CIS 100
3 credits
Introduction to Computers and Digital Technologies
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None
Hands-on approach to learning the basics of operating systems, file management, knowledge management, cloud computing, and communications technology. Learn software skills relevant to student success in other courses: word processing, presentations, spreadsheets, and graphics.
CIS 104
3 credits
Elements of Computer Information Systems
Prerequisite(s): None
This is a computer literacy course designed for students with an interest in technology and the arts. Both lectures and labs play integral roles in the course. A major portion of the course will be devoted to providing exposure and familiarity with common computer applications such as word processing, electronic mail, spreadsheets, graphics, and multimedia (including the World Wide Web), and with an introduction to bitmap and vector artwork using Adobe Illustrator. These computer tools will be motivated by examples chosen from a variety of areas and disciplines.
This course cannot be used for credit in the CIS program or in the Computer Science minor.
Students cannot take COMP 100 or CIS 100 for further credit.
CIS 110
3 credits
Computerized Business Applications and MIS
Prerequisite(s): None. It is recommended that students are competent in computer skills.
This course covers understanding, application, and advanced skill development in spreadsheets, databases, presentation software, and word-processing, integrated with an introduction to Management Information Systems (MIS). Emphasis is on problem solving and integration of software applications within a MIS context.
Note: Students with credit for BUS 160 cannot take this course for further credit.
CIS 124
3 credits
Introduction to Wireless Networks
Prerequisite(s): At least 12 university-level credits
This introductory course focuses on the principles, and setup and configurations of local, wireless and wide area networking technologies including Ethernet and IEEE 802.11. Students will be given a number of hands-on laboratories to supplement materials covered. This course is designed for non-CIS students.
Note: Basic Internet navigation skills are required. This course cannot be used to fulfil credit requirements for CIS programs. CIS students should take CIS 224.
CIS 141
3 credits
Web Design Portfolio Project
Prerequisite(s): Competent in computer skills - see “CIS Required Skills” section on the CIS department website for details. Students must also have completed at least 15 credits of the CIS certificate (Web Design and Animation option).
Each student, with the guidance of a faculty advisor, will complete and present a self-directed project demonstrating the skills and knowledge obtained in the CIS certificate (Web Design and Animation option). Students must submit an acceptable project proposal in the semester prior to taking CIS 141.
CIS 145
3 credits
Web Publishing
Prerequisite(s): Competent in computer skills - see ‘CIS Required Skills’ section on the CIS department website for details.
In this course, students will design, organize, publish, and maintain a basic website using HTML. They will also learn scripting, how to apply multimedia plug-ins, and cascading style sheets. This course is intended for students with no prior knowledge of HTML.
CIS 160
3 credits
Introductory Web Graphics & Animation
Prerequisite(s): CIS 145 or CIS 146, or equivalent, or students with related background may seek permission of instructor
The objective of this course is to introduce students with a working knowledge of HTML and web page design to the production, modification and layout of graphics and animation for a web site. Using current graphics software, students will work with various types of graphics (e.g. JPEGs, GIFs, PNGs) created on their own or imported from another source. They will also explore a number of visual effects as well as learn how to animate images.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both CIS 160 and CIS 162.
CIS 162
3 credits
Introduction to Animation
Prerequisite(s): Competent in computer skills - see “CIS Required Skills” section on the CIS department website for details.
An introduction to computer animation. Students will study animation fundamentals through to advanced elements of animation. Students will implement programming, and learn how to add text and sounds to animation. Lab exercises and programming assignments will include the creation of animation projects.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both CIS 160 and CIS 162.
CIS 165
4 credits
3D Animation
Prerequisite(s): Competent in computer skills - see CIS Required Skills section on the CIS department website for details. CIS 162 is recommended.
This course is designed to introduce students to the creation of animation in a 3D environment. Emphasis is placed on the principles of animation and how to recreate these techniques digitally by placing and editing keyframes in such a way as to produce natural and convincing motion. Students will be given the opportunity to produce animation through a hands-on approach consisting of lab work and projects. Creative thinking and problem solving will be emphasized in the major projects.
CIS 180
4 credits
Introduction to Visual Programming
Prerequisite(s): COMP 150 (with a grade of C+ or better)
This course will introduce students to the visually based Rapid Application Development (RAD) approach to software development. The concepts behind visual RAD tools will be examined, and the application of these tools in a variety of practical situations will be studied. Students will have the opportunity to develop their skill in using RAD tools in a substantial programming project.
CIS 185
3 credits
Introduction to Programming using Media
Prerequisite(s): Competent in computer skills - see “CIS Required Skills” section on the CIS department website for details.
This course is an introduction to computer programming for students who have not programmed before. A graphical development environment will be used to demonstrate the basic concepts of programming. These concepts will be used to create animated stories or games.
CIS 190
3 credits
Systems Hardware Concepts
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: C or better in one of Principles of Mathematics 11, Foundations of Mathematics 11, Pre-calculus 11, or MATH 085; or one of Principles of Mathematics 12, Foundations of Mathematics 12, Pre-calculus 12, or MATH 094, and competency in computer skills – see “CIS Required Skills” section on the CIS department website for details.
This course will introduce students to the capabilities of various microcomputer hardware components, describe and specify equipment needs, and describe and apply formal problem-solving techniques. The physical installation and maintenance of components such as CPUs, memory, expansion devices, communications equipment (LAN, modem, printers), secondary storage, and video displays will be covered. Important computer concepts such as CPU architectures, microprocessor technologies, character encoding, and number representations will also be discussed.
CIS 191
4 credits
Introduction to Networking
Prerequisite(s): CIS 190
This course discusses the networking fundamentals, including network elements, physical topologies and design, physical media, and common networking connectivity devices, networking components and connectors. Included will be discussion on the OSI reference model and TCP/IP fundamentals. This course will also provide knowledge on internetworking, LAN/WAN protocols. Students will learn to set up peer-to-peer networks.
CIS 192
4 credits
Introduction to Networking
Prerequisite(s): CIS 190, or eight credits of CIS/COMP university-level credits.
Data network fundamentals including OSI reference model, TCP/IP protocol suite, design, physical topologies, media, infrastructure cabling standards, routers and switches. IP addressing designs are developed and implemented for small internetworks. Routing protocols are configured, analyzed, and tested.
Note: Students are required to work on self-directed exercises in our networking lab to gain hands-on experience.
CIS 221
4 credits
Principles of Information Systems Security
Prerequisite(s): COMP 150 and one of CIS 192, CIS 191, or CIS 194
This course provides an introduction to proven techniques for protecting information systems from intruders, while allowing the required access to authorized users. This course is introductory and is designed to provide an overall view of security in the modern information world. Several hands-on lab projects will be completed using Linux- and/or Windows-based computer systems.
CIS 224
4 credits
Wireless LANs in the Enterprise
Prerequisite(s): CIS 192, or CIS 193 and CIS 194
This course focuses on the design, planning, implementation, operation, and troubleshooting of Wireless LAN technologies including 802.11a/b/g, Wireless LAN security, and radio technologies and applications. Hands-on labs will be completed in the configuration of access points and bridges, antenna placement, and site surveys. This course includes the “Cisco – Fundamentals of Wireless LANs” learning objectives.
CIS 245
4 credits
Intermediate Web Programming
Prerequisite(s): CIS 145 and one of COMP 150 or COMP 152 or CIS 180
The objective of this course is to teach students how to program dynamic websites. Students will learn how to include programming into a working website on the world wide web using current web programming languages.
CIS 262
3 credits
Web-Based Computer Game Development
Prerequisite(s): COMP 150 or COMP 152, or programming experience with instructor permission
This course will introduce students to the techniques used in developing computer games that are intended to be played over a web-browser. These online games differ from most computer games in that they compensate for the lack of advanced technical features (such as realistic graphics) with greater attention to storytelling and reader interaction. At the end of the course, the students will be able to create a simple yet engaging game themselves or a more complex game with the assistance of others.
CIS 270
3 credits
Analysis and Design
Prerequisite(s): COMP 155.
Pre- or corequisite(s): CMNS 125, CMNS 175, or ENGL 105.
An introduction to computer systems development process, covering aspects of project initiation, analysis, and design. Both classical and object-oriented techniques will be included.
CIS 285
3 credits
End User Training & Support
Prerequisite(s): CIS 190 and CIS 192; one of COMP 150, COMP 125, or COMP 152; and one of ENGL 105 or any 100-level CMNS course (CMNS 125 is recommended).
An overview of the training and support functions within Information Systems. Students will examine existing models and complete projects demonstrating their understanding of planning, developing, implementing and evaluating training and support systems.
CIS 291
4 credits
Networking Theory and Applications
Prerequisite(s): CIS 190; and one of CIS 191, CIS 192, or CIS 194
Students will become familiar with networking concepts including networking directory service, networking file systems, network printing and network management. Students will receive practical training on the installation and integration of network operating systems, on the use of single- and multi-user systems via networking, and on the use of a variety of peripherals.
CIS 292
4 credits
Wide Area Networking
Prerequisite(s): CIS 192, or CIS 194, or permission of the instructor
This course is designed to teach students the skills they will need to design, build, and maintain local area networks and wide area networks. The focus of this course is to introduce the WAN protocols, software, and hardware technologies needed to build WANs. Students will also learn about virtual LANs, LAN switching, Fast Ethernets, Frame Relay, and ISDN networking. This course also covers how to configure routers to setup different types of LANs and WANs using LAN and WAN protocols.
Note: Students with CIS 292 cannot take CIS 293 or CIS 294 for further credit.
CIS 321
4 credits
Networking Security Architecture
Prerequisite(s): CIS 292 or CIS 294
This course focuses on network security architectures, procedures, and processes. Practical hands-on skill development is provided in security system technologies, security policy design, firewall design and implementation, router security architectures, authentication and authorization systems, Intrusion detection, and VPNs. This course will include the “Cisco – Fundamentals of Network Security” learning objectives.
CIS 325
4 credits
Malicious Software and Attack Prevention
Prerequisite(s): CIS 221, acceptance to the CIS degree program. (Students accepted to a CIS or Computing Science minor may register with permission of the department.)
This course will provide students with proven techniques for allowing authorized users access to the Internet while protecting the inner network from attack by someone who has circumvented the outer defence or from internal attack. Methods and technologies such as secure programming, viruses, host-based intrusion detection, auditing, threat modeling, forensics, software firewalls, and operating system hardening will be discussed.
CIS 341
3 credits
System Administration
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance to the CIS degree program. (Students accepted to a CIS or Computing Science minor may register with permission of the department.)
Pre- or corequisite(s): CIS 291 and COMP 340 recommended.
This course will teach students how to plan, install, configure, performance tune, and administer a multi-user Unix/Linux-based system.
CIS 385
3 credits
Project Management
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: CIS 270, CIS 291, or admission to the Data Analysis Post-degree certificate program.
This course is designed to complement existing information technology knowledge, skills, and experience with the project management skills required to effectively manage development projects that involve computer hardware, computer software, and telecommunications technology.
CIS 386
3 credits
Human Computer Interaction
Prerequisite(s): CIS 285. Acceptance to the CIS degree program. (Students accepted in Computing Science minor may register with permission of the department.)
Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Human Factors engineering, and Ergonomics are overlapping domains concerned with the study of human capabilities and limitations and their relationship to things, processes, and work environments. This course provides a broad overview of these fields with an emphasis on HCI. Key topics include human-computer interface development, user-centered design, and usability evaluation. Students learn principles of work and system design that help to improve system performance and reliability.
CIS 392
4 credits
Internetworking
Prerequisite(s): CIS 292, or CIS 294, or CCNA certification and permission of instructor.
This course provides advanced Routed Internetwork knowledge. Students will learn how to install, configure, and troubleshoot complex Internetworks as found in medium to large organisations. Topics include routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, and RIP and advanced IP address management techniques in large scaleable networked environments. Other related topics include traffic management with access control lists, redundant default gateways, and the related security issues when routing between multiple autonomous systems.
CIS 394
4 credits
High Availability Networks
Prerequisite(s): CIS 292, or CIS 294, or current CCNA certification and permission of instructor.
Advanced switched network principles as used in modern-day campus LANs are presented. Hands-on exercises will be used to develop skill in a variety of topic areas including VLANS, inter-VLAN routing, VTP, STP, multi-layer switching, redundant fault tolerance design, and QoS. Campus LAN security and support for emerging LAN services including VOIP and streaming audio/video applications will be explored. This course will include the Cisco CCNP Semester 3 learning objectives.
CIS 395
3 credits
Virtualization and Cloud Infrastructure
Prerequisite(s): CIS 291 or CIS 292
This course introduces how the technologies of virtualization on servers, storage, networks, desktops, and applications work and how they could be used to build a cloud infrastructure. Cloud reference architecture, service models, deployment models, and security will also be discussed.
CIS 440
3 credits
Project
Prerequisite(s): Last semester of BCIS degree program, departmental approval of a project proposal in the semester prior to taking the course. Students should consult the CIS website under "Current Students" for details
Each student, with the guidance of a faculty advisor, will complete and present a self-directed project demonstrating the skills and knowledge obtained in the CIS program. Students must submit an acceptable project proposal in the semester prior to taking CIS 440. Students should consult the CIS web site for current details about the proposal and the course requirements.
CIS 480
3 credits
Decision Support Systems
Prerequisite(s): COMP 251 and one of the following: STAT 106 (formerly MATH 106) or MATH 270/STAT 270.
This course explores topics in computer-based Decision Support Systems with a focus on the application of information technology to the solution of management problems. Topics include Management Support Systems, Business Intelligence, decision making systems, and intelligent systems.
CIS 485
3 credits
Ethics & Other Management Issues in Information Systems
Prerequisite(s): CIS 385
Issues related to the management of information technology within organizations will be discussed. Topics will include legal, ethical, and managerial issues pertaining to the impact of automation on organizations. Various models related to the management of information technology will be discussed, and the application to the solution of business problems will be illustrated through case studies. Students will be expected to research and present topics.
CIS 495
3 credits
Advanced Topics in Computer Systems
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance to CIS degree program and 9 upper-level CIS or COMP credits. (Students accepted to a CIS or Computing Science minor may register with permission of the department.)
This advanced topics course is designed to provide study of the latest up-to-date technologies and issues in computer systems. Topics may be drawn from new technologies and issues in areas such as operating systems, databases, hardware, data communications, computer security, multimedia, computer ethics and management, and others. Topics will vary depending on semester and instructor. Students should consult the department for current offerings.
CIS 496
3 credits
Advanced Topics in Computer Applications
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance to CIS degree program and one of COMP 350, COMP 351, or COMP 360. (Students accepted to a CIS or Computing Science minor may register with permission of the department.) Other prerequisites determined by instructor and topic.
This advanced topics course is designed to provide study of the latest up-to-date technologies and issues in computer information systems applications. Topics may be drawn from new technologies and issues in areas such as artificial intelligence, application programming, advanced website design, e-commerce, object-oriented technology, user interface design, computer graphics, CASE tools and others. Topics will vary depending on semester and instructor. Students should consult the department for current offerings.
CIS 497
3 credits
Advanced Topics in Information Security
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance to the CIS degree program. (Students accepted to a CIS or Computing Science minor may register with permission of the department). Other prerequisites determined by instructor and topic.
This advanced topics course is designed to provide study of the latest up-to-date technologies and issues in information security not covered in other courses. Topics may be drawn from areas such as physical and network security, secure programming, policies and ethics, intrusion detection, OS hardening, cryptography, cultural issues, forensic issues and others. Topics will vary depending on semester and instructor. Students should consult the department for current offerings.
