Plant propagation: Sexual and Asexual propapagation.pptx
Advising FAQs
1. IST Advising Center, 104 IST Building, 814‐865‐8947, advising@ist.psu.edu
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between Information Sciences and Technology and Computer Science?
IST bridges the gap between creators and users of IT. It uses hardware and software (and other types of
information technology), as well as communications and business skills to solve problems in any field.
The primary focus is on computer, behavioral, and social sciences. Many students that enroll into IST
have the following in common:
They enjoy using technology
They like working with people
They like the challenge of solving problems
They are comfortable working with math
They want to make a difference
Computer science uses math and physics to design and create the computer software. It develops
creators of IT and its primary focus is on mathematics and physics. Its foundation is based on building
and deconstructing operating systems.
What can I do with an SRA (Security and Risk Analysis) degree?
SRA can help put you on the front line in confronting threats to our security, responding to emergencies,
protecting vital information, and helping to create laws and policies that ensure personal privacy. More
than ever, problem solvers with broad skills and relevant experience are needed to meet the challenges
posted by identity theft, cyber terrorism, and other global problems. With the three options in SRA, you
can choose to:
Focus on strategic and tactical levels of intelligence collection, analysis, and decision‐making,
Focus on network security, cyber‐threat defense, information warfare, and critical infrastructure
protection, or
Focus on legal, regulatory, ethical, and a vast array of other topics associated with security and
risk.
Is there any special housing for College of IST students?
Yes, at University Park. The IST Special Living Option (SLO) is available to students who would like to live
among others with similar interests. Students are able to assist each other with school work and build
friendships outside the classroom. There are also special events sponsored by the IST SLO, which are not
available to everyone living on campus.
2. How can I get involved in extracurricular activities?
The College of IST and Penn State offer many student organizations spanning a broad range of interests.
Visit the college's student organization Web page and Penn State's student activity directory for more
information.
When will I enter into a major?
The entrance to a major becomes official during the summer semester after your sophomore year. All
first‐semester students entering the College of IST are admitted into a common year (pre‐major) status,
called INFST. Students officially declare their major online using Penn State's eLion system during the
second semester of their sophomore year.
Are there any requirements for getting into the ISTBS or SRA major for the 2009‐2010 admits?
Students interested in ISTBS need to take IST 110, IST 210, IST 220 with a C or better by the end of
Spring 2011. Students interested in SRA need to complete IST 110, SRA 111, SRA 211 with a C or better
by the end of Spring 2011. Both majors require a cumulative grade‐point average of 2.0 or higher by the
end of Fall 2010 and maintained through Spring 2011.
Are there any requirements for getting into the ISTBA major for the 2009‐2010 admits?
Yes. To be eligible for entrance to the Information Sciences and Technology (ISTBA) major, students
must have the following:
Achieved at least third semester classification and no greater than fourth semester classification
while pursuing a program of study appropriate for entry to the major as shown in the Bulletin.
Achieved a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00 prior to and through the end of the
semester during which the entrance‐to‐major procedure is carried out.
Consulted with an officially designated College of Information Sciences and Technology
academic adviser prior to the completion of 60 credits of course work to design a formal and
approved program that meets specific and appropriate educational and/or career goals.
How do I make an appointment with an Academic Adviser in the College of IST?
To schedule appointments students can call the Advising Center at 814‐865‐8947, stop by 104 IST, or
email advising@ist.psu.edu. Appointments cannot be made online or through emailing your assigned
adviser. Students enrolled in the College of IST will meet with their assigned adviser, which can be found
by running a degree audit through eLion. Registration is a busy period for the advisers; it is
recommended that you contact the Advising Center early, at least two weeks before your
registration date, to schedule an appointment.
I’m considering doing a minor, where can I find information on what minors are available?
Minors are great ways to supplement your educational goals. Information on minors can be found in the
University Bulletin. Also, you can check out the FAQ page on the IST minor website for additional
information. Use eLion to obtain a degree audit for the minor you are considering and plan to meet with
your adviser to review how minor courses can be used in your IST or SRA degree.