Software, Computer Information Systems Certificate
Award: Certificate in Computer Information Systems
No. of credits required: 34-36
For more information: Contact Business & Applied Technology at bat@harford.edu; or Admissions, 443-412-2109.
Program Description
This certificate program is recommended for students with a baccalaureate degree wishing to explore and/or make a career change to the computer field. The courses prepare students to solve business, administrative or statistical problems by utilizing computer software, language, and systems.
Program Goals
Upon successful completion of this program of study, students will be able to:
- Analyze the use of commercial software applications, hardware, networks, programming, and other technologies in information systems at a level of competence appropriate to joining the workforce.
- Use, maintain and modify existing information systems.
- Design and implement new information systems.
- Demonstrate the skills to work in a business environment including working in teams, project management, and professional and effective communication with a wider audience.
Employment Information
The Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Department of Labor forecasts that careers in the computer industry are expected to increase by 7% adding over 46,600 positions by 2029. The report indicates continuing growth of the computer industry. The Maryland Department of Labor Occupational Projections forecasts Computer Occupations in Maryland to increase 13.89% by 2028.
Certificate Requirements
In order to earn a certificate from Harford Community College, students must demonstrate basic competencies in English, reading, and mathematics by completing: ENG 018 Integrated Reading and Writing, MATH 020 Pre-Algebra I, and/or a qualifying exam must be passed.
Required Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BA 101 | Introduction to Business (GI) | 3 |
| CIS 102 | Introduction to Information Sciences (GI) | 3 |
| CIS 104 | Computer Operating Systems | 3 |
| CIS 115 | Fundamentals of Programming | 3 |
| CIS 118 | Introduction to Microsoft Access | 3 |
| CIS 125 | Document Processing: MS Word | 3 |
| CIS 145 | Introduction to Microsoft Excel | 3 |
| CIS 205 | Introduction to Visual Basic.NET Programming | 3-4 |
| or CIS 254 | Advanced Microsoft Office | |
| ENG 101 | English Composition (GE) | 3 |
| ENG 209 | Technical Writing | 3 |
| OS 100 | Keyboarding Basics | 1 |
| CIS Elective 1 | 3-4 | |
| Total Credits | 34-36 | |
- 1
Any CIS course(s) may be taken to satisfy the CIS elective.
General Education Degree Requirements
Note: The following codes identify courses which satisfy the General Education Degree Requirements:
Behavioral/Social Science (GB)
English Composition (GE)
Arts/Humanities (GAH)
Interdisciplinary and Emerging Issues (GI)
Biological/Physical Laboratory Science (GL)
Mathematics (GM)
Biological/Physical Science (GS)