Information Technology
Program coordinator: Chet Cunningham
Program Description
The Information Technology (IT) program leads to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree that prepares graduates for entry-level positions as Information Technology professionals. Students will learn the skills needed to problem solve and communicate effectively within the complex information technology industry.
The IT curriculum is supported by a solid foundation of general education and core courses that include writing, communications, computer and math skills. Students will obtain hands-on training to develop skills in local area networks (LANs) and how they operate, computer programming, networking, hardware and software maintenance, database design and web page development.
If a graduate chooses, he or she will also be prepared to sit for industry-recognized certification exams available at our VUE testing center.
Students entering this program will need to have basic computer skills such as would be obtained through CIS 100 (Introduction to Computers) or equivalent.
Upon completion of this program, the graduate will be prepared to enter the workforce with established training and a portfolio in hand for prospective employers.
Available Credentials
Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
| Option | Hours to Complete | Curriculum Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Commerce | 68-72 | Download (RTF) |
| Computer Support Specialist | 67-70 | |
| Cisco Network Administration | 67-69 | Download (RTF) |
| Microsoft Network Administration | 67-69 | |
| Computer Programming * | 70-72 | Download (RTF) |
| Database Administration * | 70-73 | |
| Information Security * | 67-69 | Download (RTF) |
| Web Development and Administration * | 75-76 |
* Option courses primarily offered online
Certificate
| Area | Hours to Complete | Curriculum Guide |
|---|---|---|
| A+ | 9-10 | All Certificates (RTF) |
| Information Technology Fundamentals | 24-25 | |
| Microsoft Networking Enhanced | 24 | |
| Network Administration Microsoft MCSA Track | 21 | |
| Cisco Networking Enhanced | 25 | |
| Electronic Commerce | 25-27 | |
| Information System Support | 27-28 | |
| Web / Database Administration | 25-27 |
Employment Opportunities
E-commerce Track
Graduates of the program may expect to be employed as web page designers, web masters, or web site managers of a web-based business. This option will also prepare individuals in the establishment of a small-to-medium retail business through the use of the Internet.
The average starting annual salary is $25,771 and rapid growth in this area is expected over the next five years.
Cisco or Microsoft Networking Track
Employment opportunities include entry-level network administration positions involving installation and administration of local and wide area networks and as a computer support specialist.
The growth rate in this area is expected to be rapid over the next five years. Salaries in computer networking are in a range from $22,000 (minimum reported starting salary) to $38,768 (average starting salary) to $55,500 (maximum reported starting salary). Source: American Association of Community College Research Brief, 2001.
Admission Requirements:
The following should be submitted to the Office of Admissions for admission to this program:
- Application for admission
(154 K) - High School transcript or GED
- ACT, COMPASS, or ASSET scores
- Transcripts of all previous college work
- Age verification (must be 16 years of age)
Length of Program
Completion of the program should take two years, assuming that the student maintains full-time enrollment status. Microsoft Networking, Cisco Networking, E-Commerce, IT Fundamentals and A+ Certification certificates are also available within the Information Technology program.