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Questions About the College of IST

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What is the difference between Information Sciences and Technology and Computer Science?

IST bridges the gap between creators and users of IT. It uses hardware and software (and other types of information technology), as well as communications and business skills to solve problems in any field. The primary focus is on computer, behavioral, and social sciences. Many students that enroll into IST have the following in common:

  • They enjoy using technology
  • They like working with people
  • They like the challenge of solving problems
  • They are comfortable working with math
  • They want to make a difference

Computer science uses math and physics to design and create the computer software. It develops creators of IT and its primary focus is on mathematics and physics. Its foundation is based on building and deconstructing operating systems.

What can I do with an SRA (Security and Risk Analysis) degree?

SRA can help put you on the front line in confronting threats to our security, responding to emergencies, protecting vital information, and helping to create laws and policies that ensure personal privacy. More than ever, problem solvers with broad skills and relevant experience are needed to meet the challenges posted by identity theft, cyber terrorism, and other global problems. With the three options in SRA, you can choose to:

  • Focus on strategic and tactical levels of intelligence collection, analysis, and decision-making,
  • Focus on network security, cyber-threat defense, information warfare, and critical infrastructure protection, or
  • Focus on legal, regulatory, ethical, and a vast array of other topics associated with security and risk.

 

When will I enter into a major?

The entrance to a major becomes official during the fall semester of the junior (third) year. All first-semester students entering the College of IST are admitted into a common year (pre-major) status, called INFST. Students officially declare their major online using Penn State's
eLion system during the second semester of their sophomore year.

Are there any requirements for getting into the IST or SRA major?

Yes.  For students pursuing the B.S. in IST, completing IST 110, IST 210, and IST 220 are required. The B.S. in SRA requires IST 110, SRA 111, and SRA 211 to be completed. All of these courses require a C or better grade to enter into the major.

Can I study abroad as a student in the College of IST?

Yes. Penn State has programs that vary in length from a summer to a full academic year in various parts of the world. Our programs include ones in which courses are taught in English and others in which courses are taught in the language of the country. Credit and grades for courses taken in international institutions with which we have agreements transfer back to Penn State and may be used to meet degree requirements. College of IST students are encouraged to participate in international programs through Penn State. See International Programs for more information about studying abroad.

Is there any special housing for College of IST students?

Yes, at University Park. The IST Special Living Option (SLO) is available to students who would like to live among others with similar interests. Students are able to assist each other with school work and build friendships outside the classroom. There are also special events sponsored by the IST SLO, which are not available to everyone living on campus.

How can I get involved in extracurricular activities?


The College of IST and Penn State offer many student organizations spanning a broad range of interests. Visit the college's student organization Web page and Penn State's student activity directory for more information.

What about internships?


An internship is required for all College of IST students and must be completed before the student can graduate. Most internships are done in the summer, so there is normally no delay in graduation. Students on internships must register for one credit and consequently are still considered full-time students, even though they are working and may be earning income.  Some internships may or may not be paid. The college offers two great networking opportunities, Pro Expo in the fall and Future Forum in the spring, for students to find an internship. Many companies participate in these events and College of IST students are strongly encouraged to attend.

Where can I get a job with a degree from the College of IST?


Students from our majors find jobs in government and all types of businesses large and small. Companies and organizations that have hired our students include: Accenture, Deloitte Consulting, Bank of New York Mellon, FBI, General Electric, Honeywell, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, Lockheed Martin, Owens Corning, PriceWaterhouseCoopers, SRA International, U.S. Steel, and Vanguard.

Will I be able to find a job after graduation?


Students who graduate with a degree from the College of IST have found jobs in consulting, government, health care, and more. The placement rate for our graduates is between 90 and 95 percent. Most IST students with at least a 3.0 earn a starting salary over $55,000 and could have signing bonuses averaging about $3,000. The majority of students take jobs in Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Central PA), Washington, D.C, Virginia, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. College of IST graduates have an excellent reputation in the workforce.