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Computer Information Systems: Computer Software Technology - Associate in Applied Science (076)

(076) Associate in Applied Science

Graduates of the Computer Software Technology program are prepared to enter the workforce as information support staff, administrative assistants, or other office positions in private business and governmental organizations. Majors study the theory, design, development, and application of computer technology to computer information systems, and develop in-depth knowledge on the operation and structure of major business software packages. The degree allows the student to choose electives towards a student-selected specialization in information systems support, administrative assistant roles in general business, legal offices, or medical offices.

Work and Employment

The rapid spread of computers and computer-based technologies in recent years has generated need for skilled, highly trained workers. Computers have become essential to the operation of stores, banks, colleges and universities, governmental agencies, hospitals, factories, and many other profit and non-profit entities in our society. Employment for CIS graduates is expected to grow as organizations seek new applications for computers and improvements to the software already in use. Employers are increasingly interested in employees who can combine areas of technical expertise or who are adaptable, are able to learn and incorporate new skills, and are able to find opportunities for increased efficiency through the use of automation. Click here for further career information: https://www.svcc.edu/academics/programs/individual/076.html

Special Consideration

Workers usually have the following skills and aptitudes: work independently, quickly and accurately, think logically and use good judgment, concentrate, possess mechanical and mathematical aptitudes, patience and persistence.

Program Contacts at Sauk Valley Community College
Academic Advising, 815/835-6354
Greg Noack, Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, 815/835-6434

Follow this link for career information.

Total Hours Required - 60 Hours

Major Field Requirements - 44 Hours

• BUS103 - Intro to Business ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Introduction to Business provides a foundation of knowledge in business including an understanding of the basic processes of marketing, finance, production, accounting, information technology, human resource management and the relationships of business to our society and government and the global economy. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• BUS106 - Business Mathematics I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course develops an approach to the study of the fundamentals of computational skills used in business. These computational skills may be employed in business/commercial decision-making and in general quantitative business situations. Quantitative topics include reinforcement of fundamental arithmetic and mathematical processes, equations and word problems, percentages, decimals and fractions, product pricing and markup policies, bank reconciliations, notes and interest, payroll records, business inventory turnover, and insurance principles. Further topics include the study of business depreciation, business financial statements, business and personal insurance, corporate stocks and bonds, international business, compound interest applications, and business statistics. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS104 - Word Processing Software ( 2 Semester Hours)

  This course will familiarize the user with advanced features of word processing. Course emphasis will include: document creation, document deleting and document printing, editing, formatting with fonts, margins, columns, citations, creating and formatting tables, graphics, themes and building blocks, merging, multipage, styles and templates, references, footnotes, integration with Excel and Access, building forms, collaborating and tracking documents customizing Word, Watermarks CIS 109 or consent of instructor Semester hour(s): 2 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/2 lab

• CIS106 - Spreadsheet Software ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course is designed to acquaint the student with the process of using personal computers to solve spreadsheet problems. In addition to providing the student with a working knowledge of the basic and advanced capabilities of spreadsheet software, the student will be exposed to the use of problem-solving techniques for situations in which spreadsheet solutions are appropriate. Prerequisite: CIS 109 or consent of instructor 3 Semester hour(s) 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS108 - Database Software ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course is designed to acquaint the student with the use of Windows-based database management system to solve problems. In addition to providing the student with a working knowledge of the basic and advanced capabilities of a Windows database management system, the student will be exposed to the use of problem-solving techniques for situations in which database management solutions are appropriate. Prerequisite: CIS 109 or consent of instructor 3 Semester hour(s) 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems and communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite: None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take OAS 103-Keyboarding. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS130 - Information Systems Management ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed for students and managers who desire an overview of contemporary information systems technology management. Computer, telecommunications, and office systems management topics explain the relevant issues of effective management of information systems activities and highlight the areas of greatest potential application of the technology within corporate environments. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS132 - Cloud Productivity ( 2 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course is designed to acquaint the student with the use of cloud-based office productivity applications for collaboration, file sharing, project management, note-taking, communication, and organization. Laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of tools including: Google Apps, Microsoft Office 365, Evernote, cloud-based drives, and web conferencing tools. Both desktop and mobile tools will be utilized when applicable. Best practices for the business office and security will be emphasized. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 (concurrent enrollment accepted), or consent of instructor. 2 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/2 lab

• CIS143 - Desktop Publishing Software ( 3 Semester Hours)

  An introduction to desktop publishing in which students will learn to manipulate, edit, store and plot both text and graphic information. Students will also learn how to develop and use artistic graphics necessary to produce business forms, charts, reports, newsletters, brochures and magazines utilizing the microcomputer. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/4 lab

• CIS148 - Business Presentation Graphics ( 1 Semester Hours)

  This course focuses on creating effective and attractive presentation media for business presentations. The student will learn the basics of a software package specifically designed for presentation graphics. In addition to providing the student with a working knowledge of the graphics capabilities of various software packages, the student will be exposed to the use of problem-solving techniques for situations in which graphic solutions are appropriate. Prerequisite: CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: .5 lec, 1 lab/week

• CIS167 - A+ Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to microcomputer maintenance. This course will introduce a history of personal computer evolution as well as the most popular and recent technologies. Students will examine the personal computer; laptops and portable devices; current operating systems; printing & scanning techniques; basic networking; safety; and professionalism. This course is designed to prepare the successful student for the CompTIA A+ Essentials and A+ Technician exams. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS210 - Systems Analysis & Design ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course focuses on the analysis, design, implementation and documentation of complete business systems. Emphasis on project management and general management of business information systems will be presented. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS214 - Computer Operating Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course provides a theoretical approach to computer operating systems. New and old operating systems will be examined with emphasis on changes made in recent years. An exhaustive survey of operating systems in use in business today and how technicians maintain and support them will be completed. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS229 - Database Management Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course provides a theoretical approach to database management systems. Topics included are data security, web-enabled systems design and programming for systems, large-scale databases and data warehouses, system requirements, database performance, and SQL for database queries. Physical and logical database design and models will also be examined. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS235 - Occupational Internship I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  An occupational experience utilizing on-the-job training. All students are required to spend a minimum of 15 hours each week on the job. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in CIS 231. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 15 lab/week

• OAS103 - Basic Keyboarding & Doc Proc ( 4 Semester Hours)

  Instruction in keyboard and machine control techniques with the objective of developing a mastery of the keyboard and skill in producing basic and academic reports. 2 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lab/week

• CIS231 - Occupational Seminar I ( 1 Semester Hours)

  A seminar designed to complement the student's initial placement in an approved working situation. Prerequisite: Completion of 12 hours in major field courses. Concurrent enrollment in CIS 235. Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

General Education Requirements - 15 Hours

• Humanities/Fine Arts 3 Semester hour(s)
• Social/Behavioral Science 3 Semester hour(s)
• Physical/Life Science 3 Semester hour(s)

• ENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  A basic course in essay writing with emphasis on exposition, ENG 101 stresses knowledge and application of the rhetorical modes. ENG 101 presupposes competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Prerequisite: ACT standard score in English of 22 or above; required scores on the current English placement test, or grade of C or higher in ELA 099. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• ENG111 - Bus/Technical Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Provides information on principles of written and oral communication specifically applied to business and technical fields. Assignments are designed to develop skill and practice in the use of these principles and include the writing of memoranda, business letters, instructions, informal reports and formal reports. Students are encouraged to tailor assignments to the specific careers they are pursuing. (Not applicable for humanities requirement.) Prerequisite: ENG 101 with a grade of C or higher. Because of emphasis on graphics and computer formatting, students are advised to complete CIS 109 or IND 105 or to have equivalent word processing skills. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

SVCC Requirement - 1 Hours

• FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to facilitate the self-development of the student, and introduce students to the expectations of the college community. This course reviews the academic skills that promote success during their college career. Topics will include, but not limited to, identifying campus/community resources, test-taking strategies, career exploration/decision making, problem solving, literacy, and critical thinking. Students will also learn strategies for taking personal responsibility for their academic and career choices. (Students in good standing (GPA of 2.0 or higher), who have accumulated 16 semester hours or more prior to enrolling as a degree seeking student at Sauk are not required to take this class). Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Suggested Program

First Semester - 15 Hours

• Physical/Life Science 3 Semester Hour(s)

• BUS103 - Intro to Business ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Introduction to Business provides a foundation of knowledge in business including an understanding of the basic processes of marketing, finance, production, accounting, information technology, human resource management and the relationships of business to our society and government and the global economy. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems and communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite: None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take OAS 103-Keyboarding. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• ENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  A basic course in essay writing with emphasis on exposition, ENG 101 stresses knowledge and application of the rhetorical modes. ENG 101 presupposes competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Prerequisite: ACT standard score in English of 22 or above; required scores on the current English placement test, or grade of C or higher in ELA 099. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to facilitate the self-development of the student, and introduce students to the expectations of the college community. This course reviews the academic skills that promote success during their college career. Topics will include, but not limited to, identifying campus/community resources, test-taking strategies, career exploration/decision making, problem solving, literacy, and critical thinking. Students will also learn strategies for taking personal responsibility for their academic and career choices. (Students in good standing (GPA of 2.0 or higher), who have accumulated 16 semester hours or more prior to enrolling as a degree seeking student at Sauk are not required to take this class). Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

• OAS103 - Basic Keyboarding & Doc Proc ( 4 Semester Hours)

  Instruction in keyboard and machine control techniques with the objective of developing a mastery of the keyboard and skill in producing basic and academic reports. 2 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lab/week

Second Semester - 15 Hours

• Electives: Soc/Behavioral Science 3 Semester Hour(s)

• BUS106 - Business Mathematics I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course develops an approach to the study of the fundamentals of computational skills used in business. These computational skills may be employed in business/commercial decision-making and in general quantitative business situations. Quantitative topics include reinforcement of fundamental arithmetic and mathematical processes, equations and word problems, percentages, decimals and fractions, product pricing and markup policies, bank reconciliations, notes and interest, payroll records, business inventory turnover, and insurance principles. Further topics include the study of business depreciation, business financial statements, business and personal insurance, corporate stocks and bonds, international business, compound interest applications, and business statistics. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS104 - Word Processing Software ( 2 Semester Hours)

  This course will familiarize the user with advanced features of word processing. Course emphasis will include: document creation, document deleting and document printing, editing, formatting with fonts, margins, columns, citations, creating and formatting tables, graphics, themes and building blocks, merging, multipage, styles and templates, references, footnotes, integration with Excel and Access, building forms, collaborating and tracking documents customizing Word, Watermarks CIS 109 or consent of instructor Semester hour(s): 2 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/2 lab

• CIS106 - Spreadsheet Software ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course is designed to acquaint the student with the process of using personal computers to solve spreadsheet problems. In addition to providing the student with a working knowledge of the basic and advanced capabilities of spreadsheet software, the student will be exposed to the use of problem-solving techniques for situations in which spreadsheet solutions are appropriate. Prerequisite: CIS 109 or consent of instructor 3 Semester hour(s) 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS148 - Business Presentation Graphics ( 1 Semester Hours)

  This course focuses on creating effective and attractive presentation media for business presentations. The student will learn the basics of a software package specifically designed for presentation graphics. In addition to providing the student with a working knowledge of the graphics capabilities of various software packages, the student will be exposed to the use of problem-solving techniques for situations in which graphic solutions are appropriate. Prerequisite: CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: .5 lec, 1 lab/week

• ENG111 - Bus/Technical Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Provides information on principles of written and oral communication specifically applied to business and technical fields. Assignments are designed to develop skill and practice in the use of these principles and include the writing of memoranda, business letters, instructions, informal reports and formal reports. Students are encouraged to tailor assignments to the specific careers they are pursuing. (Not applicable for humanities requirement.) Prerequisite: ENG 101 with a grade of C or higher. Because of emphasis on graphics and computer formatting, students are advised to complete CIS 109 or IND 105 or to have equivalent word processing skills. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Third Semester - 14 Hours

• CIS130 - Information Systems Management ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed for students and managers who desire an overview of contemporary information systems technology management. Computer, telecommunications, and office systems management topics explain the relevant issues of effective management of information systems activities and highlight the areas of greatest potential application of the technology within corporate environments. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS132 - Cloud Productivity ( 2 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course is designed to acquaint the student with the use of cloud-based office productivity applications for collaboration, file sharing, project management, note-taking, communication, and organization. Laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of tools including: Google Apps, Microsoft Office 365, Evernote, cloud-based drives, and web conferencing tools. Both desktop and mobile tools will be utilized when applicable. Best practices for the business office and security will be emphasized. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 (concurrent enrollment accepted), or consent of instructor. 2 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/2 lab

• CIS143 - Desktop Publishing Software ( 3 Semester Hours)

  An introduction to desktop publishing in which students will learn to manipulate, edit, store and plot both text and graphic information. Students will also learn how to develop and use artistic graphics necessary to produce business forms, charts, reports, newsletters, brochures and magazines utilizing the microcomputer. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/4 lab

• CIS167 - A+ Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to microcomputer maintenance. This course will introduce a history of personal computer evolution as well as the most popular and recent technologies. Students will examine the personal computer; laptops and portable devices; current operating systems; printing & scanning techniques; basic networking; safety; and professionalism. This course is designed to prepare the successful student for the CompTIA A+ Essentials and A+ Technician exams. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS210 - Systems Analysis & Design ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course focuses on the analysis, design, implementation and documentation of complete business systems. Emphasis on project management and general management of business information systems will be presented. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Fourth Semester - 16 Hours

• Electives: Hum/FA 3 Semester Hour(s)

• CIS108 - Database Software ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course is designed to acquaint the student with the use of Windows-based database management system to solve problems. In addition to providing the student with a working knowledge of the basic and advanced capabilities of a Windows database management system, the student will be exposed to the use of problem-solving techniques for situations in which database management solutions are appropriate. Prerequisite: CIS 109 or consent of instructor 3 Semester hour(s) 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS214 - Computer Operating Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course provides a theoretical approach to computer operating systems. New and old operating systems will be examined with emphasis on changes made in recent years. An exhaustive survey of operating systems in use in business today and how technicians maintain and support them will be completed. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS229 - Database Management Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course provides a theoretical approach to database management systems. Topics included are data security, web-enabled systems design and programming for systems, large-scale databases and data warehouses, system requirements, database performance, and SQL for database queries. Physical and logical database design and models will also be examined. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS231 - Occupational Seminar I ( 1 Semester Hours)

  A seminar designed to complement the student's initial placement in an approved working situation. Prerequisite: Completion of 12 hours in major field courses. Concurrent enrollment in CIS 235. Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

• CIS235 - Occupational Internship I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  An occupational experience utilizing on-the-job training. All students are required to spend a minimum of 15 hours each week on the job. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in CIS 231. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 15 lab/week