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Part-time
Studies introduces new concentration
Erica Nowak
The University recently instituted a new component to
its bachelor of interdisciplinary studies (BIS) degree. Along with two
other concentrations, General Studies (currently available) and Leadership
Studies (available fall 2005), a concentration in Information Systems
is now available to part-time students.
What makes the BIS unique is that it provides a flexible core curriculum
to allow adult students to focus more on their areas of interest, while
still maintaining the major elements of the Villanova core, including
the humanities, ethics, philosophy, social sciences and scientific theory.
“Our goal is to facilitate to the needs of adult learners,”
said Susan Metzger, director of the Information Systems concentration.
Because of this focus, the program includes options for one night a week
and weekend classes, FastForward courses and distance learning opportunities.
To continue moving towards this goal, the program will consider additional
non-traditional learning opportunities, such as 50 percent online/50 percent
in-house courses.
In addition to the core BIS requirements, information systems adds its
own unique twist to the program. The concentration is intended for those
who wish to pursue a career in information technology and information
management, but do not wish to delve into the scientific and engineering
sides of computer technology. Combining ideas from both the department
of Computing Sciences and the department of Decision Information Technologies
(DIT,) the BIS in Information Systems is geared towards “the application
of technology in all different types of industry,” noted Metzger.
Some of the course offerings of the Information Systems concentration
include computer science courses such as Computer Networks, Software Engineering,
and Principles of Database Systems and DIT options of Data Communications,
System Analysis and Design and Database Management. In addition to these
basic courses, there are also Information Systems Environment courses
which are geared more specifically towards certain industries. Some of
these courses include: pharmaceuticals, expert systems, local governments,
small business, e-business and human resources. Because of this specialized
arrangement, Metzger sees this program as one of a kind. “It is
an opportunity to make yourself [known as] a unique individual in the
marketplace,” she said.
An additional component to the program is that the University has transfer
agreements with Montgomery County Community College and Delaware County
Community College, in which many, if not all of the courses applied towards
an associates degree at these institutions can also be applied towards
the BIS at Villanova.
For more information, contact the Part-time studies office at 94300 or
parttime.villanova.edu.
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