Business department introduces MIS major
By KAREN FINK
News Writer
The Saint Mary's business department is offering students a new major, Management Information Systems (MIS).
The business department and the mathematics department started combining efforts to create the major two years ago.
"MIS is an area of study that is in demand and the time seemed right. Introduction of the MIS major is an important step because it will make students increasingly marketable in this age of heightened technology," said business department chair Jill Vihtelic.
Currently, Saint Mary's has four students — one senior and three juniors — with MIS as their declared major. The degree benefits anyone interested in a business career, and it requires 58 credit hours: 33 in business core requirements, 19 in computer science courses and six in math courses.
This spring, Saint Mary's will award its first MIS degree to senior Katie Cousino. She became interested in the major after doing some research her sophomore year for Susan Vance, Professor of Business Administration and Economics.
"It's exciting to say I'm the first to graduate with the degree, but it's just great to be able to graduate with the degree. It's a powerful major and helps you move into the door of business, especially for a woman with the degree," said Cousino.
Following graduation, Cousino hopes to work as a project leader, a position dealing with consulting and helping business people communicate with the needs and requirements of computers.
Junior Kara Bergeman chose MIS as a major because of its need in the business world.
"The program is very structured right now because it is new. It's an up and rising field. Most industries are looking for graduates with this type of degree," she said.
Associate Professor of Mathematics Mary Connolly is one of the many individuals who played a role in organizing the major.
"The MIS major is perfect for a student who has a strong interest in business and information technology," said Connolly. "It is an exciting time at Saint Mary's for students and faculty working in computer science. Not only do we have a new major, but also the campus is bursting with new technology. It is a joy to teach up-to-date courses in new technology classrooms."
All News Stories for Monday, November 1, 1999
