Information System Design Certificate

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This innovative 18-credit program responds to the increasing industry demand for information system professionals. This multifaceted undergraduate certificate can be completed as a stand-alone continuing education program or serve as preparation for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. Many of the course options are available in the evenings, on Saturdays, and online.

Who should participate:

• Professionals in another field who wish to enter the information management field
• Individuals working in the technology field who want or need more formal training to progress in their careers
• People wanting to prepare for a master’s degree in information sciences

Upon completion of this certificate, participants will be able to:

• Use scientific programming language to introduce information structures such as linked lists, stacks, and queues
• Develop program modules using a current programming language
• Utilize the theories of data structures and programming language design

These competencies may be applied to positions such as system designer, database developer, database manager, interactive system designer, expert system designer, information retrieval specialist, network designer, database marketer, or administrator who advises and implements technology purchases and upgrades.

This certificate is applicable to fields such as banking, healthcare, library science, judicial systems, communication, education, agriculture, private industry, and government.

Admission requirements

Students must meet requirements for admission to the College of General Studies. For admissions guidelines and an application, see www.cgs.pitt.edu. A certificate application form must be completed and returned to the College of General Studies.

Students must complete a college algebra course or its equivalent and INFSCI 0010 - INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION, SYSTEMS AND SOCIETY , earning a C grade or better in both courses before progressing to the certificate curriculum.

Obtaining the certificate

To receive the certificate, you must fill out an application with your advisor prior to completing your last term in the program. Check with your advisor for the application filing form and deadline, and be sure all requirements for the certificate have been met. To avoid a late fee, you should complete this process when registering for the term.