MaSSSoftech

THIBODAUX — Business students at Nicholls State University have new options for high-tech classes this year because of a partnership with IBM.
Working with the International Technology Corp., Business College administrators and faculty revamped computer-information-systems curriculum to offer new courses that better prepare students for jobs after graduation.

"Just the three letters IBM are exciting," said Bryan Samaha, a senior majoring in computer-information-systems and president of the information-systems student organization. "This will help students in the long run."

By teaming with professionals at IBM, many of whom are veterans in business technology, school administrators were able to reshape the department. Computer-information-systems classes will now include skills that students might not have learned until they were in the workforce.

Neset Hikmet, an information-systems professor involved with the changes, said students will be able to choose courses to fit their intended careers.

The new classes began this fall, and Hikmet said they have already received a great deal of interest, even drawing students to Nicholls from other schools.

Hikmet said computer-information-systems classes teach students how to make computer systems work for businesses. The program includes classes in a wide range of business-related fields: accounting, economics, marketing and computer systems.

Samaha said the field is perfect for students who love technology but don't want to sit behind a computer all day.

The new classes will be offered to students across all levels, including undergraduate and MBA students.

Also at Thursday's meeting were representatives from area businesses looking to capitalize on a local source of technology-savvy business graduates. Organizations represented included Thibodaux Regional Medical Center, Assumption Parish School Board and the Baton Rouge branch of Exxon Mobil.

"Here's a whole area of job opportunities in information technology that are real, very much alive," said Sherry Welch, an IBM representative.

Welch also said there will be a strong emphasis on internships and other job experience that will benefit both students and businesses.

"They become our new key employees," she said.

For information about the program or new classes, call 448-4176 or go to www.nicholls.edu/cis/.