Systems for Bachelor of Science Degree
The purpose of the systems curriculum, combined with the courses in the major and the general education curriculum, is to prepare a student to acquire the knowledge and skills of a systems analyst. A systems analyst attempts to help an organization solve a problem, take advantage of an opportunity, or follow a directive coming from upper management, ownership or the government in an effective and efficient manner. Analysts play a significant role in organizational development and operation of systems. In order to do so, they assist and frequently lead the effort to plan, analyze, design, implement and support the systems and improvements to them.
Systems analysts are required to know about information technology and its uses, how and why the organization functions, and the environment in which the organization carries out its mission. Analysts must also possess skills that allow them to speak and write effectively, work with others in projects, and be able to solve problems both in individual and group settings.
Systems may be combined with any baccalaureate major. Graduates have used what they have learned in systems in a variety of arenas, including those work-related and those of further formal education. For example, computer science graduates have designed computer-related solutions to take advantage of the interconnectedness of businesses that the Internet allows; business administration graduates have analyzed companies for their roles in the global business environment to determine if investment in them is wise for their clients; and accounting graduates have assisted organizations and individuals in making intelligent systematic decisions regarding federal, state and local taxes.
Others have used their systems knowledge in their endeavors in graduate school. For example, psychology graduates have used what they learned in advanced statistics to conduct their graduate statistical studies regarding human behavior; chemistry and physics majors have designed research projects more efficiently; and mathematics majors have applied their knowledge in studies of actuarial science.
Students choosing a career in systems analysis may combine any baccalaureate major with the systems analysis curriculum. All courses required by the systems curriculum must be completed with a grade of C- or better.
