In today’s information-driven society, people at all levels of an organization need access to data. Data helps us make decisions, supports our strategies, and provides valuable feedback. All of this information must be organized, stored, and protected—which means there’s an increasing demand for information systems professionals.
This flexible certificate program can be a stand-alone professional development opportunity or completed in preparation for a bachelor’s or master’s degree in an information-related field.
CGS Difference
This certificate is offered in conjunction with Pitt’s School of Computing and Information.
Program Expectations
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Use scientific programming language to introduce information structures such as linked lists, stacks, and queues
- Develop program modules using a current programming language
- Use the theories of data structures and programming language design
Credit Requirements
The information system design certificate requires 18 credits, including five required courses and one elective. Students must achieve a minimum grade of C (2.0) or better for all courses required for the program.
Prerequisites: Before applying to this program, students should have completed 1) a college algebra class and 2) an introductory informations systems course or a programming course (recommended courses: INFSCI 0010 Introduction to Information, Systems, and Society, CS 0007 Introduction to Programming with Java, CS 0008 Introduction to Computer Programming with Python, or CS 0004 Introduction to Computer Programming with Visual Basic), earning a C or better in both.
Required Courses: (15 Credits)
| Catalog Number | Title | Credits |
| INFSCI 0017* | Fundamentals of Object-Oriented Programming | 3 |
| INFSCI 1022 | Database Management Systems | 3 |
| INFSCI 1024 | Analysis of Information Systems | 3 |
| INFSCI 1044 | Human Factors in System Design | 3 |
| INFSCI 1070 | Introduction to Telecom and Networks | 3 |
* Computer Science students may use CS 0401 Intermediate Programming using Java in lieu of INFSCI 0017 Fundamentals of Object-Oriented Programming.
Elective: (3 Credits)
| Catalog Number | Title | Credits |
| INFSCI 1014 | Graphics | 3 |
| INFSCI 1025 | Design of Information Systems | 3 |
| INFSCI 1027 | IT Project Management | 3 |
| INFSCI 1031 | Going Digital: Transformational Change | 3 |
| INFSCI 1052 | User-Centered Design | 3 |
| INFSCI 1059 | Web Programming | 3 |
| INFSCI 1068 | Geographic Information Systems | 3 |
| INFSCI 1074 | Computer Security | 3 |
| INFSCI 1075 | Network Security | 3 |
Please Note: Requirements subject to change. Check with an academic advisor before registering.
If you have further questions about the Information System Design certificate, please contact Tiwanda Taylor, Director of CGS Academic Advising at: tltst28@pitt.edu.