Application deadline
Credits and costs
The Employment Outlook for the IT Industry Looks Bright
Nearly all types of organizations — from retail establishments and manufacturing plants to service industries and health care facilities — need information technology (IT) workers. And as IT operations continue to expand, so does the demand for additional IT workers.
The online Associate in Science in Information Sciences and Technology is offered in partnership with Penn State's highly regarded College of Information Sciences and Technology. It is designed for working professionals with little or no formal background in information technology and for people who want to pursue a career in technology management.
Why Information Sciences and Technology Online at Penn State?
This online associate degree program combines flexibility with a highly relevant course curriculum. Acquiring an associate degree in IST can significantly boost your earning potential and broaden your career opportunities, compared to your having only a high school diploma.
Penn State’s online associate degree program can give you:
- a thorough knowledge of information systems, with organizational and global perspectives
- extensive practice using contemporary technologies in the creation, organization, storage, analysis, evaluation, communication, and transmission of information
- technical knowledge about the structure of database systems, web and multimedia systems, and the design of information systems
- hands-on knowledge through team projects, a required internship, and a capstone experience focusing on issues and technologies in the field
The College of IST is a leader among information schools, and its faculty members are a diverse group of thought leaders from numerous fields, including computer science, engineering, psychology, chemistry, and artificial intelligence.
Options to Tailor Your IT Degree
Application Development Option — helps students prepare for an entry-level position in applications and/or web development. It also can be a stepping-stone for IST–related bachelor’s degrees. Course work will cover web development and advanced java programming as well as usability.
Custom Option — allows students to work closely with an adviser to develop a flexible academic program that provides a breadth of technical specialization. Students may select courses that support their current career path or add one of our undergraduate certificates to complete this option.
Cybersecurity Option — can prepare students for an entry-level position in the cybersecurity field. It also can position them for IST–related bachelor’s programs like cybersecurity analytics and operations or security and risk analysis. This option features introductory courses in cybersecurity and security and risk analysis as well as advanced hand-on courses in these fields of study.
Generalized Business Option — features courses in accounting, marketing, and management to help students build a framework of business concepts and practices that they can incorporate into their IT experience, add to their résumé, and use to improve marketability across industries.
Networking Option — provides an innovative curriculum that identifies and explains new and ever-evolving technologies in the IT field. This option balances theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences and is designed to bridge the gap between business and information technology professionals.
The networking option can help prepare students who plan to pursue professional IT certification examinations, including Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+, Network+, and Server+ exams, as well as exams to be certified as a Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for:
- working professionals with little or no formal background in IT
- people who want to pursue a career in technology management
- people interested in changing careers
Courses
This 60-credit online program in information sciences and technology is an excellent way for working adults everywhere to obtain a reputable degree conveniently, without having to leave work or home to attend classes on a campus. The curriculum allows students to develop their writing, business, and management skills, all within a contemporary context of the information sciences. For those wishing to continue their studies further, the 60 credits earned toward an associate degree can often be applied toward the requirements of a bachelor's degree at Penn State or another institution. However, some additional course work may be necessary. For additional instructions, contact an adviser.
You may also be able to earn a professional certificate along the way. Contact an adviser by email or phone at 800-252-3592 to learn more about how to include these résumé-building milestones on your educational path to an associate degree.
Prescribed Courses (select 21 credits)
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Prescribed General Education Courses (select 12 credits)
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Option Requirements
Courses vary based on the option selected. Review the following lists for each option's unique requirements.
Application Development Option (select 12 credits)
Custom Option (12 credits)
The student, in consultation with their adviser, selects 12 credits in courses which follow a coherent theme in information sciences and technology. Examples of specific themes include: Web development, Psychology, and Usability.
Cybersecurity Option (select 12 credits)
Courses can not double count with the major requirements.
Generalized Business Option (select 12–14 credits)
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Networking Option (12 credits)
Electives (select 5–9 credits)
Courses chosen in consultation with an adviser.
General Education Requirements
Some General Education requirements may be satisfied by courses required for the major. Students should work with an adviser to select courses.
- Arts (GA): 3 credits
- Humanities (GH): 3 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
- Writing and Speaking (GWS): 3 credits
- Quantification (GQ): 3 credits
- Any General Education course, including Integrative Studies (Inter-domain or Linked courses): 3 credits
- United States Cultures (US), or International Cultures (IL) or combined designation (US; IL): 3 credits
May be satisfied by designated courses that also meet other degree or General Education requirements. - Writing Across the Curriculum (W, M, X, Y): 3 credits
May be satisfied by designated courses that also meet other degree or General Education requirements.
Course Availability
If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.
Costs and Financial Aid
Undergraduate Tuition
Undergraduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register and the number of total credits you have accrued at or transferred to Penn State. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.
| How many credits do you plan to take per semester? | If you have 59 or fewer credits | If you have 60 or more credits |
|---|---|---|
| 11 or fewer | $620 per credit | $664 per credit |
| 12 or more | $7,527 per semester | $8,125 per semester |
Financial Aid and Military Benefits
Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.
How to Apply
Deadlines and Important Dates
Your degree application, including receipt of all transcripts, must be received by the following deadlines to be considered complete.
New students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA by March 1. Please visit the Office of Student Aid website for more information about applying for financial aid and recommended deadlines.
Admissions Help
Thank you for your interest in applying to this program. Contact an admissions counselor to discuss your educational goals, financial aid options, and application deadlines.
Admission Requirements
To apply for this program, you must be a high school graduate or have completed your GED.
What You Need
Applications are submitted electronically and include a nonrefundable application fee. You will need the following items to complete your application:
High school transcripts or GED transcript — First-year applicants are required to submit Self-Reported Academic Records (SRAR). Official high school transcripts will only be required at the time a student accepts an offer of admission to Penn State.
Official college or university transcripts, if you attended another institution, and/or official military transcripts (if applicable) — All college or university transcripts are required regardless of the length of time that has passed, the grades earned, or the accreditation of the institutions attended. Acceptance of transfer credit toward your degree is subject to final approval by the academic department. For detailed information, see the Transfer Students page.
Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Please send your transcripts by mail or electronically through Parchment, eScrip-Safe, or the National Student Clearinghouse directly to Penn State from the college/university where course work was attempted.
Submit official documents by mail to:
Undergraduate Admissions Office
The Pennsylvania State University
201 Shields Building
University Park, PA 16802
English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Language Proficiency section on the Undergraduate Admissions International Requirements page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.
Start Your Application
Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.
If this is your first time applying to Penn State, you'll need to complete the following steps:
- Review the application instructions before beginning.
- Complete the online application and submit all official documents.
- Pay the application fee.
Checking Your Status
You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form and choosing "MyPennState — Check Application Status." Your decision letter (confirming your acceptance or denial) will be mailed four to six weeks after receipt of all application materials. An admissions counselor will contact you if additional information is required.
Technical Requirements
Review the technical requirements for this degree program.
Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.
Start or Advance Your Career
Start or Advance Your Career
You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.
A Head Start toward a Bachelor’s Degree
A Head Start toward a Bachelor’s Degree
Not only can this program help create opportunities in your career, it can also give you a solid head start toward a full bachelor’s degree.
Contact Us
To learn more about the Associate in Science in Information Sciences and Technology, offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology, please contact:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
Email: [email protected]
Faculty
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James (Jim) Farrugia
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DegreePh.D., Spatial Information Science and Engineering, University of Maine
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DegreeM.S., Library Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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DegreeB.A., Mathematics, East Stroudsburg University
Dr. James (Jim) Farrugia is an assistant teaching professor of information sciences and technology. His areas of interest include programming, software development, data synthesis, and design and development.
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Chris Gamrat
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DegreePh.D., Learning, Design, and Technology, Penn State
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DegreeM.Ed., Instructional Systems, Penn State
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DegreeB.S., Management Information Systems, Penn State
Dr. Chris Gamrat served as an instructional designer for the College of IST since 2013 and became a faculty member in 2022. Prior to joining IST, Dr. Gamrat served as a technology specialist for the NASA Aerospace Education Services Project at the Penn State College of Education, starting in 2008. His research interests include inclusive teaching, innovations in teaching and learning, and microcredentials.
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Richard Lomotey
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DegreePh.D., Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan
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DegreeMSc., Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan
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DegreeB.Sc., Computer Science, University of Cape Coast
Dr. Richard Lomotey is a tenured associate professor of information sciences and technology at Penn State. He teaches a variety of courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and his research focuses on emerging technologies (such as mobile computing, IoT, and machine learning) in diverse domains, including health, agriculture, gamification, and enterprises.
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Gregory O'Toole
DegreePh.D., Media and Communication, European Graduate School, Saas-Fee, SwitzerlandDr. Gregory O'Toole is a lecturer in information sciences and technology at Penn State Abington. His areas of interest are open source web design and development, web research, and education.
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Kaamran Raahemifar
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DegreePh.D., University of Windsor
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DegreeMASc, University of Waterloo
Dr. Kaamran Raahemifar is a professor in the artificial intelligence and data science programs in the Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology. He has several decades of combined experience in teaching, research, and administrative/executive services. He has research and teaching interests in applied optimization, data modeling and prediction, small and large system simulation and design, signal anomaly detection and testing, blockchain, data science, artificial intelligence, user experience, and smart-connected devices.
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Jeffrey Rimland
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DegreePh.D., Information Sciences, Penn State
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DegreeB.S., Computer Science, Penn State
Dr. Jeffrey Rimland is an assistant teaching professor of information sciences and technology. His areas of interest are software development, vocal synthesis techniques, information fusion, assistive mobile device technology, and human-centric information.
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Syed Rizvi
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DegreePh.D., Computer Science and Engineering, University of Bridgeport
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DegreeM.S., Computer Engineering, Old Dominion University
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DegreeB.S., Computer Engineering, Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology
Dr. Syed Rizvi is an associate professor in information sciences and technology at the Penn State Altoona campus. His research interests lie at the intersection of computer networking, network security, and machine learning. Dr. Rizvi teaches cybersecurity, risk analysis, and IST courses such as fundamentals of information security, networking and telecommunications, secure software engineering, security risk assessment, network security, incident response handling, and capstone projects. He is a member of the IEEE Communications Society and ACM.
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