EMU Today

YPSILANTI – National, state and regional data sources have confirmed talent shortages in information technology at many levels, including automotive, banking and academia. Analysts have projected a 22 percent growth in IT jobs by 2020, including a 20 percent increase in the need for such skilled professionals in the healthcare field.

Eastern Michigan University is aiming to help meet that demand with a new Bachelor of Science in Information Technology that will focus on areas such as IT infrastructure, project management and integration, systems and network administration and IT architecture.

The University’s Board of Regents approved the program at its regular meeting Friday, Dec. 15.

Students will receive training in areas such as computer systems, networks, database management, web application development and administration, and security.

“The last decade has witnessed a surge in what was already a fast-paced series of technology changes,” said Rhonda Longworth, provost and executive vice president of academic and student affairs. “Advancements and the lowering of prices for various types of resources have revolutionized technology as a field of study and made it an attractive area for students to pursue. This program will prepare students for a variety of high-demand jobs in rapidly growing areas.”

The new Information Technology program continues Eastern’s push to create programs that meet the needs of today’s students and employers. Last February, Eastern announced a new degree program in Mechanical Engineering. In October, it announced a new program in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 20,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Health and Human Services; Technology, and its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website