IT 101 Introduction to Information Technology 3 credits
Information technology is the study of how to use and implement computer hardware and software, computer networks and telecommunications. In this class you will be introduced to the field of information technology, the skills that are necessary to be an information technologist, how information is used to meet organizational needs and how information technology relates to other disciplines. You will make extensive use of an integrated software package, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software, and Internet and WWW applications. This course will meet the general education requirement in computer skills.
IT 130 Introduction to Programming Fundamentals 4 credits
This course introduces the concepts of computer programming and builds skills necessary to implement these concepts. No prior programming experience is required. Fundamental programming concepts, including event driven and object-oriented programming, data structures and algorithmic processes will be covered. Students will learn the Java computer language, write and debug computer programs, and solve problems.
IT 200 Computer Architecture 3 credits
In this course students learn the fundamental parts of a computer and how they communicate. Students learn the principles of computer hardware and low-level software that make a computer function, including logic circuits, assembly language, I/O, storage and program execution. Prerequisites: IT 101 and IT 130.
IT 210 Operating Systems 4 credits
In this course students will learn the basic concepts of operating systems and how to use them. The fundamentals of computer operating systems are covered, including configuration, file systems, security, administration, interfacing, multitasking and performance analysis. Concepts will be reinforced and expanded upon through hands-on experience during the laboratory portion of the course. Prerequisite: IT 200
IT 310 Networking 4 credits
It is the role of the IT professional to select, design, deploy, integrate, and administer network and communication infrastructures in an organization. In this course the student will develop a deep understanding of how networks work and how to work with them. Topics include LANs, WANs, service providers, packets, hubs, routers, switches, internet protocols, network administration and security. Prerequisites: IT 210 and MATH 220.
IT 320 Web Systems 4 credits
In this course students will learn about web technologies and systems. Topics included are hypertext, self-descriptive text, web page design and development, web navigation systems, digital media, vulnerabilities of web systems and social issues associated with web usage. Prerequisite: IT 210.
IT 330 Databases 3 credits
Information derived from data is important to the management, productivity and differentiation of an organization. Data must be efficiently collected, organized, retrieved and managed to make it meaningful to the organization. It is the role of the IT professional to develop, deploy, manage and integrate data and information systems to support the organization. Databases form the foundation from which an organization’s information is built. In this course students will develop a deep understanding of how databases work and are managed. Topics include database theory and architecture, data modeling, normalization, query languages, security, database management and Web applications. Prerequisite: IT 210.
IT 340 Human/Computer Interaction and Professional Ethics 3 credits
IT professionals must develop a mind-set that recognizes the importance of users and organizational contexts. They must employ user-centered methodologies in the development, evaluation, and deployment of IT applications and systems. In addition, an IT professional must understand the social and professional context of information technology and computing, and adhere to ethical codes of conduct. This course will prepare IT students to understand these issues by covering human factors analysis, performance analysis, cognitive processing, usability studies, environment and training, professional and ethical issues and responsibilities, privacy and civil liberties. Prerequisite: IT 210 (BA 222 recommended).
IT 360 Computer Forensics and Incident Response 3 credits
This course introduces the three steps of effective response to cyber-security incidents. Detection of an incident, either in progress or after the fact, is the first step. Second, action must be taken to mitigate harmful effects of the incident. Third, the vulnerabilities that led to the compromise of security must be identified, and action taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Strategies for developing appropriate security policies and procedures will be covered, as well as techniques for preserving evidence. Prerequisites: IT 310, IT 320.
IT 400 IT Systems Integration 4 credits
In this course students will see how all the IT components of an organization are integrated to serve the needs of the organization. Students will learn how to design and build an IT solution to meet an organizational need. A key component of information technology is the integration of an organization’s existing and emerging technology components. Students will also learn how to integrate legacy systems with new technologies. Prerequisites: IT 310, IT 320, ENG 203.
IT 410 Information Assurance and Security 3 credits
Because IT systems are increasingly under attack, knowledge of Information Assurance and Security (IAS) is of paramount importance to the profession of IT. The IT professional must understand, apply, and manage information assurance and security in computing, communication, and organizations systems. It is also important for the IT professional to provide users with a framework to be sufficiently security aware to be an asset to the organization rather than a liability. Topics in the course include operational issues, policies and procedures, attacks and defense mechanisms, risk analyses, recovery, and information security. Prerequisite: IT 400.
IT 420 Security Cyber Systems 3 credits
In the previous course IT 410, students were introduced to the broad ideas of information assurance and cyber-security. In this class students will learn the details of how to secure an organization’s technological infrastructure, including securing computers, web and database servers and additional network components. Prerequisite: IT 410.
IT 480 IT Senior Capstone I 1 credit
The two information technology capstone courses provide students with the opportunity to work in teams and integrate and apply what they have learned in previous course work. Using either casework methods or partnerships (internal or external) student will identify best practices and appropriate technologies to implement effective IT solutions aligned with organizational goals. In the Capstone I course students will formulate a project proposal. The team will use systems analysis, project management and teamwork skills to identify requirements, develop and evaluate solutions, and source and integrate components to address an organizational need. The course culminates in a written and oral presentation of the proposal by the team members. Prerequisite: IT 400.
IT 481 IT Senior Capstone II 1 credit
The two information technology capstone courses integrate and apply the major concepts presented in all other course work. The capstone experience will provide an opportunity for students to work in a team. Using either casework methods or partnerships (internal or external) students will identify best practices and appropriate technologies to implement effective IT solutions aligned with organizational goals. In the Capstone II course students will implement their Capstone I project proposal. The team will use their project plan and teamwork skills to implement, test, and validate a system to address an organizational need. The course culminates in a written and oral presentation by the team members. Prerequisite: IT 480.
