GSW unveils cutting-edge IT curriculum with specialized concentrations for dynamic tech landscape

AMERICUS, GA (June 7, 2024) – Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) is excited to announce the launch of a revamped curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (IT), designed to meet the evolving needs of the tech industry and provide students with targeted skills for today’s job market. This new curriculum aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and expertise to excel in a competitive and rapidly changing technological landscape.

The updated IT curriculum includes four specialized concentrations, allowing students to tailor their education to align with their career goals and interests. The concentrations are structured to provide both a strong foundational knowledge in IT and specialized training in key areas of the field.

By offering these specialized concentrations, students are given the opportunity to develop expertise in areas that are in high demand, thus enhancing their employability and career prospects. Students can now choose from the following options or a combination of two, providing flexibility and specialization:

1. IT Concentration
   This concentration focuses on core IT competencies, including the design and management of information systems, data storage solutions, and server infrastructure. It is ideal for roles in IT support, systems administration, and database management. Courses include Systems Analysis & Design, Info Storage and Retrieval, and Server Management.
2. Health Informatics Concentration
   Tailored for students interested in the healthcare sector, this concentration combines IT skills with healthcare knowledge, preparing graduates for roles in managing healthcare information systems, electronic health records, and healthcare data analysis. Courses include Project Management Tools, Healthcare Informatics, and Analysis of Healthcare Data.
3. Multimedia & Mobile App Development Concentration
   This concentration is ideal for creative tech enthusiasts, focusing on the development of multimedia projects and mobile applications. Graduates will be equipped for careers as mobile app developers, multimedia designers, and software engineers specializing in mobile technologies. Courses include Production Technology I & II, and Mobile/Distributed Computing.
4. Project Management Concentration
   Designed for future IT project managers, this concentration provides comprehensive training in project management tools, leadership strategies, and risk management, ensuring graduates are ready to lead IT projects to success. Courses include Project Management Tools, Project Management Leadership, and Project Risk and Control Management.

"The new curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of today's tech workforce," stated Gaynor Cheokas, D.B.A., dean of the College of Business and Computing. "I am proud of the work and dedication of the computing faculty in preparing our students for the future."

The IT curriculum equips GSW graduates for careers such as technical support, systems manager, web developer, software engineer, database administrator, network administrator, IT security specialist, computer network architect, security analyst and more.

"Revamping the IT curriculum is part of our commitment to providing a cutting-edge education that keeps pace with industry trends," said Shannon Perry, Ed.D., chair of the Department of Computing in the College of Business and Computing. "We are excited to move in this direction with the new IT curriculum and thankful for our partnerships with the School of Nursing and School of Business."

The new curriculum will be available to students starting in the Fall 2024 semester. Prospective students and those currently enrolled are encouraged to explore these new opportunities. For more information about the B.S. in Information Technology, visit gsw.edu/IT.