Associate of Computer and Information Systems
It’s no secret that computers and information systems are increasingly important aspects of running an effective business in the 21st century. Today’s information systems and technology professionals are responsible for developing, designing, and overseeing the computer systems and networks of the organizations they support and can play an important role in a company’s growth. If you enjoy working with technology and are interested in using computers to solve problems and support the goals of an organization, this fast-paced and always evolving field may be a good fit for you.
As a student in the Associate in Business Administration and Computer and Information Systems program you’ll receive a general college education with a strong emphasis in business, computer systems, and innovations in technology. That means you’ll take courses in the Knowledge Skills Core such as English composition and mathematics as well as specialized sophomore-level courses in computers and management. Your courses will cover topics such as programming, operating systems, and web development that will give you the academic background you need to pursue a variety of computer and information systems positions and career paths.
Learn more about Ivy Bridge’s computer and information systems program: Request more information or talk to a friendly advisor now at 855-413-4752.
Explore the program:
Core Classes
Major Requirements
Curriculum Map
Possible Career Paths
Knowledge Skills Core
As a student in the associate of computer and information systems program you’ll take courses in the Knowledge Skills Core with a focus on business topics. This collection of 24 credit-hours includes courses in oral communication, writing composition, mathematics, and computer information systems that provide the academic foundation you need to be successful in any career or academic program.
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hour |
|---|---|---|
| ACC 201 | Survey of Accounting | 3 |
| COM 241 | Introduction to Mass Communication | 3 |
| CIS 101 or 111 | Foundations of Information Technology and PC Applications or Information Systems and Applications | 3 |
| ECO 221 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 3 |
| ENG 141 | Expository and Research Writing | 3 |
| ENG 142 | Introduction to Literature and Criticism | 3 |
| MAT 174 or MAT 181 | Finite Mathematics or College Algebra (MAT 181 strongly recommended) | 3 |
| One Elective From: | SCS, ECO, MGT, POL, PSY, SOC (SCS 110 recommended) | 3 |
ACC 201 - Survey of Accounting (3 hours)
An introduction to the fundamentals of accounting from the user’s perspective. The primary emphasis is the relationship between cash flow and accrual based income measurement. Includes financial reporting requirements and standards..
Prerequisite: MAT 174 or above
COM 241 - Introduction to Mass Communication (3 hours)
A survey course examining the various media (i.e., newspaper, radio, television, film, etc.) comprising the mass media in contemporary American society. Emphasis is given to the history, structure, and potential effects of each medium.
CIS 101 - Foundations of Information Technology and PC Applications (3 hours)
This course is a survey of fundamental functions of a computer, Internet, file management, and an introduction to the Microsoft Office Suite. This course does not count for credit toward graduation.
CIS 111 - Information Systems and Applications (3 hours)
This course is designed for students who have used MS Word regularly and have an understanding of MS Windows. Topics covered include responsible use of information technology; hardware concepts; the use, development, and maintenance of spreadsheets (Excel); the creation of electronic presentations (PowerPoint); and an introduction to databases (Access). This is a hands-on skills and a conceptual course. Participants will be required to demonstrate software proficiency in the lab, as well as, through objective written tests.
ECO 221 - Principles of Macroeconomics (3 hours)
A study of macroeconomics (the “whole” economy), concepts and principles, plus current issues in macroeconomics. Required for business and economics majors.
Prerequisite: MAT 174 or above
ENG 141 - Expository and Research Writing (3 hours)
This is a course in written communication. Emphasis is placed on development, structure, and writing of abstracts, summaries, and critiques. Literary devices such as pro/con, cause/effect, comparison/contrast, persuasion/argumentation essays and research/synthesis skills are used through a research paper.
ENG 142 - Introduction to Literature and Criticism (w) (3 hours)
This course presents drama, short stories, novel, poetry and critical essays from literary critical perspectives. Through reading, discussion, and critical writing, students become familiar with representative genres in literature as well as authentic critical approaches. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
MAT 174 - Finite Mathematics (3 hours)
This course applies mathematical techniques to solve real-world problems and involves the study of topics including linear models, systems of equations, financial math, logic, probability, and statistics.
Prerequisite: MAT 174 or above
MAT 181 - College Algebra (3 hours)
The course topics include functions and graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices, sequences, and counting principles with probability.
Prerequisite: MAT 174 or above
Major Requirements
As a student in the associate of computer and information systems program you’ll take specialized courses in the criminal justice and law enforcement field.
| Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hour |
|---|---|---|
| CIS 155 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| CIS 201 | Programming | 3 |
| CIS 212 | Systems Analysis and Design | 3 |
| CIS 255 | Internet and Website Development | 3 |
| CIS 320 | Computer Architecture and Diagnostics | 3 |
| CIS 355 | Spreadsheet Applications for Decision Making | 3 |
| LAW 211 | Business Law I | 3 |
| MAT 273 | Applied Statistics I | 3 |
| MGT 121 | How Business Works | 3 |
| MGT 201 | Management of Organizations | 3 |
| Open Electives: | Two electives 100 level or above | 6 |
CIS 155 - Operating Systems (3 hours)
This course provides the student with extensive hands-on exposure to Windows and non-MS Windows environments. Included are such topics as interface design, disk and memory management, system configurations, multitasking, data sharing, and the network environment. Multiplatform operating systems will be introduced.
Prerequisite: CIS 105/111
CIS 201 - Programming (3 hours)
Introduces structured programming using a programming language such as Visual Basic. The student will learn to design and develop Windows based applications that are event driven (point and click). Record structures will be developed along with file storage and manipulation techniques. The course will expose the student to the object-oriented programming environment.
Prerequisite: CIS 111
CIS 212 - Systems Analysis and Design (3 hours)
This course covers the systems development life cycle (SDLC) using a case study based approach. All phases of analysis, design, and implementation are covered using the top-down approach. CASE tools are used as a resource. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: CIS 201
CIS 255 - Internet and Website Development (3 hours)
Topics covered are the Internet and its parts such as the World Wide Web and website development. The student will learn to create web sites using the current tools such as FrontPage, and languages such as HTML and Java for the Internet, intranets and extranets.
Prerequisite: CIS 111, CIS 201
CIS 320 - Computer Architecture and Diagnostics (3 hours)
This course enables students to identify, configure, and upgrade various components of computer systems, peripherals, and software. The subsystems examined include memory, disk drives, video, I/O ports, and power supplies. Peripherals examined include printers, modems and various I/O devices. Students will learn preventative maintenance and troubleshooting techniques. This course covers semiconductor theory and devices. Operation of devices such as diodes, transistors, and operation amplifiers will be examined. The lab work includes the application of semiconductor devices in practical circuits such as power supplies, voltage regulators, and amplifiers, etc.
Prerequisite: CIS 105/111
CIS 355 - Spreadsheet Applications for Decision Making (3 hours)
This course focuses on the use of spreadsheet applications as a tool for decision making. Included are topics such as design and management of worksheets and templates, and the use of built-in functions. Organizational uses in the areas of accounting, finance, marketing, human resources are discussed.
Prerequisite: CIS105/111 and MAT 174 or above
LAW 21 - Business Law I (3 hours)
An examination of civil and criminal law and process and their interrelationship. The course also examines application of the constitution to business with particular emphasis on the court system and administrative agencies. Substantively, the content areas of torts and contracts will be examined.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
MAT 273 - Applied Statistics I . (3 hours)
A study in descriptive and inferential statistical methods that aid decision-making. Includes the following topics: probability, probability distributions, calculation of parameters from a universe, calculation of statistics from a sample, hypothesis testing, regression, and correlation. A hand-held calculator with scientific functions is required.
Prerequisite: CIS 111 and MAT 174 or above
MGT 121 - How Business Works (3 hours)
This introductory course is designed to acquaint the student with a broad variety of topics that are fundamental to the understanding of business. These include the essentials of economics, finance, management, marketing, international business, strategy and ethics. The study and discussion of current issues in each of these areas will be used to increase the student’s understanding. Students receiving credit for MGT201 may not enroll in this course, nor can the two courses be taken concurrently.
MGT 201 - Management of Organizations (3 hours) (w)
This course will provide an overview of the internal workings of an organization. It will survey the functional areas such as finance, marketing, operations, information and decision support systems, and human resources. The course will also examine the nature of the managerial job. This is a writing intensive course.
Prerequisite: ENG 141
Computer and Information Systems Curriculum Map
The associate in computer and information systems curriculum map gives you an overview of the academic path we recommend most students in the business program follow. As an Ivy Bridge student, you’ll use the curriculum map to guide your conversations with your success coach and academic advisors as you set up an academic schedule that works for you. Download a PDF of the curriculum map now>
Computer and Information Systems Possible Career Paths
The computer and information systems field covers a variety of careers ranging from systems managers and database specialists to programmers and statisticians. Ivy Bridge’s Associate in Computer and Information Systems provides you with a strong foundation in information systems that will expose you to a variety of specialized fields while you prepare for advanced study at a bachelor’s degree program or the transition to an entry-level job such as computer operator, systems analyst, or support specialist.
Some computer and information systems career paths you may be interested in are:
Information Systems
Information systems specialists and managers are responsible for maintaining an organization’s internet and computer systems, overseeing systems security, and identifying ways to meet organizational goals through technology. They are often in charge of the planning and development process for implementing new programs and information technology (IT) services and work closely with managers across an organization to implement technology solutions.
Typical duties include systems analysis, translating department needs into computer operations, purchasing new technology and equipment, keeping up with new technology developments, and seeing to an organization’s cyber security.
Programming
Professionals who work in computer programing are responsible for developing the programs needed to operate a computer. Depending the business or organization an individual works for, a computer programmer’s position can vary greatly. Some programmers work closely with designers and software engineers to develop computer programs while others help resolve issues or problems that may arise by conducting tests and running diagnostics. Because programming technologies are constantly changing, programmers are required to stay up-to-date on new languages and techniques. Many programmers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science while others choose to enroll in supplemental courses in the specific area they need more experience in to stay up-to-date.
Specific duties may include modifying existing programs to meet organizational needs; debugging; writing manuals or operations for program users; conducting trial runs of programs and applications to ensure accuracy and functionality; and writing, updating, and maintaining computer programs in order to perform specific jobs.
Support
Computer support specialists provide technical assistance to those operating computers within a company or organization. Assistance can include everything from program installation and printing to word processing and operational systems troubleshooting. Support specialists are often responsible for overseeing the day-to-day performance of a company’s computers and systems and help answer inquiries to resolve problems.
Typical aspects of the job include working with outside vendors to report detective products and troubleshoot system issues; developing workflows, procedures, and requirements for system usage and support; setting up and repairing equipment; and working with management to purchase new technology systems.
Learn more about Ivy Bridge’s computer and information systems program:
Request more information or talk to a friendly advisor now at 855-413-4752.