M.S. in Computer Science
The M.S. in Computer Science at SUNY Poly is a graduate-level program typically complet...
B.S. in Information Systems
Utica, New York
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The B.S. in Information Systems at SUNY Poly provides students with a solid foundation in core computing areas such as programming and database management, alongside essential business principles. The program is specifically designed to follow the curricular guidelines set by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), which are also endorsed by the Association for Information Technology Professionals (AITP), ensuring industry relevance. Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers including systems analysts, project managers, IT managers, web developers, database managers, and network analysts. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the rapidly changing demands of the digital business environment, and internship opportunities are integrated to provide practical application and build professional portfolios. The program is available both on-campus and as a 100% online option, offering flexibility.
STEM-designated: Yes, the B.S. in Information Systems at SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a STEM-designated program. This designation is particularly beneficial for international students, as it may allow for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the United States after graduation. This provides additional opportunities to gain valuable work experience in their field within the U.S., leveraging the program's strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Curriculum: The Information Systems curriculum is designed to be both academically rigorous and practically sound, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry demands. Students acquire basic skills in computer systems, including programming, database management, and other business-oriented areas. Core courses typically cover computer software, hardware, networking, web design, systems analysis, and project management. The program also integrates broader business concepts to ensure graduates understand how information systems support organizational goals. The curriculum is continuously updated to reflect emerging technologies and industry best practices.
Research Focus: While the B.S. in Information Systems is primarily a professional practice-oriented degree, it incorporates a focus on applied research through its emphasis on analyzing information needs, designing effective systems, and evaluating the impact of technology on business processes. Students often engage in projects that require them to investigate real-world business problems and propose technology-driven solutions. Faculty in the College of Business, where IS programs are typically housed, are engaged in scholarship that can inform the curriculum. Furthermore, SUNY Poly's recently established research centers, such as the Artificial Intelligence Exploration Center and the Center for Cybersecurity Research and Innovation, can provide a broader research ecosystem that IS students may leverage for applied projects related to areas like AI applications in business or cybersecurity for information systems.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a significant strength of the Information Systems program at SUNY Poly. The curriculum is structured to provide hands-on learning experiences and prepare students for immediate contributions to the workforce. The program fosters strong connections with local and regional businesses, which often leads to valuable internship opportunities. These internships allow students to apply their classroom knowledge in professional settings, gain practical experience, build professional networks, and often lead to employment upon graduation. The continuous update of the curriculum with industry input ensures that graduates possess skills that are highly relevant to current market demands.
Global Perspective: SUNY Polytechnic Institute integrates a global perspective into its Information Systems program by recognizing that information technology and business operations are inherently global in today's interconnected world. The program prepares graduates to understand and manage information systems within diverse organizational and cultural contexts. While specific international business or global IT courses may vary, the curriculum's emphasis on universal computing principles and industry standards makes graduates adaptable to working for multinational corporations or in international settings. The university's diverse student body, comprising individuals from various nations, also contributes to a multicultural learning environment, broadening students' understanding of global business practices and technological challenges.
Location
Utica, New York
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 18720
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
SUNY Polytechnic Institute is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence and reduce financial barriers.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students admitted to SUNY Poly may be eligible for academic merit scholarships awarded based on high school or previous college performance. These scholarships reward strong academic records, leadership qualities, and potential for success in STEM, business, and health sciences fields.
Transfer and Continuing Student Scholarships: SUNY Poly offers scholarships for transfer students and those continuing their studies, recognizing sustained academic achievement and commitment to their programs.
Specialized Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within SUNY Poly may offer field-specific scholarships for international students excelling in areas such as engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, or nursing. These awards encourage students to advance innovation and research in their chosen disciplines.
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Information Systems (IS) from SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a highly relevant and forward-looking degree, perfectly positioned at the intersection of business and technology.
Systems Analyst: These professionals bridge the gap between business requirements and technical solutions. They analyze an organization's existing systems, identify areas for improvement, and design new information systems or modify existing ones to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Business Analyst: Focusing on understanding business operations and identifying opportunities for technological improvement, business analysts gather requirements, analyze data, and propose solutions that align IT strategies with business goals.
IT Project Manager (Entry-Level/Coordinator): Graduates can enter roles assisting in the planning, execution, and closing of IT projects. They help manage resources, timelines, and budgets, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope.
Database Administrator (DBA): Responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of an organization's databases. They ensure data integrity, optimize database performance, and manage data access for applications and users.
Web Developer / Application Developer: While more focused on the business application side, IS graduates can develop and maintain websites and web applications. They often focus on the functional aspects and user interface design that serve specific business needs.
IT Consultant: Working for consulting firms or independently, IT consultants advise businesses on how to best use information technology to achieve their objectives. This can involve system selection, implementation, process optimization, and digital transformation strategies.
Network Administrator / Specialist: These roles involve installing, configuring, and maintaining an organization's computer networks. They ensure network security, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and manage network infrastructure to support business operations.
Information Security Analyst (Entry-Level): With a growing emphasis on data protection, IS graduates can help implement and monitor security measures to safeguard an organization's computer systems and networks from cyber threats, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity.
Data Analyst: These professionals collect, clean, and analyze large datasets to uncover trends, patterns, and insights that can inform strategic business decisions. They use various tools and techniques to interpret data and present findings.
Technical Support Specialist / IT Support: Providing crucial assistance to end-users, these specialists diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and network issues. They are vital for ensuring the smooth operation of IT systems within any organization.
