Information Systems and Technology

In today’s digital world, businesses don’t just use technology—they depend on it. From AI to cybersecurity, data analytics to digital transformation, Information Systems and Technology (IST) professionals drive business forward. They help organizations make smart, data-driven decisions and innovate for the future. Being an IST pro is more than coding or crunching numbers—it’s about collaboration. You’ll bridge technology and business strategy, working with stakeholders across all departments to drive organizational success.

Why Study IST at the Palumbo-Donahue School of Business?

Our IST program equips you with the tools to harness data-driven decision-making, optimize business processes, and bridge the gap between technical experts and business specialist. IST majors are crucial in translating complex data into actionable strategies that enhance organizational performance. As businesses rapidly evolve in a digitized and connected world, IST graduates are prepared to revolutionize how companies and consumers interact, fostering innovation and strategic growth. By mastering technology’s role in the marketplace, you’ll gain the skills to lead, adapt, and be a difference-maker in any industry. 

Customize Your IST experience by specializing in one (or both!) of these tracks:

  • Digital Business Technology: Learn to leverage technology to enhance customer experiences and business operations.
  • Data Analytics: Learn how to turn raw data into business insights that drive smart decisions.

Discover Duquesne’s Distinctive Educational Experience

  • Networking: Connect beyond the classroom by joining the Association for Information Systems (AIS), where you will meet IST professionals, attend career networking events, compete in international competitions, and access internship and job opportunities.
  • Mentorship Program: Our IST Mentorship Program connects you one-on-one with experienced professionals who offer guidance, insights, and valuable industry connections.
  • Gain In-Depth Experience: Through Duquesne’s collaboration with the SAP University Alliance, IST majors can earn their SAP Student Recognition Award. SAP is the world’s leading Enterprise Resource Planning company.

Program Information

Our leading Information Systems and Technology program prepares undergraduate students for careers focused on the planning, application, development, management, and implementation of technology to transform organizations and support data-driven decision-making.

Program Type

Major, Minor

Degree

Bachelor's

School

Palumbo-Donahue School of Business

Duration

4-year

Required Credit Hours

69

From Our Alumni

Nick Price

"The capstone courses developed my skills in organizational information management, data modeling, and diagramming. These classes introduced me to industry software like Power BI, Excel, SQL, and Visio. My experience with these tools helped me land three internships."

Nick Price B'25, Service Analyst, Towlift Inc.

Career Opportunities

Invest in Your Future

IST majors rank among the highest-paid business graduates right out of college. An IST degree opens doors to high-demand, high-paying careers, including:

  • Systems/Business Analyst: Bridge the gap between business needs and technology solutions.
  • Business Intelligence Consultant: Help organizations make data-driven decisions.
  • Cybersecurity Specialist: Protect businesses from hackers and cyber threats.
  • IT Project/Product Manager: Lead and manage digital products and projects that drive transformation.

IST Majors Employment

Recent Duquesne IST graduates have found positions in a variety of major corporations, including: 

  • Amazon
  • BNY
  • CGI
  • Deloitte
  • Dollar Bank
  • EY
  • Federated Hermes
  • Highmark
  • KPMG
  • Management Science Associates
  • PNC
  • PPG
  • Protiviti
  • PwC
  • SAP
  • Schneider Downs
  • UPMC
  • US Steel
  • Wesco

IST as a Second Major or Minor

Combining Information Systems and Technology as a double major or minor with another business major gives students a competitive advantage in the job market.

Expected Job Growth

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, IST occupations are expected to grow by 17%, much faster than other occupations, from 2023 to 2033.

IST Mentoring Program

The Information Systems and Technology (IST) Mentoring Program connects IST majors with experienced professionals and allows alumni to remain engaged with the School. It is led by Dr. Wenqi Zhou, an Associate Professor of IST, in collaboration with the Information Systems and Technology Advisory Council (ISTAC).

Program Details
Applications open at the beginning of September and students are matched with professionals based on specific criteria. The program runs during the Academic Year and is structured as follows:

  • Kick-Off—Introductory meeting between mentors and students. Together, they set goals and join the program's social media group.
  • 1:1 Meetings—Mentors and students schedule meetings on relevant topics to advance the student's goals.
  • Review—Mentors and students share their experiences and provide feedback on the program.

Mentoring Program Contact

Dr. Wenqi Zhou

Associate Professor of Information Systems

Director of IST Mentoring Program

Wenqi Zhou

Curriculum

View the Course Descriptions
To complete a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, students must complete a minimum of 120 credits.

Information Systems and Technology (IST) Majors are required to take: 
  • Bridges Requirements: 19 credits of University-wide courses taken by all students
  • Business Core Required Courses: 51 credits plus 3 additional credits of required courses taken by business students
  • IST Major Required Courses: 12 credits
  • Track Courses: 9 credits
  • Open Electives: 26 credits
  • Graduation Requirements: Students must earn a minimum overall 2.0 GPA

Students are encouraged to meet with their Student Success Coach for more information.

Special Notes:
  • BUAD 401 Internship can be substituted for one track course when student has earned 60 credits and completed two major courses.
  • Only one internship course may be substituted for a track course.
  • One course (3 credits) can be dropped from the track requirements from this major, when paired with a second business major or a business minor.
  • ISYS 380 User Experience Design (3 credits)
  • ISYS 381W Systems Analysis and Design (3 credits)
  • ISYS 382 Data and Information Management (3 credits)
  • ISYS 489W Information Systems Capstone (3 credits)

Tracks

9 Credits from one Track

  • ISYS 480 Introduction to Python for Data Analytics (3 credits)
  • ISYS 484 Business Intelligence* (3 credits)
  • ISYS 490 AI for Data-Driven Decision Making (3 credits)

*IST majors can earn the SAP Student Recognition Award by achieving a “B” or better in the course indicated.

  • ISYS 483: Enterprise Systems* (3 credits)
  • ISYS 484: Business Intelligence* (3 credits)
  • ISYS 486: IT Security and Risk Management (3 credits)
  • SCMG 385: SCM Info Systems and Technology* or ACCT 310: Accounting Information Systems (3 credits each)

*IST majors can earn the SAP Student Recognition Award by achieving a “B” or better in the courses indicated.
Each unique course can only count towards one track.

  • OPTION ONE: 3 courses from DA Track and 2 courses from DBT track
  • OPTION TWO: 2 courses from DA Track and 2 courses from DBT track

Students can complete the IST major with no track by selecting 9 credits from the list of track courses.

Minor in IST by taking:

  • ISYS 184
  • ISYS 284
  • ISYS 380
  • ISYS 381W
  • ISYS 382
  • ISYS 480, 483, 484, 486, 489W, or 490
By earning your Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.), you will achieve five key Learning Outcomes: Business Functional Knowledge, Analytical & Critical Business Thinking, Cultural Intelligence, Ethical & Moral Compass, and Influence & Collaboration.