Master of Science in Construction Management

at Kent State University USA

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree in Information Technology provides students with an applied approach that focuses on supporting end-users in a variety of workplace settings by utilizing a range of computing technologies. The degree program gives students the tools to support computing and network infrastructures and the needs of individuals and organizations, write programs necessary to help them render their tasks more efficiently on their desktop or mobile devices, utilize databases and write the web-based interfaces to pull the data, and code and deploy applications across the cloud.

Graduates are qualified to work in a wide range of computer and network infrastructures in small to large-sized enterprises in such positions as: web or software developer; hardware, network, cloud, virtualization technician or engineer; IT support specialist or consultant; help desk, network, or IT project manager; security or forensic analyst; and systems, network or database administrator in all sectors of business, education, manufacturing, healthcare, non-profit, and government.

The Information Technology major comprises the following concentrations:

• The Application Development concentration provides students with the ability to program in languages typically utilized in contemporary business environments. Students will code in applications such as Visual Basic, C++, Java, C# and other industry-standard applications to develop programs employing event-driven and object-oriented techniques.
• The Cybersecurity and Forensics concentration places an emphasis on security of computer and network systems, including forensic work to prevent and/or determine and correct security issues utilizing cybersecurity devices, procedures, tools, and solutions.
• The Database Design and Administration concentration focuses on skills needed to become a database manager. Topics include relational database design; working with database servers, users, and permissions; SQL statements used for queries and reports; and incorporating databases into programming used in web-based and desktop forms.
• The Health Information Technology concentration provides students with the tools to install, manage, troubleshoot and secure hardware and software systems in healthcare environments. The course of study includes health IT privacy, security, EHR Implementation and support, mobile device management, technology and application life-cycle management, organizational behavior, medical business operations and regulatory requirements.
• The Integrated Information Technology concentration is ideal for students who want a flexible course of study for positions that require IT staff to perform a wide range of technical duties.
• The Internet/Multimedia concentration focuses on scripting, server-side form handling, web database integration, and interactive and dynamic multimedia Internet development.
• The Networking concentration focuses on configuring and maintaining network information systems and components in various network operating system and cloud computing environments that are prevalent in today's businesses. The emphasis is on network administration (i.e. managing Active Directory and network services), servers, workstations, virtualization, security, troubleshooting, installation, and maintenance.

The Master of Education degree in Special Education provides students with advanced understanding of contemporary research and practice issues in special education. Students in the program are typically interested in pursuing enhanced professional competence, career advancement, leadership roles, advocacy and systems change; or they may be wanting to prepare for doctoral-level study. Students do not need to have an undergraduate degree in special education (or in education) to be successful in the master's degree; however, should be motivated to develop a deeper understanding of the field of special education.

The M.Ed. degree program does not prepare students for teacher licensure; however, some of the coursework required for the degree may count toward licensure. Students interested in both licensure and a M.Ed. degree will need to apply and be fully admitted into both the master's degree and the non-degree graduate licensure preparation program.

The Special Education major comprises the following concentrations:

• The Transition to Work concentration focuses on needs of students with disabilities transitioning to adulthood.

The Bachelor of Science in Education degree in School Health Education prepares individuals to teach health education in the schools. Graduates are eligible to pursue the state's multi-age licensure. Students complete a variety of field experiences and a culminating student teaching experience.

The Health and Physical Education optional concentration allows students to seek Ohio teacher licensure in both health education and physical education. The program is designed to be completed in five years, and can allow students to satisfy up to 12 credit hours of program requirements with graduate courses.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Analyze factors affecting the successful implementation of health education and Coordinated School Health (CSH); select media and resources best suited to implement plans for diverse learners; exhibit competence in carrying out planned programs; and monitor educational programs, adjusting objectives and instructional strategies as necessary.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of CSH; develop plans to assess student achievement of program objectives; carry out evaluation plans; interpret results of program evaluation; and infer implications of evaluation findings for future programs.
• Coordinate provision of health education programs and services and develop a plan for comprehensive school health education with other components of a school health program; demonstrate the dispositions and skills to facilitate cooperation among health educators, other teachers, and appropriate school staff; formulate practical modes of collaboration among health educators in all settings and other school and community health professionals; and organize professional development programs for teachers, other school personnel, community members, and other interested individuals.
• Utilize computerized health information retrieval systems effectively; establish effective consultative relationships with those requesting assistance in solving health-related problems; interpret and respond to requests for health information; and select effective educational resource materials for dissemination.
• Communicate health information needs, concerns, and resources; interpret concepts, purposes, and theories of health education; predict the impact of social value systems on health education programs; select a variety of communication methods and techniques in providing health information; and foster communication between health care providers and consumers.
• Obtain health-related data about social and cultural environments, growth and development factors, and needs and interests of students; distinguish between the behaviors that foster and those that hinder well-being; and determine health education needs based on observed and obtained data.
• Recruit school and community representatives to support and assist in program planning; develop a logical scope and sequence plan for a health education program; formulate appropriate and measurable learner objectives; and design educational strategies consistent with specified learner objectives.
• Communicate and advocate for health and school health education by analyzing and responding to factors that impact current and future needs in comprehensive school health education, applying a variety of communication methods and techniques, advocating for school health education, and demonstrating professionalism.

The Master of Science degree in Computer Science provides students with an educational and research environment to develop career paths through necessary training with emerging technologies. Graduates have the technical knowledge and skills necessary for success within the information and high technology industries.

The M.S. degree in Computer Science has two culminating options: thesis or non-thesis. Students planning to pursue a Ph.D. degree an/or academic research should select the thesis option. Students planning to pursue applied research and development in industry may select the non-thesis option. The thesis option requires original research and a written thesis. The non-thesis option requires a capstone project and an optional industrial internship.

The Computer Science major includes the following concentration:

• The Computer Engineering concentration prepares students to meet the need of computer engineering professionals in the industry for designing and managing emerging smart devices and computer-integrated physical systems with programmable intelligence. Students learn the hardware-software co-design principles and theory, architecture of the associated software and hardware, devices and sensors communication protocols and the interfaces to effectively design, build and evolve such smart devices and computer-driven intelligent physical systems.

Students opting to not pursue a concentration will create a 12-credit hour individualized plan of study with their advisor.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate breadth-of-knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles and theories relating to advanced topics in computer science.
• Conduct literature searches, comprehend advanced research materials and uncover connections between related work and critical evaluation and synthesis.
• Perform research, discovery and integration by applying advanced knowledge of computer science.

The Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies is intended to provide a broad spectrum of knowledge about human communication in various social contexts, and the ways in which information is produced and processed. Curriculum focus is on the social and behavioral study of communication theory and research. The program prepares individuals to pursue a doctorate degree, as well as for non-academic careers in which a broad understanding of communication theory and research is desirable.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Read, critique and engage in theory-based research involving a broad spectrum of topics in human communication.
• Understand and master appropriate methodological skills for the study of human communication and apply them to relevant and shifting real-world contexts that often include newer communication technologies.
• Utilize theory-based and state-of-the-art knowledge to stimulate and improve communication processes in educational, business and nonprofit environments.

The Master of Arts degree in Biology is for students wishing to gain additional knowledge in any area of the biological sciences. This is a non-thesis master's degree designed for secondary school science teachers, individuals looking for additional background or preparation for professional school (e.g. medicine, dentistry or Ph.D. programs) and those seeking employment in life science industries in a non-research capacity.

The Biology major includes the following concentration:

• The Biological Data Analytics concentration combines required courses in data analytics and elective options in biology to provide students with the understanding of the type of data collected while conducting biological research and how to analyze it.

Students who declare the Biology major with no concentration will select their area of specialization in consultation with an academic faculty advisor.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Understand advanced biological concepts beyond the scope of the typical undergraduate degree and to increase the depth of their knowledge through coursework and hands-on experiences.
• Apply scientific principles and appreciate work outside of their particular field.
• Effectively communicate about science with colleagues as well as those outside of the student's area of expertise.
• Develop the necessary laboratory skills that will allow testing of hypotheses.

The Bachelor of Science in Education degree in Integrated Language Arts prepares students for teacher licensure in integrated language arts reading, writing, speaking and listening) for grades 7-12. The combination of content and methods courses provides a strong foundation for graduates of the program, who will be licensed to teach English/language arts, journalism, communication and theater. (Please note that those with Ohio licensure in integrated language arts are able to teach theater for grades seven and eight only.) The program uniquely features a methods course devoted to the teaching of new media.

Students are required to complete Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification (BCII) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background checks.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Plan and implement research-based instruction in the teaching of reading, literature, language, and composition.
• Implement response-centered literacy instruction that is culturally relevant and sustaining.
• Implement fair and equitable assessment strategies to analyze students’ literacy learning.
• Engage in reflective practice and pursue continued professional growth and collaboration with colleagues.

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics is a flexible program, grounded in the liberal arts and suited for students' individual interests and needs. The program combines well with a second major and/or minors.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition provides students with a broad general education and a strong foundation in nutrition, dietetics and the sciences. The emphasis is integrating theory, research and application of knowledge to the profession of dietetics. The curriculum meets the didactic program in dietetics requirements of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and graduates are eligible for admission to accredited internships. The faculty has expertise in nutritional sciences, exercise science, clinical and community practice and leadership studies.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Apply knowledge and skills necessary to plan and evaluate menus and diets of individuals/groups to promote nutritional health and well-being.
• Demonstrate the ability to use oral and written communication skills effectively in the practice of nutrition and dietetics.
• Demonstrate the ability to interpret current research and utilize critical thinking skills in the practice of nutrition and dietetics.
• Apply acquired knowledge and skills to enroll in a supervised practice program, advanced/professional study or employment.

The Master of Education degree in Research, Measurement, and Statistics develops educators and specialists in the areas of assessment, measurement, research design and program evaluation. The program serves teachers and administrators seeking applied measurement, research and evaluation skills for use in schools (pre-kindergarten to grade 12) and in higher education. The program also serves professionals seeking careers in the areas of evaluation, research and psychometrics.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of descriptive and inferential statistics at a conceptual and application level.
• Demonstrate knowledge of research design and methods by selecting and executing the appropriate research design and methods for a variety of applications.
• Demonstrate knowledge of measurement, including the methods to develop valid and reliable measures of constructs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary and classic theories in program evaluation, the purposes and logic of program evaluation and the processes of different types of program evaluation.