Object-Oriented Design and Software Applications (3)
IST 311 Introduction to object-oriented applications including applications in an OOD language.
Prerequisite: A grade of C or better is required in IST 242 or CMPSC 221
Select 3 credits from IST 261 or IST 361 (3cr)
Application Development Design Studio I (3)
IST 261 Introductory design and development studio course for IST and SRA students.
Prerequisite: A grade of C or better is required in IST 242
Application Development Design Studio II (3) IST 361 is offered in spring only.
IST 361 Second of two design and development studio courses for IST and SRA students.
Prerequisite: A grade of C or better is required in IST 311
Select 6 credits from IST 411, IST 412, and IST 413 (6cr)
Distributed-Object Computing (3) IST 411 is offered in spring only
IST 411 Introduction to distributed-object computing and its use in client/server and real-world computing applications.
Prerequisite: A grade of C or better is required in IST 311.
The Engineering of Complex Software Systems (3) IST 412 is offered in fall only
IST 412 Introduction to the engineering of complex software systems including software system specification, design and
implementation, integration and test, and evolution. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better required in IST 311
Usability Engineering (3)
This course addresses activities in the system development process that ensure usability. It considers the emerging
IST 413
concept of usability, requirements gathering and analysis, activity design, information design, interaction design,
documentation design, user testing and usability evaluation. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better required in IST 331
It is recommended that you choose courses in consultation with your academic adviser.
No more than 6 credits can be at the 100-200 level. Three credits (3 cr) or more must be at the 400 level.
As mentioned above, courses taken as part of a minor may be used to meet the Support of Option requirement.
Depending on your option, you may take 9-12 credits of IST or SRA courses to meet this requirement.
Courses to Meet the Foreign Culture Requirement for the ISTBS Major
What are Foreign Culture courses?
These are courses that focus on a cultural aspect (e.g., history, literature, political systems, art, etc.) of other countries or
geographic regions outside the borders of the United States. This requirement is separate from the college requirement for World
(Foreign) Language proficiency.
Six credits (6 cr) of Foreign Culture are required for students in the ISTBS major and is separate from the United States Cultures
(US) and International Cultures (IL) General Education requirement for all Penn State students. A course that fulfills the General
Education International Cultures requirement will be accepted as satisfying 3 credits of the ISTBS Foreign Culture requirement.
A course used for the ISTBS Foreign Culture requirement cannot also double count as a general education course, such as GN,
GA, GH, or GS.
Any IL course can be used to meet the IST International Course requirement. When searching for classes in LionPATH, use the
Additional Search Criteria function to narrow the choices of all IL courses offered for that semester, as follows:
1. Search for Classes
2. Additional Search Criteria
3. Course Attributes
4. Cultural Diversity
5. International Cultures
Several IST courses may be used to satisfy the Foreign Culture requirement.
-- IST 442 Information Technology in an International Context
-- IST 445H Globalization Trends and World Issues
11
Recommended Academic Plans
Information Sciences and Technology
A RECOMMENDED ACADEMIC PLAN (RAP) provides the courses a student might schedule semester by semester to pursue a
particular College of IST degree and option. All of the ISTBS options are included in the following pages, along with a RAP for those
that want to study abroad.
These RAPs are a general guide and can vary depending on option, course availability, and previous coursework. IST courses have
enforced prerequisites and all plans take into consideration that students follow course prerequisite requirements. Sometimes semester
specific courses can change; therefore, meet with your academic adviser at least once a semester to confirm you are on track.
It is important to note that not all classes are offered every semester, so please plan accordingly.
A RAP is a tool that should be used in combination with your degree audit (academic requirement in LionPATH) and in consultation with
your academic adviser.
Units of Study Prior to Admission to Penn State Register in Penn State Language Level
Fewer than two Course Level 001 (4 credit)
Two or three Course Level 002 (4 credit)
Four or more Course Level 003 (4 credit)
US Culture
All students must take 3 credits of United States culture. Any course that has the US designation will count towards this
requirement.
Emerging Issues in Technology
This requirement can be fulfilled by taking any of the following:
IST 402, IST 441, IST 446, IST 451, IST 452, IST 453, or IST 454.
Math placement
The ISTBS plan assumes students are ready to begin math study in Math 110. ALEKS testing determines the appropriate
starting level for students and recommendations should be followed.
How to maximize your credits (The 3/6/9 rule and what can double count!)
Combine the United States culture requirement with one of your general education requirements (GA/GH/GS).
Courses taken for the ISTBS major requirement for Foreign Culture will also satisfy the Penn State general education International
Cultures requirement for all undergraduate students.
Courses for a minor can be used as Support of Option.
There is flexibility in general education which can be demonstrated by your academic adviser:
-- Developing a sequence (3-6-9) using 9 credits of GA, GH, or GS courses.
-- World language substitution - substitue a class above the 12th credit level for any GN/GA/GH/GS.
12
Information Sciences and Technology (ISTBS)
Information Systems: Design and Development (ISDEV)
ECON 102 or ECON 104 or ECON 014 (all GS) 3 Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS) 3
Elective 3 Elective 2
Health and Physical Activity (GHA) 1.5 Health and Physical Activity (GHA) 1.5
13
Information Sciences and Technology (ISTBS)
Information Technology: Integration & Application (ITINT)
14
Information Sciences and Technology (ISTBS)
Information Context: People, Organizations, and Society (ISPP)
IST 331 Organization and Design of Information Systems 3 IST 302 IT Project Management 3
IST 413 Usability Engineering
Support of Option 3 Support of Option 3
Health and Physical Activity (GHA) 3 ENGL 202C or ENGL 202D (GWS) 3
15
Information Sciences and Technology (ISTBS)
with an Education Abroad Semester
16
Security and Risk Analysis (SRA)
Bachelor of Science Degree Options
The SRA major within the College of Information Sciences and Technology offers two options.
You will learn how to calculate, evaluate, and predict risk in a variety of fields, including business and national security, and work on
projects like evaluating the risk of putting information on Facebook. To enter this option, you should be able to think critically and have
an interest in learning how to protect vital infrastructure against subversive attacks.
In this option you will learn how to deal with security and privacy concerns in all types of organizations, and make sure that computer
operating systems and related products are secure. For example, you will learn how to effectively police the areas of cyberspace your
employer occupies to ensure that it is free from cybercrime.
17
SRA Major Requirements
To earn your Bachelor of Science degree in Security and Risk Analysis, you must complete at least 120 credits. For suggestions on
fulfilling your requirements, see the semester-by-semester Recommended Academic Plans in this book. You may wish to speak to your
academic adviser because completion of some major requirements may satisfy general education requirements. If you have questions,
make an appointment with your academic adviser.
ELECTIVES: 4 credits
Note: Courses marked with an asterisk (*) must be completed with a grade of C or better.
Note: Courses marked with an asterisk (*) must be completed with a grade of C or better.
18
SRA Common Required Courses
Common required courses are taken by all students majoring in the B. S. in Security and Risk Analysis major independent of their
option. All core courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.
The College also offers special topic courses numbered SRA 297/397/497 that take an in-depth look at a variety of topics or special
areas of interest. These courses may be available for one or more semesters, and may count towards your SRA degree requirements.
Check the IST website at http://ist.psu.edu/current-students/featured-courses for current offerings.
Engaged scholarship opportunities can be explored in the form of Research Projects (SRA 294 / 494) and Independent Studies
(SRA 296 / 496) with SRA faculty members.
20
Courses to Meet the International Course Requirement for the SRA Major
International courses focus on a cultural aspect (e.g., history, literature, political systems, art, etc.) of other countries or geographic
regions outside the borders of the United States. You should choose International courses on the basis of your interest in learning
more about a particular country or region of the world. An International Culture (IL) course must strive to increase student
knowledge of the variety of international societies and may deal to some extent with U.S. culture in its international connections.
See your assigned academic adviser for more information.
This requirement is separate from the college requirement for World Language proficiency.
Any IL course can be used to meet the SRA International Course requirement. When searching for classes in LionPATH, use the
Additional Search Criteria function to narrow the choices of all IL courses offered for that semester, as follows:
1. Search for Classes
2. Additional Search Criteria
3. Course Attributes
4. Cultural Diversity
5. International Cultures
Six (6) credits of International courses are required for students in the SRA major and is separate from the United States Cultures
(US) and International Cultures (IL) General Education requirement for all Penn State students. A course that fulfills the General
Education International Cultures requirement will be accepted as satisfying 3 credits of the SRA International Courses requirement.
Three (3) credits of International courses that are also designated as GH can be used as 3 credits of General Education-
Humanities.
Security Certificates
As part of Penn State and the College of ISTs designation as a national Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Information
Assurance and Cyber-Defense, we are authorized to grant the following certificates to graduating students:
Certificate of Recognition
This certificate is earned by any student who graduates with a Major or Minor in SRA. It states that the recipient of the certificate
earned their degree from an institution and program recognized as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance
and Cyber-Defense by the National Security Agency and the US Department of Homeland Security. Certificates will be mailed to
your home address upon graduation.
Certificate of Achievement
This certificate may be earned by any student who has taken all of the courses required as knowledge units for the Center of
Academic Excellence certification, and earned a grade of C or better in each of the courses listed below. Acknowledgment of the
certificate awarding will appear on your Penn State University transcript, with the Certificate of Achievement mailed to your home
address.
Both confirm that the student graduated from an institution and program whose faculty, resources, curricula, and commitment were
evaluated and found to be of high quality. Both also certify that certain courses in the students program have been examined and
determined to meet or exceed the quality and content as defined by NSA/DHS for cyber security professionals.
The CAE procedures examined Penn State security policy and staffing, College of IST security faculty, ongoing security-related
research, student participation in professional clubs and security competitions, and outreach to community colleges and the public at
large.
The CAE Certificate of Achievement certifies that the student has taken all of the courses that satisfy the Knowledge Units requirement
and are represented by the following courses.
The Penn State/IST designation as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Information Assurance and Cyber-Defense was effective
Summer, 2014 and lasts until December, 2021.
21
SRA Option Courses
Each option in the SRA curriculum requires 12 credits of prescribed course which distinguish the focus of study. All prescribed
courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. Not all courses are offered every semester, and semester specific
offerings can change. Please check with your academic adviser.
22
Courses to Support the SRA Options
What are the Support of Option courses?
Support of Option courses are meant to supplement knowledge in the areas of study in information assurance, intelligence analysis,
and cyber forensics. These courses recognize the unique interdisciplinary training needed to prepare SRA majors for careers
in analysis and assurance with these critical infrastructures. Courses that explore the legal, regulatory, or ethical theories and
environments associated with security and risk are also offered.
Courses taken to satisfy the SRA major requirements for GEOG/PL SC (GEOG 40 or PL SC 001/014) and PSYCH/SOC (PSYCH 100 or SOC 5)
cannot be used as a Support of Option course as indicated with a double asterisk (**).
23
Recommended Academic Plans
Security and Risk Analysis
A RECOMMENDED ACADEMIC PLAN (RAP) provides the courses a student might schedule semester by semester to pursue a partic-
ular College of IST degree and option. All of the SRA options are included in the following pages, along with a RAP for those that want
to study abroad.
These RAPs are a general guide and can vary depending on option, course availability, and previous coursework. IST courses have en-
forced prerequisites and all plans take into consideration that students follow course prerequisite requirements. Sometimes semester
specific courses can change; therefore, meet with your academic adviser at least once a semester to confirm you are on track.
It is important to note that not all classes are offered every semester, so please plan accordingly.
A RAP is a tool that should be used in combination with your degree audit (academic requirement in LionPATH) and in consultation with
your academic adviser.
Units of Study Prior to Admission to Penn State Register in Penn State Language Level
Fewer than two Course Level 001 (4 credit)
Two or three Course Level 002 (4 credit)
Four or more Course Level 003 (4 credit)
US Culture
All students must take 3 credits of United States culture. Any course that has the US designation will count towards this
requirement.
Capstone course
Students can use either IST 440 or SRA 440 as their capstone course.
How to maximize your credits (The 3/6/9 rule and what can double count!)
Combine the United States culture requirement with one of your general education requirements (GA/GH/GS).
Courses taken for the SRA major requirement for International Culture will also satisfy the Penn State general education
International Cultures requirement for all undergraduate students.
There is flexibility in general education which can be demonstrated by your academic adviser:
-- Developing a sequence (3-6-9) using 9 credits of GA, GH, or GS courses.
-- World language subsitituion substitute a class above the 12th credit level for any GN/GA/GH/GS.
Many prescribed courses for the major also count towards general education requirements as indicated on your degree audit
(Academic Requirements Report in LionPATH).
24
Security and Risk Analysis (SRA)
Intelligence Analysis and Modeling (IAM)
GEOG 040 or PL SC 001 or PL SC 014 (GS) 3 Natural Sciences with lab (GN) 4
SRA 365 Statistics for Security and Risk Analysis or 3 SRA 433 Deception and Counterdeception 3
STAT 460 Intermediate Applied Statistics
Support of Option 3 SRA 397E Security Economics and Privacy Behaviors or 3
Econ 302 Intermediate Microeconomic Analysis
Arts (GA) 3 Arts (GA) 3
25
Security and Risk Analysis (SRA)
Information and Cyber Security (ICS)
IST 220 Networking and Telecommunications 3 Natural Sciences with lab (GN) 4
SRA 365 Statistics for Security and Risk Analysis or 3 IST 451 Network Security 3
STAT 460 Intermediate Applied Statistics
GEOG 040 or PL SC 001 or PL SC 014 (GS) 3 Support of Option 3
26
Security and Risk Analysis (SRA)
with an Education Abroad Semester
SRA 111 Introduction to Security and Risk Analysis 3 SRA 211 Threat of Terrorism and Crime 3
ETM Course ETM Course
IST 110/110S Information, People and Technology 3 World Language 002 4
ETM Course
ENGL 015 or ENGL 030 (GWS) 3 Natural Sciences (GN) 3
SRA 221 Overview of Information Security 3 SRA 231 Decision Theory and Analysis 3
GEOG 040 or PL SC 001 or PL SC 014 (GS) 3 Natural Sciences with lab (GN) 4
Humanities (GH) 3
ENGL 202C or ENGL 202D (GWS) 3 IST 440W IST Integration and Problem Solving or 3
SRA 440W Security and Risk Analysis Capstone Course
Prescribed Option Course 3 Support of Option 3
SRA 365 Statistics for Security and Risk Analysis or 3 Prescribed Option Course 3
STAT 460 Intermediate Applied Statistics
Prescribed Option Course 3 Support of Option 3
27
Notes
28
Data Sciences (DATSC)
Bachelor of Science Degree Options
The inter-college Data Sciences major will educate students on the technical fundamentals of data sciences, with a focus on developing
the knowledge and skills needed to manage and analyze large scale unstructured data to address an expanding range of problems
in industry, government, and academia. The underlying knowledge for data sciences derives from machine learning, data mining,
computer science, statistics, and visualization, and the emerging science of managing and analyzing data at scale. Students will gain
breadth of knowledge through common core classes, as well as depth in one of three options. After taking common courses during the
pre-major stage, students will choose among options focused on application (College of IST), computation (College of Engineering) and
statistics (College of Science). Students in all three options will come together in their junior and senior years for two shared capstone
experiences. In combination the three options position Penn State to offer highly trained professionals who understand data sciences
multiple dimensions for a growing segment of the U.S. economy.
This option focuses on the principles, methods, and tools for assembly, validation, organization, analysis, visualization, and
interpretation of large and heterogeneous data, to support data-driven discovery and decision making, with emphasis on addressing
pressing scientific, organizational, and societal challenges. A combination of required and elective courses provides students with the
training and skills needed to develop advanced tools and domain-specific analyses that yield actionable knowledge from data. This
option also provides critical analytical skills needed to assess the benefits and limitations of data analytics across a broad range of
applications.
This option focuses on the computational foundations of the data sciences, including the design, implementation and analysis of
software that manages the volume, heterogeneity and dynamic characteristics of large data sets and that leverages the computational
power of multicore hardware. Students in this option will take upper-level courses in computer science and related fields to develop the
skills necessary to construct efficient solutions to computational problems involving Big Data.
This option focuses on statistical models and methods that are needed to discover and validate patterns in Big Data. Students in this
option will take upper-level statistics and mathematics courses, learning to apply the theoretical machinery of quantitative models to the
solution of real-world problems involving Big Data.
29
DATSC Major Requirements
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Data Sciences, you must complete at least 125 credits. For suggestions on fulfilling your
requirements, see the semester-by-semester Recommended Academic Plans in this book. You may wish to speak to your academic
adviser because completion of some major requirements may also satisfy general education requirements. If you have any questions,
make an appointment with your academic adviser.
GENERAL EDUCATION: 45 credits
Eleven of these 45 credits are included in the requirements for the major (see below).
ELECTIVES: 3 credits
30 The courses marked with an asterisk (*) must be completed with a grade of C or better
DATSC Common Required Courses
Common required courses are taken by all students majoring in the B. S. in Data Sciences independent of their option.
All core courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. This program is evolving therefore please be aware that
course pre-requisites can change.
31
Other DS Courses
Common required courses are taken by all students majoring in the B. S. in Data Sciences major independent of their option.
All courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.
32
DATSC Option Courses
Applied Data Sciences Option (AAPDS)
33
Computational Data Sciences Option (CMPDS)
34
Supporting Courses - Option Lists
Applied Data Sciences Option (APPDS)
(6 credits required from each list)
MATH 230 Calculus and Vector Analysis 3 ASTRO 410 Computational Astrophysics 3
STAT 414** Introduction to Probability Theory 3 METEO 474 Computer Methods of Meteorological Analysis 3
and Forecasting
STAT 415 Introduction to Mathematical Statistics 3 PLSC 404 Analysis of Public Policy in the States 3
* Students planning to take these option selections should take PLSC 447 Analysis of Public Opinion and Political Attitudes 3
CMPSC 360 rather than IST 230
PLSC 476 Empirical Legal Studies 3
** These courses require MATH 230, not a prescribed course for
this Option, so it has been included as an option selection; both PSYCH 458 Visual Cognition 3
STAT 415 and STAT 416 build on STAT 414
SOC 423 Social Demography 3
CMPEN 454 Fundamentals of Computer Vision 3 CMPSC 431W Database Management Systems 3
CMPSC 451 Numerical Computations 3 IST 441 Information Retrieval and Organization 3
MATH 435 Basic Abstract Algebra 3 DS 310 Machine Learning for Data Analytics 3
MATH 436 Linear Algebra or 3 DS 320 Data Integration & Fusion 3
MATH 441 Matrix Algebra
MATH 451 Numerical Computations or 3 DS 330 Visualization & Visual Analytics 3
MATH 455 Introduction to Numerical Analysis I
MATH 484 Linear Programs and Related Problems 3 DS 410 Data Analytics at Scale 3
STAT/MATH 416 Stochastic Modeling 3 DS 402 Emerging Trends in Data Science 3
STAT 461 Analysis of Variance 3 IST 461 Database Management and Administration 3
STAT 463 Applied Time Series Analysis 3 CMPSC 441 Artificial Intelligence 3
STAT 466 Survey Sampling 3 CMPSC 448 Machine Learning and Algorithmic AI 3
STAT 483 Statistical Analysis System Programming 3 CMPSC 461 Programming Language Concepts 3
35
Recommended Academic Plans
Data Sciences
A RECOMMENDED ACADEMIC PLAN (RAP) provides the courses a student might schedule semester by semester to pursue a
particular Data Sciences degree. All of the Data Science options are included in the following pages.
These RAPs are a general guide, and as this major continues to develop and evolve course availability and sequencing may change.
A RAP is a tool that should be used in combination with your degree audit (Academic Requirements in LionPATH) and in consultation
with your academic adviser, please meet with your academic adviser at least once a semester to confirm you are on track and taking
the appropriate courses for your option.
Entrance to Major courses (ETM courses). These courses are marked on each plan and must be completed with a C or better.
All students must take 3 credits of United States culture. Any course that has the US designation will count towards this
requirement.
The DATSC plan assumes students are ready to begin math study in Math 140. ALEKS testing determines the appropriate
starting level for students and recommendations should be followed.
All students must take 3 credits of International Culture. Any course that has the IL designation will count towards this
requirement.
Pre-majors (INFST) will be advised by the College of IST. Once you have chosen your option, you will be assigned an adviser in
the College that teaches that option as follows:
-- Applied Data Sciences (APPDS) - the College of Information Sciences and Technology
-- Computational Data Sciences (CMPDS) - the College of Engineering
-- Statistical Modeling Data Sciences (SMDDS) - the Eberly College of Science
How to maximize your credits (The 3/6/9 rule and what can double count!)
Combine the United States culture requirement with one of your general education requirements (GA/GH/GS).
Combine the International culture requirement with one of your general education requirements (GA/GH/GS).
Students may apply up to 3 credits of ROTC as Option List credits.
Students may apply 3 credits of ROTC as GHA credits.
There is flexibility in general education which can be demonstrated by your academic adviser:
-- Developing a sequence (3-6-9) using 9 credits of GA,GH, GS courses.
-- World Language substitution substitute a class above the 12th credit level for any GN/GA/GH/GS course.
All plans take into consideration that student will follow course prerequisites requirements, and it is important to note that not all
classes are offered every semester, so please plan accordingly.
36
Applied Data Sciences (APPDS)
College of Information Sciences and Technology
MATH 140 (GQ) Calculus with Analytical Geometry I 4 MATH 141 Calculus with Analytical Geometry II 4
ETM Course ETM Course
CMPSC 121 Introduction to Programming Techniques 3 CMPSC 122 Intermediate Programming 3
ETM Course ETM Course
STAT 200 (GQ) Elementary Statistics 4 IST 210 Organization of Data 3
ETM Course ETM Course
ENGL 15 (GWS) 3 Arts (GA) 3
IST110S (FYS)(GS) Information, People and Technology 3 Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS) 3
DS 200 Introduction to Data Sciences 3 DS 220 Data Management for Data Sciences 3
IST 230 Language, Logic, and Discrete Mathematics or 3 STAT 380 Data Science through Statistical Reasoning and 3
CMPSC 360 Discrete Mathematics Computation
Humanities (GH) 3 CAS 100 3
DS 300 Data Privacy & Security 3 DS 320 Data Integration and Fusion 3
DS 310 Machine Learning & Data Mining 3 DS 340W Applied Data Sciences 3
SRA 231; IST 442; SODA 308; or IST 445H 3 ENGL 202C 3
IST 337; IST 441; DS 402; or IST 462 3 DS 440 Data Sciences Capstone Course 3
Elective 2 Elective 3
37
Computational Data Sciences (CMPDS)
College of Engineering
MATH 140 (GQ) Calculus with Analytical Geometry I 4 MATH 141 Calculus with Analytical Geometry II 4
ETM Course ETM Course
CMPSC 121 Introduction to Programming Techniques 3 CMPSC 122 Intermediate Programming 3
ETM Course ETM Course
STAT 200 (GQ) Elementary Statistics 4 IST 210 Organization of Data 3
ETM Course ETM Course
GN, GS, GH, or GA course 3 ENGL 015 3
DS 220 Data Management for Data Sciences 3 STAT 380 Data Science through Statistical Reasoning and 3
Computation
MATH 220 Matrices 4 STAT 414 Introduction to Probability Theory 3
DS 300 Data Privacy & Security 2 CMPSC 465 Data Structures and Algorithms 3
CMPSC 461 Programming Language Concepts 3 DS 440 Data Sciences Capstone Course 3
38
Statistical Modeling Data Sciences (SMDDS)
Eberly College of Science
MATH 140 (GQ) Calculus with Analytical Geometry I 4 MATH 141 (GQ) Calculus with Analytical Geometry II 4
ETM Course ETM Course
CMPSC 121 Introduction to Programming Techniques 3 IST 210 Organization of Data 3
ETM Course ETM Course
STAT 200 (GQ) Elementary Statistics 4 CMPSC 122 Intermediate Programming 3
ETM Course ETM Course
GN, GS, GH, or GA course 3 ENGL 015 3
STAT 184 Introduction to R 1 STAT 380 Data Science through Statistical Reasoning and 3
Computation
MATH 220 Matrices 2 STAT 414 Introduction to Probability Theory 3
MATH 230 Calculus and Vector Analysis 4 STAT 462 Applied Regression Analysis 3
STAT/MATH 415 Introduction to Mathematical Statistics 3 DS 300 Data Privacy and Security 3
39
Semester-By-Semester Academic Plan
You can develop your own academic plan by using your degree audit and the Recommended Academic plan in the preceding pages
for the major and option you are looking to study. Academic plans can help you anticipate the academic workload every semester,
appropriately preparing you to complete prerequisite courses and assist in fulfilling your educational goals.
40
Entering a Major (Program): 2016 - 2017 Admits
As a first-semester baccalaureate student you are admitted to a college in the premajor (e.g., Information Sciences and Technology,
Engineering, Liberal Arts) or to the Division of Undergraduate Studies before you are admitted into a major (program). The following is a
list of programs in the College of IST.
ISTBS Major
To be eligible for entrance to the Information Sciences and Technology (ISTBS) major, students must:
1. Have completed the following courses with a grade of C or better in each: IST 110, IST 210, and IST 220.
2. Have achieved a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00 prior to and through the end of the semester during which the
request for a change of major is made.
SRA Major
To be eligible for entrance to the Security and Risk Analysis (SRA) major, students must:
1. Have completed the following courses with a grade of C or better in each: IST 110, SRA 111, and SRA 211.
2. Have achieved a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00 prior to and through the end of the semester during which the
request for a change of major is made.
DATSC Major
To be eligible for entrance to the Data Sciences (DATSC) major, students must:
1. Have completed the following courses with a grade of C or better in each: MATH 140, MATH 141, CMPSC 121, CMPSC 122,
STAT 200, IST 210.
2. Have achieved a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 prior to and through the end of the semester during which the
request for a change of major is made.
1. Substitute a 200- to 499-level course in an area of GE for a course found on the GE list.
2. *Substitute a world (foreign) language after the twelfth credit level of proficiency, for 3 credits in any of the categories of GE.
3. *Substitute a third course in one of the Knowledge Domains areas of Arts, Humanities, or Social and Behavioral Sciences
for a second course in one of the other areas. For example, a student might take three courses in the Arts, two courses in
the Humanities, and only one course in the Social and Behavioral Sciences. This substitution is often referred to as the 9-6-3
sequence, representing the 9 credits, 6 credits, and 3 credits completed in place of the specified 6-6-6.
*Please note: The use of these two substitutions (No. 2 and No. 3 above), either alone or in combination, may not lead to the complete
elimination of any area in the skills or knowledge domains categories in the students General Education program.
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Enhancing Your Academic Program
You can make the most of your time at Penn State by taking advantage of the many academic and co-curricular programs that are
available. The following are but a brief list of programs and activities that will help you grow as an individual and help prepare you for
what lies ahead, after college, all while having a great time in Happy Valley! Your academic adviser can help you sort out what is best
for your academic and career goals.
Minors
A minor is an academic program that supplements a major. Minors require a minimum of 18 credits and typically no more than 21
credits with at least 6 credits but ordinarily not more than half of the credits at the 400 level. A minor program may consist of course
work in a single area or from several disciplines.
College of IST students are encouraged to pursue minors that enhance their knowledge of a particular area of study. Some minors
require that you complete specific coursework, while others have a prescribed course list to choose from. Entrance to some minors may
require the completion of a number of prerequisites, including courses, portfolios, auditions, or other forms of documentation that are
not included in the total requirements for the minor.
DECLARING A MINOR DOES NOT GUARANTEE ENROLLMENT IN THOSE COURSES, THE FUTURE AVAILABILITY OF THOSE
COURSES, OR COMPLETION OF THE MINOR.
Please refer to Senate Policy: 59-00, Requirements for the Minor for additional information, or consult with your adviser if you are
considering declaring a minor.
Concurrent Majors
A Concurrent Majors Program is one in which students take courses to concurrently meet the requirements of at least two majors, with
graduation for all majors in the program occurring during the same semester. Requests for a concurrent major or majors can be made,
at the earliest, through LionPATH once the student has completed the Entrance to Major courses and been approved for their primary
major. Students should meet with their assigned academic adviser to discuss the concurrent major process and College of IST course
requirements. Further information and may be found at http://ist.psu.edu/current-students/concurrent-multiple-majors.
Education Abroad
The College of IST has always recognized the importance of preparing students to be competitive in the global marketplace. Students
who have an interest in studying abroad work closely with their academic adviser to identify degree requirements that can be met while
studying internationally. Detailed information regarding Penn States Education Abroad, including how to begin your search, can be
found at http://global/psu.edu.
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Your Career Roadmap
Internships for Year One, Year Two and Year Three
Engaged scholarship opportunities like internships have been shown to produce great dividends in career success. The real world
experience they provide along with the process of finding an internship sets a students professional development in motion. A minimum
of one internship for credit is required for all College of IST majors, however many students complete more than one internship
throughout their college career. With these experiences, you will be better able to define career goals as well as create more job
opportunities in your future.
To qualify for the internship for credit the experience needs to provide enough technical rigor to enable you to more accurately evaluate
career choices and provide quality information for your professional rsum. Again, completion of one internship experience for credit
is required; however, students are encouraged to have multiple internship experiences, as this increases potential for full-time job offers
and maximizes career exploration opportunities.
Another option is completing a co-op. This type experience allows students the opportunity to work with the same company for six
months or more. This provides the opportunity to really get to know what it is like to work in a particular corporate environment. Those
interested in a co-op need to work carefully with their academic adviser to integrate this experience into their curriculum and graduate
within four years.
Please visit the IST Office of Career Solutions and Corporate Engagement website for additional information and resources:
www.ist.psu.edu/current-students/careers.
1. Gain approval for your internship by sending an email to careers@ist.psu.edu and Include the name of the company and position,
a list of job responsibilities, and when you plan on completing the internship for credit.
2. Complete your application for registration once it is emailed to you by the Office of Career Solutions and Corporate Engagement.
3. Complete all requirements for a grade as instructed.
Note: Students are required to pay tuition for the one credit course.
Year One Check out Available Resources and begin to Build your Network
Students should get to know the IST Office of Career Solutions and Corporate Engagement and the programs and services that are
available. Even though you are just beginning your academic preparation, steps can be taken now to lay a foundation for your future
success. Use the steps listed above to begin the process. Attend career fairs to gather information about the many career opportunities
available. Talk to recruiters. Attend workshops and information sessions.
Based on the academic planning of your first years courses, it is possible to fulfill your internship requirement the following summer.
Students majoring in IST or SRA work in areas such as consulting, government, and manufacturing industries. Students should
consider what they find most interesting in their course work when selecting their internship experience. By planning to do an internship
this summer, students will be at a great advantage for future internships as well as permanent job offers upon graduation.
Another opportunity that students should be sure to take advantage of are the many first and second year leadership experiences that
companies provide. These events that can last anywhere from two days to a full week and can lead to future internship opportunities.
They can also provide valuable insight into the culture of a particular industry or company.
Your first internship may be facilitated through a personal connection or existing relationship. Take advantage of your personal network-
finding an internship opportunity through an existing relationship can provide valuable experience to add to your rsum for next
recruiting season!
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Year Two
To better understand your academic focus, think of what general education courses would complement a specific work sector that
may be found in your career path. Students majoring in IST or SRA have careers such as technology integration consultants, business
analysts, intelligence analysts, and security analysts. Consequently, this summers internship should deepen your area of academic
focus and help prepare you for selecting an appropriate minor.
By the second year, students should definitely be registered on ISTs job posting system, Compass, and have an approved rsum
uploaded for applying to internships. Fall is the heaviest recruiting season for the next summers internship opportunities. Be prepared
to attend the fall career fairs and networking events. If you are unsure how to be prepared for these events, schedule an appointment
with a career coach in the Office of Career Solutions & Corporate Engagement. They will review your resume, coach you in your
30-second introduction, and provide you with steps to research companies who are visiting campus.
Again, dont overlook leadership opportunities and networking events provided by recruiting companies.
Year Three
While choosing your Support of Option courses and gauging any interest you might have in pursuing a minor, keep in mind what career
path is most exciting and aligns with your skills, knowledge, and abilities. Having completed the third year of academics, internship
opportunities this year should be in the career sector in which you plan on finding future employment. 45% of students report fulltime
offers as a result of an internship.
By now, you should have become acquainted with a variety of recruiters and career coaches.
College of IST students looking for full-time placement opportunities have two distinct resources to pursue. Compass is a licensed
service of Symplicity that is intended for the sole use of IST and SRA students at University Park. This service provides relevant full-
time and internship positions.
The second resource is the Nittany Lion Career Network Penn States primary online resource which provides students university-
wide with information on full-time job opportunities, information sessions, and more. Information on this service can be found on PSUs
Career Services website http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/career/students/NLCN.shtml.
Compass and Nittany Lion Career Network are two separate and highly valuable tools for the student seeking a professional position
after graduation. Other options include using the resources offered through online job search tools, various career fairs, and information
sessions.
Experience equals success. Internships, corporate interactions, and proactive job searching benefit College of IST students negotiating
their first full-time corporate jobs. Our recent graduates impress even the most seasoned professionals.
Finding a full-time job involves completing a few steps. Our advice is to follow each of these to ensure you reap the rewards.
Please visit the IST Career Solutions Web Site for further information and resources:
http://ist.psu.edu/current-students/careers
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The Pennsylvania State University is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to programs, facilities, admission,
and employment without regard to personal characteristics not related to ability, performance, or qualifications as determined by
University policy or by state or federal authorities. It is the policy of the University to maintain an academic and work environment free
of discrimination, including harassment. The Pennsylvania State University prohibits discrimination and harassment against any person
because of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or
veteran status. Discrimination or harassment against faculty, staff, or students will not be tolerated at The Pennsylvania State University.
Direct all inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy to the Affirmative Action Director, The Pennsylvania State University, 328
Boucke Building, University Park, PA 16802-5901; Tel. 814-865-4700/V, 814-863-1150/TTY. U. Ed. IST 16-29