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Academics

Undergraduate CIS Course Descriptions

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CISP 164 Computer Productivity Applications I     3 Credit Hours

This course introduces students to information processing systems and the part each element plays in those systems. It covers computer terminology, the programming development cycle, computer methods, the history of data representation, computer applications, the impact of the computer on society, and future directions for development. An introduction to Microsoft Office applications, including word processing (Word), spreadsheets (Excel), databases (Access), and presentation graphics (PowerPoint) also will be covered.

CISP 166 Computer Productivity Applications II     3 Credit Hours

This course is designed to improve students' skills as knowledge workers through effective and efficient use of the Internet and advanced software packages. It covers software functionality to support personal and group productivity, i.e., Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access, and developing computer (Prerequisite: CISP 164).

CISP 200 Programming I     3 Credit Hours

This course introduces students to structured programming techniques for computer-problem solving. Topics to be covered include: processing data, designing input and output, program design and code, data types, control structures, functions/libraries and file/streams (Prerequisite: CISP 164).

CISP 201 Programming II      3 Credit Hours

This course builds upon the knowledge gained in CISP 200, providing additional instruction and practice in both the theory and practice of structured programming techniques leading to more complex algorithms. Topics to be covered: designing efficient algorithms, file processing, modular constructs, inter-function communication, and table searching/sorting (Prerequisite: CISP 200).

CISP 250 Fundamentals of Information Systems     3 Credit Hours

This course provides students with an understanding of the basic system theory, planning for technology, the organizational decision-making process, and how information is used for decision support in organizations. It also provides an in-depth knowledge of: hardware and software; general computer information systems structures; information systems designs and operations; ethical issues related to information systems design and use; the historical development of information systems; and the future direction of computer information systems processing (Prerequisite: CISP 164).

CISP 260 E-Business and Web Application Development     3 Credit Hours

This course introduces the developmental life cycle of Web-based information systems for e-Business. The emphasis is on online business processes, technologies, methods, and application development tools. A team written research project is required (Prerequisite: CISP 166).

CISP 311 Data Structures & Algorithm Design     3 Credit Hours

This course focuses on the design, programming, testing and implementation of larger programs in a problem-solving environment. System topics are covered with an object-oriented and client/server approach and data structure topics include: arrays, records, pointers and linked lists, file structures, sets, stacks and queues, trees and sorting. How to approach and solve major programming projects is stressed with an emphasis on recursive solutions (Prerequisites: CISP 201).

CISP 315 Data Communications and Networks     3 Credit Hours

This course introduces the fundamental concepts of data networks in terms of the ISO layered architecture. It covers a variety of telecommunications topics, such as ISO models and ANSI/EEE standards for local and wide area networks. Emphasis is upon the analysis and design of  network applications in organizations and management of telecommunications networks. Students learn to evaluate, select and implement different communication options within an organization (Prerequisite: CISP 250).

CISP 320 Systems Analysis and Design     3 Credit Hours

This course covers all aspects of the system life cycle using automated tools for practice with practical applications. Some of the topics include: data gathering and documentation; hardware, software and network selection to meet the system needs; design of system output, input files and processing procedures; system controls; project management using automated tools; program specifications, testing, implementation options; and evaluation (Prerequisite: CISP 250).

CISP 415 Database Management Systems      3 Credit Hours

This course covers the fundamentals of database systems essential for information management. Focusing primarily on relational databases, the course presents the entity-relationship model, query processing and normalization. It provides an understanding of data modeling, database design, database implementation, and other aspects of database management. The laboratory component utilizes Microsoft Access and the SQL language (Prerequisite: CISP 250).

CISP 420 Independent Study     3 Credit Hours

This course is designed to allow the student to apply knowledge and understanding of computers and systems to selected advanced topics. Certain research topics, as pursued by the CISP faculty, are also offered under this number (Prerequisite: CISP 250).

CISP 426 Applications of Object-Oriented Technology     3 Credit Hours

The course introduces students to object-oriented programming concepts, such as classes, objects, methods, interfaces, inheritance, etc. These concepts are emphasized through extensive programming examples and assignments using object-oriented programming language (Java) that require problem solving, algorithm development, top-down design, modular programming, debugging, and testing. Additionally, the course continues to build on the students' experience with control structures (i.e., selection, iteration, and recursion), data types (e.g., arrays, strings, and pointers), and fundamental algorithms for operations (Prerequisite: CISP 201).

CISP 428 Network/Internet Security Management     3 Credit Hours

This course provides a detailed perspective on protecting computer-based information in a modern networked environment. It covers a wide range of technical issues and topics including a study of network and distributed systems security; Web security; network threats: vulnerabilities and risks; computer crime; encryption and virtual private networks; and network security technologies, such as firewalls and intrusion detection (Prerequisite: CISP 315).

CISP 430 Data Mining for Business Intelligence     3 Credit Hours

This course introduces basic data mining technologies, and their uses for business intelligence. It also helps students to understand the basic algorithms and techniques in the knowledge discovery process, such as data pre-processing, data mining and post-process evaluation, and apply these to create decision-making solutions in business world (Prerequisite: CISP 415).

CISP 435 Applications of Information Security     3 Credit Hours

This course focuses on the tools and concepts of information security to mitigate and respond to application risks. The theory and operation of information security tools and techniques, such as user authentication, access control, SQL injection, and Cross-site scripting, are discussed, and students design and test their applications in a variety of scenarios, such as injecting into SQL and finding vulnerabilities in source code. Topics include software-, hardware-, host-, and network-based solutions (Prerequisite: CISP 428).

CISP 451 Project Management     3 Credit Hours

This course introduces students to project management theory, skills, and tools. Students will use these resources to develop an extensive project that utilizes computer system concepts and builds on previous course work. A required paper and presentation associated with this project also reinforce writing and oral presentation skills (Prerequisite: CISP 320).

CISP 460 Database Administration     3 Credit Hours

This course address the database administration skills covering installing, configuring and tuning a database; administering servers and server groups; managing and optimizing schemas, tables, indexes, and views; creating logins; configuring permissions; assigning roles and performing other essential security tasks, backup and recovery, automation and maintenance (Prerequisite: CISP 415).

CISP 480 E-Commerce     3 Credit Hours

This course explores the role of the Internet in the conduct of business activities with an emphasis on the implications of business-to-business and business-to-consumer connection as a result of electronic communications, particularly the Internet. The course will introduce the basic culture, the terminology and the components needed to understand the Electronic Commerce environment. Students will learn basic Web design skills. Topics to be covered include Benefits and Limitations of E-Commerce, Business Models, Internet Infrastructure, Electronic Payment Systems, Internet Security,  and Legal, Ethical, and Public Policy Issues (Prerequisite: CISP 250).

CISP 481 Internship     3 Credit Hours

This course provides learning experience in the field of Computer Information Systems under the general supervision of a MLS faculty member and direct supervision of an Information Systems Professional. Grading will be based on the faculty member's evaluation, a written report by the professional supervisor and a written report by the student (Prerequisite: CISP 250).