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Home > Course Catalog > Course Descriptions > (CIS) Computer Information Systems

CIS 101              Computer Literacy (2 credits)
This course is designed to provide non-Computer Science majors with an introductory-level course in computer usage. It is a hands-on course and provides an overview of microcomputer applications including Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint and Internet Explorer. (Credit awarded for CIS 101 or CSCI 116, not both.) (F, S, Su, O) ND:COMPSC

CIS 104              Microcomputer Database (Access) (3)
This course is designed to teach database concepts, the use of database software and the types of applications adaptable to this software.

CIS 105              Microcomputer Spreadsheet (Excel) (3)
This course is designed to teach the use of spreadsheet software and the types of applications adaptable to this software. (O)
 
CIS 128              Microcomputer Hardware I (3)
This course covers the fundamentals of computer hardware and software. This course helps students prepare for the CompTIA A+ Essentials exam (220-701), which covers the fundamentals of computer technology, networking, and security, and validates the communication skills and professionalism required of all entry-level IT professionals. Students who complete this course will be able to describe the internal components of the computer, assemble a computer system, install an operating system, and troubleshoot using system tools and diagnostic software. Students will also be able to connect to the internet and share resources in a networked environment. Topics included are laptops and portable devices, wireless connectivity, security, safety and environmental issues, and communication skills. Hands-on activities are essential items of the course. Virtual learning tools are integrated into the course. (F)

CIS 129              Microcomputer Hardware II (3)
This course covers the advanced concepts of computer hardware and software. It is designed to build on the knowledge and skills attained in CIS 128. This course helps students prepare for the CompTIA A+ Practical Application exam (220-702). It implements more of a hands-on orientation and scenarios in which troubleshooting and tools must be applied to resolve problems. Prerequisite: CIS 128. (S)

CIS 164              Networking Fundamentals I (4)
This course teaches students the skills needed to obtain entry-level home network installer jobs. It also helps students develop some of the skills needed to become network technicians, computer technicians, cable installers, and help desk technicians. It provides hands-on introduction to networking and the internet using tools and hardware commonly found in home and small business environments. Labs include PC installation, internet connectivity, wireless connectivity, file and print sharing, and the installation of game consoles, scanners, and cameras. (F, O)

CIS 165              Networking Fundamentals II (4)
This course prepares students for jobs as network technicians and helps them develop additional skills required for computer technicians and help desk technicians. It provides a basic overview of routing and remote access, addressing, and security. It also familiarizes students with servers that provide email services, web space, and authenticated access. Students learn about the soft skills required for help desk and customer service positions, and the final chapter helps them prepare for the CCENT certification exam. Network monitoring and basic troubleshooting skills are taught in context. Prerequisite: CIS 164. (S)

CIS 166              Windows Support (3)
In this course the student will develop skills to support Windows including setup, configuration, customization, optimization, network integration, administration, troubleshooting, messaging and other support issues. Prerequisite: CIS 221. (As needed)

CIS 180              Creating Web Pages I (3)
This course will introduce students to HTML, XHTML and CSS. The students will learn how to write HTML code.  The student will be able to identify and apply various codes and styles when creating a Web page. This will include writing HTML and CSS code for color, links, images, alignment, text styles, tables, forms, formatting values, frames, and adding multimedia content such as sound and video files. Correct design aspects will be used along with learning about planning a Web site, typography, promoting and maintaining a Web site, and ways to attract visitors to your site. (F, S, Su, O)

CIS 181              Creating Web Pages II (3)
This course will introduce students to graphic editing, animation and Web authoring software.  Students will learn how to utilize these software packages to create and edit images, design Web pages and Web sites. The student will be able to identify and apply various tools associated with each software when creating a Web page. The students will employ various styles to design and create Web pages including layers, image maps, animation, frames and tables. In addition, students will utilize tools in various software packages to assist in developing Web pages with color, links, images, alignment, text styles, tables, forms, formatting, and frames. Prerequisite:  CIS 180. (S, Su, O)

CIS 182              Perl/CGI (3)
This class teaches users how to write CGI programs using the Perl programming language, the most common way Websites accept orders over the Internet. Students begin with an introduction to the Perl language and will progress into developing forms and graphics using CGI. (O, As needed)

CIS 191              First Year Seminar (1)
The purpose of this course is to help students create a portfolio of coursework and assignments. (F, S)

CIS 197              Internship (1-3)
The internship is an on-campus experience for the student. The student will work right out of the Information Technology department with IT support staff. Prerequisite: First-year core classes. (F, S, Su)

CIS 212              Microsoft Windows Operating System Client (3)
The purpose of this course is to offer all the critical information students need to successfully move into a role as an IT professional and support Windows Vista in a business environment. Many hands-on exercises are included which allow students to practice skills as they are learned. (F)

CIS 215              Implementing a Microsoft Windows Server Environment (4)
This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to install and configure Microsoft Windows 2003 Professional and stand-alone and client computers that are part of a workgroup or domain. In addition, this course provides the skills and knowledge necessary to install and configure Windows 2003 Server to create file, print, Web and terminal servers. (S, O)

CIS 216              Implementing a Microsoft Windows Network Infrastructure (4)
This course teaches students, through lectures, discussions, scenarios, demonstrations, chapter review questions, textbook exercises, and classroom labs, the skills and knowledge necessary to configure, manage, and troubleshoot a Windows network infrastructure. (S)

CIS 220              Operating Systems (UNIX) (3)
This course will focus on the LINUX operating system. Students will learn how to use UNIX commands, X-Windows, UNIX text editors and UNIX Utilities. Students will also work with and learn basic system administration for LINUX. (F, S, O)

CIS 221              Networking Essentials (3)
This class will provide the student with the background necessary to understand the local area networking environment. It is an introduction to current networking technology for LANs, WANs and Internet. (F)

CIS 222              NetWare Administration (4.x) (4)
The goal of this course is to enable the students to gain first-hand experience with the following kinds of management tasks they would perform routinely as network administrators: network configuration, file and directory configuration, network security, backup/recovery system and network printing. This course is designed around a network management scenario of a small- to medium-sized NetWare 4.x network; that is, fewer than 50 users on one or two servers at a single location with one printer server. Additionally, this course will enable the student to perform basic troubleshooting techniques. Prerequisite: CIS 221. (F)

CIS 232              Graphics Design (3)
The students will explore and learn the concepts and skills behind a comprehensive vector-draw software application. They will learn how to apply smart design principles to multimedia products such as dynamic graphics, animation, and Web sites.  Students will create everything from simple graphics, icons, and text to complex and multi-layered illustrations, all of which can be used within a page layout, in a multimedia presentation or on the Web. (F, O)

CIS 233              Vector Graphics and Web Animation (3)
This course will introduce students to a development tool that allows them to create interactive experiences, often by using animation. Students will create complex animations for the Web, use drawing tools and tools for creating interactive controls such as navigation buttons and menus. Students will also learn how to incorporate sounds and video into an application and use the software’s publishing capabilities to create Webs sites and Web-based applications, such as games. Students will also utilize specific tools in this software package such as ActionScript, behaviors and components. (S, O)

CIS 234              Networking (Windows NT) (4)
This class will teach students how to configure, customize, optimize, integrate and troubleshoot Microsoft Windows NT operating systems in a single domain environment, focusing on implementing intranets and using Microsoft technology. (As Needed)

CIS 235              Digital Video Basics (3)
This course will introduce students to a digital video editing application. Students will learn how to gather loose artwork, video clips, bitmap images and vector graphics, and bring them together to create a new video product. Students will gain an understanding of how to work with transitions, clips, audio, titles, video effects and animating clips. In this course they will also explore editing techniques and exporting options into a movie, frame, Edit Decision List or a filmstrip. (S, O)

CIS 244              Web Server Management (3)
This course provides the student with an introduction to the basics of a Web server management role. The textbook covers server installation and installation, configuration and administration of Web servers. The student will be exposed to all topics for both Linux and a Microsoft Windows server environment. They will work with Microsoft Windows 2000 Server and Windows Server 2003, Red Hat Linus, Internet Information Services (IIS), Apache Web server, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Microsoft Exchange 2000 Server, sendmail and more. (Assumes students have a basic background in networking.) (S, O)

CIS 267              Intermediate Networking I (4)
This is the third of four Cisco classes on computer networking. The main focus of semester three is successfully configuring routers and switches and using network management techniques. Prerequisites: CIS 164, CIS 165. (F)

CIS 268              Intermediate Networking II (4)
This is the fourth of four Cisco classes on computer networking. The main focus of this class is on participating on a project in which the students will see a computer networking project through from designing to building, to implementing, to troubleshooting. Prerequisites: CIS 164, CIS 165, CIS 267. (S)

CIS 279              Security Awareness and Policy (1)
This course is intended to provide a basic survey of the importance of Information Technology security awareness and data confidentiality. This security awareness-training course walks users through every aspect of Information Security in a broad, easy to understand way. It explains to the user the value of securing data, both for themselves and the organization. The class will introduce legislation, local, state and federal privacy policies and liability of individuals and institutions related to data confidentiality and integrity, to include HIPAA and Gramm Leach Bliley act. This course will introduce basic concepts of risk management, security policies, common threats and countermeasures. Best practices in access control and password policies will also be covered. (F, O)

CIS 280              Fundamentals of Network Security I (4)
Introduction to Network Security course focusing on the overall security processes with particular emphasis on hands-on skills in the following areas: security policy design and management; security technologies, products and solutions; secure router design, installation; configuration and maintenance; AAA implementation using routers; Intrusion Detection implementation using routers; and Virtual Private Networks implementation using routers. (F)

CIS 281              Fundamentals of Network Security II (4)
Introduction to Network Security course focusing on the overall security processes with particular emphasis on hands-on skills in the following areas: firewall design, installation, configuration and maintenance; AAA implementation using firewalls; Intrusion Detection implementation using firewalls; and Virtual Private Networks implementation using firewalls. Prerequisite: CIS 280. (S)

CIS 282              Computer System Security (4)
This course introduces the basics of network security. The student will be introduced to computer network vulnerabilities and threats and how to safeguard computer networks from those vulnerabilities and threats. This course will expose the student to network security planning, network security technology, network security organization and the legal and ethical issues associated with network security. Prerequisite: CIS 164. (F)

CIS 283              Computer System Security Advanced (4)
Designed to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of the various methods used for attacking networks and computer systems.  Students will learn the concepts, principles and techniques, including applied exercises, for attacking and disabling a network. These methodologies are intended to provide insight into the use of detection strategies and countermeasures needed to properly secure network servers, hardware and clients. Prerequisite: CIS 282. (S)

CIS 284              Managing Network Security (4)
Increases the scope and depth of the skills and knowledge acquired in Network Security Fundamentals by focusing on the advanced capabilities of network defense strategies including Virtual Private Networks, Host Intrusion Detection Systems and Network Intrusion Detection Systems. Students will learn the evolution and current best practices of applying these technologies, which are universally deployed in networks of all sizes. (F)

CIS 290              Network Security Design (Capstone) (4)
This course affords the network security specialist the opportunity to conduct a vulnerability analysis upon a network in order to practice or refine the attack methodologies with the hacker tools and techniques to which the student was exposed during the various program courses. The student must demonstrate the ability to design, plan and execute a vulnerability analysis against an organization network. The student must prepare a written report of the security design, attack methodology, tools and techniques. (S)

CIS X92              Experimental Course (1-9)
A course designed to meet special departmental needs during new course development. It is used for one year after which time the course is assigned a different number.

CIS 297              Cooperative Education (1-5)
Cooperative Education offers students the opportunity to integrate career, social and personal development into the educational process. The cooperative education program allows students to integrate classroom study with a paid work experience related to their fields of study. It is recommended that a student has successfully completed one year of academic study.

CIS 299              Special Topics (1-9)
A course designed to meet special departmental needs.

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