The program in Applied Computing Systems and Technology provides an academic program of study that furnishes a body of knowledge and methods, as well as practice in the application of computing technologies. The program focuses on problem-solving skills and techniques needed to provide computer-based solutions to practical problems. It also provides a breadth of knowledge in the fundamental areas of computing including analysis, programming, relational database systems, information technology hardware and software, computer networks, and distributed systems. The program also provides the student the opportunity for in-depth study in the areas of application development, business systems analysis, and information technology.
The Applied Computing Systems and Technology curriculum is based on the model published by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the international organization for the advancement of computing as a science and a profession. The curriculum covers the major discipline areas in Information Systems and Information Technology.
The Integrated Application Development and Business Systems Analysis concentrations cover specific subject areas in Information Systems (IS).These concentrations prepare students to design, build, and implement information systems for business and other enterprises. By leading organizations in the development of information systems, graduates will facilitate strategic planning, managerial decision making and operational management within the organization. Professionals who work in Information Systems recognize that information properly utilized is a powerful tool in a highly competitive world. The individual who can capture data, process it into information, mine the data to discover new information, and apply the knowledge discovered to the decision making process are highly sought after. Professionals in the field are known by various titles such as Programmer, Systems Developer, Systems Analyst, Systems Integrator, Systems Engineer, Web Designer, Database Developer, Database Specialist, IS Manager, and Chief Information Officer.
The Information Technology (IT) concentration prepares students to participate in decisions relative to the acquisition and operation of hardware and mission critical software within an organization. The combination of classroom presentation and practical, hand-on laboratory experience, exposes the students to the conceptual and practical side of the discipline. IT professionals guide the selection and integration of the hardware and software products that constitute the organizations' planning, decision making and operational infrastructure. They are involved in selecting and are responsible for installing, configuring and supporting the complete computing environment of an organization. Some common job titles in Information Technology are Network Specialist, Support Specialist, Network Administrator, Security Specialist, System Administrator, Web Administrator, IT Managers, and Chief Technology Officer.