Idaho State University computer information systems and computer science departments merge

The Idaho State University Department of Computer Information Systems in the ISU College of Business and the Department of Computer Science in the ISU College of Engineering have merged into the Department of Informatics and Computer Science. 

The new department will be housed jointly within the two colleges and faculty will continue to report to their original college through the new, shared chair, Kevin Parker, professor in the College of Business.

Both programs will continue to remain vital parts of Idaho State University. There is an increasing demand for graduates from both programs, and job prospects are excellent. In a recent Forbes report, (http://www.forbes.com/sites/jennagoudreau/2012/05/15/best-top-most-valuable-college-majors-degrees/) employers listed computer information systems majors at the top of their recruiting list. Forty-seven percent of those employers said the competition for those graduates is intense, so while other recent graduates fight for jobs, many CIS majors often field multiple offers.

A recent piece in The Seattle Times (http://seattletimes.com/html/opinion/2020963312_edlazowskaopedxml.html) reports that there is a shortage of graduates in computer science, with three quarters of a million new computer science jobs anticipated this decade.

The Department of Informatics and Computer Science will place a greater emphasis on the Health Informatics degree, in keeping with the University's mission and the College of Business's renewed focus on that mission. New professors with backgrounds in both business informatics and health care informatics are joining the faculty. In addition, the Department will also expand its programs in information assurance and cyber security, building upon ISU’s nationally recognized National Information Assurance Training and Education Center (NIATEC).

Students in the Department of Informatics and Computer Science will have access to the College of Business's excellent Professional Development program, which assists in preparing students for the job market, helps to place students in suitable internships, and works closely with recruiters to place ISU graduates.

Computer technology and its applications in business have generated more jobs than any other area over the past several years. Both programs in the Department of Informatics and Computer Science offer broad-based, rigorous curricula that combine a solid background in technology and theory.  A real-world approach to career opportunities and advancement will prepare students for a successful future in the evolving, fast-paced technology industry.

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