Major in Applied Computing Technology

Concentration in Computing Technology

(Effective Fall 2010)

The Computing Technology concentration of the Applied Computing Technology major is intended to prepare graduates for careers in Information Technology (IT). It is intended to provide background for students wanting to become network and systems administrators, web masters or web developers. The program combines basic computer science content with specialized courses in system administration and web development, along with basic business courses. It differs substantially from the computer science major, which is intended to prepare students to become software developers capable of producing large-scale software from scratch using high levels of abstraction in a broad range of application areas. ACT-CT graduates find employment in any organization that uses computing systems in their operations who need information technology specialists to maintain those systems and adapt them to the goals of the organization.

There is much leeway in terms of free electives for students in their junior and senior years in computing technology to choose a collection of courses in the form of a second major or minor or coherent focus area tailored to their interests. Students are encouraged to consider other subject matters to combine with their knowledge of computing technology. Opportunities exist to pursue independent research projects under faculty supervision. Students are encouraged to begin such research early in their upper division studies.

Notes

• Graduation requirements are subject to change. A student can be held for any changes in requirements in years not completed except if such changes would extend the time normally required to complete the degree (this applies only if a student is full-time and making normal progress towards degree completion).
• Special study or practicum courses may not be used to meet any requirements other than total credits toward graduation. Such courses may apply toward the University upper division credit requirements.
• No transfer credit from another institution will be given for a course in which a grade of D or less was received.
• Students are discouraged from taking an overload. Only students with sophomore or above status, who have an overall 3.5 GPA or better, and a 3.5 GPA or better in computer science courses, will be permitted to take an overload. This rule applies to graduating seniors.
• A waiver mechanism exists to permit acceptance of equivalent courses to meet requirements, and to recognize other exceptional circumstances. Students should consult the key advisor before taking a substitute course if they believe waivers are appropriate.
• A C or better is needed in required CS classes in order to satisfy prerequisites; earning less than a C (including a C-) is the same as not having taken the course for prerequisite purposes.

Suggested Sequence of Courses

The 24-25 semester credits of free electives in this program should be viewed by the student as an opportunity to tailor a program to specific educational objectives. By wise choice of electives, a student may be able to begin a second major, obtain a minor in a supporting area, or achieve a broad, liberal education.

Course Requirements for a B.S. Degree in Applied Computing Technology: Computing Technology Concentration

NOTE:

500 level courses in a specific category may be substituted in the advanced technology elective category with prior approval from the key advisor.

Applied Computing Technology majors will be excused from prerequisites for the CIS courses on the Advanced Technology electives list. Access to CIS courses is restricted. Contact the CIS Dept. about overrides.