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December 6, 2012

ULM College of Business proposes new program to address job market opportunities

Job opportunities in computer information systems are projected to grow about 26 percent by 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Northeast Louisiana will experience an even bigger increase—a projected 47 percent growth.

The University of Louisiana at Monroe College of Business is launching a new program that will empower professionals to benefit from this expanding field.

On Dec. 3 in Baton Rouge, the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors approved ULM's proposal for a Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Information Systems.

Computer Information Systems Faculty Chair Dr. Bill Barnett said, “The CIS faculty and I look forward to working with students seeking an alternative entry into a career path in the technology field. We worked closely with our industry partners, including CenturyLink, to develop a program that will prepare graduates for a wide variety of high demand, professional-level IT positions.”

The proposed certificate program will provide an alternative approach for individuals who wish to pursue careers in high-demand occupations related to software application development, database analysis, and network administration.

A baccalaureate degree is required for entrance into this certification program, which will be delivered in the traditional classroom environment.

"We strongly believe this program will address the region’s need for skilled information technology professionals," said ULM President Dr. Nick J. Bruno.

The average salary for those working in computer information systems was approximately $53,439 in 2011, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

College of Business Dean Dr. Ron Berry said, “The College of Business faculty work closely with the business community to ensure we are preparing appropriately educated graduates to meet the workforce needs of our region. Our new PBC in CIS is a direct result of those efforts.”

Pending approval by the Louisiana Board of Regents, the program will begin accepting students in the summer. For more information, contact the College of Business at 318-342-1100.

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