Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology

Information technology provides systematic foundations that include methodologies and models for conceptualizing the complex dynamics of the Information Technology environment as it applies to information systems design and implementation.

IT professionals possess the right combination of knowledge and practical, hands-on expertise to take care of both an organization’s information technology infrastructure and the people who use it. They assume responsibility for selecting hardware and software products appropriate for an organization. They integrate those products with organizational needs and infrastructure, and install, customize and maintain those applications, thereby providing a secure and effective environment that supports the activities of the organization’s computer users. In IT, programming often involves writing short programs that typically connect existing components (scripting).

Planning and managing an organization’s IT infrastructure is a difficult and complex job that requires a solid foundation in applied computing as well as management and people skills. Those in the IT discipline require special skills – in understanding, for example, how networked systems are composed and structured, and what their strengths and weaknesses are. There are important software systems concerns such as reliability, security, usability, and effectiveness and efficiency for their intended purpose; all of these concerns are vital. These topics are difficult and intellectually demanding.

The program supports work processes and employee performance enhancements; is designed to improve overall workgroup and individual productivity; and addresses the creation, distribution, storage, and use of information in all its states. Business processes are incorporated as an integral part of all course content. Information Technology encompasses:

• End-User Computing
• Information Centers
• Computer-Supported Work
• Performance Support
• Project Management
• Multimedia
• Networks
• Database Systems
• System Analysis
• Information Security

IT graduates of the AAS degree program will continue their studies towards a bachelor's degree in a computer or information technology area or will obtain full-time employment as web technicians, help desk support, network technicians, and in other closely related fields.

IT graduates of the BSAS degree program will obtain full-time employment as web designers, network administrators, multimedia specialists, and in other closely related fields.

Associate Degree Program

Graduates of the associate degree program can pursue careers in service and support of information systems, as well as continuing on to a bachelor's degree in information technology. This degree may be earned in four semesters if students average 16-17 hours per semester.

Students wishing to receive the Associate of Applied Science in information technology must complete the following:

Learning Outcomes

1. The Associate program in Information Technology provides preparation for student’s basic knowledge of technologies in the implementation and troubleshooting of networks.
2. The Associate program in Information Technology provides preparation for student’s basic knowledge of technologies in designing databases and extracting information using appropriate programs or applications.
3. The Associate program in Information Technology provides preparation for student’s basic knowledge of technologies in assessing information management processes and procedures and the application of technologies.
4. The Associate program in Information Technology provides preparation for student’s basic knowledge of technologies in developing interactive programs.