Degree Programs
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Distance Education Degree Completion
What is ICT?
The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) curriculum covers the topics
and concepts that are required to design, implement, and manage a variety of computer-based
information systems. The curriculum includes the study of computer hardware, application
and operating systems software, system integration, database design and management, networking,
and network security. Graduates can expect to fill positions with titles such as Information
Technologist, Project Manager, Systems or Network Administrator, Computer Support Specialist,
and Database Administrator.
What is degree completion?
The ICT courses, themselves, are junior and senior level. This makes the program an
attractive path to the baccalaureate degree for associate degree graduates of
computer and other technology-related programs. However, an associate degree is
not a requirement. Freshmen and sophomore students that are majoring in the program
have numerous options and course combinations that will prepare them for their
junior-senior ICT courses. These options include computer technology, business
information systems, computer graphics, computer assisted design, and engineering
technology.
What Background is Needed?
Before enrolling in the junior/senior ICT courses, students are expected to have
a computer-related or technology background, for example, in computer assisted
drafting or graphics, programming, networking, electronics, or other related
technology area. There are some specific course requirements that also need to
be met before taking the junior level ICT courses. These are in the areas of written
and oral communications, mathematics, and science.
Information and Communication Technology Degree Plan
Information and Communication Technology Site
Students taking the distance ICT courses must have familiarity with and unrestricted access to a computer with a CD drive, a current web browser, a high speed connection to the Internet without restrictions, email capability, a sound card, and Microsoft Office. Technologies used for course delivery include Blackboard, Quicktime videos, PDF files, and other commonly used formatting. Some software required for specific courses will be available at student discount. The NMSU Distance Education Homepage has additional information on orientation, support, the use of library resources, and the use of the university bookstore for students in distance programs.
ICT program places an emphasis
on practical applications of engineering and science rather than placing an emphasis
on theory and derivation. There is an overlap between the curricula of the ICT Program
and the department's Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology Program.
Unlike the other programs offered by the department, the ICT Program was not designed to
be an Engineering Technology program. For example, the mathematics and science requirements
are noticeably different. This and other differences do not compromise the program's
objectives and maximize the use of transfer credit from a variety of programs.