Information Technology

Phone: 303-871-2291, 800-347-2042
Email: pscsupport@du.edu 
Web Site: http://www.professionalstudies.du.edu

Students in both, the Bachelor of Arts Completion program and the Accelerated Bachelor of Professional Studies program may pursue the Information Technology major.

The Information Technology major accelerates technology careers through focused, industry-aligned curriculum bridging technical expertise with business skills. This program emphasizes practical application and workplace relevance while developing analytical and communication skills for IT leadership.

Students in this program also have the opportunity to pursue a combination of specialized undergraduate certificates on their way to completing their degree.

Undergraduate Certificate in Data Utilization
The Data Utilization certificate equips students with essential skills to transform raw data into strategic business insights through database management, Python programming, and visualization techniques. This certificate prepares graduates to support data-driven decision-making across organizations by creating dashboards, optimizing database queries, and communicating technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.

Undergraduate Certificate in Information Technology Foundations  
Students in the Information Technology Foundations certificate will develop the foundational knowledge of the IT field needed to work within the information technology field through hands-on applied instruction on topics such as systems analysis and design, network fundamentals, programming, and data structures, and one specific area of interest within the field. 

Undergraduate Certificate in Networking and System Management
The Networking and System Management certificate provides students with comprehensive knowledge of IT infrastructure design, security protocols, and project delivery methodologies essential for managing enterprise technology environments. This certificate prepares graduates to assess organizational technology needs, implement robust security measures, and manage complex IT projects that align with business objectives and regulatory compliance standards.

Undergraduate Certificate in IT Professional Skills and Applications
The IT Professional Skills and Applications certificate develops the leadership, strategic thinking, and emerging technology expertise needed to bridge the gap between technical implementation and business value. This certificate prepares graduates to lead technology initiatives, communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and make strategic recommendations about technology adoption and investment that drive organizational success.

Program Learning Outcomes 

Information Technology Major

  • Designing complex information systems by integrating systems analysis methodologies, database architecture, network infrastructure, and cloud deployment models to meet organizational and user requirements.
  • Develop software solutions using programming principles, version control practices, and software development lifecycle frameworks while considering operating system environments and platform dependencies.
  • Evaluate cloud service models and deployment strategies to recommend appropriate infrastructure solutions that balance cost, security, scalability, and organizational needs.
  • Analyze cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities across on-premises and cloud environments to formulate comprehensive security policies and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Synthesize data from multiple sources using appropriate analytical tools and quantitative reasoning to support evidence-based technical and business decisions.
  • Integrate AI Strategy and IT knowledge, skills, and professional practices in authentic workplace contexts to solve real-world problems and demonstrate readiness for IT professional roles.

Certificate in Data Utilization

  • Extract and analyze data using industry-standard tools and database queries to identify trends and performance metrics
  • Create executive dashboards and reports that translate technical data into actionable business recommendations
  • Apply data-driven decision-making to optimize IT operations, reduce costs, and demonstrate ROI to stakeholders

Certificate in Information Technology Foundations 

  • Employ structured programming concepts focused on logic and data. 
  • Explain the purpose, objectives, and fundamental principles of IT for systems design. 
  • Evaluate existing network and technology options for identifying which will best meet organizational needs. 
  • Articulate an in-depth understanding of one key sub-sector within the technology field. 

Certificate in IT Professional Skills and Applications

  • Manage technical teams and vendor relationships while applying change management strategies to drive technology adoption
  • Evaluate and communicate the business impact of emerging technologies, including AI applications, to support strategic decision-making
  • Develop IT strategies and budget proposals that align technology investments with organizational goals and regulatory requirements

Certificate in Networking and System Management

  • Deploy and manage network infrastructures and system architectures using industry-standard tools and best practices
  • Apply methodologies to deliver secure IT solutions that meet business requirements and compliance standards
  • Assess and remediate security vulnerabilities through risk analysis, threat monitoring, and incident response procedures