Information Systems Technology Programs in Portland, Oregon
Getting an Information Systems Technology Degree in Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, offers excellent opportunities for individuals seeking an Information Systems Technology (IST) degree. This degree prepares students for a rapidly growing field, with skills applicable to careers in cybersecurity, software development, data analytics, and more. Whether you are aiming for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, Portland provides a variety of educational pathways to match your career goals.
What Is Information Systems Technology?
Information Systems Technology focuses on the design, management, and optimization of computer systems and networks. Students in IST programs learn essential skills such as programming, database management, and network security, making them highly sought-after in industries like healthcare, finance, and technology.
About Portland, Oregon
Portland, known as the “City of Roses,” is a vibrant hub for technology and innovation. Situated in the Pacific Northwest, it boasts a thriving tech scene often referred to as the “Silicon Forest.” The city combines a strong urban culture with access to nature, offering residents a high quality of life. Learn more about Portland’s unique offerings on its official website.
Information Systems Technology Programs in Portland, Oregon
Several institutions in Portland and the surrounding areas provide IST degree programs, ranging from associate to doctoral levels. Below is a curated list of schools with links to their IST program pages.
Portland Community College (PCC)
- Degrees Offered: Associate of Science in Computer Science, Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology
- Website: Portland Community College
- Location: Multiple campuses across Portland
- Description: PCC offers affordable and accessible two-year programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce or transfer to a four-year university. The Associate of Applied Science degree focuses on practical IT skills, while the Associate of Science in Computer Science is ideal for transfer students.
Portland State University (PSU)
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science, Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science
- Website: Portland State University
- Location: Downtown Portland
- Description: PSU’s computer science programs emphasize innovation and industry collaboration. The bachelor’s degree provides a strong foundation in software engineering, while the master’s program allows for specialization in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech)
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
- Website: Oregon Tech IST Programs
- Location: Klamath Falls, approximately 270 miles from Portland
- Description: Known for its hands-on approach, Oregon Tech prepares students for careers in application development, systems analysis, and information security.
Oregon State University (OSU)
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Computer Science, Business Information Systems
- Website: Oregon State University
- Location: Corvallis, approximately 85 miles from Portland
- Description: OSU offers programs with specializations in cybersecurity, business analytics, and applied computer science. Its online courses are ideal for working professionals.
IST Career Opportunities in Portland
Portland is home to a thriving technology sector, offering numerous career opportunities for IST graduates. Below are some notable employers:
Intel
- Website: Intel Careers
- Location: Hillsboro, a suburb of Portland
- Description: Intel is one of the largest tech employers in the region, focusing on semiconductor manufacturing and research. The company frequently hires IST professionals for roles in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and software development.
Nike
- Website: Nike Careers
- Location: Beaverton, near Portland
- Description: Nike’s IT department supports its global operations, offering roles in data analytics, systems administration, and e-commerce development.
- Website: Google Careers
- Location: Downtown Portland Office
- Description: Google’s Portland office specializes in cloud services and software engineering, providing excellent opportunities for IST graduates.
Prerequisites for IST Programs
While prerequisites vary by institution, the following are commonly required:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA (typically 2.5-3.0)
- SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate programs
- GRE scores for graduate programs (if applicable)
- Prerequisite coursework in mathematics or computer science
IST Degree Requirements in Oregon
Accreditation is a critical factor when selecting an IST program. Oregon institutions are typically accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). These bodies ensure that programs meet rigorous academic and professional standards.
For details on degree-specific requirements, refer to the official websites of Portland Community College, Portland State University, Oregon Tech, and Oregon State University.
Get Started Today
Portland, Oregon, offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring Information Systems Technology professionals. With its diverse educational programs and a flourishing tech industry, the city is an excellent place to start or advance your career. Reach out to one of the schools listed above to take the first step toward your future in IST.