The Computer Information Systems - Career - Enterprise Information Systems program is a career-based program which will prepare the student to work in a business information systems environment. The curriculum provides hands-on experience in application software, web development platforms, program development languages, and database design methodologies. The primary focus of this program is application software development in a business environment. This program will prepare the student to perform in an entry-level role as a web developer, entry-level database support specialist, and programmer in a business information environment.

Program Overview

What Will You Learn?

Associate in Science

You will code intermediate and advanced SQL and PL/SQL programs, Develop advanced programming, data, dataset, and file techniques, and create advanced client-server side web applications. You will be able to troubleshoot information systems to resolve user problems.

Cost

In-State Tuition: $227/credit

Out-of-State / International Tuition: $433/credit

Some programs have additional program fees

Timeline

5 Semesters

69-70 credits

Learn Online

  • This program may be completed 50% or more online.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.
  • English: Placement into college level English.

Locations

  • This program may be completed at QCC Worcester (Main Campus).
  • This program may be completed face-to-face.

Curriculum

A foundation for success

Semester 1

This semester will introduce information technology, applications, web development, English, and mathematics.

Become an Expert

Semester 2

This semester will cover programming, database management, and English.

Data & communication

Semester 3

This semester will focus on data and network communication and electives.

Analysis

Semester 4

This semester will explore analytics, programming, analysis, and electives.

Information technology

Semester 5

This semester will cover more advanced programming, quality assurance, security, and writing.

See the full curriculum

Connections

The following program(s) have connections that can be completed alongside or applied to this program:

A man looks at code on multiple screens
Certificate

Computer Information Systems - Web Applications Certificate

The Web Applications Certificate is designed to provide the student with the basic knowledge and skills necessary for career opportunities as an entry-level web developer or web administrator. Courses in general computer applications and basic programming are combined with basic web development tools and approaches through the use of HTML structures, Javascript, and CGI. Students will be able to manage complex web applications in today’s rapidly-changing Internet world.
A student looks at a computer screen with complex statistics
Certificate

Computer Information Systems - Database Certificate

The Database Certificate is designed to provide the student with the basic knowledge and skills necessary for career opportunities in entry-level database design, management, or administration. This certificate is ideal for adult students re-entering college or for students who are currently in the workforce and want to update their skill sets. 

Career Stats

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More Info
Course TitleCourse #Semester OfferedCreditsPrerequisites

Semester 1

  • Apply and get accepted to this program (Program Code: CIES).
  • Register for and successfully complete all courses to graduate in five semesters.
  • Contact Program Coordinator for laptop requirements.
  • Complete CIS 105 or CIS 111.
  • Complete CIS 121, CIS 134, ENG 101, and MAT 122.
Introduction to Information Technology ORCIS 105F/S3 
Introduction to Microcomputer ApplicationsCIS 111F/S/SU 
Introduction to Programming with C++CIS 121F/S3Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21, Coreq: CIS 105 or CIS 111
Web Page Development ICIS 134F/S3Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21, Coreq: CIS 105 or CIS 111
Composition IENG 101F/S/SU3Placement into college level English
StatisticsMAT 122F/S/SU3College level math course or QMAT placement score > 21 or Coreq: MAT 052
  Total15 

Semester 2

  • Meet with Career Services to discuss the co-op process and leads for co-op placements.
  • Meet with a Transfer Services Advisor. See www.QCC.edu/transfer. Attend Transfer Services events.
  • Complete CIS 223 and ENG 102.
Management of Data AnalyticsCIS 206S3CIS 105 or CIS 111 or CIS 243, MAT 122
.NET Programming ICIS 223S3CIS 105 or CIS 111, CIS 121 or CSC 108
SQL ProgrammingCIS 228S3CIS 105 or CIS 111, Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21
Web Page Development IICIS 234S3CIS 121 or CSC 108, CIS 134
Database Management Application DevelopmentCIS 243S3CIS 105 or CIS 111, Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21
Composition IIENG 102F/S/SU3ENG 101
  Total18 

Semester 3 (Summer)

Introduction to Data Communication & Networks ORCIS 141S/SU3-4Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21, Coreq: CIS 105 or CIS 111
Networking TechnologiesCSC 234F/S/SUCoreq: CSC 141
Liberal Arts Elective---F/S/SU3 
  Total6-7 

Semester 4

  • Meet with Program Coordinator to discuss readiness for CIS 299.
  • Contact Career Services to complete all requirements of CPS 298 (required prior to registration for CIS 299). See www.QCC.edu/career-services.
  • If considering transfer, meet with representatives of four-year schools to discuss/begin the transfer application process; or create an account on the QCC job board to search for internships, co-ops and jobs.
  • Complete CIS 232 and CIS 241.
.NET Programming IICIS 232F3CIS 223
Systems Analysis & DesignCIS 241F3CIS 121 or CIS 223 or CIS 226 or CIS 230 or CSC 108
Pre Cooperative Education SeminarCPS 298F/S0 
CIS Elective (200-level)---F/S/SU3 
CIS Elective (200-level)---F/S/SU3 
Liberal Arts Elective---F/S/SU3 
  Total15 

Semester 5

  • Continue with/complete the transfer application process; or if seeking employment, meet with Career Services for career readiness preparation and to learn more about QCC’s job board.
  • Submit an Intent to Graduate Form, located on The Q.
.NET Programming IIICIS 246S3CIS 134, CIS 232
Quality Assurance FoundationsCIS 251S1CIS 121 or CSC 108 or CSC 201
Information Architecture/User Interface FoundationsCIS 252S1CIS 121 or CSC 108, CIS 134
Security Techniques in ProgrammingCIS 253S1CIS 121 or CSC 108, CIS 134
Cooperative Work ExperienceCIS 299S3CIS 241, CPS 298, Approval of Program Coordinator
Technical and Workplace WritingENG 205F/S/SU3ENG 102, Computer Literacy
Speech Communication SkillsSPH 101F/S/SU3Placement into college level English
  Total15 
Total Credits Required:  69-70 
Suggested CIS Electives Course Sequence
SemesterDatabase FocusProgramming FocusWeb Design Focus
4CIS 229 and CIS 244CIS 225 and CIS 226 or CIS 229CIS 226 and CIS 230

Program Goals:

The Computer Information Systems - Career - Enterprise Information Systems program is a career-based program which will prepare the student to work in a business information systems environment. The curriculum provides hands-on experience in application software, web development platforms, program development languages, and database design methodologies. The primary focus of this program is application software development in a business environment. This program will prepare the student to perform in an entry-level role as a web developer, entry-level database support specialist, and programmer in a business information environment. The Cooperative Work Experience is a requirement in this program and provides an opportunity for the student to apply classroom knowledge to practical work experience, such as:

  • Analyze existing information systems (either computer or non-computer systems).
  • Design, write, test/debug, and implement detailed programs using several different languages.
  • Work with database applications to create, retrieve, update, and delete records.
  • Create static and dynamic web pages by integrating database applications.
  • Write detailed documentation for new or existing computer information systems.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Analyze and design information systems and database applications utilizing the Microsoft software frameworks to construct professional information systems applications for web and database environments.
  • Develop advanced programming, data, dataset, and file techniques.
  • Apply the SDLC - including project management concepts to typical business applications.
  • Code intermediate and advanced SQL and PL/SQL programs for the solution of business applications.
  • Design, organize, and maintain a Relational Database Management System (RDMS) per industry Database System Development Life Cycle (DSDLC) standards.
  • Implement a design solution to solve business Information Systems (IS) problems using state-of-the-art programming techniques and application software.
  • Develop advanced client-server side web applications.
  • Troubleshoot information systems to resolve user problems.
  • Apply end user basic software to develop word processing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
  • Communicate professionally and effectively by writing detailed documentation for a new or existing information system.
  • Exhibit professional, legal, and ethical behavior.
  • Identify essential business techniques, including communications, math, and writing.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.
  • English: Placement into college level English.

CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:

Prospective students should note that, as a condition of cooperative education employment, Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks, fingerprinting, and drug testing may be required.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

  • Students must have access to a PC or laptop using Windows environment.
  • Students enrolled in CIS 299 may incur an additional expense for professional liability insurance.
  • Students enrolled in CIS 229, CIS 232, and CIS 246 will be required to bring their own laptop to class.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

Career Outlook:

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 11.0103.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.

Additional Information:

  • Some courses may utilize a virtual laboratory; contact the Program Coordinator for minimum hardware and software requirements.