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 104 or 116.
    • CSI 150
    • Introduction to Game Development w/ Unity
    • 3
    In this introductory course for the creation of video games, students will learn the fundamentals of Unity game development software. Students will create various types of games including a first-person collector game, a space shooter game, an adventure game and a virtual reality game. Prerequisite: CSI 104 or 116.
    • 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
    This course introduces the UNIX operating system, covering fundamental concepts, architecture, and practical applications. It uses Linux, a widely used UNIX- like system, to explore shell programming, utilities, and real-world tasks.
    • 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 or 104.
    • CSI 244
    • Networking I
    • 3
    This course introduces students to the fundamentals of networking. The concepts presented include types of networks, network architectures, communication protocols, media, topologies, and devices. The topics covered include TCP/IP, Ethernet, wireless transmission, virtual networks, security, and troubleshooting.
    • CSI 245
    • Networking II
    • 3
    This course covers a broad range of networking topics and skillsets relating to implementing networks using Cisco networking devices. The course presents use of Cisco CLI, LAN and WAN network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, network analysis and network design. 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 Prerequisite: CSI 104 or 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. Prerequisite: CSI 104 or 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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