Certificate of Achievement in Computer Information Systems

This certificate program provides students with a solid foundation in the field of computer information systems. Students will learn to design, develop, and maintain technology solutions to bridge the gap between technology and the needs of the organization. Topics covered include programming, information systems, cybersecurity, systems analysis, and data governance. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs or to help them advance into careers, such as Web Developer, Digital Designer, Database Administrator, and Computer and Information Systems Manager.

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The certificate program goal is Career Technical Education (CTE) with emphasis on careers in the field of computer information systems. The program is not selective and does not have any mandatory fees.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Apply the methods, techniques, and tools relevant to computer systems, software development, and information technology.
2. Describe the ethical and legal considerations related to technology and data management.
3. Demonstrate the ability to align technology solutions with organizational goals.
4. Select appropriate resources to continuously adapt to evolving technology and business environments. 

The associated occupations related to the program include Computer Network Support Specialists, Computer Network Architects, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, and Information Security Analysts. All the annual openings for these computer systems related occupations have entry-level wages above the California Family Needs Calculator hourly wage (living wage) for one adult ($20.63/hour in Orange County). Typical entry-level hourly wages are in a range between $26.74 and $45.67. (Center of Excellence, Program Endorsement Brief, October 2023).

Program completers are anticipated to acquire competencies in the areas of the design and development technology solutions programming, information systems, cybersecurity, systems analysis, and data governance.

There are eight (8) required courses and one (1) elective required for a total of nine (9) classes. Students may choose one elective from the two in the program. 

Course	Title	Units	Year/Semester (Y1 or S1)
CIS C105	Introduction to Business Office Technology	3	S1
CYBR C101	Introduction to Cybersecurity	3	S1
ICS C120	Introduction to Programming	3	S1
CIS C157	Introduction to Python	3	S2
CIS C205	Principles of Information Systems	3	S2
CIS C240	SQL Database Development	3	S3
CIS C260	Systems Analysis and Design	3	S3
CIS C285	Data Governance, Privacy, and Policies	3	S4
ICS C230	Secure Coding and Design	3	S4 (elective)
ICS C265	Introduction to Artificial Intelligence	3	S4 (elective)

This program will be under the CIS program which is part of the Technology Department.

Orange Coast College has a similarly named program.

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