The ability to put technology to work and to communicate effectively are two of the most critical basic skills a professional can have.  That is why Penn State believes that students in all fields should be able to build an academic program that enables them to become knowledge workers.  And, that is why the School of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) is working closely with the College of Liberal Art's Department of Communication Arts and Sciences.

Students interested in pursuing a career as communications consultants, in management or human
resources, as political speechwriters, or as independent businesspersons all need information
management skills. Others may be interested in the management of technology-oriented businesses.

The IST/CAS minor provides you with a solid base in the information sciences and technology
through courses in IST's core curriculum, the same ones taken by all students majoring in IST.  You may then select from a group of speech communication courses in which you will study the application of information technology-how organizations communicate effectively through the new technologies.

Students must apply for entrance to this minor no later than the beginning of their seventh semester at Penn State.  There is a one-time tuition surcharge of $750 when the students formally enter the IST/CAS minor.  A grade of "C" or better is required in all courses to successfully complete the minor.

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Prescribed  Courses

IST 110: Introduction to Information Sciences and Technology  4 credits

IST 210: Organization of Data  3 credits

IST 220: Networking and Telecommunications  3 credits

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Additional Courses (Select 3)

CAS  383 Culture and Technology  3 credits

CAS 483 Information Technology and Communication  3 credits

CAS 352 Speech Communication in Organizations    3 credits

CAS 452 Organizational Communication  3 credits

Total required credits=19

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For further information contact:

Dr. Ellen Taricani
Department of Communication Arts and Sciences
227 Sparks Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-9317
ext2@psu.edu