B.S. Information Technology
124
Credit Hours
76%
Max Transfer Credit
Class Type
100% online, 6 & 12-week courses
Next Start Date
Apr 1, 2024
Cost Per Credit
Curriculum Alignment
PMBOK Guide & (ISC)2's CISSP

Back up your technology expertise with an information technology degree

Information technology professionals have described the profession in just three words. “Challenge with reward.” And no wonder. IT is one of the fastest growing and most diverse fields. From database administration to infrastructure analysis, IT is the cornerstone of business technology support. With Franklin’s B.S. Information Technology degree program, you’ll be well prepared for a dynamic career in every type of industry from government to enterprise, nonprofit to corporate, and business to healthcare.

Program Availability

On Site

Customizable Program

Take your pick of exciting electives.

Real-World Practitioners

Learn from experienced technology leaders.

Finish Faster

Transfer up to 94 previously earned college credits.

Go Beyond IT

Become both a technology champion and a more effective communicator.

Accredited Online University

Nearly 80% of our students take online courses.

In-Demand Skills

Learn from a leader in preparing working adults for career advancement.

Information Technology Degree Overview

Support business operations with technical know-how

Franklin’s transfer-friendly Information Technology degree program curriculum equips you with the mission-critical skills employers are looking for in the areas of network and systems administration, infrastructure management, information security, database administration, and IT project management.

Our faculty employs industry standards such as Project Management Institute’s PMBOK Guide and (ISC)2’s CISSP certification in their teaching, and our program is consistently evaluated by industry experts like Sean Amon, Associate Vice President for Network Engineering at Nationwide Insurance.

Become an IT champion with expert knowledge

Our online IT degree program curriculum will add depth to your existing IT knowledge and experience. You’ll learn how to administer Windows Server, Linux, Oracle 10g, Firewalls, Cisco switches and routers, IP addressing, WAN, and Wireless LAN. You’ll be introduced to programming languages like Perl, Shell, and PowerShell. You’ll also be prepared to build, connect, and manage the systems and devices of major computing platforms.

And, just as important, Franklin will equip you to effectively communicate your work to business leadership, stakeholders, end users and others, preparing you to be an IT champion for everything from daily operational activities to new technologies.

Transfer previously earned credits in related IT courses

Franklin accepts many industry certifications in lieu of select coursework for transfer credit, including Network+ and CCNA for networking, PMI for project management, CISSP and Security+ for security, RHCA/RHCE for Linux, and MSCA/MCSE for Windows.

You may also be eligible to transfer previously earned credits in courses related to databases, computer graphics, operating systems, networks, web design and implementation, multimedia technologies, programming, and other approved IT-related areas.

Or, if you don’t have previously earned credits or specialized certifications, credits earned in a Franklin associate degree program apply directly to this Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology program.

Earn your IT degree from a university built for busy adults

Earn your degree on your terms by taking classes 100% online. Accredited and nonprofit, Franklin was built from the ground-up to satisfy the needs of adult learners. Our seamless transfer process and team of academic advisors will help ease your transition to becoming a student, while our flexible course schedules help to balance your education with work, family and life. Get started on your future today.

*Source information provided by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI)

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Tyler B

B.S. Information Technology

"Franklin allows me to have the freedom to focus on my school work while providing for my family, which makes learning obtainable with a busy lifestyle. Whether I am traveling for work or putting the kids to bed, Franklin allows me to be present and then dive into my studies when it’s convenient for me. "

Future Start Dates

Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please request free information & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.

Spring 2024
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Your Best Value B.S. Information Technology

Choose Franklin's  B.S. Information Technology and get a high-quality degree that fits your life and budget. 

Keep the Credit You've Earned

66
AVG TRANSFER HOURS

On average, students transfer in 1/2 of the credits required.

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$11,940
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$23,084
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*$398 per credit, 124 Total Credits, 94 maximum transfer credits, 66 average transfer credits.

 

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Information Technology Courses & Curriculum

124 Semester Hours
Fundamental General Education
English Composition
ENG 120 - College Writing (4)

In this course, students acquire the writing competencies necessary for completing analytical and argumentative papers supported by secondary research. A variety of assignments, beginning with personal reflections, build upon one another, as students develop ideas that respond to, critique, and synthesize the positions of others. Students systematize and organize knowledge in ways that will help them in all their courses. The course also emphasizes the elements of critical reading, effective writing style, appropriate grammar and mechanics, clarity of language, and logical and cohesive development. It culminates in submission of an extended, documented research paper.

Mathematics
MATH 160 - College Algebra (4)

This course is designed to prepare students for Applied Calculus and Discrete Mathematics and to provide the mathematical background needed for the analytic reasoning used in other courses. Topics include functions and their graphs, including exponential and logarithmic functions; complex numbers; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; basic principles of counting and probability; and other selected topics. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

Choose MATH 150 Fundamental Algebra as the prerequisite. Course can count as a University elective.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

6 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology. Must select at least two different disciplines to meet requirements.

Science

6 credits from the following types of courses:
Two courses from the Science discipline. One course must have a lab component.

Arts & Humanities
HUMN 211 - Introduction to Critical Ethics (2)

Critical Ethics uses critical thinking to get around the limitations of personal belief and indoctrination to get to what ought to be done and why to improve the human condition. Accordingly, the goal of this course is to help the student improve his/her ethical analysis and evaluation skills to help the student do the thing that must be done, when it ought to be done, using critical thinking.

4 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from the Art, English Literature, Fine Arts, Humanities, Music, Philosophy, Religion or Theater disciplines.

Additional General Education
PF 121 - Basic Learning Strategies (2)

This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferrable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for time management, goal setting, reading comprehension, and advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments.

OR PF 321 - Learning Strategies (2)

This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments. The assignments and activities in the course are created to closely simulate teamwork found in the workplace.

COMM 150 - Interpersonal Communication (4)

By using applied critical and creative thinking, students in this course will develop a set of communication skills that will enhance their personal and professional relationships and endeavors. This course will focus on skill development in key areas such as self, perception, listening, verbal messages, conversations, relationships, conflict management, persuasion, and presentation skills.

OR SPCH 100 - Speech Communication (4)

This basic public-speaking course intends to improve the student's ability to think critically and to communicate orally. Theory and practice are provided in various speaking situations. Each student is required to speak before an audience, but class work also involves reading, gathering and organizing information, writing, and listening.

ENG 220 - Research Writing: Exploring Professional Identities (4)

This is an intermediate course focusing on the composition of research papers. Students in this course prepare to be active participants in professional discourse communities by examining and practicing the writing conventions associated with their own fields of study and work. By calling attention to the conventions of disciplinary writing, the course also prepares students for upper-division college writing and the special conventions of advanced academic discourse. Course activities include three extended research papers, semi-formal writing addressing interdisciplinary communication, and readings fostering critical engagement with disciplinary conversations.

MATH 280 - Intro to Probability & Statistics (4)

This course is designed to serve students in the Computer Science major as well as in other technology majors. The topics covered are descriptive statistics in numerical and graphical methods, probability concepts, discrete and continuous probability distributions, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, simple linear regression and correlation, and linear programming. These topics will be taught with rigorous algebra content and use statistical software, such as Excel.

Professional Core
COMP 111 - Introduction to Computer Science & Object-Oriented Programming (4)

This course provides an introduction to software construction using an object-oriented approach. The student learns and reflects on problem analysis, object-oriented design, implementation, and testing. To support the concepts and principles of software construction, the student will design, code, test, debug, and document programs using the Java programming language. Basic data types, control structures, methods, and classes are used as the building blocks for reusable software components. Automated unit testing, programming style, and industrial practice are emphasized in addition to the object-oriented techniques of abstraction, encapsulation, and composition.

OR ITEC 136 - Principles of Programming (4)

This course introduces programming to individuals with little or no programming background. The goal of this course is to introduce the fundamentals of structured programming, problem solving, algorithm design, and software lifecycle. Topics will include testing, data types, operations, repetition and selection control structures, functions and procedures, arrays, and top down stepwise refinement. Students will design, code, test, debug, and document programs in a relevant programming language.

COMP 204 - Principles of Computer Networks (2)

This course serves as an introduction to the function, design, administration, and implementation of computer networks. Topics include network infrastructure, architecture, protocols, applications, and the OSI networking model.

ISEC 200 - Cyber Security Fundamentals (2)

The Internet has changed dramatically, and so have the activities that are dependent on it in some shape or form. Understanding the need for security, its influence on people, businesses and society, as well as business drivers, are critical. The course also covers malicious attacks, threats and vulnerabilities common to the world of security, as well as access controls and methods to assess and respond to risks. Hands-on labs accompany the various concepts that are taught.

ITEC 200 - Linux Fundamentals (2)

This course introduces the Linux operating system with a focus on the foundational Linux concepts and core tasks of the system administrator. Students will examine numerous commands and tools to maintain and operate Linux systems. This course utilizes hands-on lab exercises to provide students with professional experience.

CLOUD 200 - Cloud Fundamentals (2)

This course explores the concepts of cloud computing, including financial impacts and business value, financial requirements, deployment, risks, and security. Hands-on exercises help students to gain experience with cloud computing environments, identifying technical and security requirements for given deployment scenarios, implementing the proposed cloud deployment scenario, and troubleshooting technical issues of existing cloud computing scenarios.

12 credits from the following types of courses:
Computer Graphics, Operating Systems, Networks, Web Design & Implementation, Multimedia Technologies, Programming, and other IT-related areas with the approval of the Program Chair.

If transferring credits into Franklin, students must have credits in the following disciplines: Programming Fundamentals Course (4), Database Fundamentals Course (4), Network Fundamentals Course (2), Cybersecurity Fundamentals Course (2).

Major Area Required
ITEC 275 - Computer Networks: Switching, Routing, & Wans (4)

This course covers both the design and basic configuration of computer networks. Using Cisco Systems CCDA? certification as a guide, students will learn about the OSI model, network topologies, Wide Area Network (WAN) technologies, wireless LAN, IP addressing, routing protocols, and network security mechanisms. This course also utilizes simulation software to create a small virtual network on the student's personal computer running Windows XP or Vista. This provides the student interactive configuration experience with the Cisco Systems Internetworking Operating System (IOS) in an isolated environment. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

ITEC 400 - Linux Administration (4)

This course provides an in-depth exploration of critical Linux system administration skills. It encompasses various topics, ranging from fundamental tasks such as working with text files and user account management to more advanced subjects like system process optimization, storage management, virtualization, and security. Throughout the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of Linux file systems, disk management, networking, firewalls, users and groups, system services, processes, kernel management, shell scripting, package management, security, virtualization, containers, performance tuning, log management, backup and recovery, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

ITEC 495 - Information Technology Capstone (4)

The Information Technology Capstone course encourages teamwork in small groups on a substantial project. The intent of this course is to provide a capstone experience that integrates the material contained in courses required of the information technology major. It also provides an opportunity for students to recognize and evaluate the interrelationship of their general education courses with the courses taken for their information technology major. The capstone course will include a discussion about professional and ethical issues related to information technology. Students will also culminate their experiences with an overview of the evolution of computer systems and a look at the near-term future.

MIS 310 - Info Systems Architecture & Technology (4)

This course provides a conceptual survey of general systems theory followed by a conceptual and technological survey of the structure of distributed information systems architectures, operating systems, network operating systems, peripheral technology and user interfaces. Interoperability between these architectural components will be explored and current technology and trends in each architectural element will be reviewed. This course will de-emphasize, although not ignore, mainframe architectures in favor of information architectures more applicable to client/server computing. The various interacting categories of client/server computing as well as the benefits and implications of such a system will be fully explored.

COMP 281 - Database Management Systems (4)

This course, Database Management Systems, covers the fundamental concepts necessary for the design, use, implementation, and administration of database systems. The course will stress the fundamentals of database modeling and design, the languages and facilities provided by database management systems, and some techniques for implementing and administering database systems.

ITEC 430 - Information Technology Project Management (4)

This course provides an introduction to the concepts of information technology project management and techniques for initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and controlling of resources to accomplish specific project goals. Both technical and behavioral aspects of project management are discussed. While the focus is on information technology projects, the principles follow the nine project management knowledge areas obtained in the Project Management Institute's?PMBOK?Guide, Third Edition?and, thus, are applicable to the management of any project. Topics will include integration, scope, time, cost, quality, human resource, communications, risk, and procurement management. Project management software utilization is emphasized.

OR ITEC 640 - Project Management (4)

This course examines various issues related to the management of information systems. Topics include: strategic planning, organizing the technology resources, means of prioritizing and selecting information technology, staffing, personnel management, and assessment.

ISEC 300 - Information Assurance (4)

In a highly connected, data intensive, and cost-focused business environment, the practice of information security not a business advantage; it is a customer requirement. Viruses, malware, trojans, denial of service attacks, phishing, and even WikiLeaks have become headline news. Failure to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data costs companies millions, if not billions, of dollars in legal settlements, lost business, and trade secrets. In this breadth-based course, you will get an overview of information security principles and practices, including security models, risk management, access controls, intrusion detection and prevention, cryptography, software vulnerabilities, and ethical issues. Subsequent courses expand on this foundational material in much greater depth.

OR ISEC 610 - Information Assurance (4)

This course covers the fundamentals of security in the enterprise environment. Included are coverage of risks and vulnerabilities, threat modeling, policy formation, controls and protection methods, encryption and authentication technologies, network security, cryptography, personnel and physical security issues, as well as ethical and legal issues. This foundational course serves as an introduction to many of the subsequent topics discussed in depth in later security courses.

Students may take a graduate level course to fulfill requirements in an undergraduate program. Please review the academic policy and speak with your advisor for more details.

Major Electives

At least 8 credits from the following courses:

ISEC 325 - Communication & Network Security (4)

Networks are the major point of entry to most computer systems. Preventing unwanted intrusion, use, abuse, or flooding of communications channels is a high priority to organizations trying to protect their assets. Network security is about preserving the appropriate use of network resources while preventing disallowed use. In this course, you will learn how to employ firewalls, VPNs, and stateful packet inspection techniques to harden computer networks. Topics include packet filtering, intrusion detection and prevention, ingress and egress rules, monitoring, network access controls, authentication, authorization, and auditing.

ISEC 350 - Security Risk Management (4)

Proper assessment, management, and mitigation of risk are essential to any information security strategy. Risks aren't just related to IT assets but to the overall business that the IT organization is supporting; thus, business continuity planning and impact analysis is also important. In this course, you will learn how to identify and analyze risks, determine compliance laws, risk assessment and mitigation, business impact analysis, and business continuity and disaster recovery planning.

ISPM 450 - Advanced Project Management (4)

This course focuses on knowledge, understanding, and skills related to building competencies in overseeing the architecture, design, and implementation of software systems. Specific topics include agile software development practices, planning and governance of large projects, identification, assessment and management of current and emerging information technologies, and the application of project management tools for software architecture, project communications, risk analysis, cost estimation and budgeting, and quality control in managing the software development life cycle.

ITEC 350 - Windows Administration (4)

This course provides the student with an introduction to Windows Server administration and is structured to assist a network manager or planner in planning, configuring, installing, running, and repairing networks that include a Windows Server 2008. As such, it provides an introduction to server installation, Active Directory, printer management, domains, network clients, security, disaster recovery, fault/error management, and scripting of common tasks. This course also uses cloud technologies and requires internet access.

ITEC 450 - Database Administration (4)

This course covers a breadth of subjects in Database Administration. Building on the database management systems course, this course covers topics about the configuration, administration, and performance of the database engine itself. Using Oracle 11g as a platform, students will learn about installation, configuration, performance tuning, security, disaster planning and recovery, and network connectivity of databases. This course also uses virtualization software to isolate the database server operating system from the underlying host operating system. As such, administrative access to a fast machine with at least 1 gigabyte of memory and 20 gigabytes of available hard drive space is required.

DATA 300 - Introduction to Analytics (4)

This course introduces the fundamentals of Business and Data Analytics. Students will learn business problem framing, data wrangling, descriptive and inferential statistics, data visualization, and data storytelling in analytics.

DATA 310 - Data Visualization (4)

This course introduces data visualization fundamentals using the leading visualization tools in the industry and focuses on project-based learning. Students will learn how to develop dashboards and discover insight effectively based on data.

DATA 400 - Principles of Machine Learning (4)

Students will learn the basic concepts behind major machine learning algorithms, the essential steps for creating a typical machine learning model, the strengths and weaknesses of different algorithms, and the model evaluation using different performance metrics. Eventually students will be able to build a prediction model by machine learning algorithm using Python language. The differences between Java and Python will be reviewed. The common problems in practical machine learning exercises and their solutions also will be discussed.

ITEC 475 - Virtualization & Cloud Computing (4)

Today?s organizations have come to depend on storing data and provisioning services through virtual cloud infrastructures. This course provides a broad coverage of virtualization and cloud infrastructure technologies, how this contrasts with physical data centers, and the ways that organizations transition between these environments. Students plan, design, and provision cloud-based virtual desktops, documents, applications, and services across multiple platforms.

Other 300 or 400 level courses may be selected from Computer Science, Information Security, Information Systems, Information Technology, or Web Development upon approval of the Program Chair.

University Electives

24 credits from the following types of courses:
Any undergraduate courses offered by the University except developmental education courses.

Additional Requirements

All students are required to pass College Writing (ENG 120), and either Basic Learning Strategies (PF 121) or Learning Strategies (PF 321) prior to enrolling in any course at the 200 level or above. Students who enroll at Franklin with 30 or fewer hours of transfer credit are required to pass PF 121 Basic Learning Strategies in place of PF 321 Learning Strategies. Interpersonal Communication (COMM 150) or Speech Communication (SPCH 100) must be taken prior to enrolling in any course at the 300 level or above. Students must also meet the University algebra competency requirement.

Academic Minors

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Industry-Aligned to Fuel Your Career Growth

AWS Academy Member

When it comes to building cloud expertise: Relevance rules. By choosing Franklin University, an AWS Academy member institution, you can be assured that the knowledge and skills you gain will prepare you well for real-world scenarios. With access to curriculum developed and maintained by AWS, Franklin provides the most up-to-date thinking to help you tackle on-the-job challenges.

Microcredentials Align with Job Essentials

In today's dynamic work environments, adaptive professionals thrive. A microcredential - either as a stand-alone course or integrated into your degree program - is a short, skill-specific recognition that enables you to demonstrate your competency in a distinct area. Like Franklin's degree programs, microcredentials are aligned with market and industry demand to ensure what you learn can be put to use right away. Microcredentials are easily shared via digital badges and can be stacked to create a unique portfolio of in-demand skills.

B.S. Information Technology Program Details

Information Technology Career Opportunities

Database Administrator

Database Administrators create solutions for computer-based data storage, retrieval, management, tracking, and manipulation.

Help Desk Technical Specialist

Help Desk Technical Specialists provide technical support by troubleshooting software, hardware and system problems, answering end-user questions, and resolving problems.

IT Project Manager

IT project managers lead and manage a wide range of technology projects, including system installation and upgrades, security initiatives, and application development.

IT Support Generalist

IT Support Generalists provide frontline technical assistance by assisting end users in resolving desktop, printer, network, email, and operating systems issues.

Network Administrator

Network Administrators provide hardware and software technical leadership to ensure that networks function at optimal levels.

Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators plan for and oversee the installation, support, and maintenance of computer systems to ensure uptime, outage response, and issues resolution.

Web Security Administrator

Web Security Administrators oversee computer system protection plans and protocols, implementing policies and programs to ensure the integrity and security of systems and data.

Information Technology Career Outlook

12%

From 2021-2031, jobs in Information Technology are expected to increase by 12%

All Occupations

2021
5,249,961 jobs
2031
5,863,695 jobs
Show Details >

Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

2021
1,600,098 jobs
2031
1,924,125 jobs

Computer Systems Analysts

2021
622,728 jobs
2031
677,941 jobs

Computer Occupations, All Other

2021
420,138 jobs
2031
452,283 jobs

Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers

2021
198,907 jobs
2031
222,454 jobs

Computer Systems Analysts

2021
622,728 jobs
2031
677,941 jobs

Computer and information Research Scientists

2021
33,938 jobs
2031
38,840 jobs


Source information provided by Lightcast.

Information Technology Knowledge & Skillsets

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