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Computer Science Cert.

Certificate Program

Overview

The Computer Science Certificate is designed for students interested in exploring the field of computer science. It provides students with general knowledge in the areas of computer programming, computer network technologies, database management, and website design through a survey of courses. Students can expand their knowledge further in an area of choice through the selection of electives, or continuing their expertise with a Associate of Science in Networking, Programming or Cyber Security.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of this program, the student should be able to:

  • Summarize how computers, data processing, and networking have changed practices in society, business, science, and medicine.
  • Describe the role of major hardware and software components of a computer.
  • Apply structured methodologies to design, implement, document, test, and debug computer programs.
  • Utilize common procedural and object-oriented programming language constructs.
  • Describe the technologies used in computer networks.
  • Design a relational database with queries, forms, and reports.
  • Create web pages with HTML markup and style them with CSS.
Computer Science Cert. Courses
    •  
    • Code
    • Course
    • Credits
    • CSI 101
    • Introduction to Computers
    • 3
    This course introduces the student to general topics about computers, including the impact of technology in a changing world, computer hardware, system and application software, databases, internet, networking, digital ethics and security. Students use word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software.
    • CSI 104
    • Introduction to Programming with Python
    • 3
    This course is designed to provide the background necessary for an understanding of computer programming languages. Programming assignments introduce the student to methods of problem-solving programming logic, development of algorithms, coding, debugging, and documenting programs. Topics include an overview of computer organization, simple data structures, and file management. Note: Formerly CSI 116.
    • CSI 107
    • C++ Programming
    • 3
    This course is designed as an introduction to C++ programming. Problem solving methods and algorithmic development stressing good programming style and documentation including top down and modular design is emphasized. Prerequisite: CSI 116.
    • CSI 149
    • Introduction to Game Development
    • 3
    This course will teach students how to develop client-side scripts to create more functional, robust websites. It builds upon the skills learned in CSA227 Web Design. Students will learn to program with the JavaScript programming language to enhance websites in the areas of dynamic web content, event handling, and form data validation. This course has a strong project component to provide students with substantial handson experience with client-side programming. Prerequisites: CSI 116 and CSA 227.
    • CSI 217
    • Introduction to Operating Systems
    • 3
    This course explores the concepts of operating systems and their relationship to computer architecture. Topics include concurrent processing, scheduling, memory management, file systems, device management, and resource allocation.
    • CSI 226
    • UNIX with Linux
    • 3
    Introduction to UNIX operating system. Practical explorations of the basics of UNIX system concepts, architecture, and administration. Uses Linux, a PC-compatible clone of UNIX to reinforce shell programming concepts and utilities with real-world applications.
    • CSI 233
    • Java Programming
    • 3
    This course is an introduction to the Java programming language that builds upon concepts explored in Introduction to Programming (CSI 116). The Java platform, how it stores data in memory, and basic language features are discussed. Topics include objects, methods, control structures, streams, arrays, and classes. Prerequisite: CSI 116.
    • CSI 244
    • Networking I
    • 3
    Introduction to the concepts, technology, and implementation of computer communication. Topics discussed are distributed systems requirements, network architecture, communications protocols, local and wide area networks, data transmission, digital multiplexing, data switching, and characteristics of transmission media, modems, design of information flow, and message and packet switching.
    • CSI 245
    • Networking II
    • 3
    Knowing how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a computer network is a highly marketable and exciting skill. This course first introduces the fundamental building blocks that form a modern network, such as protocols, topologies, hardware, and network operating systems. It then provides in-depth coverage of the most important concepts in contemporary networking, such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, wireless transmission, and security. The course will prepare a student to select the best network design, hardware, and software for his or her environment. Students will also acquire the skills to build a network from scratch and maintain, upgrade, and troubleshoot an existing network. Prerequisite: CSI 244.
    • CSI 261
    • Robotics Programming
    • 3
    This course utilizes the Python programming language as well as Choregraphe software to develop behaviors for the NAO humanoid robot. The robot will be programmed to walk, talk, dance, listen and respond to its surroundings through facial and object recognition. Prerequisites: CSI 116
    • CSI 311
    • Computer Organization
    • 3
    Students will apply digital hardware knowledge to design complex digital systems. Topics covered are binary theory, number systems, Boolean algebra, Karnaugh mapping, logic gates, combinational circuits, sequential circuits, state machines and arithmetic circuits. Using these tools students will design functional building blocks and apply assembly language programming. Prerequisites: CSI 116.
    • CSA 213
    • Database Management
    • 3
    This course is designed to introduce the fundamental process of developing, implementing, and maintaining a database system in order to produce management information.
    • CSA 227
    • Website Design
    • 3
    This course will familiarize the student with the capabilities and potential of web design for applications in business, government, communication, and the arts. Hands-on experience will help build an advanced understanding of HTML vocabulary and interface applications using PageMill.
    • CSA 229
    • Web and Mobile Development with JavaScript
    • 3
    This course will teach students how to develop client-side scripts to create more functional, robust websites. It builds upon the skills learned in CSA227 Web Design. Students will learn to program with the JavaScript programming language to enhance websites in the areas of dynamic web content, event handling, and form data validation. This course has a strong project component to provide students with substantial hands-on experience with client-side programming. Prerequisites: CSI 116 and CSA 227.

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