A curriculum framework for evolving an information technology program

Curriculum development is always a challenging and interesting experience since it usually must be done while continuing to teach and support an existing curriculum. This paper outlines a methodology for the creation of a new information technology major at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. The methodology uses the notion of a three-course thread of existing courses that typically have a shared prerequisite structure. Over time, these threads can evolve as new courses and new threads are developed. The new West Point Information Technology major consists of a four-course core curriculum, multiple three-course threads, and a senior-level integrative experience. Information technology threads cover a wide range of topics in depth, including such diverse subjects as sensors, computer programming, information assurance, electrical engineering fundamentals, computer science fundamentals, computer theory, information systems engineering, databases, network and web technologies, and human factors. Students are allowed to select three threads.