Richard Boccadoro: Bachelor’s degree in political science, with minors in business and the liberal arts, and environmental inquiry
“I returned to finish my education because I was at a point in my life where I could do so, and I was at a crossroad where I needed an education to better my career. My return to college was better than expected; faculty are very understanding of adult learners and willing to go out of their way to help us out.”
IST 110 (3 credits)
(GS) Information, People, and Technology
University Park 402217
Sat, 8:00 a.m.–noon and online, Jan 16–Feb 20
IST 210 (4 credits)
Organization of Data
University Park 427618
Tues/Thurs, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Jan 12–Apr 29
IST 220 (3 credits)
Networking and Telecommunications
University Park 393415
Mon, 6:00–9:00 p.m. and online, Mar 22–Apr 26
Philipsburg-Osceola Senior High School 393466
Mon, 6:00–9:00 p.m. and online, Jan 11–Feb 15
IST 250 (3 credits)
New Media and the Web
University Park 468157
Wed, 6:00–9:00 p.m. and online, Jan 13–Feb 17
Philipsburg-Osceola Senior High School 393241
Wed, 6:00–9:00 p.m. and online, Mar 24–Apr 28
Overview
If you are comfortable using personal productivity software and would like to move into software development, this certificate program is for you. The four-course, 13-credit certificate can help you gain the skills you need for an entry-level position in the technology field. This program is also ideal for professionals needing a basic understanding of technology systems to supplement their nontechnical education backgrounds.
Educational Milestones
The credits you earn in this program can be applied toward the associate degree in information sciences and technology or a number of other Penn State degrees as elective credits. Talk with an adviser to learn how you can apply your credits toward a subsequent associate or bachelor’s degree from Penn State.
Locations and Flexible Access
Adult students require maximum flexibility of course delivery. That is why we’ve designed the information sciences and technology certificate program to be completed in the way most convenient for you — through campus courses, distance education courses, or a combination of the two. Talk with an adviser to determine the best mix of courses for your particular needs.
Admission Requirements
Information Sciences and Technology Certificate (13 credits)
As a student in this program, you will cover a variety of relevant subjects, including data organization, the networking and telecommunications industries, and new media. You will also be introduced to the social, ethical, and policy issues surrounding the field, as you study how IST issues relate to policy making, career planning, and workforce development. To earn this certificate, you must successfully complete:
IST 110 Information, People, and Technology (3 credits)
The use, analysis, and design of information systems and technologies to organize, coordinate, and inform human enterprises.
IST 210 Organization of Data (4 credits)
Introduction to the concept of databases, including the storage, manipulation, evaluation, and display of data, and related issues. Prerequisite: IST 110
IST 220 Networking and Telecommunications (3 credits)
Introduction to digital network topologies, transmission media, signal modulation, digital packet switching and routing, systems integration, communications management, and security. Prerequisite: IST 110
IST 250 New Media and the Web (3 credits)
Introduction to how the World Wide Web utilizes emerging technologies. Students acquire a conceptual understanding of constructing Web sites. Prerequisite: IST 110 or concurrent enrollment