Abstract: Information systems education objectives must continually adapt to a dynamic marketplace for knowledge and skills. For faculty developing programs that better prepare students for this demanding environment, existing research and guidelines provide a foundation to develop relevant coursework. However, an examination of peer institutions indicates a significant variance in how institutions of higher learning address the requirements of local markets as they prepare their students for careers. This study reviews previous information systems curricula research, examines current guidelines for information systems education, analyzes adherence to those guidelines, and summarizes innovative approaches being used by business colleges in the U.S. to prepare students. Our findings indicate that even as the number of information systems programs decline, colleges are looking for relevant ways to serve their students and communities. For information systems education to remain connected to the marketplace, the value provided by a degree in information systems must be clear to future employers. This paper concludes by offering insights gained by an analysis of thriving programs to assist faculty working on improving their undergraduate information systems curriculum.

Keywords: Advisory boards, Curriculum design & development, IS major, Learning goals & outcomes

Download this article: JISE - Volume 31 Issue 3, Page 232.pdf

Recommended Citation: Bohler, J. A., Larson, B., Peachey, T. A., & Shehane, R. F. (2020). Evaluation of Information Systems Curricula. Journal of Information Systems Education, 31(3), 232-243.