Information Technology, A.A.S.

Degree: Associate in Applied Science
HEGIS Code: 5101
Curriculum Code: 1492
Campus Location: North, South, Distance
Business & Public Service Division

Pre-Admission Recommendations: 3 years Math, Math I, Math II, Math III
Career Opportunities/Further Education: Industrial and Business Firms, or transfer to Bachelor’s Degree Program

• Program Description
• Program Competencies
• Curriculum

Program Description

Computers are an integral part of everyday life at home, business and school. Our information society is in constant demand of individuals who can meet the needs of users within an organization through the selection, creation, application, integration and administration of computing technologies. The Information Technology Associate in Applied Science degree provides students with the skills needed to succeed in today’s digital world.

During the first year of study, Information Technology Program students will acquire a broad business and real world perspective of information technology, strong analytical and critical thinking skills, knowledge of data design and data management principles and knowledge of basic programming and computer logic principles. These skills will provide students with the foundation needed to advance to their second year of study. In the second year of the program, students will choose one of the following eight areas to specialize*:

• Geographic Information Systems [GIS];
• Information Systems Security [ISS];
• Management Information Systems [MIS];
• Networking;
• Oracle Academy Database;
• Programming;
• Web Development; or 
• Web Page Design.

* Not all courses available at all campuses. Check with your adviser to ensure course availability.

Graduates of the Information Technology A.A.S. Program can gain employment in technical support, programming, networking, systems analysis and design, information security, geographic information systems, business analysis and other computer related fields. Those graduates seeking additional education may continue their computer education at four-year institutions in programs such as computer science, management information systems, computer information systems, business administration and telecommunications technology.

Program Competencies

Upon graduation with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Information Technology, the graduate will be able to:

• demonstrate knowledge of a broad business and real world perspective of information technology;
• demonstrate analytical and critical thinking skills;
• demonstrate knowledge of data design and data management principles;
• demonstrate knowledge of basic programming principles;
• demonstrate knowledge of systems development and how it relates to industry;
• demonstrate the ability to apply analytical and logical thinking to gathering and analyzing information, designing and testing solutions to problems and formulating plans;
• demonstrate the ability to visualize and articulate complex problems and concepts;
• demonstrate the ability to gather, analyze and organize data using a logical and systematic process;
• demonstrate the ability to select, implement and evaluate appropriate problem solving techniques and tools;
• demonstrate the ability to effectively adapt problem solving techniques to specific situations;
• demonstrate the ability to apply statistical methods to analyze and resolve business and technical problems;
• use and apply current technical concepts and practices in the core information technologies;
• analyze, identify and define the requirements that must be satisfied to address problems or opportunities faced by organizations or individuals;
• design effective and usable IT-based solutions and integrate those components into the user environment;
• identify and evaluate current and emerging technologies and assess their applicability to address the users’ needs;
• analyze the impact of technology on individuals, organizations and society, including ethical, legal and policy issues;
• demonstrate an understanding of best practices, standards and their application;
• demonstrate independent critical thinking and problem solving skills;
• communicate effectively and efficiently with clients, users and peers both verbally and in writing, using appropriate terminology;
• demonstrate the ability to present and discuss how computer systems impact the operation and management of business and society;
• demonstrate the ability to discuss the impact of information technology on society and the workplace;
• demonstrate the ability to define and use the basic terminology of relational databases; and 
• demonstrate the ability to use the tools and skills needed to create and utilize databases.

Curriculum

Total Degree Credits: 60.0 – 67.0