Individuals from all segments of society rely on information systems for communication, planning, control, and decision support. In response, information systems engineers design, implement and manage information systems based on their knowledge of engineering and scientific principles, computer technologies, and human cognition.
The undergraduate degree program in Information Systems Engineering (ISE) at the University of Maine offers an unequaled opportunity in New England for students to gain the knowledge necessary to use and develop a range of emerging information system technologies. These technologies may be put to use in responding to a host of economic, technical, social and cultural needs. As a graduate of the program you will be able to make a difference in how computer technologies, information systems and databases affect the everyday lives of people.
The mission of the Information Systems Engineering degree program is to educate students for professional practice by offering courses and experiences that promote creative discovery, foster teamwork and leadership and prepare students for lifelong learning. This is accomplished by a commitment to the highest possible standards of quality in the areas of teaching, research, advising, and service.
Our goal is to educate engineers and scientists who have a breadth of knowledge across the core subject matter of information systems engineering and can communicate and use that knowledge constructively for the benefit of others. Objectives in furtherance of this goal include assuring in our academic programs that students obtain foundation knowledge in mathematics, computation and basic science in order to pursue their engineering and science courses; gain knowledge in such a way that they can think independently and creatively; communicate their knowledge effectively to others and operate in society in a constructive, ethical and professional manner.
Detailed information about the program may be found at www.ise.umaine.edu/
Program Description
The undergraduate degree program in Information Systems Engineering (ISE) integrates a blend of multidisciplinary topics that enable students to effectively design next-generation information systems. We offer a focused yet interdisciplinary course of study. Students take courses in such topics as design basics for new media, information ethics, digital image processing, programming, human-computer interaction, digital video analysis, information system architectures, information system design, network design and applications, information retrieval and electronic commerce. All students work on a team to accomplish a series of major design projects during a year-long senior capstone course.
Objectives of the Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Information Systems Engineering are to provide:
- A solid foundation in the theory and application of information systems design, development, and management;
- A background in the mathematics, computational tools, physical sciences, and engineering methods useful for information system engineers;
- Opportunities for creative, original and critical thinking in solving information system design problems
- Opportunities for development of strong verbal and written communication skills;
- Development of a sense of professional ethics and responsibility to the community;
- An appreciation of interpersonal and management skills, teamwork and an ability to work collaboratively;
- Appreciation and understanding of the social, economic, political, and legal context in which professional activities are undertaken.
The curriculum includes 37 required courses and 4 elective courses. The elective courses must satisfy the General Education requirements by selection from the approved list of Human Values and Social Context courses. Students completing the program are prepared for jobs in information systems fields or for study toward an advanced degree.
This degree requires satisfactory completion of at least 127 credits with an accumulative grade point of not less than 2.0. The student must have achieved a minimum grade of 2.0 (C) in all ISE courses.
The Information Systems Engineering undergraduate degree program is administered by the Department of Spatial Information Science and Engineering. This Department also offers highly active graduate programs leading to the following degrees: Master of Science in Spatial Information Science and Engineering, and PhD in Spatial Information Science and Engineering. Further information about these programs is available in the graduate catalog or at www.spatial.maine.edu/
Employment Opportunities
Information technologies are applied in all segments of society - from engineering and business applications to applications in law, ecology, health care, transportation and a wide range of additional domains. The information systems engineer may be called upon to design and develop databases, develop a system architecture, establish system standards, integrate an information system with varied data sources and networks, and generally to plan, integrate, design, test or operate information systems. Some are involved in advancing the technology itself; developing software and systems to enhance the ability of individuals, business, government and industry to better utilize information systems in their daily tasks. Others are more directly involved in developing and implementing information systems to meet specific needs, such as for a business or entertainment application. Some information system professionals are involved in managing or operating an information system for an organization taking on associated management responsibilities. Yet others are self-employed developing new innovative products and services for sale in the marketplace. The career opportunities are diverse, rewarding, intellectually stimulating, and fun. See the web site at www.ise.umaine.edu/ for links to demand studies and salary surveys.
Scholarships
The department has several scholarships available on a competitive basis for students majoring in information systems engineering. Outstanding incoming students should apply for college and departmental scholarships through the College of Engineering.
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