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Bachelor of Science in Information Technology: Business Minor Option

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Next Start Date: May 15

Earn Your Online Degree in IT with a Business Minor

Gain fundamental knowledge of information technology, management concepts and business practices with UMass Lowell's Bachelor of Science in Information Technology: Business Minor. This part-time degree program is available entirely online or as a mix of online and on-campus courses. The need for professionals with a strong information technology background is growing as businesses, governments, schools, and other organizations seek new applications for computers, networks and mobile devices within the work environment.

The online degree in IT with a Business minor option presents an ideal opportunity for IT students who plan to pursue a MBA upon completion of their bachelor's degree.

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Complete in as Little as 12 to 36 Months

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One of the Most Affordable Tuitions in the Nation

Career Outlook

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"Employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations."
— U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2018
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One Success Leads to Another

Apply credits from lower credentials to higher ones. Our programs are designed to build upon themselves:

Curriculum Outline

- 40 Courses / 120cr
- View Course Descriptions »

Course Descriptions

Presents a comprehensive, detailed exposure to basic accounting theory. Beginning with the accounting equation, students are introduced to the accounting cycle, preparation of the statement of financial position and the income statement, accounting for assets, liabilities, and stockholders' equity of the firm, and cash flow and financial statement analysis. 3 credits.
Studies the principles of production and exchange. An introduction to demand, supply, pricing, and output under alternative market structures. Derived demand and resource markets are introduced. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Quantitative Literacy (QL). 3 credits. BS
This course studies national accounts, inflation, and aggregate unemployment, as well as the driving forces behind business cycles and long-run growth in the context of aggregate demand and aggregate supply. In addition, it examines monetary and fiscal policy, the Federal reserve, and select additional topics, such as an introduction to open-economy macroeconomics. 3 credits. BS
A workshop course that thoroughly explores the writing process from pre-writing to revision, with an emphasis on critical thinking, sound essay structure, mechanics, and academic integrity. Students will read, conduct rhetorical analyses, and practice the skills required for participation in academic discourse. Students will write expository essays throughout the semester, producing a minimum of four formal essays. 3 credits.
A workshop course that thoroughly explores the academic research writing process with an emphasis on entering into academic conversation. Building on the skills acquired in College Writing I, students will learn to write extensively with source material. Key skills addressed include finding,assessing, and integrating primary and secondary sources, and using proper documentation to ensure academic integrity. Students will produce analytical writing throughout the semester, including a minimum of four formal, researched essays. 3 credits.
Studies the theory and practice of writing letters, memoranda and reports on specific business and technical problems. Registration preference for students enrolled in Business programs. 3 credits. Note: Students may not receive credit for both ENGL.2240 and ENGL.2260
Studies the theory and practice of letters, memoranda, reports and oral presentations on specific scientific and technical problems. 3 credits. Students may not receive credit for both ENGL.2240 and ENGL.2260; Students will learn about scientific and technical communication by engaging with lab reports, step-by-step instructions, technical manuals and so forth. This course gives students the opportunity to write two chapters in a technical manual by the end of the course. These chapters will include step-by-step instructions on how to fix, prepare, create, or describe a function or process related to a specific individual project.
Prerequisites:

ENGL.1020 pre-req

Principles of financial management, including working and fixed capital, sources of funds, financial statements, financial planning and capital structure. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

ECON2010, ACCT2010 pre; BU min

This course examines the fundamentals of computer programming while using the Python programming language. Python is a popular scripting language that is commonly used for a myriad of applications including machine learning, scientific computing, scripting, web applications, and data processing. Course topics will include programming fundamentals, such as Boolean logic, program organization, input and output, and loops. We'll cover the syntax of Python (the rules that govern the language) as well as industry standards best practices. 3 credits.
Offers an introduction to the processing of information by computer. Computer logic, memory, input/output processing, and programming in the 'C' language. Students may not receive credit for both the INFO.2110/INFO.2120 sequence and INFO.2670. 3 credit(s). Prerequisite: No previous programming experience required. 3 credits. Students may not receive credit for both the 90.211/90.212 sequence and 90.267
This course qualifies for free MSDNA software!
Prerequisites:

No previous programming experience required

This course will focus on developing Windows-based programs using the Visual Basic programming environment. Topics covered will include the use of text boxes, labels, scroll bars, menus, buttons, and the Windows applications. Students should be familiar with the Windows environment and with at least one programming language prior to taking this course. 3 credits.
This course qualifies for free MSDNA software!
Introduces students to various topics in Information Technology to provide an overview of what is available and used in the technology world today. Topics include Functional, Object Oriented, and Scripting languages (C, C++/Java, C#, Perl/Python, Shell), Database Management Technologies, (SQL, Oracle, MySQL), Web Server deployment options (UNIX, LINUX, Apache, ASP.net) and Web Site Design and Development (JavaScript, AJAX, XML, HTML). Students should have a working knowledge of at least one high-level programming language. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

Working knowledge of at least one higher level programming language; requires ANSI C/C++ standard compiler

Blockchain is an emerging technology that can radically improve security in banking, supply chain, and other transaction networks. This course explores the fundamentals and applications of blockchain technology. Students will learn about the decentralized peer-to -peer network, distributed ledger, and trust model that define blockchain technology. We will examine the basic components of blockchain, its operations, underlying algorithms, and the essentials of trust. By the end of the course, students will understand the inner workings and applications of this disruptive technology and its potential impact on all aspects of the business world and society. 3 credits.
The focus of this class is on the basic components of shape, color, texture, typography, and images as they are applied to multimedia and web interface design. Other topics covered include scanning, image editing, resolution and color palettes. Students will work on projects that integrate elements such as buttons, navigation bars, and background images to communicate creative visual information. Photoshop will be used. 3 credits. Formerly Graphics for Multimedia
Prerequisites:

INFO.2300

This course focuses on the design, development, and implementation of websites using available visual development tools. Each participant will design, build, and maintain their own websites. Topics covered include: basic navigational structure; page layout incorporating tables and frames; graphical design and placement; image maps; streaming audio and video; and basic website administration. 3 credits. Requires Adobe Dreamweaver software.
Prerequisites:

INFO.2910

This course will demonstrate how to use web authoring applications to create cutting-edge interface, navigation, and streaming animation. Using open standard vector formatting, you can create interactive capabilities on the web similar to CD-ROM screens. Learn how to use drawing tools to create websites that include sound, clickable buttons, interactivity, and exciting animations. 3 credits.
It is almost impossible to think about creating any sort of modern web site or application without the use of databases and at least a cursory knowledge of how they work. Almost everything online uses a database at some level whether it is an ultra-complex system such as Facebook or Amazon.com, a prepackaged tool such as Drupal or Wordpress, or a relatively simple site which requires a log on to gain access to some content. This course is designed to provide a straightforward but comprehensive overview of what these systems are, how they work, and how they can be incorporated into your projects. 3 credits.
Today, e-commerce has become the platform for media and new, unique services and capabilities driven by Internet technology, including developments in security and payment systems, marketing strategies and advertising, financial applications, media distribution, business-to-business trade, and retail e-commerce. This course provides an in-depth overview of the challenges and realities behind the planning, creation and maintenance of online businesses. While this curriculum doesn't include creating an online business directly, each student will learn what options are available to entrepreneurs looking to start a business online and what challenges and pitfalls may await. Students will learn about the mobile digital platform, the emergence of cloud computing, new open source software tools. 3 credits.
Introduces students to the techniques of programming in C. The language syntax, semantics, its applications, and the portable library are covered. This course is an introductory course in programming. It does not assume previous programming experience. 3 credits. Students may not receive credit for both the INFO.2110/INFO.2120 sequence and INFO.2670
This course qualifies for free MSDNA software!
This course will cover the C++ language and show the student how to use the language. We will cover class construction, operator overloading, virtual functions, templates, and introduce the student to the IO streams. Inheritance and its use in creating extendible libraries will be presented. Object-oriented concepts will be presented in the context of the C++ language and its support for object-oriented programming. 3 credits.
This course qualifies for free MSDNA software!
Prerequisites:

P: INFO.2670 or INFO.2120; requires C++ compiler software

In this course, we will explore the C# language paradigm. Our goal will be to understand the basic language syntax from its type system to its class structure. We will begin with topics on Classes, interfaces, methods, enumeration's, and access modifiers. Once we have mastered the fundamentals, we will extend our knowledge in areas such as the use of delegates, events, lambda expressions and exception handling. 3 credits.
This course qualifies for free MSDNA software!
Prerequisites:

INFO.2680 or INFO.3010

This course introduces the fundamentals of Python including data types, expressions, control structures, file input and output, lists, dictionaries, functions, object oriented program design, simple graphics development, and the development of Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) in Python. Students will problem solve, explore real-world software development challenges, and create practical and contemporary applications. This course assumes previous programming experience. 3 credits.
This course is designed to teach you how to code cutting-edge web pages using the new HTML5 tags; We will introduce you to HTML5 web forms, and explain how to use them; We'll discover how to add multimedia content and how to use the Canvas element to draw shapes complete with fills, color strokes, gradients, and more; You'll learn how to combine the powerful styling and animation capabilities of CCS3 to enhance your web pages, and work with the technologies of HTML5 to make building web applications easier than ever. 3 credits.
This course introduces students to object oriented programming with Java(TM). Basic concepts are introduced early, with a strong focus on classes. Additional topics include event driven (Windows) programming and object-oriented design. Note that this is not an introductory course to programming - Students are expected to have a working knowledge of a least one high-level programming and/or scripting language (or equivalent experience) and basic familiarity with programming (using a text editor, etc). However, it will teach some basic programming concepts during the first few weeks. Previous programming experience required. Requires the Sun Java(TM) Development Kit. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

Previous programming experience required; requires J2SE Development Kit (JDK) 6.0 or higher

The JAVA (TM) programming language is now being used to write distributed Internet applications. Unlike traditional languages, the JAVA (TM) language was designed to be used on a network. Thus, it contains features needed to build efficient distributed applications that employ Internet resources. Those who intend to design World Wide Web information systems that fully utilize the Internet must have a working knowledge of this vital technology. This course allows students to explore features that set JAVA (TM) apart from traditional programming languages; obtain an overview of object-oriented design as it applies to JAVA (TM); learn about the fundamental constructs of the JAVA (TM) programming language; and write, compile, and include simple JAVA (TM) Applets within the content of HTML documents. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.2970 or INFO.2680; requires Sun Java Dev. Kit

An introductory course designed for the student who has mastered HTML and would like to add interactivity to his or her web sites. Topics covered include basic JavaScript programming, creating interactive forms, using frames and cookies, working with graphics and multimedia. Students will incorporate various JavaScript programs to their existing website. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.2910 or knowledge of HTML

Java is one of the mostly widely used languages for all kinds of software development. It continues to play a dominant role in Internet application development. It is well suited for developing applications for the enterprise, and in particular, client server solutions such as web applications. This course will cover the advanced aspects of the Java programming language which are required for successful development of sophisticated applications. Topics covered in this class include: effective use of the Java language, annotations, database connectivity (JDBC) and relational mapping, XML processing (JAXB), generics, multithreading, network programming, Java Server Pages (JSP) and servlets, Design Pattern, and building and testing Java programs. Java 8 features will be introduced. 3 credits.
The goal of this course is to provide an in-depth introduction to the Python programming language followed by an introduction to both the Perl and PHP. All of these languages share common functionality and are tools commonly used to solve similar problems, but each embodies a different philosophy and approach to solving those problems. After a thorough grounding in the language's basics, we'll explore their similarities, and, more importantly, their differences. By the end of the course, its' hoped, you'll have a good idea which of these tools is right for you and the kind of applications you wish to develop with them. 3 credits.
XML (eXtensible Markup Language) picks up where HTML leaves off. If you've studied HTML, you've learned the Web's formatting language. To structure content on the Web, you will need to learn XML. In this introductory course, you will learn basics of XML and the DTD (Document Type Definition), XSL (the style sheet for XML), and CDF (Channel Definition Format) commonly used in push technology. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.2910

Addresses manipulating and maintaining files within the UNIX file system; creating and editing text files using the vi and ed editors; using pipes, redirection, and filters; using advanced text processing utilities; using electronic mail; writing and debugging shell scripts; submitting and executing processes. 3 credits.
Teaches the students the techniques of programming in the high-level programming language of the Bourne, Korn, and BASH Shells. The course covers the building blocks necessary to create portable shell scripts that can be used as new utilities for computers running either UNIX, Linux, or the Cygwin environment on Windows. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.3110, and INFO.2670 or INFO.2120

The course will start by exploring the booting and setting up stand-alone system. Students will learn how to set up and manage user accounts, how to manage other resources such as disk space, CPU usage and user access to shared resources with maximization of security in mind. Since virtually all systems are networked today we will proceed to learn about e-mail (POP and SMTP protocols), Web servers and networking services. The course will present the following Internet services: DNS, FTP, telnet, HTTP (Apache Web Server), SSH. The intranet topics will be discussed including Network File System (NFS), Network Information Services (NIS) and interoperability with Windows system via Samba. At the conclusion of the course students will explore topics in networking: network configuration, security and interoperability. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

Shell Scripting experience; required software with tex

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of data structures such as stacks, queues, linear and linked lists, trees, graphs, hashing, etc., using the C programming language. Algorithms for manipulating these structures, such as sorting and searching techniques, will also be covered. 3 credits.
This course qualifies for free MSDNA software!
Prerequisites:

INFO.2670 or INFO.2120, and INFO.3640

This course will present an overview of the issues related to information security from a computer and computer network perspective. We will cover the threats to the information security infrastructure with a focus on the detection and prevention of them. We will discuss protection of PCs, servers, associated computer services (e.g. network, browsers) and data (e.g. file systems, email) through a "defense in depth" or "layered" approach. We will review major software packages, hardware devices, accepted technical and administrative practices that contribute to information security. The vulnerabilities and hardening of major operating systems such as Linux and Microsoft Windows will be discussed. The material is technical in nature however no systems administration or software development experience is assumed. Solid familiarity with the use of the Internet and computers is required and some knowledge of TCP/IP would be helpful. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.1600 and INFO.2020, or equivalent

This course explores the theory, mechanisms, and implementation of security in computer networks. Our goal is to provide an introduction to mathematical encryption and security protocols, and how these are applied to the infrastructure of IP (Internet Protocol) Networks. We will cover classical ciphers and cryptographic methods such as DES, 3DES, Feistel, AES, RC5, and Modern Public Key cryptography (e.g.RSA, Diffie-Hellman, ECC) and PKI ( Public Key Infrastructure). The second half of the course will introduce the principles and implementation of Kerberos, SSL/TLS (Secured Socket Layer, Transport Layer Security) IPSEC (IP Security) and Access Control. The mathematics required will be introduced in class. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

Prerequisite 1: INFO.4620 TCP/IP & Network Architecture or related experience, and Prerequisite 2: INFO.3190 Introduction to Linux or INFO.3110 Introduction to the Linux/Unix Operating System, or related experience. Check prerequisites in all prerequisite courses.

This course is an introduction to the major issues surrounding the use of computers in our society, with a special focus on fields related to computer science and information technology management. The course will cover an analysis of major trends in emerging computer technology and their potential effects on work, leisure, government, and human relations. Students will examine the assumptions which underlie our culture's relation to technology and the relation between their own ethics and the values and ethics implicit in our uses of technology and information. 3 credits. VC
This course discusses basic data communication concepts; digital and analog signaling; media and cabling systems; the OSI reference model; Physical and Data Link layer; LAN standards; Ethernet, Token Ring, FDDI, Switched technologies, emerging LAN standards; Bridges and Routers; and Network operating systems. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.2670 or previous programming Experience

This course is study of the TCP/IP and Network Architecture. We will focus on the concepts and fundamental principles that have contributed to the modern networks design and implementation using TCP/IP. Topics to be addressed in this course are IP, ARP, RARP, and ICMP protocols; IP routing; TCP protocol; Telenet, FTP, SMTP; TCP/IP next-generation; OSI network protocols and standards; Client/Server networking and applications. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.4610

This course will provide you with a general understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of network management. We will be covering the basics of network management and associated standards while also taking a look at some of the more recent technologies. We'll also augment the textbook readings with recent articles and papers that will pull real-world examples of how network management is used to help manage the ever increasing complexity of networks that we are so reliant on. 3 credits.
This course serves as an introduction to Management Information Systems (MIS), emphasizing information needs at various management levels, including problem finding as well as problem solving. The course highlights the use of real time, distributed data processing, decision support and expert systems in the decision-making process of today's business. The student will understand how the use of different hardware and software can answer a wide range of 'what if' questions, crucial in today's planning function. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

Junior status

Serves as a continuation of INFO.4770, stressing the systems approach of MIS, focusing on methodologies used and the control over MIS as it relates to other business areas. Case studies are used to unify preceding topics as they relate to corporate planning, marketing, manufacturing, accounting, finance and personnel subsystems. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

INFO.4770

This course looks at information systems from the perspective of corporate management, rather than at a technical or programming level. It emphasizes how managers can successfully understand and use information systems in order to better realize company objectives, such as the revenue maximization, cost reduction, customer satisfaction, etc. 6 credits.
Prerequisites:

Junior status, can be used to replace the sequence of INFO.4770 and INFO.4780

Intended for students whose background in basic algebra is current. Topics covered include: linear equations, slope of a line, quadratic equations, functions, transformations, inequalities, curve sketching, and systems of equations. Note: Students who score 45 or lower on the ALEKS math assessment should consider enrolling in MATH.1115 first. Credit is given for only one of the following courses; MATH.1200, or MATH.1210. 3 credits. Credit is given for only one of the following courses; MATH.1200, or MATH.1210.
Presents propositional logic, combinatorics, methods of proof, mathematical systems, algebra of sets, matrix algebra, relations and functions, recursion and generating functions, applications to computer science, and graph theory. 3 credits. Formerly MATH.3210
An introduction to descriptive statistics, graphing and data analysis, probability laws, discrete and continuous probability distributions, correlation and regression, inferential statistics. No credit in Sciences (except Biology and EEAS) or Engineering. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Quantitative Literacy (QL). 3 credits. MATH.1115 or equivalent; MA; Previously 92.183
Examination of individuals, groups, and organizations from a behavioral and structural perspective. Topics include employee motivation and satisfaction, communication, power and politics, the dynamics of groups and teams, conflict management, and organizational design and change. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

COM Filter courses,or BU minor

The course familiarizes students with key components and principles of information systems and information technology. Students will learn about the role of IS/IT in businesses for improving organizational performance, competing globally, and gaining competitive advantage. The course covers basic principles and technologies pertaining to information management, business intelligence, and business analytics for improving decision-making and managing knowledge. The basic role of enterprise systems in businesses for enabling operational excellence is also discussed. Social and ethical issues associated with the use of information systems are also discussed. Students will utilize IS technologies (e.g., spreadsheet and database software) in a hands-on manner for business problem-solving. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

COM Filter courses,or BU minor

The role of marketing in the economy. The elements of the marketing mix--product, price, distribution, and promotion--are discussed in the context of social and political constraints on marketing activity. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

ENGL.1010 & ECON.2010 Pre-

Introduction to quantitative methods for analyzing business problems. Analytic methods include decision analysis, linear programming, queuing and simulation. Applications address issues in areas such as marketing, production, finance and logistics. 3 credits.
Prerequisites:

MATH.2830,3860 or ECON.2110pre

Undergraduate Degree Requirements

All bachelor's degree candidates are required to earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average (GPA), to present a minimum of 120 semester hours, to fulfill the residency requirements, to conform to the general regulations and requirements of the University, to satisfy the regulations and academic standards of the colleges which exercise jurisdiction over the degrees for which they are matriculating, to satisfy the curriculum requirements established by the departments or programs in their major, and to complete the University's Core Curriculum requirements, which are listed within the program's curriculum outline. For additional information regarding the University's general policies and procedures, transfer credit information and residency requirements; please refer to our Academic Policies & Procedures.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition at UMass Lowell is typically half the cost of private colleges, and our online tuition is among the lowest in the nation. Tuition for online programs offered through the Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies is the same whether you live in-state, out-of-state or outside of the U.S.

Summer 2023 Tuition

Cost Per Credit Cost Per 3-Credit Course*

Undergraduate

Online $380 $1,140
Online Business** $385 $1,155
On Campus Lowell $340 $1,020
On Campus Haverhill $300 $900
*If the number of contact hours exceeds the number of credits, tuition is calculated by multiplying by the total number of contact hours.
†Rate will increase slightly in Fall 2023

Additional Costs

Term Registration Fee $30
Late Fee $50
Undergraduate Degree Application $60

Please note: Tuition and fees are subject to change.

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Complete the Online Undergraduate Degree Application Form (preferred), or print, complete and submit the Undergraduate Degree Application .pdf form. Please note: Your application will be processed once we have received your $60 application fee. Return your completed application along with your application fee to:

University of Massachusetts Lowell
Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies
GPS Admissions
839 Merrimack Street
Lowell, MA 01854

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Admission Requirements

To be considered for acceptance into a bachelor's degree program offered through the Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies, students must hold a high school diploma or have passed either the GED® or HiSET®. Graduate, Online & Professional Studies operates on a rolling admissions basis and each application is reviewed when the student's file is complete. Students must be admitted to a degree or certificate program in order to be eligible for most financial aid.

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