Full Course Description List:

ITEC Courses

5 credits

This course provides students a foundation for successful study and professional practice in information technology (IT). Students explore a variety of IT careers and develop a foundational understanding of the components of information systems. Students develop key skills for academic and professional success with communications, analysis, and social responsibility.

5 credits

Information technology (IT) is essential to the function and success of nearly all businesses. Businesses whose systems are lacking or experience failure are at risk of significant loss; therefore, there will always be a need for IT support and innovation. In this course, students are introduced to fundamental concepts of the IT infrastructure to prepare for a role in the field of IT. Students learn about the structure and purpose of hardware components (computers, networks, and interface devices) and software components (operating systems, middleware, applications, and system software). They examine key issues of capacity, performance, reliability, scale, and obsolescence through the evaluation of IT's role in supporting business and individuals. Students take a practical approach to understanding how IT infrastructure can relate to personal goals as they examine the various career options within the field.

5 credits

In this course, students are introduced to the fundamental concepts of computer systems to prepare for a role in the field of IT. Students learn about the structure and purpose of hardware components (computers, networks, and interface devices) and software components (operating systems, middleware, applications, and system software). The course includes the essential domain aspects for platform technologies and incorporates emerging technologies.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1005

5 credits

Corporations, small businesses, and even individuals rely upon robust communication networks that secure local resources while connecting into worldwide infrastructure. This course provides students with the opportunity to develop and administrate a small business network through hands-on lab exercises. They examine physical and logical local network components as well as protocols and connections for internet services and applications. Hands-on labs exercises provide experience with network configuration and settings.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1010 or ITEC 1015

5 credits

The cornerstone of modern software design is object-oriented programming (OOP), which is a methodology that uses objects to represent complex relationships and simplifies the development and management of information systems. This course provides students with introductory information on OOP and other prevailing techniques in programming. Students begin by studying foundational concepts and terminology of OOP. They examine programming paradigms, algorithmic thinking, and problem-solving techniques in OOP. Students engage in coursework on computer program design, constraints, variables, functions, procedures, logic and code control, error trapping, error handling, and interactive coding techniques. They gain hands-on, practical experience on compiling and running applications, reading data interactively, and debugging.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1010 or ITEC 1015
• MATH 1040

5 credits

A data structure is a specialized layout for organizing and storing data. This is an integral part of the information technology arena; programmers work with many different types of data structures. Using fundamental programming knowledge, such as object-oriented programming (OOP), students continue their practice with OOP and have the opportunity to gain knowledge of advanced data structures, including lists, stacks, queues, hashmaps, trees, and the functions of each. They also learn how to choose data structures that are appropriate for various types of information. They engage in discussions to work through ideas and gain various perspectives on topical issues, such as OO inheritance and polymorphism, arrays, and data collections. Students gain hands-on experience as they solve complex problems by writing a program and using tools to create, compile, debug, and run interactive OO programs with data structures.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1030

5 credits

Did you ever wonder how many different valid passwords a computer system allows? Or perhaps you need to know how to encrypt a message so that only the intended recipient can decipher it. To answer such questions, programmers use discrete mathematics, which allows them to study sets and numbers, linear algebra, combinatorics, graphs, and probability. Students in this course are introduced to discrete mathematics concepts and techniques used in information technology (IT). Students examine each concept in action and geared toward a specific application in IT. They engage in various application assignments focusing on elements of graph theory, coding, and probability.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1010
• MATH 1040

5 credits

Mathematics underpins much of Information Technology. Programming loops, web searches, data encryption, database queries, and network routing all have a mathematical foundation. This course introduces students to discrete mathematics concepts with focus on applications in Information Technology. Concepts include logic operators, recursive and iterative loops, sets, discrete probability, functions, trees, and graphs. Applications include complexity analysis, programming algorithms, network routing, and protecting and validating data. This course provides a mathematical foundation for applications across IT disciplines.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1030

5 credits

There are many important benefits from studying the different types of operating systems, such as administering computers efficiently and structuring code more effectively, which lend to best practices in writing code. This course provides students with an overview of the concepts of computer operating systems, including the main functions, similarities, and differences. They explore a variety of topics, including configuration, file systems, security, administration, interfacing, multitasking, and performance analysis. Students contextualize their learning experience through hands-on activities, such as performing basic administrative tasks on different operating systems, including configuring networking parameters, administering user accounts and groups, setting access and application permissions, and locating and analyzing log files.

BS in Business Administration

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1005

BS in Computer Information Systems Cyber Security for Information Systems Concentration

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1010 or ITEC 1015 or CMIS 1002 or ITEC 1005

BS in Information Technology

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1010 or ITEC 1015 or CMIS 1002

5 credits

There are many roles involved in creating and managing an organization's information system, including the systems analyst. The analyst helps to ensure the software development process is successful by understanding its purpose, scope, and resource requirements. This course provides students with the prospect of understanding the field from the perspective of a systems analyst. Students focus on the definition and examination of system requirements, both functional and nonfunctional, for an information system (IS) project. Through the systems analysis process students learn about the identification of stakeholders, techniques for requirement elicitation, representation, and life cycles. Students sharpen their communication and practical skills by working on an information system development project.

BS in Computer Information Systems

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1010 or ITEC 1015 or CMIS 1002 or ITEC 1005

BS in Information Technology

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1010 or ITEC 1015 or CMIS 1002

5 credits

This course provides an introduction to Agile system development and various methodologies that support Agile development. Students explore the discipline of implementing system requirements and developing structural and functional designs that model organizational information technology solutions. They examine conceptual modeling and application frameworks. Students learn the basics of modeling, design representations, and the use of design tools. The course also examines planning and implementation issues.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2040 or CMIS 3003

5 credits

The process of creation, from conception through completion, is complicated and requires a diverse set of management skills. This course combines the fundamental skills in problem-solving with project management skills. Students are introduced to the knowledge, tools, and techniques needed to successfully manage information technology (IT) projects throughout a project life cycle. Students in this course focus on the IT project management process and development of the project team as key to the successful achievement of IT projects. Students analyze the role of the project manager as an integral administrator overseeing the execution, progress, and interaction of all parties involved. Students learn the intricacies of managing projects and programs that may span multiple organizations. They engage in coursework through which they examine the project management cycle, sourcing strategy, third-party provider selection, and management of third-party providers.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2050 or CMIS 3004

5 credits

All businesses rely on computerized systems to manage their data and to keep that data secure, accurate, and reliable. A database is a system designed to do just this as well as to simplify the processes of data entry, search, and retrieval. In this course, students learn about database management through the examination of the life cycle of a database. They focus on the representation and manipulation of information in relational database management systems and learn how to map real-world data to relational representations and how to manipulate data through relational queries to implement data-intensive applications. Students also discuss related issues, such as database storage, data validation, sorting, grouping, and nesting data. Students learn to use a core subset of the Structured Query Language (SQL) as well as the fundamentals of database administration.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2055 or ITEC 3040 or CMIS 3004

5 credits

This course introduces user experience design in the context of user experience, how a product behaves and is used for real-world applications. It includes an overview of human perception and cognitive performance, computer processes, and system design approaches to facilitate positive user experiences. Topics include social and emotional interaction, the process of user experience design, how to capture requirements, and construction and evaluation approaches.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2055 or ITEC 3040 or CMIS 3004

5 credits

Every day we are learning to adapt to 21st-century technology. More importantly, we are beginning to rely on it for daily needs, such as obtaining the news, shopping, communicating, banking, and full-scale education. There is a high demand for developers of static and dynamic web pages of all kinds. In this course, students consider factors such as optimization, accessibility, and appeal in the design and development of web applications. They also examine the tools and techniques needed to develop and manage these applications. Through discussions and application assignments, students explore dynamic web page implementations, elements of client-server and server-side processing, data validation, and concurrency issues.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1030

5 credits

Mobile computing was developed in the early 1990's with the introduction of laptop computers. Since then, devices have become smaller, more intuitive and accessible, and have worked their way into businesses, homes, hospitals, and children's backpacks. The basic principles of system design for such technologies are not entirely different from larger-scale development, but designers must make different considerations and use special techniques for web and mobile technologies. In this course, students examine the technical, business, legal, and sociocultural benefits and challenges of mobile devices and wireless communication technologies. Through discussion and written assignments, students explore wireless protocols and business and consumer applications, such as mobile computing, communication, and multimedia devices; and intelligent and context-aware services.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2055
• ITEC 2080

5 credits

Insecure security systems can cause major risks and vulnerabilities for companies. Breaches in personal employee information, financial information, or company secrets can elicit the downfall of an organization. In this course, students learn the importance of such concerns as well as key concepts of computer and information security, including technical, privacy, organizational, social, and policy issues. They examine fundamental notions of authentication, authorization, and encryption. Students learn about economic and human impact issues through the analysis of case studies of security and privacy breaches. Through discussions and assignments, students also examine risk management, informal system security methods, and corporate governance.

BS in Business Administration

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2030

BS in Information Technology

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2055 or ITEC 3040 or CMIS 1002 or ITEC 2030

All Other Programs

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2055 or ITEC 3040 or CMIS 1002

5 credits

The process of creation, from conception through completion, is complicated and requires a diverse set of management skills. Students in this course are introduced to the knowledge, tools, and techniques needed to successfully manage information technology (IT) projects throughout a project life cycle. Students in this course focus on the IT project management process and development of the project team as key to the successful achievement of IT projects. Students analyze the role of the project manager as an integral administrator overseeing the execution, progress, and interaction of all parties involved. Students learn the intricacies of managing projects and programs that may span multiple organizations. They engage in coursework through which they examine the project management cycle, sourcing strategy, third-party provider selection, and management of third-party providers.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2050 or CMIS 3004

5 credits

Information security specialists oversee enterprise operations that follow industry best practices for security and data integrity to ensure that systems are free from external threats and risks that may jeopardize or harm the organization. Students in this course investigate the responsibilities of the security specialist, including the security of operating systems and other system software. Through a variety of assignments, including hands-on lab work, students explore components of a networked operating system, architectural designs for secure usage, system administration tasks, and tools for security. Students examine the real effects that security threats have on systems. They address such threats through exercises in administrative tasks using tools vital for implementing security policies.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 3020 or CMIS 4101

5 credits

In this course, students gain the skills necessary to develop and administer database-backed dynamic web applications. Demand for developers who can create cutting-edge, fully-interactive, dynamic websites is increasing as organizations compete for web presence. Students explore contemporary development tools for database-driven web applications, the use of multitier architecture to separate business logic and presentation, and data storage and management. They also examine server and application configuration to ensure site security, session management, and user authentication. In this course, students have the opportunity to enhance their communication and critical-thinking skills as they engage in peer discussions on topical issues, such as web hosting, website operations, security, and database management.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2060
• ITEC 2080

5 credits

Effective data center operation involves efficient operating practices in an environmentally responsible manner. Students in this course encounter an overview of data center principles and operational issues, including environmental controls, power supplies, backup, data communications, and security standards to assure business continuity. Students discuss emerging trends and technologies in areas including cloud computing, virtualization, middleware, databases, data centers, green grids, and corporate and environmental social responsibility.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2050

5 credits

Technology is the catalyst of innovation which is often utilized to create and expand organizational and business value. In this course, students explore the integration of technology and organizational imperatives in a holistic manner. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the management of information technology (IT) including the relationships of parties involved, the tools for IT process improvement, and best practices involved in the field. Students focus on the relationships within an IT organization, with external business customers, and end-users. They explore the customer's perspective of IT's contribution to the organization and they learn how to communicate effectively with stakeholders. Students use case studies, current articles, and industry standard frameworks to examine a variety of topics, including operations architecture, IT governance, and utilization of relevant management strategies. Students also examine relationships of IT service management to process improvement movements, for example, Six Sigma improvement methodology, total quality management (TQM), business process management (BPM), and Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) standards.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2055 or ITEC 3040

5 credits

Life in the 21st century is fast paced, and the public demands information that is expeditious, accurate, and appealingly presented. Students in this course have the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to create the types of practical, well designed, dynamic web pages that can provide people with the information they need at the pace they want. Students examine the configuration of web server software, the function of server-side programming, and the use of scripting languages. They learn about techniques for enhancing performance through examination of multi-tier locality and parallelism. They also practice methods of access control and secured transmissions in server-side programming. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a course-long project in which they build on skills acquired in each unit to transform a static website into a fully functional, dynamic website.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2080

5 credits

Developers have to keep usability, accessibility, and cross-device compatibility in mind when creating applications for multiple platforms. In this course, students analyze and evaluate the critical elements of the development lifecycle of these applications, including visual design, information architecture design, and interaction design as well as the work-products that developers produce.

BS in Computer Information Systems Web and Mobile Applications Design Concentration

Prerequisites

• ITEC 3010 or ITEC 2080

BS in Information Technology Web and Mobile Applications Development Concentration

Prerequisites

• ITEC 3010 or ITEC 2080

All Other Programs

Prerequisites

• ITEC 3010

5 credits

Students explore the role of a network administrator, the many considerations of operating a modern system, and the tools and technologies that are available to meet the requirements and demands of an organization's network. They acquire an understanding of the hardware and software components that make up the internet and examine protocols, routers, and client/server architecture related to configuring network services. Students study software platforms, control, shared resources, and security from a practical perspective. Through a series of hands-on assignments, students practice administrative tasks using applications as network tools for routing, securing ports, configuring network address translations, and confirming reconfigurations.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 1020
• ITEC 2055 or ITEC 3040

5 credits

Organizations in all sectors, including small businesses, government departments, and educational institutions, employ the use of quality management in information systems for a variety of reasons, such as meeting consumer's requirements, complying with regulations, and reaching environmental goals. Students in this course explore the history of the quality revolution and the practices and standards used by today's information technology organizations to ensure quality. Students engage in exercises, analyses, and discussions on total quality management (TQM) guidelines, Six Sigma improvement methodology, International Organization for Standardization (ISO) quality standards, Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) standards, personal software process (PSP), team software process (TSP), and the metrics used to measure success of quality initiatives. Students also learn to use tools and techniques to analyze a quality problem to make recommendations for improvement.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2050

5 credits

Students in this course examine the systems integration approaches used by today's organizations to learn what makes them more effective, efficient, and competitive. They explore the potential of enterprise application integration (EAI) using traditional and cloud-based platform environments. Through a hands-on approach, students learn to solve an integration problem by designing an appropriate architecture.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2080
• ITEC 2055 or ITEC 3040

5 credits

Technological innovation has led us to store all types of information on the web, such as medical records, financial data, and personal communications. We rely on this information to be safe from external attacks. Preventing such threats is a vital role in the field of information technology. Students in this course have an overview of network security defense techniques and countermeasures. Students sharpen their communication and analytical skills through the discussion and debate of a variety of topics, such as cryptanalysis and attacks, safety of wireless connections, intrusion detection methods, and access control. They engage in assignments designed to provide them with practical applications of content, such as the design and configuration of firewalls, traffic analysis and filtering, intrusion detection, statistical anomaly detection, and wireless security.

BS in Computer Information Systems

Prerequisites

• ITEC 3020

All Other Programs

Prerequisites

• ITEC 4010
• ITEC 3020 or CMIS 4102

5 credits

In the past, security measures were merely supplemental to software design. But with the increasing threat of hackers who manipulate applications and steal or modify important data, countermeasures are vital to protect applications from vulnerability. This course provides students with an overview of best practices in developing secure software applications and the tools for investigating anomalies and vulnerabilities in application software. Students engage in a variety of course assignments focusing on related topics, including buffer overflow, structured query language (SQL) injections, selected programming and scripting languages, and the security of web applications on both the client and server side.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2080
• ITEC 3020

5 credits

As we adapt to the digital revolution, an increasing number of cases, both civil and high-profile, rely on data identification, recovery, and preservation of digital evidence. We also rely on computer forensics for the prevention and prosecution of criminal activity, such as child pornography, financial fraud, and personal identify theft. In this course, students learn procedures and tools for collecting and investigating evidence from illegal or inappropriate computer use. They also engage in a range of assignments and activities focusing on the legal, ethical, and policy implications of various forensic techniques and monitoring practices.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 3101
• ITEC 4101
• ITEC 4102

5 credits

The database administrator plays an integral role in ensuring that the information on which organizations rely is organized, efficient, and secure. In this course, students identify the range of tasks a database administrator performs, including disaster recovery, performance analysis and tuning, data dictionary maintenance, data modeling and optimization, and database and user management and monitoring. They also assess the techniques, tools, and best practices used in managing a relational database. Students apply concepts presented in the course to practical exercises involving installation, management, performance monitoring, creation of users and user privileges, backup, and recovery.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2060

5 credits

Mathematics underpins much of Information Technology. Programming loops, web searches, data encryption, database queries, and network routing all have a mathematical foundation. This course introduces students to discrete mathematics concepts with focus on applications in Information Technology. Concepts include logic operators, recursive and iterative loops, sets, discrete probability, functions, trees, and graphs. Applications include complexity analysis, programming algorithms, network routing, and protecting and validating data. This course provides a mathematical foundation for applications across IT disciplines.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 4201

5 credits

Businesses rely on stable, secure systems to run their organizational operations. If a system is disrupted or encounters problems, it may result in loss of money, time, or customer faith. Effective data center operation helps to provide assurance that the integrity and functionality of a system is at low risk of disruption or threat. Students in this course explore the study and application of the principles of fault-tolerant systems (failsafe) and networks, which are used to ensure systems continue to operate appropriately, even if one or more components fail. They learn about a variety of topics, including design; modeling; analysis; and integration of hardware, software, and redundancy techniques to achieve dependable systems. Students also examine performance and reliability evaluation techniques, system diagnosis, disaster recovery planning, backup strategies for data and hardware, virus monitoring, and associated security and administration issues.

Prerequisites

• (ITEC 2025 and ITEC 2055) or (ITEC 2020 and ITEC 3040)

5 credits

Before a business can establish a new network or service, they must ensure that the system or service meets their specific needs and requirements. Once a system is in place, they must continue to ensure that the network is optimized, connected appropriately, and free of critical threats, such as viruses and spyware. In this course, students get hands-on about the specifics of planning, maintaining, and auditing data communications and networks in an organization. Students engage in assignments and hand-on activities focusing on long- and short-term business planning, operations, maintenance, and forecasting. They also explore topological design, network synthesis, and network realization.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2020 or ITEC 2025
• ITEC 4010

5 credits

Nearly all organizations engage in software testing to ensure system stability and prevent future problems. Sometimes testing is the responsibility of individuals; other times, an entire team composed of testers and developers work together to test a system and evaluate the results. Regardless of the approach, testing is an integral process in business and requires the use of specialized techniques and tools. In this course, students learn about software quality and the components of software quality assurance systems before, during, and after software development. They examine metrics and models for software quality as a product, in process, and in maintenance. Students also learn about the testing tools used to automate the process, including related challenges and limitations.

Prerequisites

• STAT 3401

5 credits

How do we design interfaces for optimal efficiency and appeal? Before we can answer this question, we must first understand the goals, needs, and skills of the user. In this course, students consider these factors and learn methods for evaluating, designing, and improving human-computer interfaces. Students engage in exercises, discussions, and other assignments to explore a variety of topics, such as user-interface evaluation methods, requirements analysis, and user-interface design methodologies, including rapid prototyping and iteration.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2070

5 credits

Designers strive to optimize the interaction between the user and the system to create a smooth and productive user experience. Students in this course focus on the particular challenges of creating user-centered mobile applications. They also investigate the design process deliverables used to communicate with clients, technical leads, and stakeholders.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 2070

5 credits

Successful mobile web applications have interfaces that support effective interactions and inspire user allegiance. In this course, students use current web development tools and technologies to design, develop, and evaluate intuitive and attractive mobile web applications.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 4501

5 credits

Building mobile applications that operate on a variety of devices poses a unique set of challenges that the developer must consider and address at each stage of the development lifecycle. In this course, students will use current development tools and techniques to design, develop, and evaluate intuitive and attractive mobile native applications.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 4502

5 credits

In this capstone course, students review the work they have collected in their portfolios and reflect on their educational experience. They revisit the career priorities they expressed upon entry into the program and consider their professional goals in the context of their education. They also develop plans for continued learning and career development in the context of their personal objectives and priorities.

Prerequisites

• All core courses

5 credits

In this capstone project course, students complete an integrative IT project that combines multiple aspects of their information technology program. The project requires collaboration with a team of students to manage, analyze, design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based information system. The system development process is initiated with a case study included within the course structure. Students will develop a project charter that will guide them through the discovery of functional and nonfunctional requirements, the creation of a system design based on those requirements, and the development and testing of a functional computer application. Students will develop a management presentation to describe the project design and justify the continuation of the project. In addition, students will create or update their professional development plan, using the plan as a starting point for a job search or career upgrade based on the experience and professional skills they have developed while completing their educational program.

Prerequisites

• All required core and concentration courses

3 semester credits

Through this course, students learn key technologies and design principles for interactive web applications as well the professional, individual, organizational, societal, and regulatory implications thereof. Students learn how pages are designed and how they interact with external servers to deliver information––important concepts underlying how computers enable communication among Internet users and allow enterprises to conduct business online. They develop and manage Web-based applications using a selection of fundamental tools and techniques, such as XHTML and cascading style sheets.

3 semester credits

The discipline of software development demands a variety of skills. Students in this course assess the fundamental practices and principles of designing and constructing object-oriented programs. They engage in substantial hands-on practice, reinforcing algorithmic thinking, logical design, precise coding, and careful attention to quality.

3 semester credits

Students in this course examine the role a systems analyst plays in developing large-scale software systems and explore the phases of the software development life cycle. A systems analyst is responsible for designing the new system, ensuring the new system will meet the organization's needs, and ensuring that the correct staffing is available to create the new system. A systems analyst must also be able to resolve conflicts of interests. In this course, students focus on the definition of system requirements, both functional and nonfunctional, for an information system (IS). Students also investigate how to model requirements, data, and processes to meet business needs.

3 semester credits

Through a review of modern computer systems and the social and economic issues related to their use, students in this course are introduced to the conceptual foundations for designing, developing, and deploying large-scale management information systems. Students investigate the role of information technology in an organization—particularly the collection, storage, and distribution of information for operations, planning, and decision making.

3 semester credits

Within this course, students can learn the concepts of computer operating systems, including the main functions, similarities, and differences. Students can explore a variety of topics, including configuration, file systems, security, administration, interfacing, multitasking, and performance analysis. In addition, they can further their understanding of computers through the study of computer networks by learning key networking concepts, components, and the design of information and communication infrastructure solutions.

3 semester credits

The infrastructures of operating systems and networks are the fundamental technologies that support enterprise information systems. Students in this course examine the components of computer systems, their underlying operating systems, and their data communications networks. They critically investigate the services these components provide and draw implications for the large-scale enterprise. Students sharpen communication and critical-thinking skills through weekly discussions on related topics, such as modularity, abstraction, threading, virtual memory, Internet protocol, atomicity, and concurrency control.

3 semester credits

Contemporary software development principles continue to evolve. In this course, students explore contemporary software development concepts and tools. Through application assignments designed to contextualize theories presented in the course, students apply object-oriented techniques, usability principles, and design for reuse. Students have the opportunity to acquire knowledge requisite to the development of sound, maintainable, and extensible software.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 6030

3 semester credits

In this course, students discuss the design, implementation, and operation of databases using a principal relational database management system (DBMS). Many fundamental topics are covered in this course including: data modeling using entity-relationship diagrams; data storage, manipulation, and queries using structured query language (SQL); functional dependencies, normalization concepts, data warehouse architectures, data warehouse modeling, and data analytics.

3 semester credits

The principles of software engineering and software design allow for the methodical construction and controlled development of complex software systems. Students in this course survey the evolution and current practices of software engineering through the entire software life cycle, with emphasis on the elements that significantly affect software system quality.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 6145

3 semester credits

Large-scale enterprise systems often rely on architectural frameworks that define their main components as well as the interactions among these components. Students in this course survey the principal design strategies and tools for constructing the modern information system. They identify common vendor and open-source components, illustrating how these elements can create and integrate robust web- and cloud-based services and applications.

3 semester credits

The principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data while it is being stored, processed, or communicated guide the policies and practices of information assurance. In this course, students investigate the theory of information security and data protection, study common system risks and vulnerabilities, and follow best practices to protect computer and data assets. These practices address organizational policies, access controls, software and network design, and logging and auditing.

3 semester credits

Statistical analysis supports quality management, drives decision making, enables forecasting and prediction, and provides a means for understanding many aspects of our world. Data is everywhere in today's integrated technological society, and statistical analysis provides the means to access and interpret data. Students in this course are introduced to statistics focused on working with complex data sets and analyzing big data. Students synthesize theory with practical applications to learn the fundamentals of statistical reasoning, descriptive statistics, visual data display, regression, hypothesis testing, research design, anomaly detection, and advanced analysis practices. They have the opportunity to practice using a statistical software package to solve statistical problems. Students use a publicly available big data set to formulate their own study and complete a statistical analysis.

3 semester credits

In this course, students are provided with a broad historical, technological, and theoretical framework for the study of health informatics. Consideration is given to the past, present, and future of this rapidly evolving discipline, with exploration of critical issues and challenges within the field, as well as potential applications, benefits, and opportunities for improving the management of healthcare through information technology. Special topics to be considered include the development of virtual and interactive healthcare through technology; the interoperability, standardization, safety, and risks associated with the implementation of the electronic health record; and the emergence and adoption of new information technologies. Professional roles and responsibilities related to managing health information technology are described, as well as organizations that promote health informatics. A global perspective of trends and issues in health informatics is provided.

3 semester credits

Students in this course learn about the security governance structure that organizations employ to manage risks. Various laws, regulations, and organizational objectives are typically mapped to organizational policies and translated into procedures, practices, standards, and guidelines. Students examine appropriate organizational structures for providing oversight and managing security throughout the enterprise.

3 semester credits

Participants in this course study in-depth techniques for defending IT infrastructure against attack. Students explore tools for configuring and testing system and network security, and they examine administrative and operational countermeasures. Students discuss a range of active responses to a security breach.

3 semester credits

Security professionals need to understand the legal context of their work: Many laws apply to IT crimes, and botched investigations can have serious consequences. Students learn about the types of offenses and their consequences under the law. Investigations of breaches must be conducted methodically and with great care. Students examine the various types of cyber offenses and techniques for investigating them, as well as ethical uses of information and computing resources in organizations.

3 semester credits

Students learn key approaches to the integration of enterprise-wide information to support business strategy and decision making. They cover issues in data acquisition, storage, retrieval, and analysis. Topics include data warehouses; data marts; dashboards, key performance indicators, and scorecards; online analytical processing; and data visualization.

3 semester credits

Individual, group, and organizational behavior can have an enormous effect on safety and security. Because security professionals often observe that security is more dependent on people than on technology, they must have a clear understanding of human factors. Students examine advanced topics in the practice of information assurance, such as using social psychology to implement security.

3 semester credits

In this course, students examine the need for consistency in health data standards and the importance of appropriate identification and selection of these standards. The structure of medical and health information through effective knowledge representation is presented, with an emphasis on the practice of knowledge management and the incorporation of evidence-based best practices. The diverse terminology, ontology, acronyms, coding, and classification systems used in health information technology, both by information systems users and by those who design and maintain those systems, are examined. Topics include data communication, the development and advancement of e-health technologies, and future federal initiatives to digitalize health data.

3 semester credits

Students in this course place software engineering in the context of systems engineering. Students discuss the role of software engineering in analyzing user needs and examine how to develop solutions while building systems involving various components. Students receive a broad perspective of the system engineering lifecycle, including requirements, design, integration, transition, operation, maintenance, and support. They focus on issues of requirements engineering such as the elicitation of requirements, analysis, specification, validation, and change management.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 6150

3 semester credits

Students learn key approaches to the integration of enterprise-wide information to support business strategy and decision making. They cover issues in data acquisition, storage, retrieval, and analysis in this course. Topics include data warehouses; data marts; dashboards, key performance indicators, and scorecards; online analytical processing; and data visualization.

3 semester credits

Software architects design software to meet desired quality attributes. They must minimize complexity while following heuristics and standards, even as they anticipate change. In this course, students explore the fundamentals of software design. They examine key issues such as concurrency, event handling, interaction, and fault tolerance.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 6150

3 semester credits

Students learn and apply techniques for inference and discovery in large data sets. Topics include statistical inference, exploratory data analysis, data mining, text mining, and machine learning for predictive modeling.

3 semester credits

Competitive organizations demand high-quality software. IT professionals employ software management techniques to measure, control, and ensure software quality. Students in this course cover software quality management processes, with a special focus on software testing.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 6650

3 semester credits

The amount of data available to organizations to help them create a competitive advantage is growing exponentially. These data sets are so large and complex that traditional data modeling and data analysis processes are inadequate. In this course, students are guided through basic approaches to querying and exploring data using higher level tools built on top of a Hadoop Platform. Students will walk through query interfaces, environments, and the canonical situations for tools like HBASE, HIVE, Pig, as well as more open source tools like HUE.

3 semester credits

Enterprise managers are keenly interested in implementing efficient and effective software development processes. Developments in the application of software engineering to help managers gain control over the production of software, including processes that measure progress, quality, and cost at the project and organizational levels, are covered in this course.

Prerequisites

• ITEC 6145

3 semester credits

Big Data normally refers to petabytes (1000 terabytes) or exabytes (one billion gigabytes) of unstructured data. This amount of data requires new methods to analyze, visualize, and present these data in a way that yields insight and understanding. Students in this course are introduced to elementary graphics programming, focusing primarily on two-dimensional vector graphics and the programming platforms for graphics. This infrastructure will also include lessons on the human side of visualization, studying human perception and cognition to gain a better understanding of the target of the data visualization.

5 credits

In this course, students analyze and evaluate theories of social and personal change. Students engage in a variety of conceptual and application assignments focused on power and social inequalities, ethnic inequalities, global environment, and issues related to gender and sexism, such as homophobia. In addition, students examine the impact of social change theories on children, families, and societies. They explore the concepts of change agent and change advocate as well as the role of the psychologist as change agent. Students also engage in an integrative written assignment to synthesize theories and analyze a current social problem in their community, for which they propose an action to address the issue and drive positive social change

3 credits

Students in this course examine the structure and operations of organizations from an information-processing point of view and develop their skills in analyzing, designing, and improving operations. Topics include fundamental business structures; business process design, management, and optimization; decision support and automation; and enterprise resource planning and integration.

3 semester credits

The focus of this course is on the development and implementation of business strategies that enable competitive advantage, with an emphasis on understanding the current environment in which the organization competes and forecasting how that environment may change.

3 semester credits

In this course, students place their technical and process work in a human context, focusing on issues and effects in a broader domain. Topics include organizational behavior and change; intellectual property issues; ethics, professionalism, and social impact; and privacy and security.

3 semester credits

Students in this capstone course have an opportunity to synthesize concepts and skills in a reflective project. They build a bridge from the academic experience to the workforce. In the context of a specific IT problem, students evaluate appropriate technologies and design a solution.

3 semester credits

This course introduces students to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. They develop presentation and written communications skills geared toward developing a high level of competence in professional communication with colleagues, clients, novices, and IT experts. Additionally, students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence. They also have the opportunity to prepare their Professional Development Plan and program of study.

3 semester credits

The principles of computer hardware, software, and networks underlie the techniques and practices of information systems professionals. Students in this course survey the fundamental aspects of computing and prepare to use computers effectively for problem solving. Through a variety of application assignments, students delve into the types and construction of hardware, software, networks, and tools for data management. They learn ways to create an algorithm, represent data, and express their designs in a programming language. Through this course students are encouraged to become active and influential professionals by applying concepts and principles to real-world practice.

3 semester credits

The discipline of software development demands a variety of skills. Students in this course assess the fundamental practices and principles of designing and constructing object-oriented programs. They engage in substantial hands-on practice, reinforcing algorithmic thinking, logical design, precise coding, and careful attention to quality.

3 semester credits

Students in this course examine the role a systems analyst plays in developing large-scale software systems and explore the phases of the software development life cycle. A systems analyst is responsible for designing the new system, ensuring the new system will meet the organization's needs, and ensuring that the correct staffing is available to create the new system. A systems analyst must also be able to resolve conflicts of interests. In this course, students focus on the definition of system requirements, both functional and nonfunctional, for an information system (IS). Students also investigate how to model requirements, data, and processes to meet business needs.

0 semester credits; five 8-week terms of enrollment to be taken along with the specialization seminar/leadership courses

The purpose of this course is to assist doctoral students in making steady progress toward their doctorate in information technology. The "instructor of record" for a section of the course is the chair of the doctoral study committee. Section participants are the students working with the faculty member at various stages of their doctoral study. Students in this course have a forum for ongoing exchange of ideas, input, and feedback between them and their doctoral study chair as students complete the coursework for the degree.

3 semester credits

Within this course, students can learn the concepts of computer operating systems, including the main functions, similarities, and differences. Students can explore a variety of topics, including configuration, file systems, security, administration, interfacing, multitasking, and performance analysis. In addition, they can further their understanding of computers through the study of computer networks by learning key networking concepts, components, and the design of information and communication infrastructure solutions.

3 semester credits

The infrastructures of operating systems and networks are the fundamental technologies that support enterprise information systems. Students in this course examine the components of computer systems, their underlying operating systems, and their data communications networks. Students critically investigate the services these components provide and draw implications for the large-scale enterprise.

3 semester credits

Contemporary software development principles continue to evolve. In this course, students explore contemporary software development concepts and tools. Through application assignments designed to contextualize theories presented in the course, students apply object-oriented techniques, usability principles, and design for reuse. Students have the opportunity to acquire knowledge requisite to the development of sound, maintainable, and extensible software.

3 semester credits

In this course, students discuss the design, implementation, and operation of databases using a principal relational database management system (DBMS). Many fundamental topics are covered in this course including: data modeling using entity-relationship diagrams; data storage, manipulation, and queries using structured query language (SQL); functional dependencies, normalization concepts, data warehouse architectures, data warehouse modeling, and data analytics.

3 semester credits

The principles of software engineering and software design allow for the methodical construction and controlled development of complex software systems. Students in this course survey the evolution and current practices of software engineering through the entire software life cycle, with emphasis on the elements that significantly influence software system quality.

3 semester credits

Large-scale enterprise systems often rely on architectural frameworks that define their main components as well as the interactions among these components. Students in this course survey the principal design strategies and tools for constructing the modern information system. They identify common vendor and open-source components, illustrating how they can create and integrate robust web- and cloud-based services and applications.

3 semester credits

The principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data while it is being stored, processed, or communicated guide the policies and practices of information assurance. In this course, students investigate the theory of information security and data protection, study common system risks and vulnerabilities, and follow best practices to protect computer and data assets. These practices address organizational policies, access controls, software and network design, and logging and auditing.

3 semester credits

In this information technology (IT) leadership course, students delve into a problem-based learning scenario focused on an organizational merger situation. Students investigate which technology set best supports the newly merged organization's IT infrastructure. They also plan for and manage how changes to the new IT infrastructure will address the needs of the organization and its employees across countries, cultures, and diverse business areas.

3 semester credits

In this information technology (IT) leadership course, students delve into a problem-based learning scenario focused on an organization that has experienced a security breach. Students examine relevant IT governance, security, and privacy issues that are essential to the organization. They gain practical experience in formulating comprehensive proactive and reactive system security plans. Students also explore sound IT management principles in decision making and implementation of broad-scale change.

3 semester credits

In this information technology (IT) leadership course, students delve into a problem-based learning scenario in which they confront an impending or proposed disruptive legislative or policy change. Students work though the scenario under the assumption that the dynamic change has a direct societal influence and will affect IT accessibility and/or use. They anticipate effects, examine the societal values driving different choices, determine priorities, and develop a plan to positively influence the formation and implementation of policies for issues in which IT features prominently.

3 semester credits

Students in this course are provided with a comprehensive understanding of change models and the impact of change related to technology innovation, adoption, and implementation. Students are presented with both the theoretical and practical perspectives required to manage the design and use of technology to foster growth, innovation, and change within organizations. Course content focuses on how innovation can act as a change enabler and the importance of building readiness for change within organizations.

3 semester credits

In order to create a competitive advantage, organizations store and analyze information in a variety of different formats. This course covers key areas of database systems, such as requirements, design, implementation, security, performance, and scalability. Through a hands-on approach and practical projects, students have an opportunity to design and build database systems using the latest database technologies.

3 semester credits

In this course students examine requirements of engineering and quality engineering in the context of software engineering. Students are presented with topics on the system engineering life cycle, including requirements, design, integration, transition, operation, maintenance, support, and quality management standards. Course content focuses on issues of requirements and quality engineering, such as the elicitation of requirements, analysis, specification, validation, and change management.

3 semester credits

Combatting cybercrime requires a deep understanding of the mechanisms and techniques that can be used to prevent or at least mitigate against it. In this course students consider the motivations for cybercrime and have the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the tools that can be used to prevent it, including the deployment of cybercrime prevention strategies. Students build an "ethical hacking" environment with which they can experiment. In addition, the course is directed at providing students with hands-on knowledge of cybercrime prevention for application in the workplace.

3 semester credits

Students in this course are provided with a detailed understanding of how technology becomes an enabler for business. Students study how information technology (IT) strategies support organizational goals, and how IT strategies can help to create a sustained competitive advantage in business. Students evaluate IT strategies and how best to deploy such strategies in the context of systems or business applications.

3 semester credits

Students in this course are introduced to qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods frameworks for inquiry. Quantitative designs that are covered in the course include experimental and quasiexperimental, survey, causal-comparative, evaluation, and existing action research; qualitative designs include case study, phenomenology, grounded theory, and ethnography; and mixed-methods strategies include sequential and concurrent strategies. Students work toward acquiring substantive, foundational knowledge of the philosophy of science as they construct, use, and critique concepts and theories. They can learn to produce knowledge for practice as they examine ethical, social, and political aspects of conducting research. By demonstrating knowledge and the ability to solve problems and test hypotheses, students engage in course assignments that emphasize the practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills and the integration of professional practice at the doctoral level.

3 semester credits

In this course, students develop skills in descriptive statistics, statistical inference, and quantitative techniques, including correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, regression, and various non-parametric methods. Students use quantitative data reduction and analysis and data management techniques, and they learn to utilize software for data analysis. This course is not intended for students to become fully grounded in statistical methods; rather, students learn appropriate questions to ask about data analysis, as well as how to defend their use of specific techniques in professional practice.

4 semester credits

Students taking this course have the opportunity to extend their research and general analysis skills as they further explore research methods and project types—specifically, qualitative and case study research methods—that they may incorporate into their own doctoral study. Students explore ways of improving the quality and strategic analysis of organizational information technology (IT). They also focus on how to think in an action-oriented manner, as if they were consultants, so that their own doctoral study work could be applied in action. Finally, students begin to plan their doctoral study by engaging in an iterative process to develop their premise and a draft prospectus that incorporates feedback from peers and the course instructor. Ultimately, students offer the prospectus as a document for review and consideration by potential mentors for their doctoral study.

3 semester credits

Students in this doctoral seminar focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to information security. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and the strategic and organizational implications of information security, such as secure data, secure networks, vulnerabilities, and computer forensics. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

Students in this doctoral seminar focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to IT systems, software, and management. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline as well as strategic and organizational implications of IT systems, software, and management, such as system architecture, software development, and system management. During the majority of the seminar, students will work with colleagues, including faculty, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. Students have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

Students in this doctoral seminar focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to project management of information technology (IT) projects. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and the strategic and organizational implications of project management of IT projects, such as knowledge management, requirements management, and current project management tools and techniques, all within an IT framework. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

In this doctoral seminar, students focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to cloud and grid computing. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and strategic and organizational implications of grid and cloud computing, such as security, availability, architecture, and ownership. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

In this doctoral seminar, students focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to security and forensics in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT). Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and strategic and organizational implications of security and forensics in the context of IoT. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

In this doctoral seminar, students focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to blockchain technology in the context of cybersecurity. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and strategic and organizational implications of blockchain technology in the context of cybersecurity. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

In this doctoral seminar, students focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to multivariate analysis. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and strategic and organizational implications of multivariate analysis. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

In this doctoral seminar, students focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to modeling, optimization, and application in data science. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and strategic and organizational implications of modeling, optimization, and application in data science. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

In this doctoral seminar, students focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to middleware for networked and distributed systems. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and strategic and organizational implications of middleware for networked and distributed systems. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

In this doctoral seminar, students focus on the scholarly and practice-oriented literature related to requirements and quality engineering. Students explore major theoretical approaches and practices that define the discipline and strategic and organizational implications of requirements and quality engineering. During the majority of the seminar, students work with colleagues, including faculty members, to identify threads and tendencies for further reading and discussion in a true doctoral seminar format. They also have the opportunity to lead their colleagues as well as to participate in academic discourse.

3 semester credits

Students in this course are provided with insight into how predictive analytics can be used within organizations. In completing this course, students have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of how results from predictive analytics can be used by organizations to grow their customer base and run operations more efficiently. This course is oriented toward the practical applications of predictive analytics.

3 semester credits

In this course, students place their technical and process work in a human context, focusing on issues and effects in a broader domain. Topics include organizational behavior and change; intellectual property issues; ethics, professionalism, and social impact; and privacy and security.

continuous enrollment in 3 semester credits per term for a minimum of five terms until completion, with two 8-week terms taken per semester

Students demonstrate a scholarly ability to examine, critique, and synthesize knowledge, theory, and experience in the final doctoral study. They show how new ideas can be tested; best practices identified, established, and verified; and theoretical, practice or policy constructs evaluated and advanced. In all cases, the doctoral study is a rigorous inquiry that results in new knowledge, insight, or practice, demonstrating its efficacy in the world of information technology. This course is a forum and structure for doctoral students to interact with the chair of their doctoral study committee, as well as other students assigned to the same chair, in order to make steady progress on their individual doctoral study research.

Students take this course for a minimum of five terms and are continuously enrolled until completion of their doctoral study with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their doctoral study on ProQuest before their degree is conferred.