Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. (University College)

Program Code: 2ISUC_AS

PROGRAM CURRENTLY ON HOLD AND NOT ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS AT NEW KENSINGTON CAMPUS
Begin Date of Enrollment Hold at New Kensington: November 11, 2019

PROGRAM AVAILABLE AT ALL OTHER LISTED CAMPUSES

Program Description

Not all options are available at every campus. Contact the campus you are interested in attending to determine which options are offered.

This associate degree major is structured to prepare graduates for immediate and continuing employment opportunities in the broad disciplines of information science and technology. This includes positions such as application programmers, associate systems designers, network managers, web designers and administrators, or information systems support specialists. Specifically, the major is designed to ensure a thorough knowledge of information systems and includes extensive practice using contemporary technologies in the creation, organization, storage, analysis, evaluation, communication, and transmission of information. The major fosters communications, interpersonal, and group interaction skills through appropriate collaborative and active learning projects and experiences. Technical material covers the structure of database systems, web and multimedia systems, and considerations in the design of information systems. Team projects in most courses, a required internship, and a second-year capstone experience provide additional, focused venues for involving students in the cutting-edge issues and technologies in the field.

The Associate of Science in IST degree will be offered at multiple campuses within the Penn State system of colleges and campuses. Note that not all options will be available at all locations.

Baccalaureate Option

Available at the following campuses: Berks, DuBois, Greater Allegheny, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Scranton, University Park, Wilkes-Barre, World Campus, York

This option provides maximum articulation with the baccalaureate degree. Students who complete this option will meet all lower division requirements for the baccalaureate degree. This is not the case with the remaining options, although the degree of articulation is quite high for all associate degree options.

Generalized Business Option

Available at the following campuses: Berks, DuBois, Hazleton, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Scranton, University Park, World Campus, York

This option enables students to specialize in the general business areas of accounting, marketing, and management.

Individualized Option

Available at the following campuses: Berks, Greater Allegheny, Hazleton, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Scranton, University Park, Wilkes-Barre, World Campus, York

This option enables students to work closely with an adviser to develop a plan of study that meets the dual objectives of allowing a flexible academic program and providing breadth of technical specialization. An example would be a program where a student would take some of the courses listed in the Web Administration option and the remainder in the Software option.

Networking Option

Available at the following campuses: DuBois, Mont Alto, Shenango, World Campus, York

This option prepares graduates for positions as entry-level computer network administrators. Students take courses in personal computer hardware, networking essentials, and network administration.

Entrance to Major

Students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA to change to this Associate degree after admission to the University.

Degree Requirements

For the Associate in Science degree in Information Sciences and Technology, a minimum of 60 credits is required:

Requirement Credits
General Education 21
Electives 4-7
Requirements for the Major 44-46

9-12 of the 21 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. For all options, this includes: 3 credits of GQ courses; 6 credits of GWS courses. The Baccalaureate Option also includes 3 credits of GS courses to equal a total of 12 credits that double count; the General Business Option also includes 0-3 credits of GS courses to equal 9-12 credits that double count.

General Education

Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all associate degree students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.

The keystone symbol Keystone/General Education Course appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.

Foundations (grade of C or better is required.)

  • Quantification (GQ): 3 credits
  • Writing and Speaking (GWS): 3 credits

Knowledge Domains

  • Arts (GA): 3 credits
  • Humanities (GH): 3 credits
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
  • Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits

Note: Up to six credits of Inter-domain courses may be used for any Knowledge Domain requirement, but when a course is used to satisfy more than one requirement, the credits from the course can be counted only once.

Foundations or Knowledge Domains

  • Any General Education course: 3 credits

University Degree Requirements

Cultures Requirement   

3 credits of United States (US) or International (IL) cultures coursework are required and may satisfy other requirements

Writing Across the Curriculum

3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.

Total Minimum Credits

A minimum of 60 degree credits must be earned for a associates degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 60 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.

Quality of Work

Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.

Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition

Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.

Requirements for the Major

To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn a grade of C or better in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.

Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)

Prescribed Courses
CAS 100BEffective Speech Keystone/General Education Course3
ENGL 15Rhetoric and Composition Keystone/General Education Course3
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
CMPSC 101Introduction to Programming Keystone/General Education Course3
IST 110Information, People and Technology Keystone/General Education Course3
IST 111SSeminar in Information Sciences and Technology1
IST 210Organization of Data3
IST 220Networking and Telecommunications3
IST 250Introduction to Web Design and Development3
IST 260WIntroduction to Systems Analysis and Design3
Additional Courses
ENGL 202CEffective Writing: Technical Writing Keystone/General Education Course3
or ENGL 202D Effective Writing: Business Writing Keystone/General Education Course
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
IST 295ADistributed Team Project1
or IST 295B IST Internship
Requirements for the Option
Select an option15-17

Requirements for the Option

Baccalaureate Option (17 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Berks, DuBois, Greater Allegheny, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Scranton, University Park, Wilkes-Barre, World Campus, York

Prescribed Courses
ECON 102Introductory Microeconomic Analysis and Policy Keystone/General Education Course3
STAT 200Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course4
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
IST 230
& IST 240		Language, Logic, and Discrete Mathematics
and Introduction to Computer Languages		6
Additional Courses
MATH 110Techniques of Calculus I Keystone/General Education Course4
or MATH 140 Calculus With Analytic Geometry I Keystone/General Education Course
Generalized Business Option (15-16 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Berks, DuBois, Hazleton, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Scranton, University Park, World Campus, York

Additional Courses
Select 15 credits in consultation with the adviser from the following list:15
ACCTG 151
Introductory Financial Accounting I
ACCTG 152
Introductory Financial Accounting II
ACCTG 211
Financial and Managerial Accounting for Decision Making
BA 250
Small Business Management
ECON 102
Introductory Microeconomic Analysis and Policy Keystone/General Education Course
or ECON 104
 Introductory Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy Keystone/General Education Course
or ECON 14
 Principles of Economics Keystone/General Education Course
MATH 21
College Algebra I Keystone/General Education Course
or MATH 22
 College Algebra II and Analytic Geometry Keystone/General Education Course
or MATH 26
 Plane Trigonometry Keystone/General Education Course
or MATH 37
 Finite Mathematics Keystone/General Education Course
MGMT 100
Survey of Management
MGMT 321
Leadership and Motivation
MGMT 341
Human Resource Management
MKTG 220
Introduction to Selling Techniques
MKTG 221
Contemporary American Marketing
MKTG 310
Public Relations and Marketing
MKTG 327
Retailing
Individualized Option (15 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Berks, Greater Allegheny, Hazleton, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Scranton, University Park, Wilkes-Barre, World Campus, York

Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better
Select 15 credits in consultation with an adviser that follow a coherent theme in information sciences and technology with a grade of C or better required for all IST courses.15
Networking Option (15 credits)

Available at the following campuses: DuBois, Mont Alto, Shenango, World Campus, York

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
IST 225PC Hardware Basics3
IST 226Networking Essentials3
IST 227Network Administration3
IST 228Advanced Network Administration3
Additional Courses
Select one of the following:3
MATH 21
College Algebra I Keystone/General Education Course
MATH 22
College Algebra II and Analytic Geometry Keystone/General Education Course
MATH 26
Plane Trigonometry Keystone/General Education Course
MATH 37
Finite Mathematics Keystone/General Education Course

DuBois Campus

  • Know the System Development Lifecycle (SDLC): Demonstrate knowledge of the SDLC by applying its methods to information systems projects and lab exercises.
  • Know Information Systems and Industry Methods: Demonstrate ability to apply various industry standards in system development, system maintenance, and ISO/IEC/IEEE standards.
  • Use Information Sciences Theory/Practice: Use management theory and information technology processes in managing information systems, which include best practices for system design, development, and implementation.
  • Manage Information Systems: Demonstrate knowledge and execution of designing and managing various information systems.
  • Know Security Risk Factors: Demonstrate knowledge of security risk factors impacting on various system components; understand the impact of those risk factors on the larger information system; and demonstrate the ability to design, develop, and implement secure information systems, using the latest industry standards and best practices, (i.e., securing hardware, software compliance, etc.).
  • Use Communication Skills: Apply written, oral, and graphic communication effectively in both technical and nontechnical environments, and use appropriate technical literature.
  • Use Team Membership Skills: Function effectively as a member of a technical team.

Hazleton and York Campuses

  • Knowledge/Application: Understand and apply the interdisciplinary, theoretical knowledge of the information sciences or security science
    • Define and explain the core concepts, principles, processes, and theories within the academic majors of IST and/or SRA
    • Apply the core concepts of the academic majors of IST and/or SRA to real-world problems
  • Problem-Solving: Understand, apply and adapt various problem solving strategies, using appropriate technology and methods
    • Identify information problems and/or opportunities in terms of the human, informational and technology dimensions
    • Analyze issues surrounding the problem and/or opportunity in terms of the human, informational, and technology dimensions; and determine the requirements appropriate to understanding the situation
    • Design systems, architectures, processes, components, or programs to meet desired needs of the human context at varying levels of analysis (e.g., individual, group, organization, society, and/or world)
    • Deploy up-to-date and appropriate techniques, methodologies, and/or tools necessary for understanding opportunities and constraints and/or the optimal design, implementation and continuance of an information based solution
    • Evaluate the success of systems, architecture, processes, components, or programs intended to meet desired needs of the human context at varying levels of analysis (e.g., individual, group, organization, society, and/or world)
  • Communication (Individual and Team): Communicate and work effectively (both individually and in teams) with a range of perspectives and audiences through a variety of media
    • Participate effectively on teams in order to accomplish a common goal
    • Communicate effectively with a range of audiences, formally or informally, through writing and the spoken word
    • Seek out, analyze, and incorporate diverse ideas and broader perspectives represented in the diversity of people
    • Make respectful and inclusive choices in interacting with customers, peers, supervisors, and/or subordinates with a diversity of identity characteristics (e.g., age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, or veteran status)
  • Professional Responsibilities: Understand professional responsibilities in terms of the ethical, legal, security and social aspects of any given problem and its solution
    • Demonstrate an understanding of the cognitive, social, legal, ethical, diversity, and security perspectives surrounding a given problem
    • Assess the impact of information, computing and technology on individuals, groups, organizations, society, and the world for the purpose of making informed decisions from a sociological, governmental, legal, and/or security perspective.
  • Lifelong Learning: Commit to the continuous acquisition of relevant knowledge for professional development by self-teaching and/or on-going education and learning
    • Employ information-seeking strategies and self-directed learning in pursuit of current knowledge
    • Enroll in professional development and tutoring opportunities

Mont Alto Campus

  • Knowledge/Application: Understand and apply the interdisciplinary, theoretical knowledge of the information sciences or security sciences
    • Define and explain the core concepts, principles, processes, and theories within the academic majors of IST and/or SRA
    • Apply the core concepts of the academic majors of IST and/or SRA to real-world problems
  • Problem-Solving: Understand, apply and adapt various problem solving strategies, using appropriate technology and methods
    • Identify information problems and/or opportunities in terms of the human, informational and technology dimensions
    • Analyze issues surrounding the problem and/or opportunity in terms of the human, informational, and technology dimensions; and determine the requirements appropriate to understanding the situation
  • Communication (Individual and Team): Communicate and work effectively (both individually and in teams) with a range of perspectives and audiences through a variety of media
    • Participate effectively on teams in order to accomplish a common goal
    • Communicate effectively with a range of audiences, formally or informally, through writing and the spoken word
    • Seek out, analyze, and incorporate diverse ideas and broader perspectives represented in the diversity of people
    • Make respectful and inclusive choices in interacting with customers, peers, supervisors, and/or subordinates with a diversity of identity characteristics (e.g., age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, or veteran status)
  • Professional Responsibilities: Understand professional responsibilities in terms of the ethical, legal, security and social aspects of any given problem and its solution
    • Demonstrate an understanding of the cognitive, social, legal, ethical, diversity, and security perspectives surrounding a given problem
    • Assess the impact of information, computing and technology on individuals, groups, organizations, society, and the world for the purpose of making informed decisions from a sociological, governmental, legal, and/or security perspective.
  • Lifelong Learning: Commit to the continuous acquisition of relevant knowledge for professional development by self-teaching and/or on-going education and learning
    • Employ information-seeking strategies and self-directed learning in pursuit of current knowledge
    • Enroll in professional development and tutoring opportunities

Scranton Campus

  • Communication: Communicate and work effectively (both individually and in teams) with a range of perspectives and audiences through a variety of media.
  • Knowledge/Application: Understand and apply the interdisciplinary, theoretical knowledge of the information sciences or security sciences
  • Lifelong Learning: Commit to the continuous acquisition of relevant knowledge for professional development by self-teaching and/or on-going education and learning.
  • Problem-solving: Understand, apply and adapt various problem solving strategies, using appropriate technology and methods.
  • Professional Responsibilities: Understand professional responsibilities in terms of the ethical, legal, security and social aspects of any given problem and its solution.

Wilkes-Barre Campus

  • Apply the core concepts of the academic majors of IST to real-world problems.
  • Identify information problems and/or opportunities in terms of the human, informational and technology dimensions.
  • Analyze issues surrounding the problem and/or opportunity in terms of the human, informational, and technology dimensions; and determine the requirements appropriate to understanding the situation.
  • Design systems, architectures, processes, components, or programs to meet desired needs of the human context at varying levels of analysis (e.g., individual, group, organization, society, and/or world).

Academic Advising

The objectives of the university’s academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.

Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.

READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY

DuBois

Jason Long
Assistant Teaching Professor
1 College Place
DuBois, PA 16823
814-372-3000
jel115@psu.edu

Hazleton

Barbara Brazon
Assistant Teaching Professor of Information Sciences and Technology
Kostos 117
Hazleton, PA 18202
570-450-3089
bxb30@psu.edu

Mont Alto

Paul Bart
Lecturer, IST
6 Bookstore Building
Mont Alto, PA 17237
717-749-6241
pjb159@psu.edu

Scranton

Debra Smarkusky
Associate Professor
212F Dawson
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2593
dls102@psu.edu

Wilkes-Barre

Wei-Fan Chen
Program Co-Coordinator, IST
44 University Drive
Dallas, PA 18612
570-675-9142
weifan@psu.edu

York

William Cantor
Assistant Teaching Professor in IST
226 Grumbacher Building (GISTC)
York, PA 17403
717-771-4143
wpc2@psu.edu

Berks

Tricia Clark
Program Coordinator, Instructor
Gaige 211
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6349
tkc3@psu.edu

University Park

Undergraduate Academic Advising Center
E103 Westgate Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-8947
advising@ist.psu.edu

World Campus

Undergraduate Academic Advising
301 Outreach Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3283
advising@outreach.psu.edu

Suggested Academic Plan

The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2021-22 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contain suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).

DuBois Campus

Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at DuBois Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
IST 1103IST 2103 
IST 2503IST 2203 
IST 111S1CAS 1003 
ENGL 153General Education: IL course3 
MATH 213  
CMPSC 101 or 1213  
 16 12 
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
IST 2253IST 2273IST 295B1
IST 2263IST 2283 
IST 260W (Writing across the curriculum)3General Education: GN3 
General Education: Arts3General Education: GH3 
ENGL 202C or 202D3General Education: GS3 
 15 15 1
Total Credits 59

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Hazleton Campus

Individualized Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Hazleton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
IST 110*3IST 210*3 
IST 250*3IST 220*3 
CMPSC 101 or IST 140*3CAS 100‡†3 
ENGL 15 or 30H‡†3Approved Supporting Course13 
PSU 81General Education Course3 
 13 15 
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
Approved Supporting Course13Approved Supporting Course13IST 295A or 295B*1
Approved Supporting Course13Approved Supporting Course 13 
IST 260W*3General Education Course3 
General Education Course† 3ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3 
General Education Course† 3General Education Course (US) or (IL)† 3 
 Elective1 
 15 16 1
Total Credits 60

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Generalized Business Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Hazleton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
IST 110*3IST 210*3 
IST 250*3IST 220*3 
CMPSC 101 or IST 140*3CAS 100‡†3 
ENGL 15 or 30H‡†3Business Option Course13 
PSU 81General Education Course3 
 13 15 
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
Business Option Course13Business Option Course3IST 295A or 295B*1
Business Option Course13Business Option Course3 
IST 260W*3General Education Course3 
General Education Course† 3ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3 
General Education Course† 3General Education Course (US) or (IL)† 3 
 Elective1 
 15 16 1
Total Credits 60

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Greater Allegheny Campus

Baccalaureate Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Greater Allegheny Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3CAS 100, 100A, 100B, or 100C†3
IST 110*3IST 210*3
IST 111*1IST 220*3
IST 250*3General Education Course3
MATH 110 or 1404General Education Course3
 14 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*3ENGL 202C or 202D*3
ECON 102†3IST 240*3
IST 230*3IST 295A or 295B*1
STAT 2004General Education Course3
CMPSC 101‡†3Elective3
 Elective2
 16 15
Total Credits 60

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Individualized Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Greater Allegheny Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3CAS 100, 100A, 100B, or 100C†3
IST 110*3IST 210*3
IST 111*1IST 220*3
IST 250*3General Education Course 3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Elective2 
 15 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*3ENGL 202C or 202D3
CMPSC 101*‡†3IST 295A or 295B*1
Option Supporting Course13Option Supporting Course13
Option Supporting Course13Option Supporting Course13
Option Supporting Course13Elective2
 General Education Course3
 15 15
Total Credits 60

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Mont Alto Campus

Baccalaureate Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Mont Alto Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 110*13IST 210*23
IST 111*11IST 220*23
IST 140*‡13CAS 100 (GWS)‡3
IST 250*13MATH 110 (GQ)‡†4
ENGL 15 (GWS)‡3General Education Course 3
General Education Course 3 
 16 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 230*13IST 242*23
IST 260W*13IST 295B1
ECON 102*†3ENGL 202C or 202D‡3
STAT 200*†4General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 16 13
Total Credits 61

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Advising Notes:

  • Students are encouraged to take SRA 111
  • Consider an IL or US cultures course

General Business Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Mont Alto Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 110*13IST 210*23
IST 111*11IST 220*23
IST 140*‡13CAS 100 (GWS) ‡3
IST 250*13Concentration Course† 33
ENGL 15 (GWS)‡3General Education Course 3
General Education Course 3 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*13IST 295B1
Concentration Course*33ENGL 202C or 202D‡ 3
Concentration Course*33Concentration Course*33
Concentration Course*33General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 General Education Course3
 15 16
Total Credits 62

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Advising Notes:

  • Students are encouraged to take SRA 111
  • Consider an IL or US cultures course

Individualized Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Mont Alto Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 110*13IST 210*23
IST 111*11IST 220*23
IST 140*‡13CAS 100 (GWS)‡3
IST 250*13Option Course † 33
ENGL 15 (GWS)‡3General Education Course 3
General Education Course 3 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*13IST 295B1
Option Course *33ENGL 202C or 202D (GWS)‡3
Option Course*33Option Course*33
Option Course*33General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 General Education Course3
 15 16
Total Credits 62

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Advising Notes:

  • Students are encouraged to take SRA 111
  • Consider an IL or US cultures course

Networking Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Mont Alto Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 110*13IST 210*23
IST 111*11IST 220*23
IST 140*‡13CAS 100 (GWS)‡3
IST 250*13MATH 37, 21, 22, 26, or 110 (GQ)‡† 33-4
ENGL 15 (GWS)‡3General Education Course3
General Education Course3 
 16 15-16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*13IST 227*23
IST 225*13IST 228*23
IST 226*13IST 295B1
ENGL 202C or 202D‡ 3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 General Education Course3
 15 16
Total Credits 62-63

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Advising Notes:

  • Students are encouraged to take SRA 111
  • Consider an IL or US cultures course

New Kensington Campus

Generalized Business Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at New Kensington Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 110*3IST 210* 3
IST 111*1IST 220* 3
IST 140*3CAS 100‡ 3
IST 250*3Business Course3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡ 3General Education Course3
General Education Course3 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Business Course3Business Course3
Business Course3Business Course3
General Education Course3ENGL 202C or 202D‡ 3
General Education Course 3IST 260W*3
General Elective3 
 15 12
Total Credits 58

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Baccalaureate Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at New Kensington Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
IST 110*3IST 210* 3IST 295B or 495*1-3
IST 111*1IST 220* 3 
IST 140*3CAS 100‡ 3 
IST 250*3MATH 110 or 140*†‡ 4 
ENGL 15 or 30H‡ 3  
ECON 1023  
 16 13 1-3
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
IST 230*3ENGL 202C or 202D‡ 3 
STAT 200† ‡ 4General Education Course3 
General Education Course3General Elective3 
General Education Course 3IST 242* 3 
General Education Course3IST 260W*3 
 16 15 
Total Credits 61-63

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Scranton Campus

Baccalaureate Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Scranton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15†3CAS 100A†3
CMPSC 101*‡3IST 210*3
IST 110*3IST 220*3
IST 111S*1MATH 110 or 1404
IST 250*3General Education Course13
General Education Course13 
 16 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 230*3IST 240*3
IST 260W*3IST 295B*1
STAT 2004ECON 102†3
General Education Course13ENGL 202C or 202D3
General Education Course3General Education Elective3
 16 13
Total Credits 61

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Program Notes:

All students are required to complete a 150-hour internship, which is a mentored work experience where the student is employed in an information sciences and technology position in industry, government or academia. If students are planning to continue with the baccalaureate degree, they should complete a 300-hour internship. Students may complete the internship after their first semester and may complete multiple internships during their academic career.

Advising Notes:

  • A student's career/graduate school plans should be considered in developing an individual academic plan. Be sure to consult an adviser in this department when scheduling courses.
  • This is a recommended academic plan and degree requirements for major (and options) may change periodically. Students should consult with their academic adviser once a semester to keep abreast of new degree requirements and course offerings.

Generalized Business Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Scranton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15†3CAS 100A†3
CMPSC 101*‡3IST 210*3
IST 110*3IST 220*3
IST 111S*1Additional Course From Approved List3
IST 250*3General Education Course13
General Education Course16 
 19 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*3IST 295B*1
Additional Course from Approved List3ENGL 202C or 202D3
Additional Course from Approved List3Supporting Course in Related Area3
General Education Course3Supporting Course in Related Area3
General Education Course13General Education Elective 3
 15 13
Total Credits 62

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Program Notes:

The student, with the concurrence of an adviser selects 15 credits from the following list of courses:

All students are required to complete a 150-hour internship, which is a mentored work experience where the student is employed in an information sciences and technology position in industry, government or academia. If students are planning to continue with the baccalaureate degree, they should complete a 300-hour internship. Students may complete the internship after their first semester and may complete multiple internships during their academic career.

Advising Notes:

  • A student's career/graduate school plans should be considered in developing an individual academic plan. Be sure to consult an adviser in this department when scheduling courses.
  • This is a recommended academic plan and degree requirements for major (and options) may change periodically. Students should consult with their academic adviser once a semester to keep abreast of new degree requirements and course offerings.

Individualized Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Scranton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15†3CAS 100A†3
CMPSC 101*†3IST 210*3
IST 110*3IST 220*3
IST 111S*1Supporting Course in Related Area*3
IST 250*3General Education Course13
General Education Course13 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*3IST 295B*1
Supporting Course in Related Area*3ENGL 202C or 202D3
Supporting Course in Related Area*3Supporting Course in Related Area*3
General Education Course3Supporting Course in Related Area*3
General Education Course13General Education Elective3
 15 13
Total Credits 59

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Program Notes:

All students are required to complete a 150-hour internship, which is a mentored work experience where the student is employed in an information sciences and technology position in industry, government or academia. If students are planning to continue with the baccalaureate degree, they should complete a 300-hour internship. Students may complete the internship after their first semester and may complete multiple internships during their academic career.

Advising Notes:

  • A student's career/graduate school plans should be considered in developing an individual academic plan. Be sure to consult an adviser in this department when scheduling courses.
  • This is a recommended academic plan and degree requirements for major (and options) may change periodically. Students should consult with their academic adviser once a semester to keep abreast of new degree requirements and course offerings.

Wilkes-Barre Campus

Individualized Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Wilkes-Barre Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
IST 110* 3IST 210* 3 
IST 140*‡†3CAS 100A‡3 
IST 256*3General Education course3 
ENGL 15‡3General Education course3 
PSU 81Approved supporting course13 
 13 15 
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
Approved Supportig Course13Approved Supporting Course13IST 295A or 295B1-3
Approved Supporting Course13Approved Supportig Course13 
IST 220* 3General Educarion Course3 
IST 260W*3ENGL 202C or 202D‡3 
General Education course3Elective1 
 General Education Course3 
 15 16 1-3
Total Credits 60-62

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Program Notes:

IST 295A or 295B is a one-credit internship usually completed over the summer, representing 150 hours of a supervised experience in an IT position.  The course can be repeated and up to 3 credits can be applied to the degree. It is recommended that students engage in as many internship opportunities as possible.  NOTE: If the student intends to later pursue a bachelor's degree in IST, he/she should opt to complete IST 495 instead of IST 295.  IST 495 is a one-credit course which represents 300 hours of a supervised experience in an IT position.  The ISSUC_BS degree requires IST 495 and IST 295 does not meet the requirements.

Baccalaureate Option: Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at Wilkes-Barre Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
IST 110* 3IST 210* 3 
IST 140*‡†3CAS 100A‡3 
IST 256*3ECON 102†3 
ENGL 15‡†3General Education Course3 
General Education Course3General Education Course3 
PSU 81  
 16 15 
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
IST 220* 3IST 230* 3IST 295A or 295B1
IST 240* 3STAT 200‡4 
IST 260W*3ENGL 202C or 202D‡3 
MATH 110 or 140‡4General Education Course3 
General Education Course3  
 16 13 1
Total Credits 61

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Program Notes:

IST 295A or 295B is a one-credit internship usually completed over the summer, representing 150 hours of a supervised experience in an IT position.  The course can be repeated and up to 3 credits can be applied to the degree. It is recommended that students engage in as many internship opportunities as possible.  NOTE: If the student intends to later pursue a bachelor's degree in IST, he/she should opt to complete IST 495 instead of IST 295.  IST 495 is a one-credit course which represents 300 hours of a supervised experience in an IT position.  The ISSUC_BS degree requires IST 495 and IST 295 does not meet the requirements.

MATH 110 or 140: Depending on the student's ALEKS placement, other prerequisite math courses might need to be taken as early as semester 1.

York Campus

Information Sciences and Technology, A.S. at York Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15 or 30H‡ 3IST 210*3
CMPSC 101*3IST 220*3
IST 110*3IST 250*3
IST 111S*1General Education course6
Option Selection course (math suggested)3-4 
 13-14 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
IST 260W*3ENGL 202C or 202D‡ 3
CAS 100‡ 3IST 495 or 295B1
Option Selection courses3-4Option Selection courses6
General Education course6Elective7
 15-16 17
Total Credits 60-62

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GN, GA, GH, and GS). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Contact

DuBois

1 College Place
DuBois, PA 16823
814-372-3000
jel115@psu.edu

http://dubois.psu.edu/ist

Hazleton

Kostos 117
Hazleton, PA 18202
570-450-3089
bxb30@psu.edu

http://hazleton.psu.edu/associate-science-information-sciences-technology

Mont Alto

6 Bookstore Building
Mont Alto, PA 17237
717-749-6241
pjb159@psu.edu

https://montalto.psu.edu/academics/associate/associate-information-sciences-and-technology-degree

Scranton

212F Dawson
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2593
dls102@psu.edu

http://worthingtonscranton.psu.edu/information-sciences-and-technology

Wilkes-Barre

44 University Drive
Dallas, PA 18612
570-675-9142
weifan@psu.edu

http://wilkesbarre.psu.edu/academics/ist/associate-degrees

York

226 Grumbacher Building (GISTC)
York, PA 17403
717-771-4143
wpc2@psu.edu

http://york.psu.edu/academics/baccalaureate/information-sciences-and-technology

Berks

EBC DIVISION
Gaige Building
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6349
tkc3@psu.edu

http://berks.psu.edu/associate-information-sciences-and-technology

University Park

COLLEGE OF INFORMATION SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY
E397 Westgate Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-8947

https://ist.psu.edu/about/contact

World Campus

COLLEGE OF INFORMATION SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY
E397 Westgate Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-8947

https://ist.psu.edu/about/contact
https://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/degrees-and-certificates/information-sciences-and-technology-associates/overview