Computer Information Technology, A.A.S.

DEGREE: ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH

Computer Information Technology is primarily concerned with the study of computer and Internet technologies and with the application of the systematic methods of developing information system solutions for businesses and organizations. It includes ongoing operations, as well as planning, development, implementation, maintenance, and management of these technologies and systems in a variety of settings. This program includes a core of courses to be completed by all students, plus four concentrations from which each student selects one.

The goals of this curriculum are: (1) to prepare students for entry-level positions in information technology and information systems, with sufficient knowledge of the overall computer technology environment to advance along several career paths, e.g., application programming, systems analysis/design, web design, and I.T. support; and (2) to provide the appropriate foundation for further studies in computer information systems and information technology.

Game Developer Concentration
This concentration enables students to build a solid foundation with which to pursue careers in the game design industry. Essential concepts, functional job tracks, and industry structures of game design are taught, together with a variety of computer application software tools and basic coding techniques.

Information Security/Assurance Concentration
Students who pursue a concentration in Information Security/Assurance are instructed in the methods, policies, and procedures for protecting information systems from attacks, while maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information for use by authorized users. The program teaches knowledge and skills in technical computer systems (hardware and software), as well as in law and professional communication.

Programmer/Analyst Concentration
This concentration helps students prepare for traditional jobs and careers in the Information Technology field. Fundamentals of the programming and database management are expanded beyond the learning offered in the core curriculum: Java, additional Visual Basic, and a second course in database management are included in the concentration specialist courses.

Web Design Concentration
Students interested in becoming web page and web site designers and developers will find this concentration challenging and rewarding. A combination of technologies and tools are taught, to assist the student in working as a professional in the web environment.

NOTE: A student may earn a degree in only one of these concentrations.

The College offers Certificate programs associated with some of the concentrations in this program.  Learn more about these programs:

• Application Programming, C.T.C.   (all concentrations)
• Web Site Design, C.T.S.   and Web Programming, C.T.C.   (concentration in Web Design Specialist)
• Information Security/Assurance, C.T.C.   (concentration in Information Security/Assurance)

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Computer Information Technology Associate of Applied Science program, the learner will be able to:

• Apply critical and creative thinking skills to identify or create the information technology which solves an information system problem (SLO #1)
• Use the agility of iterative process to create, deploy, or maintain information technology solutions (SLO #2)
• Assess the needs of diverse stakeholders and the project environment to select the soft skills needed to execute the information technology project (SLO #3)