Course Descriptions

COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS (CIS)

CIS 103 Computers and Application Software (3)

Computers are an essential part of our lives. It would be difficult to find an organization or profession that does not rely on computers. As a result, it is imperative to learn computing skills and gain the knowledge needed to be computer fluent. This course focuses on computer concepts including the operating system and advanced use of Excel and advanced Access databases. These two applications are major departmental computing tools in the digital organization. Knowledge of Excel, Access and MS Project is expected of graduates entering the job market today.

CIS 320 Relational Database Concepts and Practice (3)

In the CIS 103 course students learn concepts and skills related to relational database and their functionality. In this course, through extensive hands-on exercises, students master skills in the use of relational databases and their objects. Students  also learn techniques for designing and building a relational database for an organization. Using case studies and “beyond the classroom” projects students practice how to transform raw data into meaningful and useful information for business purposes. Business Intelligence (BI) using Access can handle a large amount of unstructured data to identify, develop and then create new opportunities. Relational database, entity-relationship models, normal forms, data manipulation language to query and modify databases, and Web applications concepts will be taught. Students work in teams. Each student actively participates in the course through playing role of the Team Leader or Team Member in rotation. Capstone projects are used in the classroom, which simulate real business projects. The course introduces use of English-like Structured Query Language (SQL).
Prerequisites: CIS 103, EN 102, COM 101

CIS 330 Computer Architecture: Technology in Action (3)

The course covers the following fundamental concepts: Central Processing Unit (CPU), main memory (M), Input/ Output (I/O) devices and systems interconnections. The course defines the concept of computer architecture versus computer organization. Four basic functions of the computer are taught: data processing, data storage, data movement and control are taught. Designing computers for performance leads to examining various modern architectures and techniques such as chip architecture, clusters, cloud computing and parallelism. The course includes new trends in computers, information   technology (IT) and information systems (IS).
Prerequisites: EN 102, COM 101

CIS 370 Internet and Network Management (3)

The Internet is a network of the networks and the most efficient communication highway that connects people through various devices (cellphones, tablets, MACs, PCs) around the globe. This course provides a fresh and current perspective on networking and network management. Use of a top-down approach sparks student’s interest in learning how the Internet applications work. This is also a high growth area where many of the recent revolutions in technology (Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, Linkedin) have been occurring. The concept of network management is introduced. Network Management focuses on the deployment, integration, and coordination of hardware, software, and human elements to monitor, configure, analyze, evaluate and control networks in real-time.
Prerequisites: EN 102, COM 101

CIS 471 Cyberspace and Cybersecurity Essentials (3)

We live in the age of universal electronic connectivity. Cyber threats are one of the most serious economic and national security issues that countries face today, and as a result, cybersecurity matters. The objective of this course is to provide up- to-date assessment of developments in computer and network security. Students learn how to define threats, evaluate the relative risks of these threats and deploy cost-effective and user friendly countermeasures. This course can serve as the first step in preparing students to obtain Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) designation. This course will provide the knowledge needed for students to prevent the destructive effects of cyberattacks and to promote cybersecurity awareness in their organizations.
Prerequisites: EN 102, COM 101

CIS 472 Cyber Principles for a Changing World (3)

This course is designed to introduce the principals of cybersecurity. It provides an overview of cyberspace cybersecurity fundamentals. Cybersecurity is defined as the steps and processes taken to protect networks, devices, programs, and data from unauthorized access that can result in theft or damage. This course is applicable to any major as long as you are an internet user.
Prerequisites: EN 102, COM 101

CIS 480 Special Topics (1 to 3)

Special topics in Computer Information Systems are offered as announced. Example course topics include web design, e- commerce and cloud computing.
Prerequisites: EN 102, COM 101