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Overview

Information systems engineers apply knowledge of engineering and scientific principles, computer technologies, and human cognition to design, implement and manage information systems.  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. Differences among Degree Options that focus on information science knowledge domains.

Information Systems Engineering is a bachelor's degree in the College of Engineering that has emerged recently to meet the needs of a modern information society (ISEBrochure.pdf).

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Requirements for the ISE bachelor's degree include core courses in information system concepts, cognitive principles, mathematics, physics and computer programming. Degree-specific courses cover a range of information content and information systems architecture topics.

Information system design and application courses as well as courses addressing social, societal, and individual interactions are included in the program. ISE graduates also should understand how their contributions are part of a business process and therefore courses focused on entrepreneurial thinking and interpersonal communication round out this rigorous degree program.

Information: Information is the key to success in the new economy. ISE graduates will understand how to collect, analyze, and use information and to navigate in the digital world.

Systems: Instead of a narrow scope of problem-solving, ISE graduates should be able to develop information technologies and systems responsive to complex human, business, and engineering interactions. The "whole" should be addressed as well as the "parts."

Engineering: Information systems engineers believe in the value of solid implementations to address real world problems. They are the "doers" for the information world. (Adapted from a Georgia Tech description of Information Systems Engineering)

Information Systems Engineering: we build systems that real people use. (Adapted from a Sandia National Labs description)

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

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 of 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.

For a list of related undergraduate and graduate programs, see The World List of Information Systems Programs.

Information Systems Engineering
5711 Boardman Hall Room 348
The University of Maine
Orono, Maine 04469-5711
Phone: 207.581.2188
Fax: 207.581.2206
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