Anisfield School of Business (ASB)

The Information Systems (IS) Program involves the study of computer-based information systems and their use in modern organizations. The program seeks to graduate students who, can effectively communicate, have developed conceptual, analytical, critical reasoning and problem solving skills, have become well-versed in the content components of information systems and technology, have developed the information technology (IT) skills necessary for today's business environment, and have broadened knowledge of the global business environment and IT as a strategic resource.

In addition to studying the classical subject areas of Systems Analysis and Design, Programming Languages, Database Management Systems, Networks and Distributed Processing, and Managing Information Systems, students can select from a number of electives covering additional advanced topics including electronic commerce, decision support systems, wireless and Internet-based technologies, and computer law and ethics. The IS Program follows the suggested most recent IS 2002 model curriculum, a collaborative effort of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), Association for Information Systems (AIS), and Association for Information Technology Professionals (AITP) organizations. It is the most generally accepted curriculum by information systems program planners in undergraduate colleges.

The IS Program recognizes that contemporary information systems are both technical and social in nature and are an integral part of the strategy, goals, and objectives of an organization. The curriculum prepares students with the skills, knowledge, and business principles to understand and appreciate the economic, social, political, cultural, and technological environment so they will become responsible, effective leaders in the global economy. To this end, the program includes studies of accounting, business law, finance, management, marketing, and statistics. All students in the Anisfield School of Business also complete courses in economics, ethics, organizational theory and behavior, and an integrative strategic management course.

As a Anisfield School of Business major, the IS Program places strong emphasis on teaching and mentoring. The education and development of students are of paramount importance. The Program develops in students the ability to solve problems, work in groups, communicate effectively, apply analytical techniques, be creative and recognize creativity in others, effectively manage change, and understand the global business environment. This is achieved through the strategic integration of the business disciplines and the liberal arts.

Information Systems students are taught by practitioner/scholars who expertly blend real world experience with academic theory. Much of the instruction takes place in computer networked laboratories where concepts are reinforced with hands-on computer learning. The labs are upgraded every 2-3 years with the most current hardware and software technologies. Students have e-mail accounts for communicating among themselves, instructors, and others, and have access to the features of the Internet, WebCT, and Luminis, the Ramapo College information portal.

Ramapo graduates completing the Information Systems program face favorable employment prospects for positions as information technology professionals in business and other organizations. At almost every level in business, industry, and government, information systems are of crucial importance with continuously growing demand for information systems professionals. Career opportunities include job titles such as applications programmer, systems analyst, information systems designer, information systems manager, database administrator, network administrator, information center specialist, manager of information services, end-user computing support specialist, web master, and computer consultant.

The Information Systems major is offered by the Anisfield School of Business and leads to a Bachelor of Science degree.

Rules For Acceptance into all Majors of the Anisfield School of Business:

In general, students must achieve a 2.5 GPA or better at 48 credits in order to be officially admitted to any major in the Anisfield School of Business. However, students should carefully review the detailed admissions requirements in the 2.5 GPA Standard and Appeals Procedure (PDF). For questions, see your faculty advisor or Kim McDonough in room ASB-227, kmcdonou@ramapo.edu.