Advancing Local Degree Programs Using the IS Model Curriculum

Several options exist for faculty endeavoring to enhance and advance an Information Systems (IS) program. For two decades, one liberal arts college has offered, maintained and advanced an Information Systems program emphasizing the IS’90, IS’97 and IS’2002 model curricula. Endeavoring to maintain a balance between business, technical and interpersonal skills, the faculty has created a Bachelors of Science Degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS). The positive results from recent involvement in the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) core examination and testing of the students currently enrolled in this program confirm that the faculty has succeeded in creating a strong and viable program. Faculty commitment to continuous improvement and a coordinated effort to cover the learning objectives of the IS model curricula have advanced this degree program. Using a model curriculum while committing to continuous improvement facilitates the creation and maintenance of strong IS degree programs.