2024-2025 Course Catalog
Computer Information Systems, AAS
|
|
 Return to: Ankeny Campus Programs
The Computer Information Systems program is intended for the student who is interested in an entry-level programming career in software development, front-end development, database applications or other roles in quality assurance, testing or other technology-related positions.
The CIS degree will enable a student to study a variety of areas related to computer programming and associated applications. This program emphasizes flexibility to allow a student to select languages that relate to specific areas of interest. It is also possible for the student to take coursework from several different but related areas of study. For example, many applications use databases as an integral part of their business or develop web-based applications. These combined skills will give the student a more marketable background in this competitive field.
Information Technology careers require more diversity of skills and abilities than in the past. This is especially true of the career opportunities in the computer programming fields. Employers are looking for employees with a variety of skills in related areas and the ability to learn new technologies. Many projects today require a variety of computer-related skills and business knowledge. This degree will address those demands through more flexible course selection and exposure to a variety of programming skills and tools.
|
Locations: Ankeny, Urban/Des Moines, Online
Students may start any semester.
Selected courses in this program are offered at other campuses.
Graduation Requirements
To earn a Computer Information Systems AAS, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. Semester 4
- Select any 9 credits from CIS, DAT, INF, or WDV not already used in the program Credits: 9
- Select 6 credits Credits: 6
Total Credits Required to Complete the Degree - 65
Fixed Costs
Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$193.00 per credit
The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.
Varied Costs
| Costs |
Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
Semester 3 |
Semester 4 |
| Books (approximate) |
680 |
625 |
725 |
650 |
Approximate total for program: $15,225**
**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.
What Kind of Work Will You Do?
You may work as an entry-level junior programmer or assistant programmer. Tasks may include:
-
Analyzing problems and design solutions.
-
Writing computer software for a variety of business applications.
-
Maintaining computer software applications.
-
Testing software applications.
-
Assessing and identifying user’s needs.
-
Using a variety of information technology skills to design, create and implement business solutions.
What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?
-
Ability to understand problem and design an appropriate solution.
-
Communicate verbally and in writing.
-
Be self-motivated.
-
Adapt to emerging technologies.
-
Concentrate for long periods of time.
-
Work in a team environment.
-
Meet deadlines.
What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?
-
Coursework represents current development techniques and technologies which are rapidly changing, and you will learn new technologies often in an Information Technology career.
-
You will have a skilled trade.
-
Consider additional courses in related areas such as SQL Application Developer, Java Application Developer, C# Application Developer, C++ Application Developer, Python Application Developer, Web Development, Graphic Arts and additional programming courses, etc.
-
Employers value experience, which many students gain through internships, taking the elective CIS 940 Software Project Application and participating in IT Club projects.
What are the salary expectations?
The median annual wage for computer programmers was $84,280 in May 2018. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $48,790, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $134,630. Most computer programmers have a bachelor’s degree; however, some employers hire workers with an associate’s degree. Most programmers specialize in a few programming languages. Software developers usually have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and strong computer programming skills. In May 2018, the median annual wage for software developers was $105,590. Employment of software developers is projected to grow 21 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Salary Information (Source: U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics)
Related Certificates: Java Application Developer, Python Application Developer, C# Application Developer, C++ Application Developer, SQL Application Developer, and Computer Languages Diploma. Completion of the related certificate combined with the CIS AAS degree can increase employment opportunities.
Program Competencies
-
Use current software to solve problems
-
Demonstrate skills in programming, applying common algorithms, manipulating data, and web-based programming required for entry level employment based on current industry trends
-
Employ a broad knowledge of application software skills using a programming language, including Object-Oriented concepts
-
Apply logic and problem-solving skills to programming
-
Communicate effectively using industry best practices
AY2025
Nondiscrimination Statement
Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in its programs, activities, employment practices, or hiring practices, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs.
Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Executive Campus Dean’s office, the Executive Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. ADA questions and concerns may be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 6, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6857, dso@dmacc.edu. Title IX questions and concerns may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 1, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6216, Title9@dmacc.edu. Questions or complaints about this policy may be directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczysnki Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604-7204, phone 312/730-1560, fax 312/730-1576, TDD 800-877-8339 Email OCR.Chicago@ed.gov.
DMACC offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:
Agriculture, Natural and Environmental Science
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Arts, Design, and Visual Communication
Business, Management, and Marketing
Education, Public, and Human Services
Health Science
Hospitality and Culinary
Information Technology
Manufacturing
Transportation & Logistics
Entrance requirements for specific programs can be found at Academic Pathway website.(2024)
|
Return to: Ankeny Campus Programs
|