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Textbooks for computer courses in this program, which are written at a
college level, are used as supplements to lectures and hands-on practice. In
other required courses, such as accounting and business, texts are a central
part of the course. In addition to their texts, students will consult manuals
containing error listings as they correct problems in running computer
programs. They can also expect to use technical manuals in the work place.
View more information on reading skills in the Management Information Systems program.
One speech course is part of the Associate of Science degree requirement;
students may select Fundamentals of Oral Communication (SPC 101)or Interpersonal
and Small Group Communication (SPC 126). In their other courses, no public
speaking is required; however, students must frequently explain a computer
program problem to their instructor or to classmates. One-to-one interactions
are also common on the job, when programmers communicate with coworkers,
group leaders, and operations personnel. In these situations, clarity in
describing technical problems is essential.
For their AS degree,
students must complete Composition I (ENG 105) and either Composition II (ENG
106) or Composition II: Technical Writing (ENG 108). The latter is
recommended for this program. Programming courses may require essay tests
which focus on tracing causes and effects and on problem solving. On the job,
programmers must write documentation when they create a new program or system
so that the programs can be run independently by their end users.
View more information on language skills in the Management Information Systems program.
The required math courses in this program are Finite Math (MAT 141) and
Business Statistics (BUS 211). The prerequisite for Finite is one year of
high school algebra; for Statistics, the prerequisite is two years of high
school algebra.
Programming requires a
basic grasp of logic more than of advanced math. Basic math applications
include totaling records in file layouts; describing fields precisely (e.g.
knowing what a floating decimal point is); using common business formulas,
such as calculating interest; and using proportions to determine how many
records will fit on a given tape.
View more information on math skills in the Management Information Systems program.
The skill most crucial to success in this program is the ability to understand
abstract logic, such as if-then statements. Programming also requires
sequential thinking as step-by-step instructions are developed. In
troubleshooting a program, students use cause-effect reasoning and problem
solving skills to identify and correct the source of an error.
Strong time management
skills are also important, as programming courses are likely to require
several hours of homework for each hour spent in class.
View more information on learning skills in the Management Information Systems program.
Although no computer skills are required prior to program entry, most
students enter with at least basic computer literacy skills. Word processing
skills will be useful to complete writing assignments in composition courses.
Computer classes include Introduction to Computers (CSC 110), Computer
Accounting (ACC311) and programming coursework in COBOL, Pascal, FORTRAN, and
RPG. Students should be aware that programming requires skills much different
from data entry activities like word processing.
View more information on computer skills in the Management Information Systems program.
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