Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 Course Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Informatics


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Informatics develops new uses for information technology. It is the study of how people transform technology, and how technology transforms us. In many ways, informatics is a bridge connecting IT to a particular field of study, such as biology, chemistry, fine arts, telecommunications, geography, business, economics, journalism, medical sciences, etc. This certificate prepares students to work in their area of specialization as business analysts, technology specialists, technical trainers, technology managers, quality assurance, etc.

For more information about the Informatics certificate, please visit our website at https://www.dmacc.edu/it/Pages/cis.aspx.

Locations: Urban. Many of the courses may be completed online.

Students may start any semester.

Program Entry Requirements

  1. Complete an application for admission.
  2. Satisfy the assessment requirement.
  3. Attend any required information/registration session.
  4. Submit evidence of completion of a two-year or four-year degree from an accredited college.

Graduation Requirements

To earn a Informatics certificate, a student must complete all required coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 25


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$147.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


  Semester 1 Semester 2
Books (approximate) 611 671

Approximate total for program: $4,957*

* Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Analyze problems and design solutions.
  • Write technical documents and communicate technical information.
  • Provide technical support for both hardware and software.
  • Write and communicate technology proposals.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Demonstrate logical reasoning and abstract thinking.
  • Utilize good interpersonal skills.
  • Communicate effectively in writing and speaking.
  • Demonstrate problem-solving when required.

What Else Should I Consider about this Specialist Certificate?


  • Technical classes require more research time, increasing time outside of class.
  • Technical careers are secure and steady with increasing demand for well-trained people.
  • The work is exacting, but there is excellent compensation.

NOTE: Some students may want to add an introductory computer programming course to their resume such as CIS 171  Java, CIS 161  C++, or CIS 169  C# depending on the type of work they are planning to apply for, but this is not required for all Informatics students.

What are the Salary Expectations?


Informatics: The median annual wage for computer user support specialists was $46,420 in May 2012. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $27,620, and the top 10 percent earned more than $77,430. Because of the wide range of skills used in different computer support jobs, there are many paths into the occupation. A bachelor’s degree is required for some computer support specialist positions, but an associate’s degree or postsecondary classes may be enough for others. The median annual wage for computer systems analysts was $79,680 in May 2012. 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 $49,950, and the top 10 percent earned more than $122,090. A bachelor’s degree in a computer or information science field is common, although not always a requirement. Some firms hire analysts with business or liberal arts degrees who have skills in information technology or computer programming. Salary Information Source: U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics http://www.bls.gov/home.htm

Nondiscrimination Policy


Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in employment, hiring practices or the provision of services, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. 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 Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator may be contacted at 515-964-6857.  For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850. (2016)

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