Build and lead at the intersection of computing, data, and the web.
Program Overview
RPI's Bachelor of Science Program in Information Technology & Web Science (ITWS) is interdisciplinary from day one. You’ll combine a rigorous computing and information technology core with a customizable focus area, spanning options like data science, information security, human‑computer interaction, networking, web technologies, and management information systems. The result is a cross-disciplinary, project‑driven degree that prepares you to design, build, and lead technology solutions that create value and societal impact.
What makes this degree unique?
- Interdisciplinary by design — tailor your path with 20+ focus track options and complementary coursework across Rensselaer.
- Hands‑on projects — develop production‑quality apps, data pipelines, and web systems; complete a senior capstone or thesis with real clients.
- Technology + business fluency — pair computing depth with management fundamentals to turn ideas into scalable solutions.
- Access to state‑of‑the‑art resources — leverage Rensselaer’s advanced computing, labs, and maker spaces for research and building projects.
- Career readiness — benefit from the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD), RPI’s Lally School of Management's incredible resources for professional development, and RPI’s global alumni network for internships and full‑time roles.
Curriculum Snapshot
The degree requires 128–130 credits and blends an ITWS Core with a student‑selected Focus Track, alongside Rensselaer degree requirements.
ITWS Core Courses:
- Introduction to Information Technology & Web Science
- Web Systems Development
- Database Systems or Data Resource Management (select one)
- Web Science Systems Development
- Managing IT Resources
- ITWS Capstone or Senior Thesis (select one)
Focus Tracks:
- Arts
- Civil/Structural Engineering
- Cognitive Science
- Communication
- Computer Hardware
- Computer Networking
- Computer & Systems Engineering
- Data Science
- Design, Innovation, & Society
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Games & Simulation Arts & Sciences
- Information Security
- Machine Learning
- Management Information Systems
- Mechanical/Aeronautical Engineering
- Medicine
- Psychological Science
- Science & Technology Studies
- Science Informatics
- Special Interest
- Web Technologies
Student Resources
RPI’s ITWS students will have access to Lally’s state-of-the-art resources:
- Wharton Research and Data Services (Register with your RPI email at https://wrds-www.wharton.upenn.edu/) to access:
- S&P Compustat corporate financial data
- Center for Research in Security Prices (CRSP) stock market data
- BoardEx board of directors data
- And many other databases
- New finance lab with 12 Bloomberg Terminals
- FactSet live financial markets data
- S&P Capital IQ Pro
- OpenAI ChatGPT
Experiential Learning
ITWS students learn by doing—through applied coursework, internships and co‑ops, research with faculty, and leadership opportunities in student organizations such as the Gamma Nu Eta Information Technology honor society and the ITWS Student Leadership Group.
Join student-run clubs and organizations such as the Rensselaer Finance Club where students actively manage real money in the James Student Managed Investment Fund, join the Rensselaer Consulting Club where you can take on real projects with local companies, become active in the Women in Business Club, among others.
Program Outcomes
- Design and develop secure, scalable web and information systems using modern architectures, databases, and cloud services.
- Apply data analytics and visualization to inform decisions and improve products, processes, and user experiences.
- Integrate computing, design, and management principles to deliver real value for organizations and end‑users.
- Communicate technical concepts to both technical and executive audiences; lead collaborative, cross‑functional teams.
- Assess ethical, legal, and societal implications of technology and incorporate responsible computing practices.
After Graduation
Graduates are prepared for roles such as:
- Software / Full‑Stack Developer
- Data Engineer / Data Analyst
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud / DevOps Engineer
- Product Manager / Technical PM
- UX Engineer / Front‑End Engineer
- IT Consultant / Systems Analyst