University of San Diego Goes Mobile

  • By Dian Schaffhauser
  • 09/16/09

The University of San Diego has launched "MySDMobile," a suite of nine mobile device programs for its campus community. The new applications were developed by Terriblyclever Design, a company that has previously created similar applications for Stanford University and Duke University.

Users will be able to use their Apple iPhones or other smart mobile devices to view a GPS-enabled interactive map of the university's campus, including where particular classes are located; they can call or e-mail faculty and staff members using the directory feature of the application; and they can browse through the university's course and library catalogs. Other programs include the ability to view university content on YouTube or iTunesU, get sports scores for its USD Toreros athletics teams, read news and look up campus events, and view photos of USD's campus that can be used as phone wallpaper.

USD's Information Technology Services unit developed custom applications for the university in partnership with Terriblyclever. "It has been our fundamental philosophy that students today are digital nomads and expect an array of practical services to be easily available through their mobile devices at all times," said Chris Wessells, chief technology officer.

The university, which has about 7,800 students, is planning the addition of new mobile programs for paying tuition and fees, enrolling in classes, selecting meal plans, viewing grades, and tracking university trams through a GPS map service.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

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