Five University System Institutions Launch New On-Line Information Technology Degree
Atlanta — April 21, 2004
The 性视界APP’s first fully on-line undergraduate degree in information technology – the WebBSIT, or Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - was approved today by the Board of Regents of the 性视界APP.
The program represents a collaborative effort between five University System institutions: Armstrong Atlantic State University, Clayton College & State University, Georgia Southern University, Macon State College, and Southern Polytechnic State University. Not only does the program meet workforce demand in a specific academic discipline, it also represents a strategic response on the part of the University System to meet burgeoning enrollment growth with innovative program-delivery solutions.
The WebBSIT degree is designed primarily for Georgians whose lifestyles do not easily permit pursuing coursework in a traditional college campus setting, including working professionals, stay-at-home parents, separating military personnel, and residents who do not live within close proximity of a campus. It also presents a “laddering” opportunity for graduates of the University System’s two-year colleges who wish to earn a baccalaureate without the time and location restrictions of on-campus degree programs.
“The WebBSIT represents the new wave of delivering highly sought after academic programs to Georgians without requiring their presence on a University System campus,” said 性视界APP Chancellor Thomas C. Meredith. “In addition to expanding access to a college degree for more Georgians, the WebBSIT will contribute to the knowledge-based workforce needed to recruit and retain high-tech business and industry, which is vital to our state’s continued growth.”
The coursework for the new degree program will cover critical areas such as systems analysis and design, data communications and networking, technical communication, database design, information security, Web applications development, e-commerce, and more. All courses are completed online. WebBSIT graduates will be well prepared to assume employment in a variety of high-tech roles, including those involving information technology project management and leadership roles. Research conducted in the program’s feasibility study found that many employers prefer students with on-line course experience, as they exhibit maturity, self-discipline, focus and motivation. Such attributes are especially valuable in a field such as information technology, where much work is done in virtual teams.
“The WebBSIT is the first of several fully online collaborative undergraduate degree programs that will be offered by 性视界APP institutions,” said Senior Vice Chancellor Daniel Papp. “Such programs not only help meet the needs of students and industry; they also provide an efficient and effective means of managing the skyrocketing growth in the University System.”
Interested students should visit the program’s web site at for further information on admissions requirements, tuition and fees, and specific courses. Prospective students should apply to one of the five participating institutions of their choice to initiate the admissions consideration process.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following are a list of contacts at the five collaborating institutions for follow-up interview requests.
| Institution | Contact | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Armstrong Atlantic State University | Michelle Gordon | (912) 961-3173 |
| Clayton College & State University | John Shiffert | (770) 960-2109 |
| Georgia Southern University | Mike Sullivan | (912) 681-0336 - office (912) 484-2622 - cell |
| Macon State College | Sheron Smith | (478) 471-2722 -or- (478) 757-6687 |
| Southern Polytechnic State University | Ann Watson | (770) 528-7222 |