Award: Associate of Science Degree
No. of credits required: 60
For more information: Contact Business & Applied Technology at bat@harford.edu; or Admissions, 443-412-2109.

Program Description

Information Systems Management emphasizes business, organizational and management concepts as well as computer technology skills. Coursework in areas such as business fundamentals, accounting, finance, marketing, production, management, computer programming, systems analysis and design, database concepts, and management and data communications are typical for a degree in ISM. Students learn how to analyze, design and implement information systems that will provide managers with the information needed to make operational and strategic decisions for large and small companies.

Program Goals

Information Systems Management is a transfer program focusing on the use of computers in business. Students who successfully complete the Information Systems Management degree will:

1. Analyze the use of commercial software applications, hardware, networks, programming, and other technologies including databases in information systems at a basic level of competence.
2. Use, maintain and modify existing information systems.
3. Design and implement new information systems.
4. Demonstrate the skills to work in a business environment including working in teams, project management, and professional and effective communication with a wider audience.
5. Achieve the necessary level of competence in the subject to continue studying Information Systems at a four-year institution.

Note that these goals are very similar to the CIS Program goals, but at a less advanced level, since instead of taking more advanced computing electives, ISM students will be taking more general education requirement courses and business-related courses.

Transfer Information

This program provides the first two years of a baccalaureate degree in Information Systems Management. After completion of the program, students are prepared to transfer to a four-year institution and specialize in Information Systems Management. Students have numerous opportunities for transfer. Interested students should contact academic advising or program faculty.

Employment Information

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment for Information Systems Managers is expected to increase 10%, adding 48,100 new jobs by 2029. 

Homeland Security and Cyber-Security continue to gain increased emphasis for our nation’s security. This degree program provides the foundation for students preparing for these challenging and critical careers.

Diversity Requirement

To satisfy the diversity requirement: Associate degree students must complete one 3-credit diversity course (D). It is recommended that students select one of the 3-credit (GB), (GAH), (GI) course electives from those that also appear on the approved list of diversity course graduation requirements.

Degree Requirements

Recommended Course Sequence

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Electives should be chosen according to the requirements of the institution to which transfer is planned. 

General Education Degree Requirements

Note: The following codes identify courses which satisfy the General Education Degree Requirements:

Behavioral/Social Science (GB)
English Composition (GE)
Arts/Humanities (GAH)
Interdisciplinary and Emerging Issues (GI)
Biological/Physical Laboratory Science (GL)
Mathematics (GM)
Biological/Physical Science (GS)