General Catalog 2007-2009

Information Systems

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IFS100  Information Technology (IT) Competency Exam

Fall-Spring Semesters

IFS100 is a surrogate for a computer competency exam. Students are required to pass all components of the competency exam within the first 30 credits; otherwise, they are required to take IFS105 within their first 30 credits. The exam covers fundamental concepts of Microsoft Windows and the Microsoft Office applications of Word, Excel and PowerPoint. The exam will be given four times during a semester. Students are encouraged to practice for this exam and materials and instructions will be provided via the normal textbook buying procedures. Mandatory pass/fail grading.

0 credit hours.

IFS105  Personal Productivity Computing

Fall-Spring Semesters

Presents the fundamentals of computers and computer terminology. Stresses the importance of computers as essential components of the business world and society in general. Extensive lab segment focuses on the computer as a personal productivity tool using word processing, spreadsheets, presentation managers and databases. Mandatory pass/fail grading.

3 credit hours.

IFS160  Visual BASIC Programming

Fall Semester

Introduces students to programming in the Windows environment using the BASIC family of languages. Windows concepts that are covered include programming forms, command buttons, drop-down and list boxes, labels, text boxes, and other controls. BASIC programming features that are covered include variables, control statements, data validation, arrays, and file processing. Other topics include designing event-based programs, flowcharting, structure charts, and object-oriented concepts. Prerequisite: Successful completion of IFS100 or IFS105.

3 credit hours.

IFS180  Introduction to Data Management

Spring Semester

An introduction to the Information Systems function as a “data-based” management function. The students will be introduced to Database Management Systems and learn SQL to an advanced level. Students will also be introduced to the notions of IS problem solving and working with user groups to create data based solutions, the issues related to large data sets, and the concepts of TPS, MIS, DSS through data-based projects. Prerequisite: Successful completion of IFS100 or (and) IFS105.

3 credit hours.

IFS200  Introduction to Programming and Software Engineering I

Fall Semester

This course introduces software engineering through problem solving and computer programming. Programming techniques covered by this course include modularity, abstraction, top-down design, specifications, documentation, debugging, and testing. Topics are introduced through projects in the C# language. The core material for this course includes syntax, logic, mathematics, methods,  recursion, arrays, strings, records, sorting, file creation and access, database access, Microsoft Windows screen creation, scieintific applications, business applications, and various file conversion techniques. Prerequisite: Successful completion of IFS100 or IFS105.

3 credit hours.

IFS201  Introduction to Programming and Software Engineering II

Spring Semester

This course continues the development of programming and problem-solving skills, focusing on object-oriented methods such as namespaces, classes, attributes, methods,  data abstraction, procedural abstraction, and the creation of dynamic link libraries (dlls). Programming projects for this course use the C# language. The core material for this course builds upon the information gleaned from IFS200. Emphasis is placed on analyzing business problems and creating information system solutions through object-oriented programming techniques. File organizations, storage concepts, database access as well as network utilization are presented. Prerequisites: IFS200 with a grade of 2.0 or higher and completion of MAT120 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS205  Workgroup Productivity Computing

Spring Semesters

This course focuses on the planning, design, implementation and maintenance of software systems for facilitating working in teams. Examples of relevant group support systems such as collaborative systems, computer supported collaborative work (CSCW) systems, Group Decision Support Systems (GDSS), email, and video conferencing systems are examined. This course extends some of the concepts taught in IFS105 and introduces new concepts such as peer-to-peer networking, security and privacy of information, and data integrity in a multi-user environment. Prerequisites: Successful completion of IFS100 or IFS105.

3 credit hours.

IFS240  Visual Programming

Spring Semester

An introduction to programming in a graphical user interface (GUI) environment using a visual language. GUI concepts covered include advanced programming of forms, command buttons, drop-down and list boxes, labels, text boxes, and other controls. The focus of this course will be the design and analysis of graphical user interfaces using event-based programs and object-oriented concepts. Prerequisite: IFS201 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS250  Business Data Processing

Spring Semester

This course addresses the ever-expanding need to analyze business processes and develop business-oriented data processing solutions to enhance organizational effectiveness and efficiency. Attention is given to convergence of network technologies as utilized in all types of organizational environments. On-line transaction processing (OLTP) is applied via a number of methodologies such as file access, network access, Internet access and other business dimensionalities. User views, data collection, data processing, information reporting/presentation, and business problem analysis are the core concepts presented in this course. Prerequisite: IFS201 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS260  Web-based Systems Development

Spring Semester

This course is an introduction to web-based system development methods. Emphasis will be placed on designing and building data-based solutions to common web-based, interactive e-commerce problems. Languages used include Java, Perl, Visual Basic, ASP, PHP, SQL, Javascript, VBScript, XHTML, CSS or others at the discretion of the instructor. Prerequisite: IFS201 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS275  Multimedia Information Technologies

The course examines multimedia information technologies that apply to business environments and other professional areas. Students will gain hands-on experience and knowledge using multimedia software and hardware. Students will learn how to design, develop, and produce multimedia applications such as interactive documentation, computer based training, hypertext and presentation aids, and performance support system. Prerequisite: An introductory computer course or computer language.

3 credit hours.

IFS305  Management Information Systems

Fall-Spring Semesters

A comprehensive discussion of the role of computer based information systems in modern organizations. Integrates managerial and computer knowledge towards identifying and solving information problems. Computer literacy is extended to MIS literacy by means of hands-on project cases in Decision Support Systems. This is a writing intensive and critical thinking course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of IFS100 or IFS105 and completion of MGT250 with a grade of 2.0 or higher, or permission of instructor.

3 credit hours.

IFS325  Introduction to Networks

Spring Semester

This course provides a broad theoretical overview of computer and telecommunications networks. The Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) Model is used as the primary basis for examining what communications tasks need to be performed in order for electronic communications to occur. The Internet’s TCP/IP protocol stack is used as the primary example of how the OSI model may be implemented in practice. A thorough examination of how the TCP/IP protocols provides the student with a detailed understanding of the functioning of packet-based networks and the Internet. Lab-based exercises are used to demonstrate concepts where possible. Prerequisite: One semester of programming with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS330  Network Installation

This course provides the student with the ability to configure and install local area networks (LANs). It stresses the planning, installation, configuration, protocols and policies used to provide connectivity at the LAN level. Emphasis will be on the planning and physical hardware procedures required to install and configure LANs. Detailed hands-on as well as classroom instruction will be used to construct and test cables, configure and install hardware, implement protocols and establish connectivity at the microcomputer level. Prerequisite: IFS325 with a grade of 2 or better.

3 credit hours.

IFS335  Advanced Networks

Fall Semester

This course provides the student with the ability to design and support complex enterprise-wide networking solutions. It studies the conceptual design methodologies, planning and complexity involved in establishing and supporting organization connectivity. Emphasis will be on issues relating to designing and implementing IP infrastructure, directory services, file and print sharing, file system security, data storage technologies, and thin client. Consideration will be given to Novell, UNIX/Linux, and Microsoft based network infrastructures. Hands-on lab exercises are used extensively throughout the course. Prerequisite: IFS325 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS350  Hardware/Software Architectures

Spring Semester

This course examines the architectures of modern computer hardware and systems software from an Information Systems point of view. At the conclusion of the course, students will know and understand the role and purpose of the major components comprising computer hardware They will also understand the purpose of operating systems in controlling system resources to accomplish input, memory allocation/access, processing and  output. This course provides a functional overview of hardware and software that ties together the overall concept of computing. Prerequisite: IFS160 or IFS200 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS410  End-user Support Management

Fall Semester

An introduction to the creation and maintenance of the end-user support functional area in organizations. Topics of discussion include technical support in selection of hardware and software; training in use of hardware and software; and assistance in use of computer information systems in solving business problems. Prerequisites: IFS205 with a grade of 2 or better, and IFS305 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS440  Business Systems
Analysis & Design

Spring Semester

This course covers the concept of the computer systems development life cycle, including the analysis, design and implementation of business software systems. The project management methodology will be used in the context of Information Technology projects such as installing and/or upgrading operational software, selecting systems development or acquisition solutions, implementation of eLearning web-based systems, or surveying end-user needs requirements. Individual assignments and a group project will be required. This is a writing/communications intensive course. This is a capstone course and should be taken in the final semester. Prerequisite: IFS305 or IFS350 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS460  Database Management Systems

Fall Semester

A comprehensive discussion of relational database theory and design. Emphasis is on data structure and design for building robust and flexible data repositories. Semester-long projects will use popular database software. This course is designed to stimulate the critical thinking skills of the student. Prerequisite: IFS305 or IFS350 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.

3 credit hours.

IFS470  Selected Topics in
Information Systems

This course is a seminar in IFS intended to provide coverage of topics of special interest or noteworthy significance in the IFS field. Course requirements will generally include a course project. Prerequisite: Senior standing in the major or permission of the instructor.

3 credit hours.

IFS490, IFS491  Information System
Internship I and II

Planned and supervised work experience in a computerized systems environment at selected cooperating firms. Internships require students to meet periodically with a faculty supervisor, provide a written deliverable and participate in an end of internship evaluation. The program requires approximately ten hours per week for twelve weeks. Prerequisite: Junior standing and departmental approval of each student participant’s individual program. Grading will be pass/fail.

3 credit hours.

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