Computer Information Systems Degree (CIS)

This program will prepare you for an entry-level position in the information technology field in areas such as web application development, e-commerce, networking administration, and desktop applications support. You will study widely-used office applications; learn programming languages to support website development, office applications, and e-commerce systems; and gain knowledge of network administration to support business networks and web servers.

Campus/format: This program can be completed during the day or evening at the Gardner Campus. Ninety-five percent of this program can be completed online.

Helpful hints: To be successful, students must spend additional time outside of class completing assignments. Access to a computer with the appropriate software is essential. MWCC provides computer access in various labs and in the library, as available.

Career options: Careers in the information technology fields including: programming, networking, web systems development, and software application support. A recent survey of graduates indicate employment as: software quality specialists, programmer, programmer/business analyst, MIS staff, and NT administrator.

Transfer options: Although this program prepares students for entry-level positions, students also transfer to four-year colleges and universities. Joint Admissions agreements exist with state colleges including Westfield State and Mass College of Liberal Arts. Articulation agreements exist with Charter Oak State College and the University of Phoenix. This program qualifies for the Franklin University Community College Alliance program. Visit MWCC’s transfer services website: http://transfer.mwcc.edu.

Special requirements: Students are required to complete the CIS courses as listed. Prior to enrolling in each course, students must ensure they meet the course prerequisites. The e-commerce course serves as the program's final, or capstone course. The college's adaptive computer lab, providing assistive technology for students with disabilities, is available. Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations.

Earning potential: $44,043 to $55,830 per year.

CIS Club: The CIS Club enhances peer relationships and fosters study groups. Activities include club meetings, company visits, and service learning activities.

*Suggested Electives for Computer Support Specialist Emphasis: CIS121, CIS141, CIS142, CIS224, CIS244
Suggested Electives for Programming or Transfer Emphasis: CIS130, CIS290, CIS292

**Note: PER130 is recommended for transfer

Elective courses by abbreviation

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Program Competencies

Upon graduation from this program, students shall have demonstrated the ability to:

1. Develop structured programs using decision statements, loops and sub-procedures.
2. Develop programs that read and write data to files and databases.
3. Construct and analyze spreadsheets including formula construction and charting.
4. Demonstrate the understanding of a LAN/WAN.
5. Demonstrate proficiency in installation and management of LAN/WAN software.
6. Configure a server for Internet access and webpage publishing (a web server).
7. Use the fundamentals of object oriented programming using VB or Java classes.
8. Design and create relational database systems using a database management system or a programming language.
9. Demonstrate proficiency in retrieving and reporting data using queries.
10. Demonstrate knowledge of PC architecture and troubleshooting.
11. Create an executable business system.
12. Demonstrate the knowledge of object-oriented approach to systems design.
13. Design organized, professional user interfaces.
14. Demonstrate the knowledge of basic networking terminology.
15. Install, configure and administer user accounts on a network server.

Technical Standards*

*general information about technical standards and accommodation.

Students entering these programs must be able to demonstrate the ability to:

1. Comprehend textbook material at the 11th grade level.
2. Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format.
3. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.
4. Read from a computer screen.
5. Learn to operate a computer.
6. Possess manual dexterity to operate computer devices such as a keyboard and mouse.
7. Work at a computer for a minimum of two hours.