In a world dominated by sleek-looking, tiny technology, the subject of computer mainframes conjures up images of large, outdated computing.

The fact is that large banks and other financial services companies like Fidelity Investments continue to rely on mainframes to analyze real-time data in large-scale transaction processing. IBM mainframe computers account for between 64 and 71 percent of all transactions in the areas of finance, insurance, banking, wealth management, retail, state and federal government.

Over the next decade, there is expected to be a worldwide shortage of more than 2 million mainframe computing professionals due to retirements, including more than 150,000 in the United States.

“Right now there is a substantial shortage of qualified people to fill these jobs,” says Conny Breuning, chair of the University’s Computer Science Department. “The private sector is urging colleges and universities to start training students in this area.”

It’s a big reason why this fall Framingham State will begin offering a new 5-course Enterprise Systems certificate program, as well as a new minor. The courses were developed with input from companies such as IBM, CA Technologies, and Rocket Software and will be taught by industry professionals.

Breuning says the certificate program provides a great opportunity for people seeking to change their careers. Mainframe careers provide job security, longevity and competitive compensation.

FSU student Jordan Filteau took the Intro to Enterprise Systems course at Framingham State after meeting an employee at Rocket Software. That led to a paid internship with the company during the summer.

“I’m thankful I took a step into the unfamiliar,” Fliteau says. “Companies with mainframe positions are actively looking for students and graduates to fill these slots.”

To learn more about Framingham State University’s new Enterprise Systems minor and certificate, contact Conny Breuning at cbreuning@framingham.edu or 508-626-4721.