Computer Systems Technology
- Overview
- Careers
- New Freshmen
- New Transfer
- Illinois State Students
The Computer Systems Technology sequence prepares technology professionals to manage computer systems and develop applications in a variety of settings. Students develop knowledge and communication skills to successfully collaborate on projects.
Why Study Computer Systems Technology?
The Computer Systems Technology program at Illinois State provides students with a strong background in:
- computer/device networking
- electronic communications
- software application development
- computer hardware
- project management
Our labs also emulate the latest technologies, giving students a relevant and in-demand skillset.
The program’s diverse coursework emphasizes:
- network configuration and security
- operating system administration
- virtualization
- application and web development
- database administration
- technical management
Students learn in a hands-on environment and have opportunities to earn IT technical and professional certifications from organizations such as Microsoft, CompTIA, and Cisco.
Related Skills
The computer systems students understand electronics to the level of interacting with electronic engineers and technical support. They understand programming structures and syntax to the level of modifying existing source code; and network systems to the level of LAN/WAN migration and expansion. But most important they understand iterative project management methodologies to integrate all of these cross-functional areas.
Being Successful in the Field
- Possess a foundation of technical skills needed to begin a career in the area of information systems
- Understand intricate hardware, software, and organizational environments in which software developers work
- Use critical-thinking skills and invoke a variety of general problem-solving strategies and techniques
- Apply systems theory concepts and methods to the solution of problems
- Effectively manage work group interactions
- Communicate effectively
- Develop application systems by employing appropriate methodologies, techniques, tools, and languages
- Understand current trends in technology and learn to adapt to a changing computing environment
- Continuous professional development and growth
Related Fields
Professions in Commercial and Government Agencies
- Computer Systems Analysts
- Electrical and Electronics Field Engineers
- Computer Software Engineers, Systems Software
- Computer and Information Systems
- Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators
- Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts
- Computer Security Specialists
- Computer Hardware Engineers
- Computer Support Specialists
- Database Administrators
- Computer Software Engineers, Applications
- Network Systems Manager
- LAN Administrator
- Telecommunications Manager
- Software support/training specialist
- Technical support/sales
- Web Developer
- Computer Forensics Analysts
- Team Leaders
- IT Project Managers
Career Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Megan Kayfish | 110 Student Services Building | meturne@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-0735 |
Internship Coordinator
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Cleary | Turner Hall 120A | jpclear@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2609 |
Applying to Illinois State
Illinois State's preferred filing period for freshman students for the fall semester is September 1-November 15. Applying early is encouraged, as the University must limit enrollment due to space at the University and in specific majors/programs. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Applying to Illinois State
Illinois State's preferred filing period for fall transfer students is September 1-January 15. For the spring semester, the preferred filing period is from April 1-August 1. You are encouraged to apply early in the preferred filing period for best consideration for admission into competitive majors. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!
Minimum GPA
2.00
Middle 50% GPA
2.33 - 3.19
Required Courses
None
Recommended Courses
- Physics (PHY 105)
- Chemistry (CHE 110/112 or CHE 102)
- Finite Math (MAT 120)
- Statistics (MQM 100 or ECO 138)
- Introduction to Psychology (PSY 110)
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathy McKay | Turner Hall 215 | camckay@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2665 |
Middle 50% GPA
2.33 - 3.19
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Application Period
Applications always available.
Application Information
Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathy McKay | Turner Hall 215 | camckay@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2665 |