January 11-12, 2006

ITEM: 130-1010-R0106    Approval of a M.S. Major in Information Systems

THAT: In accordance with Montana University System Policy, the Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes The University of Montana-Missoula to create a Master of Science major in Information Systems.

EXPLANATION: The departments of Computer Science and Information Systems and Technology propose to offer a Master of Science major in Information Systems. Information technology is a core part of almost all modern enterprises. The IT infrastructure of an enterprise includes hardware such as PCs, servers, networks, data storage facilities and software systems such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), knowledge management systems, security systems, and e-mail. The student will learn to understand the IT infrastructure and how to manage it. The program will prepare students to be systems analysts and IT managers in the field of Information Technology (IT). Often, the competitive advantage of US workers in the global IT marketplace is their knowledge of the business and their ability to communicate technical issues on a personal level with the users of IT. The program will emphasize technical knowledge, business concepts, and communication skills throughout, and there will be an emphasis on those aspects of IT where US workers are competitive in the global marketplace. Graduates of the program should be able to participate in and manage many different kinds of IT projects, working effectively with technical staff, users, and management. With additional experience, graduates will progress toward positions such as CIO (Chief Information Officer) of an organization.