Master of Science in Integrated Science and Technology
Department
Under the auspices of the Dean, the Master of Science in Integrated Science and Technology degree program is offered jointly by the Departments of Chemistry and Physics, Computer Science and Industrial Technology, and Mathematics.
College
Office of Graduate Studies and the College of Science and Technology
Overview of the program
Southeastern's Master of Science in Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT) degree program is the only graduate degree program in the state of Louisiana that is a Professional Science Master's degree, developed through funding by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. It is an innovative, interdisciplinary program that emphasizes applications of chemistry, computer science, industrial technology, mathematics, and physics in a career enhancement degree. Students who complete the ISAT degree at Southeastern Louisiana University will be able to:
- Integrate information and concepts across different scientific and technical disciplines.
- Apply specialized knowledge from chemistry, computer science, industrial technology, mathematics or physics to solve problems that are critical to future growth of local business and industry.
- Work effectively with people who possess various educational and experiential backgrounds.
- Use appropriate technology in communication, information and knowledge management, modeling, forecasting, and decision-making.
The ISAT degree offers two tracks: the generalist track and the specialist track. The generalist track requires 33 hours of credit: 18 hours in the core curriculum
including 6 hours of Applied Science seminars; 6 hours in a chosen discipline; 3 hours in a course cross-listed with the chosen discipline; and 6 hours of thesis or research project. The specialist track requires 36 hours of credit: 18 hours in a chosen discipline, 3 hours of the first Applied Science seminar, 9 credit of hours from the core curriculum and the second Applied Science seminar, and 6 hours of thesis.
Concentrations
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Industrial Technology
- Mathematics
- Physics
Strengths of the program
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, over the next seven years professional and related occupations will be the fastest growing occupational group in the United States. Computer and mathematical occupations, healthcare practitioners, technical occupations, and education will make up many of these new job opportunities. USA Today called the Professional Science Master's Degree (PSM) "the hot degree no one seems to have heard of - yet." It goes on to state, "The PSM is being call the MBA for scientists and mathematicians. It's an education aimed at future managers who will be able to move comfortably in the business of science."
While preparing for professional careers that integrate mathematics, science, and technology, ISAT students have the opportunity to work with highly qualified professors from three departments as well as leaders from industry and business. A strong core of interdisciplinary, experiential courses forms a foundation in mathematics, science, and technology. A variety of electives then allow students to focus on areas of interest.
Recent graduates of the ISAT program are currently enjoying careers at DuPont Chemicals, EATEL Corp., Interlox Co., Southeastern Louisiana University, and the U.S. Navy.
Preparing for a job in the program
The ISAT program prepares its graduates for careers in science and technology by developing expertise in:
- Team management
- Written and verbal communication
- Project management principles
- Current technology in manufacturing, transportation, and communication
- Acquisition, control and statistical analysis of lab data
- Utilization of computer software for the resolution of business and industrial problems
Careers in the program
A major in integrated science and technology prepares students for:
- Industrial engineering specialist
- Quality assurance manager
- Data analyst
- Information manager
- Associate industrial engineer
- High school science and mathematics teachers
- Project manager
- Information systems consultant
- Network analyst
Starting Salaries after completing the program (estimates only)
$35,000 - $40,000
Related fields that might interest you
- Actuarial science
- Cryptography
- Risk analysis
- Bioinformatics
- Biostatistics
- Petrochemistry
- Telecommunications
Some of these occupations may require additional schooling at Graduate or Professional schools. For information on training and qualifications needed for the specific fields you are considering, consult the Occupational Outlook Handbook or other career guidance resources. Also, take advantage of career planning services offered by the university.
How do I know this is the degree for me?
Common Strengths and interests of students in the program
Helpful qualities for ISAT majors include:
- Good problem-solving skills
- Good communication skills
- An ability and desire to work in teams
- A broad interest in mathematics, the sciences, and technology
- Determination and motivation
- Strong computer skills
Contact Information
Office of Graduate Studies
SLU Box 10809
Hammond, LA 70402
On Campus: Mead Hall, Room 103
Telephone: 985-549-2103
Fax: 985-549-3605
gradschool@selu.edu
Dr. Ken S. Li, ISAT Graduate Coordinator
Graduate Studies in Integrated Science and Technology
SLU 10687
Hammond, LA 70402
On-Campus: Fayard Hall, Room 316A
Telephone: 985-549-3822
Fax: 985-549-2099
kli@selu.edu
