Computer Information Systems Program

The Computer Information Systems program prepares students for programmer and/or analyst positions in the business and industry sectors. It emphasizes a variety of methodologies, including more recent object-oriented approaches, for the analysis, design, implementation and testing of complex information systems.

In addition to a solid foundation in computer programming (using some business-oriented tools as well as standard Computer Science tools), systems analysis, basic computer architecture, data structures, accounting and management, students may elect to take more advanced coursework in Expert Systems, Networking, or other technical subjects.

An important feature of the curriculum is the capstone System Development Project course, where students work in teams to tackle real projects.

Program Goals

  • Given the specifications for a software application, design the appropriate internal and external data structures, then design, implement, and test the algorithms which represent and transform the data structures necessary to solve the problem.
  • Work within a group programming environment to utilize the object oriented paradigm and sound software engineering principles, such as using cohesive, independently compiled modules with appropriate abstract data types and user interfaces, in the program development cycle.
  • Communicate technical information clearly and concisely in oral and written forms.
  • Understand client/server and enterprise computing strategies and their important relationships to database design, application programming, data communications, and networking (workstations, LANs, WANs, World-Wide-Web).
  • Use analytical and technical skills for identifying, studying, and solving complex system problems.
  • Implement algorithms using a variety of software development tools based on a solid understanding of the architecture of the tools.
  • Understand the technical and human aspects of change.
  • Understand the goals, functions, and operations of typical business organizations.
  • Successfully work with users of information systems in the development of specifications for solutions to information management problems.
  • Function successfully in all stages of the system development life cycle

Requirements