Computer Information Systems
Upon graduation from this program, students shall have demonstrated the ability to:
- Demonstrate excellent presentation skills.
- Demonstrate excellent written skills for technical documentation, reports, and instructions.
- Develop skills to gather accurate and relevant information to solve a problem.
- Develop the ability to work productively with others in a team environment.
- Develop skills to work with constantly changing technologies.
- Demonstrate technical skills and ability in analyzing, assessing, diagnosing, and troubleshooting hardware, software, network, and other desktop issues.
- Develop technical skills in maintaining hardware systems, software systems, and user accounts.
- Acquire basic knowledge of computer and network security.
- Communicate effectively and appropriately with customers, peers, staff, and vendors.
Technical Standards1 for CIS
Students entering these programs must be able to demonstrate the ability to:
- Comprehend textbook material at the 11th grade level.
- Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format.
- Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.
- Read from a computer screen.
- Learn to operate a computer.
- Possess manual dexterity to operate computer devices such as a keyboard and mouse.
- Work at a computer for a minimum of two hours.
Computer Information Systems Degree (CIS)
This degree will prepare students for the information technology field especially related to IT support specialist and helpdesk entry positions. Students will utilize software applications, networks, and web servers; query database applications to locate, evaluate, and use data; create web pages and web graphics; create written documentation and oral presentations; configure, monitor, secure, and administer network resources; as well as demonstrate technical skills and ability in analyzing, assessing, diagnosing, and trouble-shooting hardware, software, network, and other desktop issues. Additionally, students will gain knowledge related to a broad overview of information security.
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| CIS 109 | Programming In Basic | 3 |
| Social Science Elective 1 | 3 | |
| CIS 127 | Computer Technologies | 3 |
| ENG 101 | English Composition I | 3 |
| CIS 140 | Microcomputer Networking Applications | 3 |
| Spring | ||
| CIS 123 | Microcomputer Database Management | 3 |
| Professional Elective (see list below) | 3 | |
| ENG 102 | English Composition II | 3 |
| MAT 126 | Topics In Mathematics (or higher) | 4 |
| CIS 143 | Computer Service and Repair | 3 |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| CIS Elective 3 | 3 | |
| CED 203 | Cooperative Education (or CIS Elective) 2 | 3 |
| CIS Elective 3 | 3 | |
| Science Elective 4 | 3-4 | |
| ACC/BUS/MGT/MKT Elective 5 | 3 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIS 219 | Principles Of Information Security | 3 |
| CIS Elective 3 | 3 | |
| Humanities Elective 6 | 3 | |
| Health Elective (see list below) | 3-4 | |
| General Elective 7 | 3 | |
| Total Credits: | 61-63 | |
| 1 | Social Science Electives: ANT, ECO, GEO, HIS, POL, PSY, SOC, SSC |
| 2 | CIS 110 Advanced Programming in BASIC or higher; CED 203 Cooperative Education recommended |
| 3 | CIS 110 or higher |
| 4 | Science Electives: BIO, BTC, CHE, EAS, EGM, NRD, PHY |
| 5 | ACC/BUS/MGT/MKT Electives: ACC, BUS, MGT, MKT |
| 6 | Humanities Electives: ART, ASL, DAN, ENG, FRE, HUM, MUS, PHL, SPA, SPC, THE |
| 7 | General Electives: See General Electives exceptions. |
Professional Electives
| Credits | ||
|---|---|---|
| BUS 112 | Introduction To Customer Relations | 3 |
| BUS 125 | Communication For Business And Industry | 3 |
| ENG 106 | Technical Writing | 3 |
| SPC 113 | Speech (formerly THE113) | 3 |
Health Electives
| Credits | ||
|---|---|---|
| BIO 101 | Introduction To Nutrition (formerly NUT101) | 3 |
| BIO 103 | Human Health And Disease | 3 |
| BIO 112 | Biology Of Cancer | 3 |
| BIO 230 | Nutrition, Health, And Sustainability | 3 |
| CHC 101 | Complementary Health Care | 3 |
| CHC 102 | Foundations of Yoga | 3 |
| CHC 108 | Transforming Stress | 3 |
| CHC 220 | Mind-Body-Spirit Connection | 3 |
| EXS 102 | Principles Of Anatomy And Kinesiology | 3 |
| EXS 201 | Exercise Science And Nutrition | 4 |
| PER 130 | Health, Fitness, And Wellness | 3 |
See the computer information systems general information for program competencies and technical standards.
Campus/format
Click here for information on the campus/format.
Helpful hints
To be successful, students must spend additional time outside of class completing assignments. Access to a computer with the appropriate software is essential. MWCC provides computer access in various labs and in the library, as available.
Transfer options
For transfer options, please click here. It is recommended that you also consult with your academic advisor.
Special requirements
Students are required to complete the CIS courses as listed. Prior to enrolling in each course, students must ensure they meet the course prerequisites. The Principles of Information Security course serves as the program's final, or capstone, course. The college's adaptive computer lab, providing assistive technology for students with disabilities, is available. Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations.
Career options
For career options, please click here.
Earning potential
$32,110 to $53,640 per year.
Courses
CIS 101. Keyboarding. 3 Credits.
Students learn correct keyboarding techniques for the alphanumeric and symbol keys while developing speed and accuracy. Students apply their keyboarding skills to the preparation of letters, reports, tables, and employment documentation. This course is helpful to a student who has little to no computer skills. Prerequisites: FYE101, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 102. Computer Service And Repair. 1 Credit.
This course takes you from the just-a-user level to the I-can-fix-this level for the most common PC hardware and software concerns. Students will gain practical knowledge through a combination of troubleshooting techniques and hands-on lab assignments. Topics covered include hardware installation, configuration, and upgrading, along with diagnosing and troubleshooting PC problems. This course is a vocational skill course in that your knowledge and skill are best demonstrated by your ability to address a range of PC configuration and repair problems using knowledge acquired in class. Prerequisites: Basic understanding of DOS and familiarity with several applications.
CIS 103. Word Processing Applications. 3 Credits.
Students are introduced to the concepts of Windows and word processing. Topics in Windows include the fundamentals of using Windows, working with the Windows desktop and file and folder management. Topics include the fundamentals of word processing. This course is helpful to the student who has minimal or no experience using a computer. Prerequisites: FYE101, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 109. Programming In Basic. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to fundamental problem-solving and programming concepts using the Visual Basic NET language. Topics covered include classes, objects, properties, and methods used to build windows forms: variables and variable types, control structures, functions, and sub-procedures. Prerequisites: FYE101, MAT092, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 110. Advanced Programming in BASIC. 3 Credits.
This course is a continuation of CIS109 Programming in Basic using Visual Basic. Topics include the development of Windows programs, which utilize arrays, sequential text files, random access files, and database files. This course also includes an introduction to both web applications and object oriented programming. Prerequisite: CIS109 or comparable programming/course experience.
CIS 115. Surveying Technology Via The Internet. 3 Credits.
Through selected readings and web research, this course examines contemporary computer and technology issues. Students explore topics such as changing technology, data privacy and security, global IT workforce, and impact of the Internet. Prerequisites: ENG098, FYE101, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 118. Mobile and Web Development. 3 Credits.
This course will cover topics that include web servers, web development software such as Expression Web and Notepad++, web languages (HTML5/XHTML and CSS), as well as mobile and website development. Students will learn how information is transferred over the Internet, how to write HTML5 and CSS code, and how to create, maintain, and publish a website for both mobile and traditional desktop devices. Topics will include working with forms, tables (and when to substitute tables with other formatting in mobile), images, graphics, hyperlinks, media queries, viewports, page weigh, network load (and testing), emulator use, and a one web design approach. All students will be expected to create , maintain, and publish several websites on a college web server. Prerequisites: FYE101, MAT092, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 119. Javascript For Web Designers. 3 Credits.
This is an introductory course to web programming using JavaScript for students with no previous programming experience, but with some familiarity with common HTML tags. Students will write scripts that use variables, operators, conditional logic, looping structures, functions, arrays, and objects. This course will develop programming skills that can be used to create interactive and dynamic websites including rollovers, cycling banners, form validation, slide shows, browser detection, plug-in detection, events, and cookies. The course provides a systematic hands-on approach to web programming. Prerequisites: GID109 or CIS118. Spring.
CIS 120. Microcomputer Applications. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for all students who are interested in using the microcomputer for business-related applications. The major topics will include the fundamentals of spreadsheet design and analysis and the fundamentals of database management systems. Prerequisites: FYE101, MAT092, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 121. Spreadsheet Applications. 3 Credits.
Students should be comfortable with basic computer usage prior to enrolling in this course. Essential computer skills include utilizing web browsers and email as well as managing files and folders (save, locate, open, create, delete). This course is designed to develop spreadsheet skills, with an in-depth study of spreadsheet design and analysis as they relate to business applications. Topics include the fundamentals of spreadsheet design, coverage of business formulas and functions, linking multiple worksheets and files, proper layout and design, and an introduction to macros using the Visual BASIC for Applications (VBA) language. Prerequisites: ENG098, FYE101, MAT092, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 122. Microcomputer Graphic Applications. 3 Credits.
This course is an introduction to presentation graphics software used to create slide shows on the PC. Topics include creating text and numeric slides, the use of templates and layouts, the development of a slide show using transitions, builds, and animation, working with imported clipart and scanned graphics files, the use of OLE/DDE techniques, the use of hyperbuttons, and the effective use of text and color. All students will have the opportunity to create and present a computer generated slide show. Prerequisite: CIS120 or permission of division dean.
CIS 123. Microcomputer Database Management. 3 Credits.
This course uses a database software package for a wide range of applications. Students create tables, construct queries, design forms, and generate reports. Students will also create calculated fields, use the update tables function, construct a switchboard, design forms with list, combo and group option boxes, and generate queries and reports using multiple tables. Prerequisites: MAT092 or placement; CIS120 or CIS127, or permission of division dean.
CIS 127. Computer Technologies. 3 Credits.
This course is for students who are already familiar with computer use. Students must know how to use a word processor, web browsers, email and manage files and folders (save, locate, open, create, delete). A variety of computer applications will be used as tools to increase students’ productivity in school and in the workplace as well as enhance their problem solving ability. Students will use utilities to perform basic computer maintenance; evaluate computer hardware and devices for purchase based on need; identify and assess user habits in regard to security threats and vulnerabilities (including viruses, malware, spyware, firewalls, passwords, encryption, and privacy); locate, evaluate and use electronic information sources (including academic databases) to solve problems and enhance software skills; use a spreadsheet application to record data, perform calculations, create graphical representations, and interpret results; write and publish web pages using HTML tags (headings, paragraphs, lists, images, and links) and CSS (color, background, and font family); use Microsoft Access to create and execute queries (with Boolean terms and aggregate functions), as well as assess results; generate reports on tables and query results in Microsoft Access.
Prerequisites: ENG098, FYE101, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 130. Programming For The Web. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on developing interactive, database-driven web pages. Students will develop web pages that retrieve information from the user, verify information, send information to a server, and interact with a database. Students are introduced to Active Server Pages.NET. Topics covered include web forms, HTML controls, web controls, validation controls, data list controls, intrinsic objects, data collections, file I/O, manipulating XML data, databases, and ADO.NET. Other topics may include COM and web services. Prerequisites: CIS109, CIS118, or permission of the division dean.
CIS 131. Linux Programming. 4 Credits.
This course provides students a solid foundation in the fundamentals of the Linux operation system. Students gain system level experience through problem solving exercises at the command line and in the graphical use interface. Students learn the essential command-line commands necessary to be accomplished users of their Linux workstations, as well as be able to use the GUI when appropriate. Prerequisite: CIS140.
CIS 140. Microcomputer Networking Applications. 3 Credits.
This course provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform competently in the role of network administrator or system manager. Major topics include networking concepts, setting up user and group accounts, securing network resources, configuring and administering network printers, backup, auditing events, and monitoring network resources. Prerequisites: FYE101, MAT092, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 141. Supporting Private Clouds. 3 Credits.
This course will instruct future network administrators how to effectively implement and maintain private clouds with a balance of conceptual expertise and hands-on skills. With a focus on server administration, this course will introduce working with Virtual Machines and prepares students to work with large providers such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, as well as implement smaller scale cloud computing solutions within their own network environments. Specific topic coverage includes: Introduction to the Private Cloud, Creating and Managing Virtual Machines, Configuring the Hyper-V Environment, Installing and Using Virtual Machine Manager, Installing and Using the Self-Service Portal Using the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), Implementing High Availability in the Private Cloud, Managing High-Availability Clusters and Managing the Private Cloud with PowerShell. Prerequisite: CIS140.
CIS 142. Web Server Management. 3 Credits.
This course teaches students how to support the various features of an Internet information server. Learn how to configure a server for Internet access and publishing, Internet connectivity options, compare Internet and Intranet implementations, install and configure a web server, and optimize server performance. Prerequisite: CIS140.
CIS 143. Computer Service and Repair. 3 Credits.
This is a current and comprehensive course on configuring, diagnosing, and repairing microcomputers and associated technologies. (PC compatible units are used in this course.) Topics covered include how computers work, how software and hardware work together, the systems board, understanding and managing memory, floppy disk and hard disk drives, installing and supporting disk drives, troubleshooting fundamentals, supporting I/O devices, and multimedia technology. Completion of this course will assist the student in preparing to pass the A+ certification exams and succeed in the PC repair industry. No electronic experience is assumed or required. Prerequisites: FYE101, MAT092, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 144. Network Security. 3 Credits.
This hands-on course is designed to prepare students for the security challenges they will face as a networking professional. Specific topic coverage includes designing a secure network framework, securing servers based on function, designing a secure public key infrastructure, securing the network management process, securing network services and protocols, securing Internet information services, securing VPN and extranet communications, securing active directory, securing network resources, and securing network clients. Prerequisite: CIS140 or permission of division dean.
CIS 145. PC Repair & Support Certification. 4 Credits.
This course provides foundation level knowledge and skills for a career in PC repair and support. Students will gain practical knowledge through a combination of troubleshooting techniques and hands-on lab assignments. Topics covered include hardware installation, configuration and upgrading along with diagnosing and troubleshooting PC problems. Using knowledge acquired in class, this course is a vocational skill course that will prepare take the CompTIA A+ 220-801 and 220 – 802 exams. Additionally, it serves as a building block for other CompTIA certifications such as Security + and Network +. May not get credit for both CIS143 and CIS145. Prerequisite: MAT092, RDG098 or placement.
CIS 208. Mobile and Web Development 2. 3 Credits.
This course will cover topics that include web servers, web languages (HTML5/XHTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP), as well as mobile and website development. Students work with previous HTML5 and CSS skills while adding introductory level client and server side scripting. Students will also learn to move from multi-layout design to considering both layout and content for mobile devices. Topics will include Viewport, Media Queries, Modernizr, Frameworks and Libraries, Local and Session Storage with Appcache, Cache Manifest, Client Side Database use, Device Features, going offline, making your web app native, and submitting your app to iTunes. All students will be expected to create, maintain, and publish several websites on a college web server. Note: This class is not intended to provide in depth coverage of JavaScript or PHP. Prerequisites: CIS109, CIS118, or permission of division dean. Spring.
CIS 218. E-Commerce Systems. 3 Credits.
Students in this course develop and present solutions to a number of case studies involving network technologies, business software applications, and web application development. They integrate the case study material with previous course experiences and research of new technologies. They apply extensive critical thinking skills as well as teamwork, research, and writing skills. Students will present solutions using multimedia presentations. Prerequisite: Completion of 24 CIS credits or permission of division dean.
CIS 219. Principles Of Information Security. 3 Credits.
This course provides students with a broad overview of information security and serves as the capstone course for the Computer Information Systems degree program. The required networking, database and programming courses for the Information Systems degree program lays a solid foundation for learning information security terminology and measures that protect confidentiality, preserve integrity, and promote availability of data. Topics include security policies, security models, business continuity plans, computer crime and security laws, physical security, operations security, access control, cryptography, Internet security and application development security. Students will complete at least one major research and writing project, at least one oral class presentation, and work on at least one team project. Students should find the topics covered informative and useful for their career in the Information Technology field, and the topics serve as a foundation for advance studies in Information Security. Prerequisite: Completion of 24 CIS credits or permission of division dean.
CIS 224. Beginning Pl/Sql. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to teach students PL/SQL skills. Students will be able to define a well-structured relational database; use SQL, create tables, keys, and constraints; as well as work with insert and select statements, functions, procedures, and triggers. Prerequisites: CIS109 and CIS120, or CIS127.
CIS 232. Programming C++. 3 Credits.
This course is an introduction to C++ as an object-oriented programming language. The fundamentals of data types, variables, access modifiers, scope, selection structures, repetition structures, functions, and arrays will be covered using C++ classes and objects. Key topics in object oriented program design include encapsulation, information hiding, member access control, constructors, destructors, software reusability, member functions, overloaded functions and operators, and dynamic memory allocation. All students will be expected to write programs in C++ to exercise these topics. Prerequisite: FYE101, MAT092, RDG098, or placement.
CIS 244. Internetworking. 3 Credits.
This course provides users with a basic understanding of networking technology with a focus on network hardware. Major topics include the Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) reference model, bridges, switches, hubs, Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), and 105 management commands. After completing the course, the student will be prepared for the Cisco CCNA Exam. Prerequisite: CIS140.
CIS 245. Internetworking II. 4 Credits.
This course is a continuation of CIS244 Internetworking I and introduces advanced router configurations, advanced LAN switching theory and design, VLANs, Novell IPX, and LAN and network segmentation with bridges, router, and switches. Additional topics include VLANs, WAN theory and design, WAN technology, PPP, Frame Relay, ISND, and the Spanning Tree protocol. Prerequisite: CIS140.
CIS 290. Java I. 3 Credits.
This course is an introduction to object-oriented programming (OOP) using Java. Object-oriented programming enables the programmer to create flexible, modular programs and reuse code. Students learn what classes and objects are and how they interrelate to each other by writing programs in Java. The following topics will be covered: classes, objects, fundamental data types, control structures, repetition, operators, methods, strings, and arrays. Prerequisite: CIS109 or comparable programming/course experience. Fall.
CIS 292. Java II. 3 Credits.
This course is a continuation of CIS290 Java I. Students will write advanced Java applets and Windows applications using the graphic user interface (GUI) packages. Topics include inheritance, abstract classes, interfaces, packages, graphics, exceptions, files. Prerequisite: CIS290 or comparable programming/course experience. Spring.