Computer & Information Systems - Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

Description

The Computer and Information Systems Associate of Applied Science is designed around a core curriculum and three distinct options. The program’s core provides an introduction to computer concepts, software applications, operating systems, networking, database, computer servicing, internet, math, human relations, and writing. Graduates work in information technology for a wide variety of commercial businesses, education, federal/state/local governments, e-commerce, publishing, and real estate. Careers typically include positions such as technician/customer support, network administrator, web developer, draftsperson, database administrator, systems administrator, and related managerial and administrative roles.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

  1. Troubleshoot software and hardware installation and configuration.
  2. Create and manage networks.
  3. Create algorithms and computer programs that solve problems.
  4. Use SQL when working with tables and querying databases.
  5. Develop webpages that incorporate design best practices.
  6. Evaluate the systems development lifecycle.
  7. Use productivity software to effectively communicate ideas and information.

Entrance Requirements

Academic Entrance Requirements

Recommended:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Completion of WR 065 Rhetoric and Critical Thinking II or higher or minimum placement Wr/Comm Level 7
  • Completion of MTH 060 Beginning Algebra or higher or minimum placement Math Level 10
  • Basic computer competency or CIS 010 Computer Keyboarding and CIS 070 Introduction to Computers: Windows

Other Entrance Requirements

All enrolled program students may have to pass a criminal history check (CHC) as a condition of their acceptance into a worksite for cooperative work experience. Students who do not pass the CHC may not be eligible to complete requirements at affiliated practicum sites or be hired for some professional positions. Students who believe their history may interfere with their ability to complete the program of study should contact the program director or department chair.

Additional Program Costs (beyond standard tuition/fees and textbooks)

Material Costs

Recommended: 

  • 16 to 64GB portable storage (USB or SSD drive): $20 to $100
  • A desktop or laptop computer capable of running the latest version of the Windows operating system and the latest version of Microsoft Office: approximately $400
  • Reliable high-speed internet access

Course Requirements

Course Title Credits
Core Courses
CIS 101Information Technology Orientation3
CIS 122Introduction to Programming4
CIS 124IT Fundamentals4
CIS 131Software Applications4
CIS 135DBDatabase Theory/SQL4
CIS 140A+ Essentials I4
CIS 145A+ Essentials II4
CIS 179Networking Essentials4
CIS 183CIntroduction to Cybersecurity4
CIS 195Web Development I4
CIS 244Information Systems Analysis4
CIS 279WCWindows Client4
or CIS 179L Linux Essentials
CIS 297CIS Professional Capstone4
General CIS AAS Degree
Select 27 credits with a CS or CIS prefix numbered 100 or higher27
Other Required Courses
BA 214Business Communications3-4
or WR 227Z Technical Writing
COMM 111ZPublic Speaking4
or COMM 218Z Interpersonal Communication
or COMM 219 Small Group Communication
Human Relations:3-5
MTH 102Applied Technical Mathematics (or choose one course from the foundational requirements math list)4
WR 121ZComposition I4
Total Credits96-99

Advising Notes

Planning is important. Most option courses are offered once per academic year and many need to be taken in sequence. Some core classes are offered once every two years. Students may take non-program support courses any term to build skills related to prerequisites.

This program is designed for students planning to enter their chosen careers upon graduation. Often only selected credits are considered transferable to public or private baccalaureate institutions.

Performance Standards

  • Academic Requirements:

    • Students must have a 2.0 cumulative GPA to earn a COCC certificate or degree.

    • All courses in the program must be completed with a grade of C or higher.

Sample Plan

Sample Plan Grid
First TermCredits
CIS 101Information Technology Orientation3
CIS 124IT Fundamentals4
MTH 102Applied Technical Mathematics (or choose one course from the foundational requirements math list)4
WR 121ZComposition I4
 Credits15
Second Term
BA 214
Business Communications
or Technical Writing
3-4
CIS 140A+ Essentials I4
CIS 145A+ Essentials II4
CIS 183CIntroduction to Cybersecurity4
 Credits15-16
Third Term
CIS 131Software Applications4
CIS 195Web Development I4
CIS Elective (must have CIS/CS prefix numbered 100 or higher)4
COMM 111Z
Public Speaking
or Interpersonal Communication
or Small Group Communication
4
Human Relations:3-5
 Credits19-21
Fourth Term
CIS 135DBDatabase Theory/SQL4
CIS 179Networking Essentials4
CIS 279WC
Windows Client
or Linux Essentials
4
CIS Elective (must have CIS/CS prefix numbered 100 or higher)4
 Credits16
Fifth Term
CIS 122Introduction to Programming4
CIS 244Information Systems Analysis4
CIS Elective (must have CIS/CS prefix numbered 100 or higher)4
CIS Elective (must have CIS/CS prefix numbered 100 or higher)4
 Credits16
Sixth Term
CIS 297CIS Professional Capstone4
CIS Elective (must have CIS/CS prefix numbered 100 or higher)4
CIS Elective (must have CIS/CS prefix numbered 100 or higher)4
CIS Elective (must have CIS/CS prefix numbered 100 or higher)3
 Credits15
 Total Credits96-99

Outside of
expected

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