Introduction to the Profession (ITP) is a course that every Illinois Tech student takes during their first semester. Each academic major’s ITP course is unique, focusing on exposure to research, career tracks, and experiential learning opportunities specific to the student’s major. ITP gives students the opportunity to explore topics associated with their major and connect with faculty and industry experts early on in their education to see if their chosen major is a good fit for them.
Below are some examples of ITP courses:
ARCH 100 (Architecture)
Introduction to Architecture
Orientation to contemporary local architecture practice in the context of the history of architectural theory; examination of the changing role of the architect through history; introduction to the formal language and vocabulary of the discipline. Emphasis given to developing written and presentations skills.
BME 100 (Biomedical Engineering)
Introduction to the Profession
Introduces the student to the scope of the biomedical engineering profession and its role in society, and develops a sense of professionalism in the student. Provides an overview of biomedical engineering through lectures, presentations by outside speakers, hands-on exercises, and scientific literature analyses. Develops professional communication and teamwork skills.
BUS 100 (Business)
Introduction to Business
This course introduces students not only to the business environment but also to the different purposes and functions of businesses. Students will obtain a broad understanding of the fundamentals of business organizations and their operations and, in the process, learn the basic terminology and concepts employed in the business world. Students will also gain experience using computer applications popular in the business community such as Excel, Word, and Access Database.
CS 100 (Computer Science)
Introduction to the Profession
An introduction to science and engineering as a profession. Examines the problem-solving process used in engineering and science. Emphasizes the interdisciplinary and international nature of problem-solving and the need to evaluate solutions in terms of a variety of constraints: computational, financial, and social.
FDSN 100 (Food Science and Nutrition Program)
Introduction to the Profession
In this course, students will survey the professional landscape of the food industry. The course provides an introduction to the different career roles and opportunities within the food industry. The rich Chicago food industry will serve as a backdrop to learn about the current and emerging food ecosystem. Students will hear from industry guest speakers about the legacy and latest start-up enterprises that comprise various professional paths. Field trips to local food business incubators and food processing plants are planned. The course will also provide an introduction to food regulations.
MATH 100 (Mathematics)
Introduction to the Profession
Introduces the student to the scope of mathematics as a profession, develops a sense of mathematical curiosity and problem solving skills, identifies and reinforces the student’s career choices, and provides a mechanism for regular academic advising. Provides integration with other first-year courses. Introduces applications of mathematics to areas such as engineering, physics, computer science, and finance. Emphasis is placed on the development of teamwork skills.
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MMAE 100 (Mechanical, Materials Science and Aerospace Engineering)
Introduction to the Profession
Introduces the student to the scope of the engineering profession and its role in society, develops a sense of professionalism in the student, confirms and reinforces the student’s career choices, and provides a mechanism for regular academic advising. Provides integration with other first-year courses. Applications of mathematics to engineering. Emphasis is placed on the development of professional communications and teamwork skills.
PSYC 100 (Psychology)
Introduction to the Profession
Students will: 1) introduce an overview of concepts in psychology; 2) develop professional direction for academic career at IIT; 3) demonstrate psychology information literacy; 4) demonstrate effective communication using a variety of formats; and 5) demonstrate professional competence both within and outside of IIT.
