Information Technology

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at California State University offers a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare students for the rapidly evolving technology industry. This degree program provides students with a strong foundation in core IT principles, including computer programming, systems analysis and design, network infrastructure, cybersecurity, database management, and software development. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on experience, students are equipped with the essential skills needed to develop, implement, and manage complex information systems in various organizational settings.

The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical proficiency, ensuring graduates are capable of addressing real-world challenges faced by businesses and institutions. Courses are designed to cover a wide array of topics such as programming languages, operating systems, cloud computing, data management, and project management. The program also fosters understanding of ethical considerations and legal issues related to information technology, preparing students to make responsible decisions in their professional careers.

In addition to classroom instruction, students have opportunities to participate in internships, research projects, and industry partnerships that enhance their practical experience and professional network. The program encourages collaboration through team-based projects that simulate real-world IT environments, cultivating teamwork and communication skills essential for career success.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology are well-prepared to pursue various career paths, including IT analyst, network administrator, cybersecurity specialist, software developer, and systems analyst. The program serves as a stepping stone for further education or certifications, such as Cisco, Microsoft, or CompTIA credentials. With a curriculum aligned to current industry standards and emerging technological trends, the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at California State University aims to develop innovative, adaptable, and ethically minded IT professionals ready to meet the demands of today’s digital economy.

Laboratory Science 
8 units from either Biology, or Chemistry, or Physics: 
Biology: 
BIOL200 Principles of Organismal and Population Biology (4
and 
BIOL201 Principles of Molecular and Cellular Biology (4) 
or Chemistry: 
CHEM121 General Chemistry I (4) 
and 
CHEM122 General Chemistry II (4) 
or Physics: 
PHYS100 Introduction to Physics (4) 
and 
PHYS101 Introduction to Physics II (4)

General Education and American Institutions 
45 units: 
General Education (36) 
American Institutions (6) 
University Electives (3) 
Recommended Interdisciplinary GE: 
COMP337 Perspective on Computer Games (3) (GE: B4)  
COMP437 Computer Game Design and Development (3) (GE: B4) 
COMP447 Societal Issues (3) (GE: B4,D) 
COMP449 Human-Computer Interaction (3) (GE: B4, E) 
PHYS434 Biomedical Imaging (3)  (GE: D) 
MATH331 History of Mathematics (3) (GE: B3, D)

Electives 
18 units from: 
COMP345 Digital Image Analysis (3) 
COMP350+L Introduction to Software Engineering (3
COMP362+L Operating Systems (3+1) 
IT380 Web Programming (3) 
IT400 e-Commerce (3) 
IT401 Web Intelligence (3) 
COMP/IT402 Advanced Web Programming (3) 
COMP425 Computer Game Programming (3) 
COMP/IT464+L Computer Graphics (2+1) 
IT490 Special Topics for IT (3) 
IT492 Internship (3) 
MGT 471 Project Management (3)

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

The California State University system offers a variety of financing options for students pursuing their degree in Information Technology. Students are encouraged to explore federal and state financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, to help fund their education. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary way for students to determine their eligibility for federal financial assistance, which is available to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the program. In addition, the California State University system participates in state-specific aid programs such as the Cal Grants, which provide need-based scholarships for eligible residents. Scholarships are also available through university-specific funds, departmental awards, and private organizations supporting higher education in technology fields. Many students also consider work-study programs that allow them to gain practical experience while earning money to offset tuition costs. Furthermore, some students utilize educational loans, which must be repaid after graduation, to cover tuition, books, and living expenses. CSU campuses often have financial aid offices that provide personalized guidance and assistance throughout the application process. Additionally, some programs may offer payment plans that enable students to pay tuition in installments rather than one lump sum. International students seeking to finance their studies might explore scholarships specific to their country of origin or consider private loans, as federal aid options are generally limited to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. The university also advises prospective students to consider part-time employment opportunities on or near campus to supplement their income. Overall, the combination of federal, state, institutional, and private funding options provides a comprehensive system designed to make a degree in Information Technology accessible to a diverse student population.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at California State University offers students comprehensive training in the fundamentals and advanced concepts of information technology. The program is designed to equip graduates with the skills necessary to develop, implement, and manage technology solutions in various organizational settings. Students gain knowledge in areas such as computer hardware, networking, cybersecurity, software development, database management, and systems analysis. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through labs, projects, and internships, providing real-world experience that prepares students for diverse career opportunities in the technology sector.

Throughout the program, students explore the principles of programming languages, operating systems, and web development, as well as emerging trends like cloud computing and data analytics. Security and ethical considerations in technology usage are integral parts of the coursework, fostering responsible and informed professionals. The program also includes courses on project management and business communication to ensure graduates can effectively collaborate and convey technical information.

California State University’s Information Technology program is aligned with industry standards and employers’ needs, often integrating certifications and hands-on training. It prepares students for careers as network administrators, cybersecurity specialists, systems analysts, software developers, and IT consultants. Many students participate in cooperative education opportunities and internships with local companies, enhancing their employment prospects post-graduation. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only technically proficient but also adaptable to fast-paced technological changes in a competitive global job market. The faculty involved in the program are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to student success and innovation in the field of information technology.