Information Technology Minor
Learn the technology behind modern computing. Build practical skills in networking, security, hardware, and computer systems.
Explore computing systems. Develop technical skills. Apply technology across industries.
Program Type: Minor
Total Credit Hours: 21 Credits
Open to: MCLA undergraduates outside the Computer Science major
Why Add an Information Technology Minor?
MCLA's Information Technology Minor introduces the systems and tools that keep modern computing environments running. You'll gain practical experience with industry applications, learn how to maintain computing infrastructure, and develop communication skills for technical support and administration roles. The 21-credit minor gives you a technical foundation to complement your major.
Four Starter Courses With No Prerequisites
You can begin developing your technical skills through introductory courses in programming, networking, web development, and databases. These four requirements have no listed prerequisites, giving you flexibility in how you start the minor.
As you progress, CSCI 360: Network Security I builds on the networking concepts introduced in CSCI 210: Networking Theory and Administration I. Your academic advisor can help you plan a course sequence that fits your experience and schedule.
Your Choice of Programming Language
Choose the programming language you want to study. CSCI 121: Programming in Java I introduces object-oriented programming concepts, while CSCI 246: Programming in C# introduces programming using the Visual Studio development environment.
Either course fulfills the minor's programming requirement, allowing you to build a foundation in software development while completing your Information Technology coursework.
Electives That Build on What You Learn
Use your two upper-level Computer Science electives to explore a technical subject in greater depth. Advanced Web Development builds on Web Development, while Systems Analysis and Design extends your work with databases and information systems.
If you're interested in cybersecurity, Network Security II continues the material introduced in Network Security I. Your elective choices allow you to develop more specialized skills while building on your required courses.
Information Technology Minor Requirements
The Information Technology Minor requires 21 credits, including five required courses totaling 15 credits and two Computer Science electives at the 300 or 400 level totaling six credits. The curriculum covers programming, networking, web development, database systems, and network security.
Required Courses
Complete the following five courses:
Choose one programming course:
- CSCI 121: Programming in Java I, 3 credits
- CSCI 246: Programming in C#, 3 credits
Complete all four:
- CSCI 210: Networking Theory and Administration I, 3 credits
- CSCI 236: Web Development, 3 credits
- CSCI 243: Database Development, 3 credits
- CSCI 360: Network Security I, 3 credits
See the Information Technology Minor catalog for the official requirements.
Elective Options
Choose two Computer Science courses at the 300 or 400 level, totaling six credits. Examples of courses to discuss with your advisor include:
- CSCI 336: Advanced Web Development
- CSCI 332: Systems Analysis and Design
- CSCI 363: Network Security II
- CSCI 343: Full Stack Development
Elective availability and prerequisites vary. Confirm eligibility and course offerings with the Computer Science department before planning your electives.
Who Can Add the Information Technology Minor?
The Information Technology Minor is intended for students majoring in disciplines outside Computer Science who want to develop practical skills in networking, security, and database systems. It can complement fields that rely on technology to manage information, support operations, or maintain digital resources.
- Business Administration: Add technical knowledge that supports work with organizational systems and business data. Networking and database coursework can help you understand the technology behind information management and business operations.
- Mathematics: Complement your mathematical studies with programming and computing systems knowledge. CSCI 121: Programming in Java I and CSCI 246: Programming in C# also appear among the programming options for the Mathematics Minor, subject to MCLA's shared-credit rules.
- Communications and Arts Management: Develop skills relevant to maintaining websites and managing digital content. Web Development and Database Development introduce the technical foundations of online information systems and digital resources.
- Physics: Build computing knowledge that may support work with laboratory systems and scientific data. Networking and database courses introduce methods for managing connected systems and organizing information.
Skills You'll Develop
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FAQs
A: No. The Information Technology Minor includes an introductory programming requirement,
and neither CSCI 121: Programming in Java I nor CSCI 246: Programming in C# lists
a prerequisite. You can also begin with networking, web development, or database coursework.
Your advisor can help you select a suitable starting course based on your background.
A: The Information Technology Minor is described as a program for students majoring
in disciplines other than Computer Science. Computer Science majors interested in
similar coursework can explore the Information Technology Concentration within the
B.S. in Computer Science. Contact the Computer Science department to confirm the current
eligibility policy.
A: You may be able to pursue both minors, depending on MCLA's rules for declaring multiple
minors and counting courses toward more than one program. The two minors include related
computing subjects, so some requirements may overlap. Meet with your academic advisor
and the Computer Science department to confirm eligibility and plan the credits needed
for each minor.
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