2026-2027 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog [In Progress]
Information Technology
Website: gvsu.edu/computing/information-technology
Degrees Offered
Undergraduate and graduate computing programs at Grand Valley State University are offered by the College of Computing. Computing programs prepare students for a high-demand and rewarding career.
One of the strengths of the computing programs at Grand Valley is flexibility. We offer B.S. degrees in artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, data science, human centered computing, information systems, information technology, and software engineering. All programs share faculty, courses, and laboratory resources. Also, by choosing electives and minors in related subject areas, students can further tailor their degrees to fit their individual needs and career goals. We offer minors in computer engineering, computer science, data science, healthcare information systems, information security systems, information systems, and information technology.
The IT degree will provide students with the fundamental computing background and tools necessary to build and maintain the enterprise's computing infrastructure including system administration, cybersecurity, cloud computing, cyber forensics, and incident response and Web-systems integration, as well as incorporating modern technologies into problem solving and decision-making.
GVSU's IT program embraces the value of hands-on learning through the incorporation of discovery-based learning approach centered on hands-on lab experiments supplemented by research activities and collaboration with professionals from multiple computing disciplines during their internships and capstone project.
Mission
The mission of the College of Computing at GVSU is to serve West Michigan and the world by advancing technological innovation. Through experiential learning, industry collaboration, and cutting-edge research, the college empowers students and lifelong learners to become leaders and contributors who will shape the future of technology and enrich their communities.
To enable students to attain this goal, the computing faculty have two primary responsibilities. First, we offer a solid conceptual foundation required for a career in information technology. Second, we provide direct, experiential knowledge of technology necessary to be a productive user/producer of information technology.
To achieve these goals, we
- work continuously to keep our curriculum relevant to our mission;
- ensure that work-relevant experience is part of every class;
- establish and nurture industrial contacts;
- establish an integrated, supported internship experience for CIS majors; and
- provide all students, regardless of their major interests, fundamental knowledge of computers and information processing.
Information Technology Program's Student Outcomes (SOs)
By the time of graduation, information technology students will be able to
- SO-1: analyze a complex computing problem to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions;
- SO-2: Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program's discipline.
- SO-3: Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
- SO-4: Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- SO-5: Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program's discipline.
- SO-6: Use systemic approaches to select, develop, apply, integrate, and administer secure computing technologies to accomplish user goals.
Information Technology Programs Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)
Three years after graduation, our typical information technology alumni are expected to be computing professionals who
- PEO-1: continue to develop their professional knowledge and skills;
- PEO-2: behave ethically while contributing to their profession and to society; and
- PEO-3: use technical, communication and teamwork skills to build, maintain and manage computing systems.
Accreditation
The Information Technology (BS) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commissions General Criteria and Program Criteria for Information Technology and Similarly Named Computing Programs.
Advisory Board
The College of Computing Advisory Board (CISAB) is composed of the college dean and leading computing experts nationwide. The board meets twice each year and advises the school on curriculum development and continuing education. It serves as an important interface between the college and the computing community.
Program Requirements
The following programs are available: