A Sustainability Assessment Tool for IS Programs

Like the field itself, Information Systems (IS) degree programs have evolved in response to changing circumstances. At times, they have been misinterpreted or mistaken for other computing fields or challenged by uneven student enrollments and non-stable graduation rates. Many IS programs have adapted successfully to changing circumstances and some engage in continuous program building activities. Embracing a program sustainability perspective can assist in identifying opportunities for improving IS degree program robustness by focusing on drivers of program success. Doing so has the potential to solidify program identity, lock-in stakeholder support, and ensure ongoing financing and the availability of other necessary resources. An adaptation of the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool (PSAT), used to assess public health programs, is introduced and plans for using it as an IS degree program assessment and research instrument are described.