Information Systems

Courses

CIS 101: Navigating a Digital World

Credits 4.5
Technology has transformed the way we live and work and staying up-to-date with digital tools can keep you ahead of the game. From Microsoft Office to social media to productivity tools, this course will teach you about technological tools you can use to stay organized, maximize your time, and stand out personally and professionally.

CIS 105: Introduction to Information Systems

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to the general purpose of information systems in organizations and their use of personal productivity software. Students will demonstrate tasks in common application software to include word processing, web browsing, spreadsheet modeling, database management, and presentation graphics.

CIS 106: Introduction to Information Technology

Credits 4.5
This course provides a foundational overview to the discipline of Information Technology that illuminates key computing concepts and describes how those concepts relate to other computing disciplines. Students are presented the diverse context in which information technology is used and the challenges inherent in the diffusion of innovative technologies.

CIS 109: Introduction to Management Information Systems

Credits 4.5
This course provides an introduction to contemporary information systems and demonstrates how these systems are used throughout the organization. The focus of this course will be on the key components of information systems—people, software, hardware, data, and communication technologies, and how these components are developed, acquired and integrated to create a competitive advantage.

CIS 110: Computer Programming Design

Credits 4.5
The course introduces students to fundamental programming concepts to include event-driven programming, object-oriented programming, basic data structures and algorithmic processes. Emphasis is placed on structure, decision-making, looping, arrays, methods, objects, events, databases, pseudo coding and visual flowcharting to construct workable programs.

CIS 111: Introduction to Relational Database Management Systems

Credits 4.5
This course provides students with an introduction to the theory and applied concepts of database design, database management and information management. Students will focus on identifying organizational information requirements, express those requirements using conceptual data modeling techniques, verifying the structural characteristics with normalization techniques and convert conceptual data models into physical database models.

CIS 112: Introduction to Cloud Computing

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to Amazon Web Services (AWS) by providing an overview of cloud concepts, AWS core services, security, and the steps required for successful implementation. This course is designed to support students in preparation for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Exam.

CIS 170: Information Technology in Criminal Justice

Credits 4.5
This course provides a foundational overview of the types of crimes and terrorist acts committed using digital technology. Students will explore information technology, computing networks and the Internet in a criminal justice context. Topics include the theories addressing digital criminals and an overview of legal strategies and tactics targeting digital crime. Fundamental research skills in the investigation of digital crime and terrorism also will be explored.

CIS 175: Introduction to Networking

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of networking technology. The focus of the course will include networking protocols, topologies, hardware and operating systems. Topics include data communications, telecommunications, infrastructure security, inter/intranetworking and the application of networking to multimedia, information storage and distribution.

CIS 210: Systems Analysis and Development

Credits 4.5
This course presents the processes, methods, techniques and tools that organizations use to effectively develop computer-based technologies. Topics include a fundamental review of project management and data design followed by the processes required to gather and articulate business requirements. Students will acquire skills to procure, evaluate, test and systematically build systems for integration into an organization.

CIS 211: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Credits 4.5
This course provides an overview of artificial intelligence, exploring its history, applications, and impact on various industries. The course also covers ethical considerations and societal implications of AI. Practical exercises using popular AI tools and frameworks will provide hands-on experience.

CIS 214: Introduction to Prompt Engineering

Credits 4.5
This course introduces learners to the concept of prompt engineering, a crucial aspect of building AI models that understand and generate human-like text. They will explore techniques for prompt design, optimization, and fine-tuning, with an emphasis on natural language processing (NLP) tasks. Students will learn techniques for designing prompts, understanding their impact on model performance, and leveraging prompts for various AI applications.

CIS 242: C++ Programming I

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to the fundamental constructs of the C++ object-oriented programming language. Students will test, document and design business-oriented programs. Topics include data types and objects, encapsulation, polymorphism and inheritance.

CIS 261: Object-Oriented Computer Programming I

Credits 4.5
This course explores the fundamentals of object-oriented programming. Students will apply basic programming concepts as they design, develop and test their own applications. Topics include variables, expressions, types, branching, loops, functions, string, list and dictionaries.

CIS 312: Computer Architecture

Credits 4.5
This course presents students with concepts and essential skills required to administer operating systems, networks, software, file systems, file servers, web systems, database systems, system documentation, policies and procedures. Topics include the methods required to select, deploy, integrate and administer computing platforms or components that support an organization's information technology infrastructure. The fundamentals of hardware and software and how they integrate to form essential components of systems are also explored.

CIS 324: Ethics in IT

Credits 4.5
This course provides critical ethical and legal information that computer security professionals must take into account when developing security policies, plans and procedures. This course focuses on ethical and legal issues and privacy considerations that organizations must take into account. Topics also include issues related to risk mitigation and analysis, incident response and contingency planning.

CIS 332: Network Server Administration I

Credits 4.5
This is a lab-based course that prepares students to install, configure, secure and maintain the Windows server environment. Topics include configuring and managing DHCP, DNS, routing and remote access and file and print services.

CIS 333: Networking Security Fundamentals

Credits 4.5
This is a lab-based course that provides an overview of information technology security principles, challenges, vulnerabilities and countermeasure strategies. Topics include definition of security terms, concepts, elements and goals. Students will explore industry standards and practices that focus on the availability, integrity and confidentiality aspects of information systems security.

CIS 337: Internetworking Basics

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of networking. Students will learn the skills necessary to install, operate, configure and verify local area networks in a simulated environment. Topics include configuring LAN switches and IP routers, managing network devices, assessing connectivity and access issues, and identifying basic security concerns.

CIS 348: Information Technology Project Management

Credits 4.5
This course examines the processes, methods, techniques and tools that organizations use to manage their information technology projects in accordance with the Project Management Institutes Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK®). Emphasis is placed on the methodology and project management software for initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing technology projects. Topics include various types of technologies to support group collaboration and the use of resources from within the firm as well as contracted from outside the organization.

CIS 356: Decision Support and Business Intelligence

Credits 4.5
This course covers the techniques, frameworks and application of computerized decision support systems that support managerial decision-making. Topics include the characteristics, structure, uses and types of decision support systems.

CIS 357: Advanced Internetworking

Credits 4.5
This course builds on student knowledge of networking fundamentals and teaches students to design and configure wide-area networks (WANs). Students will learn the skills necessary to manage such networks in a simulated environment. Topics will include advanced network design and switching, VLANs, advanced router and network management configuration and network security.

CIS 361: Object Oriented Computer Programming II

Credits 4.5
Students will build on the foundation developed in previous courses by solving problems and developing applications using an object-oriented programming language. Various methods to organize and interact with data will be addressed in the course. Students will design, implement, test and debug a variety of programs. Topics include classes, exceptions, modules, files, inheritance, recursion, searching and sorting, linked lists, stacks and queues.

CIS 362: Data Analytics I

Credits 4.5
This course provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the field of data science and its application to decision-making. It focuses on using computational methods and statistical techniques to analyze massive amounts of data. It also teaches students to identify and deploy appropriate modeling and tools to extract meaningful information from big data.

CIS 363: Python Programming for Artificial Intelligence

Credits 4.5
This course focuses on developing programming skills necessary for Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications using the Python programming language. Students will learn Python programming techniques and libraries commonly used in AI development and they will gain proficiency in writing Python code to solve AI-related problems.

CIS 365: Advanced Artificial Intelligence Applications

Credits 4.5
This course explores advanced applications of AI in various domains, such as healthcare, finance, and autonomous systems, and other industries. The course emphasizes practical implementation and real-world case studies to demonstrate the application of AI techniques. Topics such as reinforcement learning, ethical considerations, fairness, and interpretability in AI are included.

CIS 373: Web Design and Development

Credits 4.5
This course presents to students the design, implementation and testing of web-based applications, including related software, databases, scripting techniques, interfaces and digital media. It also covers social, ethical and security issues arising from the Web, e-commerce and social networking software applications.

CIS 375: Human-Computer Interaction

Credits 4.5
This course presents students with user-centered methodologies in the development, evaluation and deployment of information technology applications and systems. Students are exposed to evolving technologies and devices and how to design interactive products that enhance the way people communicate, interact and work with computers. Topics include human-computer interaction, user and task analysis, human factors, ergonomics, accessibility standards and cognitive psychology.

CIS 376: SQL Programming

Credits 4.5
This course covers the concepts, and components for designing, building and querying databases using the Structured Query Language (SQL). Students will use tools to create tables and apply database and table constraints through the use of the Data Manipulation Language (DML) and Data Definition Language (DDL).

CIS 377: SQL Programming II

Credits 4.5
This course covers the concepts, design and querying of databases using the Structured Query Language (SQL), including large datasets, objects and data dictionaries, system privileges and security functions.

CIS 399: Information Technology Experience Through Workplace Learning

Credits 4.5
This course enables students to gain professional experience by working with a team to complete an information technology project for an organization. Students should be prepared to be active collaborators and contributors so their team can be successful in the course experience in a specific area of information technology. Students will have an opportunity to add key skills and workplace experience to their professional profile or résumé and expand their network. Students will also examine how their academic courses tie to their field of study and gain essential skills and competencies to prepare for future career opportunities. Required coursework includes audio/video presentations that will be recorded for grading purposes only.

CIS 401: Network Server Administration II

Credits 4.5
This is a lab-based course that prepares students with advanced server administration concepts to plan, deploy, secure, monitor, back up and manage enterprise network server environments. Topics also include storage solutions, high availability, file and printer services and security.

CIS 406: JAVA Programming I

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to the fundamental constructs of the Java object-oriented programming language. Students will test, document and design business-oriented programs. Topics include objects, classes, iteration, encapsulation, polymorphism and inheritance.

CIS 407: JAVA Programming II

Credits 4.5
This course covers advanced topics in the Java object-oriented programming language. Students will test, document and design business-oriented programs and solve advanced programming problems. Topics include advanced data structures, recursion, multithreading and the application of Java constructs to the Internet and database development.

CIS 409: Network Services Infrastructure

Credits 4.5
This is a lab-based course that prepares students to install, configure, secure and maintain services in the Windows Active Directory environment. Topics include group policies, configuration management of various services, cloud infrastructure, virtual machines, security strategies and certificate services.

CIS 417: Computer Forensics

Credits 4.5
This course offers an introduction to system forensics investigation and response. Topics include procedures for investigating computer and cyber-crime, tools, techniques and methods used to perform forensic investigations and concepts for collecting, analyzing, recovering and preserving forensic evidence.

CIS 424: Database Administration I

Credits 4.5
This is a lab-based course that prepares students with the skills to plan, install, develop, and administer databases in the Oracle database environment. Topics also include procedures that enable installing and configuring a database server, security, optimizing database performance, and troubleshooting techniques.

CIS 428: Database Administration II

Credits 4.5
This is a lab-based course that prepares students with the skills to design, plan and optimize the Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL) database infrastructure. Topics include managing and maintaining databases or multidimensional databases, user accounts, database availability and recovery and reporting, as well as the design and implementation of security and server automation.

CIS 429: Data Warehouse Planning

Credits 4.5
This course covers the principles, approaches and critical issues in planning, designing and deploying data warehouses. Topics include data extraction, data cleansing, data transformation, architecture and infrastructure. Students will examine recent trends in data warehousing, metadata and architectural components.

CIS 437: Cloud Architecture and Design

Credits 4.5
Maintaining a cloud-based system is a high-demand skill in business today. This course prepares students to design, develop and administer a secure and efficient cloud-based system to support organizational data needs. It introduces students to fundamental cloud computing security concepts, including access control and management, governance, logging and encryption methods. It also covers security-related compliance protocols, risk management strategies and security features of cloud-based services. This course will also include Amazon Web Services (AWS) preparatory materials for the AWS Cloud Architecting Certification exam. AWS preparatory materials are included in portions of this course’s reading materials, assignments and quizzes that are delivered through the Strayer learning management system. There are no additional costs for the AWS Academy preparatory materials utilized in this course.

CIS 438: Information Security Legal Issues

Credits 4.5
This course addresses the area where law and information security concerns intersect. Students will be presented with fundamental security and privacy concepts, recent U.S. laws that address information security and privacy, and security and privacy for organizations. Topics also include issues related to governance, risk analysis, incidence response and contingency planning.

CIS 439: Deep Learning and Neural Networks

Credits 4.5
In this course, students will explore advanced concepts and architectures including feedforward neural networks, convolutional neural networks, recurrent neural networks, and sequence modeling. Analysis of a practical implementation of deep learning models will be emphasized.

CIS 443: Agile Project Management

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to Agile Project Management. Students are presented with core values, fundamentals, frameworks and the practices in various Agile phases. Topics also include governance, quality and the application of Agile methods in organizational settings.

CIS 447: AWS Cloud Operations I

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to best practices in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud. It introduces design patterns to solve problems and troubleshoot various real-world cloud service scenarios. Opportunities to explore case studies and to build actual infrastructures through labs and hands on activities are provided throughout. This course is designed to support students in preparation for the AWS SysOps Administrator – Associate certification exam. This course will also include Amazon Web Services (AWS) preparatory materials for the AWS SysOps Administrator – Associate certification exam. AWS preparatory materials are included in portions of this course’s reading materials, assignments and quizzes that are delivered through the Strayer learning management system. There are no additional costs for the AWS Academy preparatory materials utilized in this course.

CIS 448: AWS Cloud Operations II

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to best practices in the design of repeatable, configurable, and deployable networking and storage solutions in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud. Opportunities to explore case studies and to build actual infrastructures through labs and hands on activities are provided throughout. This course is designed to support students in preparation for the AWS SysOps Administrator – Associate certification exam. This course will also include Amazon Web Services (AWS) preparatory materials for the AWS SysOps Administrator - Associate exam. AWS preparatory materials are included in portions of this course’s reading materials, assignments and quizzes that are delivered through the Strayer learning management system. There are no additional costs for the AWS Academy preparatory materials utilized in this course.

CIS 461: Data Analytics II

Credits 4.5
The course provides a comprehensive overview of data mining. Students will learn different methods, such as data collection and selection, data cleaning and transformation, pattern discovery and knowledge extraction, including traditional statistical analysis and basic machine learning techniques. Students will analyze large data sets and learn to develop modeling solutions to support decision-making in a professional domain. In so doing, students will gain insight into how data analytics is applied in professional fields.

CIS 498: Information Technology Capstone

Credits 4.5
This course is an integrative capstone course for the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program. The course takes a senior management approach to examine and solve real-world problems and projects. Students will apply project management techniques to create integrative information technology solutions that include databases, systems analysis, security, networking, computer infrastructure, human-computer interaction and web design.
A grade of C or higher is required for satisfactory course completion.

CIS 500: Information Systems for Decision-Making

Credits 4.5
This course examines the strategic use and trends of organizational information systems with emphasis on the application of information technology. Students are presented key computing concepts in the strategic context in which information technology is used with emphasis on how information technology enables improvement in quality, timeliness and competitive advantage.

CIS 502: Theories of Security Management

Credits 4.5
This course presents current and emerging theories in security management. Topics include the policies, guidance, technologies and organizational concerns that security managers must address in leading and providing secure computing environments. Students will explore topics such as access control, risk identification and cryptography.

CIS 505: Communication Technologies

Credits 4.5
This course covers trends and topics of computer communications. Students are presented a balance of technical foundations and business practice to address a managerial level of knowledge in data communications. Topics also include networking, distributed applications, network management, security and network operating systems.

CIS 509: Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence Systems Management

Credits 4.5
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence systems management. It covers various artificial intelligence (AI) strategies and their impact on business performance and capabilities. Students will gain an understanding of how AI can be leveraged to optimize business processes, improve decision-making, and drive innovation. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the managerial aspects of AI, such as aligning AI strategies with business goals, assessing ethical considerations, and managing risks associated with AI systems.

CIS 510: Advanced Systems Analysis and Design

Credits 4.5
This course provides an integrated approach to system analysis and design processes. Students will explore advanced topics to evaluate and select system development methodologies and design system solutions. The role of effective interpersonal communication techniques and integration practices with users and user systems is emphasized.

CIS 512: Advanced Computer Architecture

Credits 4.5
This course examines the structure and operation of digital computers in the context of providing data and infrastructure security. Emphasis will be placed on strategies to select, deploy, integrate and administer modern computing environments to support the organization's overall security posture. Topics include hardware components of modern computing environments and their deployment in compliance with applicable cybersecurity laws and policies.

CIS 513: Enterprise Wireless Networks

Credits 4.5
This course covers the concepts and infrastructure of wireless systems, how mobility is supported and the interactions among the different wireless components. Emphasis is placed on wireless technologies that deliver reliable voice and data communication to organizational entities.

CIS 515: Strategic Planning for Database Systems

Credits 4.5
This course covers the concepts, issues, principles and techniques for managing organizational data resources. Topics include the strategic information requirements of organizations, modeling those requirements using conceptual data modeling techniques, verifying the structural characteristics with normalization, and converting the conceptual data models into physical databases. Emphasis will be placed on the application and strategic use of database systems.

CIS 518: Advanced Software Engineering

Credits 4.5
This course provides advanced concepts describing the management, research and modeling of software engineering practices. Topics include the software lifecycle to include planning, managing, testing and requirements gathering techniques that create or improve software products and processes.

CIS 524: Computer Interaction and Design

Credits 4.5
This course provides students with the concepts, theory and design of human-computer interaction (HCI) to address organizational issues. Students learn the practical principles and guidelines to develop high-quality interface designs that users can understand, predict and control. Topics include a strategic and tactical assessment of expert reviews, usability testing, direct manipulation, menu selection and form design. Current HCI topics are addressed with a balanced emphasis on mobile devices and web and desktop platforms.

CIS 525: Advanced Agile Project Management

Credits 4.5
This course provides advanced topics in implementing Agile project management and coaching techniques into an overall business strategy. The course will focus on leadership and coaching strategies in an Agile practice with topics including delivery frameworks, values, principle and practice.

CIS 527: IT Risk Management

Credits 4.5
This course addresses the topic of risk management and how risk, threats and vulnerabilities impact information systems. Topics include how to assess and manage risk based on defining an acceptable level of risk for information systems, elements of a business impact analysis, business continuity plan and disaster recovery planning.

CIS 529: Agentic System Foundations

Credits 4.5
This course introduces students to the conceptual and technical foundations of agentic systems. Students will explore agent marketplaces, UI-based agent builders, and workflow platforms to develop scalable and intelligent automations.

CIS 532: Network Architecture and Analysis

Credits 4.5
This course focuses on a managerial approach to designing computing networks. Students will develop procedures and demonstrate best practices to satisfy end-user business and technical requirements. Topics include methods to design organizational networks for functionality, capacity, performance, availability, scalability, affordability and security.

CIS 534: Advanced Network Security Design

Credits 4.5
This course examines strategies to design, administer and maintain a comprehensive enterprise security infrastructure. Topics related to protection of information technology assets and infrastructure from external and internal threats are included.

CIS 539: Cloud and Virtual Computing

Credits 4.5
This course examines the technologies, structure and future direction of cloud computing applications. Topics include the technologies associated with cloud computing and the organizational, legal and regulatory issues encountered in cloud computing environments.

CIS 542: Web Application Security

Credits 4.5
This course addresses the risks, threats and vulnerabilities for web-based applications. This course presents security strategies that enable a secure operation of web applications by identifying and mitigating the risk associated with web-enabled applications. Topics include a review of the evolutionary changes that have occurred in web application technologies and cyberattacks, vulnerabilities associated with web-enabled applications and server/client controls.

CIS 543: AI Strategy for Performance Optimization

Credits 4.5
This course focuses on the strategic planning and implementation of AI initiatives within an organization. Students will learn how to develop AI strategies aligned with business goals, create implementation roadmaps, and overcome common challenges associated with AI adoption. They will explore topics such as data governance, privacy, and security in the context of AI implementation while gaining hands-on experience through practical exercises and case studies.

CIS 544: AI Agent Engineering and UX Development

Credits 4.5
This course explores the design of intelligent agents from the ground up using agentic frameworks. Students learn core agent logic and user interface (UX) development to create end-to-end user experiences.

CIS 548: AI for Innovation and Strategic Decision-Making

Credits 4.5
This course explores how AI can drive innovation and support strategic decision-making within organizations. Students will learn about AI-enabled innovation processes, such as generative design, deep learning, reinforcement learning, and advanced analytics. Students will explore ethical considerations, bias mitigation, and the responsible use of AI systems while working on real-world projects to apply AI techniques to strategic business challenges.

CIS 552: Cybercrime Techniques and Response

Credits 4.5
This course examines the threats, crimes and other abuses that are present in the cyber realm. Topics include identifying the bad actors in cyberspace, examining how they used the internet for criminal activity, and evaluating techniques in preventing crime and abuse. Students will explore different types of cyberattacks and their characteristics.

CIS 554: Information Technology Project Leadership Strategies

Credits 4.5
This course examines the techniques and frameworks in managing teams and leading software development projects. Students will be presented with the methods, tools and techniques of software project management with emphasis on leadership qualities.

CIS 555: Performance and Requirements Engineering

Credits 4.5
This course addresses the processes for the development, analysis and testing of performance requirements. Topics include performance analysis techniques, performance requirements and evaluation methods, measurement and performance testing techniques.

CIS 558: Information Technology Audit and Control

Credits 4.5
This course focuses on establishing the framework to audit, secure and ensure internal controls in an information technology environment. Topics include the technical and professional issues in the context of technology-driven audits, security, privacy, business continuity and legislative and governance changes.

CIS 560: Security Access and Control Strategies

Credits 4.5
This course presents typical cyber operations, including access and control, where ethical dilemmas arise and provides tools for legal and ethical decision-making. Topics include various stages of a cyber operation, U.S. regulations and ethical implications of granting access and control. Students will explore the authorities, roles and steps associated with ethical cyber operations.

CIS 562: Computer Forensics Planning

Credits 4.5
This course presents the systematic methods in conducting computer forensic investigations, acquiring digital data and reporting on forensic investigations. Topics include procedures to create a forensics lab; investigating computer and cybercrime; tools, techniques and methods used to perform forensic investigations; and concepts for collecting, analyzing, recovering and preserving forensic evidence.

CIS 565: Cryptography

Credits 4.5
This course covers cryptography from historical, applied and theoretical perspectives. Topics include symmetric and asymmetric encryption techniques that include classical and modern algorithms. This course explores the framework and practice of using cryptography in securing information in organizational settings.

CIS 567: Software Development for Managers

Credits 4.5
This course explores the fundamentals of Python programming. Students will apply basic programming concepts as they design, develop and test their applications. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and understanding sequence, variables, inputs, outputs, conditional and iteration constructs. Students will utilize software development collaboration tools such as GitHub.

CIS 597: Agentic Observability and Business Impact Modeling

Credits 4.5
The course challenges students to design and implement a comprehensive enterprise agentic system with a strong focus on observability and measurable business impact. Students will deploy AI Agents with observability, Key Performance Indicators (KPI) benchmarking, and Return on Investment (ROI) dashboards. The capstone emphasizes real-world application, demonstrating operational performance and ROI in an enterprise scenario.
This course is available only to students enrolled in the Master of Science in Information Systems: Agentic AI Systems Engineering concentration.

CIS 598: Graduate Information Assurance Capstone

Credits 4.5
In this integrative capstone course, students will examine and solve real-world cybersecurity problems and apply associated techniques to create practical solutions. The course takes an integrative and senior security officer approach to address the policy, risk and control opportunities within cyberspace and IT environments.
A grade of B or higher is required for satisfactory course completion.

CIS 599: Graduate Information Systems Capstone

Credits 4.5
This course is an integrative capstone course for the Master of Science in Information Systems program. Students will examine and address real-world projects and problems and apply project management techniques to create practical solutions. The course takes an integrative and senior management approach to address the integration of a broad range of technologies inclusive of databases, security, networking, computer infrastructure and human-computer interaction.
A grade of B or higher is required for satisfactory course completion.