Rock Valley College
Rockford, Illinois

CIS - Course Descriptions

Computers and Information Systems (CIS)

CIS-102
Intro to Computers & Info Systems

IAI: CS 910
Introduction to Computers and Information Systems surveys the uses of computers in business, industry and the home. This course introduces computer concepts, principles, and terminology. A number of hands-on computer experiences are provided, including using word processors, spreadsheets and database software. Credit will not be given for both CIS 102 and CIS 202.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

CIS-117
Windows Command Line Programming

IAI: None
Windows/DOS Command Line Programming is a hands-on approach to operating personal computers. An overview of the microcomputer system will be covered including the keyboard, monitor, system unit, printers, and auxiliary storage. Hands-on practice will be emphasized with a considerable portion of the course taking place at the computer. No previous knowledge of computers is required.
Prerequisite: keyboard proficiency.
Credit: 2 semester hours
Lecture: 2 Lab: 0

CIS-120
Introduction to Microsoft Word

IAI: None
Introduction to Microsoft Word will present the basics of word processing along with such features as creating, formatting, editing, saving, and printing a document. The techniques required for changing fonts and point sizes, setting and deleting tabs, creating headers, footers, footnotes, and using editing tools such as the spell checker will be taught.
Prerequisite: Keyboard proficiency or equivalent experience.
Credit: 1 semester hour
Lecture: 1 Lab: 0

CIS-121
Introduction to Excel

IAI: None
Introduction to Excel will demonstrate the use of basic topics including spreadsheet design, formulas, functions, and graphing. The use of this package will be presented in a business problem-solving setting.
Prerequisite: Keyboard proficiency or equivalent experience.
Credit: 1 semester hour
Lecture: 1 Lab: 0

CIS-124
Introduction to Powerpoint

IAI: None
Introduction to PowerPoint will present the basics needed to create, edit, and enhance presentations. Drawings, clip art, color schemes, charts, and text will be used to teach the creation of notes, handouts, outlines, and presentation slides.
Prerequisite: Keyboard proficiency or equivalent experience.
Credit: 1 semester hour
Lecture: 1 Lab: 0

CIS-130
Introduction to Access

IAI: None
Introduction to Access is designed to teach the student the features available in Microsoft Access. The topics of creating a database, storing, sorting, and retrieving data, and querying a database will be covered. The student will learn about database management as well as the creation of forms, reports, and labels for information presentation.
Prerequisite: Keyboard proficiency.
Credit: 2 semester hours
Lecture: 2 Lab: 0

CIS-180
Intro to Visual Basic Programming

IAI: None
Introduction to Visual Basic Programming is an introductory course that is designed for students and professionals with little or no Visual Basic or Windows programming experience. The student will learn the BASIC language syntax, event-driven programming, and how to put together a complete Visual Basic Application. Topics such as Windows programming standards and conventions, database programming, array processing, controls, properties, methods and events will be discussed.
Prerequisite: CIS-102, MTH-092 or MTH-096A with a C or higher.
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-181
Advanced Visual Basic Programming

IAI: None
Advanced Visual Basic Programming, along with CIS 184, covers topics useful in preparing to take the Microsoft Certification examination in VB.NET. It builds on topics introduced in CIS 180, such as OOP concepts related to the functionality of .NET, as well as collections, arrays and database programming; and introduces additional controls useful for Windows programming. CIS 181 also teaches students how to create user-defined classes, how to program using the Windows file system, how to create MDI applications and how to deploy desktop applications.
Prerequisite: CIS 180
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-182
Programming Visual Basic Applications

IAI: None
Programming Visual Basic for Applications is a course designed for experienced programmers and CIS majors interested in Visual Basic programming throughout the Microsoft Office Suite. Areas of study will include Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. Students will be encouraged to create a project related to their own job/interests to incorporate design principles and VBA.
Prerequisite: PCI 106 and PCI 206 or CIS 130
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-184
Visual Basic Programming III

IAI: None
Visual Basic Programming III is a course for students who would like to complete discussion of topics covered on Microsoft213s Certification Exam for Visual Basic. Some of the topics covered include installation options, creating pop-up menus and dynamically modifying menus, using listviews and treeviews, creating a Web page using the DHTML Page Designer, implementing online help for users, and creating an ActiveX document.
Prerequisite: CIS 180 and CIS 181
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-240
Intro to Java Programming

IAI: None
Introduction to JAVA Programming is a course designed to introduce the student to JAVA software development. Students will write platform-independent, object-oriented code for conventional applications and for Internet- and Intranet-based applets. Topics covered may include fundamental programming principles, concepts and practices; console user interfaces(CUI) and graphical user interfaces (GUI); multimedia (images, animation, and audio); object oriented programming, arrays, basic containers, text processing, inheritance, polymorphism, exception processing, and recursion. A number of programming assignments will be given to enable the student to build real-world JAVA applications.
Prerequisite: CIS 102 Recommended: CIS 276
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-241
Advanced Java Programming

IAI: None
Advanced Java Programming is the second in a sequence of Java programming courses. This course should be taken as the second programming course for students preparing for the CIS Division programming degrees; for transfer students pursuing the AA or AS degree or IAI transfer program; for computer professionals who need to upgrade their skills. Course content includes, but is not limited to: OOPs design and implementation of advanced Java programming; abstract data types, inheritance, polymorphism, dynamic binding, abstract classes, interfaces; data structures (files, sets, heaps, lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs); recursion; String and text programming; searching and sorting algorithms; JDBC database programming; GUI programming; concurrency and networking; and web programming. Students should complete BOTH CIS 240 and CIS 241at RVC before transferring to a four-year degree-granting school.
Prerequisite: CIS 240
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-251
Systems Analysis & Design

IAI: None
Systems Analysis and Design is a study of the phases of systems development and the tools the analyst uses in planning, specifying and implementing a system to solve managerial and organizational problems. Other topics may include documentation, interaction with users, systems security, and an introduction to a CASE tool.
Prerequisite: CIS 180 or CIS 276; or a one semester programming course, or equivalent programming experience.
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

CIS-254
Database Programming

IAI: None
Database Programming introduces the student to the concept of database processing. Physical representation, modeling and commercial systems are covered. Each student will have the opportunity to write programs using desktop, workstation and server software. Client/server applications will be presented. The course will use a modern database system such as Oracle or MS SQL.
Prerequisite: CIS 180 or CIS 276
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-276
Introduction to C/C++ Programming

IAI: CS 911
Introduction to C/C++ Programming provides the student with an introduction to programming using the C/C++ programming language. This course is suitable for students with little or no programming background. C/C++ is an object-oriented programming language that will be used in this course to teach control structures: sequence, selection, iteration, to teach structured program design, programming style, documentation, modular design, code reusability, and program testing. Prerequisite or Co-requisite: CIS 102; or consent of instructor. Credit: 4 semester hours Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-277
Advanced C/C++ Programming

IAI: CS 912
Advanced C/C++ Programming is a continuation of CIS 276-Intro to C/C++ Programming. This course emphasizes the concepts, principles and practices of object-oriented programming and of data structures. Typical topices include classes, data abstrction, encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism, information hiding, software reusability, overloading, vectors, lists, queue, stacks and STL.
Prerequisite: CIS 276
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-279
Visual C/C++ Programming

IAI: CS 914
Visual C/C++ Programming is an extension of CIS 276-Intro to C/C++ Programming and CIS-277-Advanced C/C++ Programming. This course emphasizes event-driven programming, usually in a GUI environment. Typical topics include design principles and practices, object-oriented and procedural development, GUI design and implementation, data files and database connnectivity, subclassing, graphical resources, software project management, multithreading and multitasking.
Prerequisite: CIS 276 or equivalent C/C++ programming experience. Recommended: CIS 277 or equivalent programming experience.
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

CIS-291
Internship Field Project

IAI: None
Internship 208 Field Project requires individual assignments at Rock Valley College or in a carefully selected local data processing installation. The primary purpose of this course is to give the student an in-depth study of a practical data processing application or subject.
Prerequisite: successful completion of a sufficient number of courses to permit the student to perform a useful service to the host company; active pursuit of a Computers and Information Systems degree program; permit slip signed by Division Director. This course may be repeated to a maximum of six credits.
Credit: 1-6 semester hours
Lecture: 0 Lab: 1-6

Personal Computer Technical Specialist (PCT)

PCT-110
Networking Essentials

IAI: None
Network Essentials is a course providing an introduction to local area networks (LANs). The course is useful for LAN managers, supervisors of LAN managers, users of LANs, or those considering the purchase and installation of a local area network. Topics include needs analysis, methods to evaluate and determine specifications of hardware and software for purchase, installation, management, and troubleshooting of a local area network system. microcomputer-based local area networks will be emphasized. Students will install a local area network as part of the course.
Prerequisite: CIS 102.
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

PCT-111
Windows Active Directory

IAI: None
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of Active Directory for the current version of Windows Server; and to prepare students for server administration. This course will also help students prepare for the current Windows Active Directory certification exam. The course focuses on designing Active Directory architecture, installing and configuring supporting services, setting up and managing sites and domains, troubleshooting problems and resolving real world scenarios, and managing resources in Active Directory. Students have an opportunity to apply their knowledge through hands-on projects and case study assignments.
Prerequisite: CIS 102 or consent of instructor
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

PCT-112
Windows Server Fundamentals

IAI: None
Windows Server Fundamentals will help develop the skills necessary to implement, install, and manage a Windows 20xx network. It will focus on Microsoft Windows 20xx. Work will begin with the utilities Windows 20xx provides with its software. Implementation of print services, security, login scripts and menus will be demonstrated. Work will be done on network analysis, trouble shooting and understanding how Windows 20xx works.
Prerequisite: PCT 110 or PCT 120
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

PCT-113
Microsoft Win Infrastructure

IAI: None
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of Windows Server Network Infrastructure. It is intended for anyone who wants to learn how to configure and maintain network infrastructure on the current version of Windows Server, as well as for those individuals seeking Microsoft certification. The course begins by examining networking concepts, installing Microsoft Windows Server, and configuring and managing DHCP and DNS server roles. Additional concepts include routing and remote access, configuring file and print services, maintaining and updating Windows Server, securing data transmission, maintaining network health, and maintaining file services. Students have an opportunity to apply their knowledge through hands-on projects and case study assignments.
Prerequisite: CIS 102 or consent of instructor
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

PCT-120
Cisco Networking I

IAI: None
Cisco Networking I is the first of four courses in the Cisco Networking Academy program. This course?s topics include networking standards, networking terminology, protocols, safety, cabling, routers, and addressing. Decision-making and problem-solving techniques are applied to solve network problems. Additional instruction is provided in maintenance and use of software, tools and equipment.
Prerequisite: CIS 102
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-122
Cisco Networking II

IAI: None
Router Theory and Technologies is the second course of four courses in the Cisco Networking Academy program. Topics included in this course are safety, standards, TCP/IP, routing and administration. Decision-making and problem-solving techniques are applied to solve network problems.
Prerequisite: PCT 120
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-124
Cisco Networking III

IAI: None
Advanced Routing and Switching is the third course of four courses in the Cisco Networking Academy. Topics included in this course are advanced router configurations, LAN switching, network management and advanced network design.
Prerequisite: PCT 122
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-126
Cisco Networking IV

IAI: None
WAN Network Design is the fourth course in the Cisco Networking Academy program. Topics included in this course are advanced network design projects and advanced network management projects, ISDN and PPP are some of the other topics included in this class.
Prerequisite: PCT 124
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-130
Intro to Network Security Fundamentals

IAI: None
This course is designed for students and professionals interested in understanding the field of network security and how it relates to other areas of Information Technology. The course covers physical security, wireless technologies, Intrusion Detection Systems, Remote Access, Web security, E-mail, authentication, cryptography and various attack methodologies such as Denial of Service (DoS), main-in-the-middle and Malware.
Prerequisite: PCT 101 or equivalent computer experience.
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

PCT-132
Advanced Network Security

IAI: None
Advanced Network Security is designed for students and professionals interested in continuing their study of network security. Topics included in this course are: Network Defense design, Security Policy design, configuration of Router IOS firewalls (software), configuring VPN solutions, Intrusion detection & Prevention Systems, Layer 2 Security, and IT Security Management.
Prerequisite: PCT 126
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

PCT-140
IP Telephony I

IAI: None
IP Telephone I is designed for students and professionals interested in studying telephony and its deployment over IP networks. This course's possible topics include, but are not limited to, telecommunication concepts, the internet and IP networking, packetized voice, IP telephony protocols, analog and digital interfaces and dial-peers.
Prerequisite: PCT 126 (or CCNA Certification)
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-142
IP Telephony II

IAI: None
IP Telephony II is designed for students and professionals interested in studying telephony and its deployment over IP networks. This course?s possible topics include, but are not limited to: Cisco CallManager Express Telephony Systems, installation, configuration, monitoring, management, and troubleshooting. The course will also cover QoS on phone and data systems.
Prerequisite: PCT 140
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-220
Advanced Routing

IAI: None
Advanced Routing is the first of threee courses designed by Cisco Networking Academy to prepare students for CCNP Certification. This course's possible topics include, but are not limited to, EIGRP, OSPF, BGP, IPv6 and manipulating Routing updates.
Prerequisite: PCT 126, or CCNA Certification
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-224
Advanced Switching

IAI: None
Advanced Switching is the second of three courses designed by Cisco Networking Academy to prepare students for CCNP Certification. This course's possible topics include, but are not limited to, VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), spanning tree protocol, redundant links, multilayer switching, HSRP (Hot Standby Router Protocol), multicasting, and restricting access.
Prerequisite: PCT 126 or CCNA Certification.
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-226
Troubleshooting

IAI: None
Troubleshooting is the last of three courses designed by Cisco Networking Academy to prepare students for CCNP Certification. This course's possible topics include, but are not limited to, troubleshooting, campus switched solutions, routing solutions, addressing services, security, and converged networks.
Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed PCT 220 and PCT 224 or have equivalent work experience and the CCNA Certification.
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-262
Computer Service and Repair

IAI: None
Computer Service and Repair is a course designed to teach the student how to install new machines in a stand-alone or networked environment. Preventive maintenance tasks, troubleshooting techniques, and emergency problem handling will also be presented along with equipment testing and the installation of systems and application software.
Prerequisite: PCT 101 and EET 100; or EET 241
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 2 Lab: 2

PCT-270
Introduction to Unix/Linux

IAI: None
Introduction to UNIX/Linux introduces the student to the features of the UNIX/Linux operating system. Topics covered are the functions of a multi-user operating system, file system structure, basic system commands, how to configure user environments, as well as an introduction to shell programming. The student will learn the basic skills needed to function in the UNIX/Linux system environment.
Prerequisite: PCT 101; Recommended: CIS 276.
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

PCT-275
Cisco Firewall Design

IAI: None
This course is designed for students and professionals interested in continuing their study of network security. This course's possible topics include, but are not limited to: ACLs, ASA firewalls, ASA firewall AAA authentication, and ASA VPNs.
Prerequisite: PCT 126
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 4 Lab: 0

PCT-290
Special Topics in Personal Computer Tech

IAI: None
Special Topics in Personal Computer Technology will cover leading edge topics in the Personal Computer Technology arena. This course will often be taught by professionals from the business world. Initial topics being considered are network security, advanced routing, and advanced network design. This course may be repeated three times.
Prerequisite: Consult the schedule of classes for the current semester to determine prerequisites and other requirements or contact the instructor.
Credit: 1-6 semester hours
Lecture: 1-6 Lab: 0

PCT-291
Internship/Field Project

IAI: None
Internship/Field Project requires a supervised experience in a networking position in a local cooperating business or non-profit organization using a cooperative training plan agreed to by the instructor, participating firm, and student. The student must submit an application to the instructor. Consent of the Division Director is required. Variable credit may be earned up to six hours.
Prerequisite: Current enrollment in the Personal Computer Technical Specialist curriculum, completion of at least 12 hours in PCT courses, and sophomore class standing.
Credit: 1-6 semester hours
Lecture: 0 Lab: 5-30

Web Information Technology (WEB)

WEB-101
Programming Related to the Internet

IAI: None
This course is designed for students and pro- fessionals interested in learning how to design and develop web pages and web sites. The course covers Web design, copyright, and marketing topics; as well as HTML programming and HTML code generators. Additionally students will learn about web graphics and scripting languages used to create exciting web pages.
Prerequisite: CIS 102 or equivalent web development skills.
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

WEB-102
Adv Programming Related to the Internet

IAI: None
This course is designed for students and professionals interested in extending their knowledge of Web programming tools. The emphasis of this course is to introduce Web application development. The course includes cascading style sheets, HTML and the latest web technologies. This course also introduces both client and server-side scripting.
Prerequisite: WEB 101 or equivalent Web development skills.
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

WEB-111
Introduction to Multimedia

IAI: None
Introduction to Multimedia is a course that will acquaint the student with multimedia design principles as well as multimedia creation and manipulation. This class introduces multimedia hardware and software used most often by web developers creating web pages which include multimedia elements. Credit: 3 semester hours Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

WEB-112
Advanced Multimedia

IAI: None
Advanced Multimedia is a continuation of WEB 111 - Advanced Multimedia. This course will enhance the skills of the experienced multimedia user. Advanced scripting techniques will be covered to provide more user interaction. The Internet will be used to access resources. A multimedia project utilizing advanced scripting will be required.
Prerequisite: WEB 101 and WEB 111

WEB-225
Digital Photography

IAI: None
Digital Photography introduces basic digital imaging applications. Emphasis is placed on color theory, calibration, scanning, enhancement, importing and exporting photographic images. Methods of conversion to digital format will be explored. Appropriate computer software related to subject will be utilized.
Prerequisite: None
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 2 Lab: 2

WEB-230
Web Rapid Application Development

IAI: None
Web Rapid Application Development uses a currently popular RAD tool such as Macromedia's ColdFusion scripting language to teach the development of dynamic database driven web applications. Students will be instructed in the development of a structured process for building web applications for doing business on the Web. The students will be required to build a mock e-commerce web site from the ground up. They must develop the process flow of their mock business, construct the product database, and develop a page for displaying the product information including building a shopping cart for the "purchase" of items.
Prerequisite: WEB 101 and WEB 102, completion or are currently enrolled in CIS 254-Database Programming or CIS 130-Introduction to Access
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

WEB-231
Web Design and Production

IAI: None
Web Design and Production is designed to educate the students in the construction of web sites that incorporate print design styles and principles for developing a targeted Internet marketing soluction. The students will be taken through a complete web development project, from initial concept to completed site. The students will be expected to complete a project of their own choosing, real or imaginary, that encompasses all aspects of the production cycle of a web project; initial concept, quoting, project planning, process flow, page design, marketing considerations, usability and quality control.
Prerequisite: WEB 101 and WEB 102
Credit: 3 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 0

WEB-233
Web Program Using Client-Side Script

IAI: None
Web Program Using Client-Side Script is a course designed to educate students in the construction of dynamic websites. Students will be expected to build a website that includes complex programming logic and control structures, as well as a variety of visual effects.
Prerequisite: WEB 101, WEB 102, or have equivalent web development experiences, and CIS 180 or equivalent introductory programming experience.

WEB-235
Web Programming Using Server-Side Script

IAI: None
Web Programming Using Server-Side Script is design to educate students in the constructions of Web pages which require processing on the server. Students will be expected to build a website that includes complex programming logic and control structures as well as a variety of data structures
Prerequisite: Must have completed WEB 101 and WEB 102 or have equivalent experience, as well as CIS 180-Introduction to Visual Basic, or equivalent introductory programming experience.
Credit: 4 semester hours
Lecture: 3 Lab: 2

WEB-290
Special Topics in Web Information Tech

IAI: None
This course will cover leading edge topics in the Web information technology arena. These special topics might include new server technologies or new web development technologies. This course may often be taught by experts from the business world who work with the technology which the course covers.
Prerequisite: Will vary depending on the course topic.
Credit: 1 - 6 semester hours
Lecture: 1-6 Lab: 0

WEB-291
Internship/Field Experience

IAI: None
Internship/Field Experience requires the student to work part time in the field of Web Development in a local cooperating business firm or not-for-profit organization. This experience will be supervised by a faculty advisor of the Web program. Consent of the advisor or division director is required.
Prerequisite: WEB 101 and WEB 102. Completion of WEB 230, 233 and 235 is also recommended.
Credit: 1-6 semester hours
Lecture: 0 Lab: 5-30