This is an archived copy of the 2012-2013 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.miracosta.edu

Computer Studies & Information Technology

The Computer Studies & Information Technology Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career and technical education. Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computer applications, information technology, and networking, the CSIT program provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. Among the career options available through certificate attainment or transfer and bachelor's degree achievement include computer applications professional, computer desktop support specialist, information technology specialist, business information systems analyst, e-commerce specialist, and network administrator. Certain computer application and networking courses provide preparatory training for various professional industry certifications from Microsoft, CompTIA, and Red Hat.

Contact Information

Department Chair: Steve Isachsen

Dean: Al Taccone

www.miracosta.edu/computerstudies

Department: Computer Studies & Information Technology

Office: Building OC4800, 760.795.6841

Full-Time Faculty

Steve Isachsen
Martin Parks

Associate Degrees

Associate in Arts Degrees

  • Computer Applications Professional for Business

  • Computer Studies

  • Network and Desktop Systems Administration

Students may earn one of the above-named associate degrees by completing a certificate of achievement and the general education courses required for MiraCosta College's Associate in Arts degree (see Associate Degrees ). Students should meet with a MiraCosta counselor to identify required courses and to develop a written educational plan for the specific degree or certificate they wish to earn.

Certificates

Certificate of Achievement

Certified Computer Desktop Support Specialist

This certificate is designed to meet the demand in industry for individuals trained to support desktop computer users. Training includes support for application software, operating systems, local area networks, desktop support, and customer service. Individuals can successfully answer, or escalate, calls and inquiries from end users and may seek employment as a help desk technician, customer support representative, computer support specialist, technical support representative, and technical support specialist. In addition, certificate completion helps prepare individuals for the Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) certification exams.

Required courses: 
CSIT 110Computer Applications3
CSIT 149Microsoft Windows3
CSIT 171Fundamentals of Computer Networks and Security4
CSIT 173Desktop Support4
BUS 137Customer Service3
Select at least 6 elective units from the following courses:6
Intermediate Computer Applications
Google Apps for Business
Internet Presence for the Small and Medium Business
Web 2.0
Industry Certification
Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming
Business Communication
Total Units23

  

Certificate of Achievement

Computer Applications Professional for Business

This certificate is designed to meet demand in the business community for individuals who are trained in the professional-level use of computers and business productivity computer applications. Specific areas of emphasis include word processing, spreadsheets, database management, electronic presentations, digital imaging, Windows, and Internet applications. Learning to use, integrate, and collaborate effectively with these powerful business productivity tools is essential for those preparing for jobs or wishing to advance in their current job in today's technological workplace.

Required courses: 
CSIT 125Microsoft Word for Business3
CSIT 128Microsoft Excel for Business3
CSIT 131Microsoft Access for Business3
CSIT 134Microsoft PowerPoint for Business3
CSIT 137Google Apps for Business3
CSIT 149Microsoft Windows3
CSIT 195Computer Studies Portfolio Development1
MAT 110Digital Imaging 1: Adobe Photoshop3
Select at least 6 elective units from the following courses:6
Introduction to Business
Introduction to Career Planning
Computer Basics I
Computer Basics II
Computer Applications
Intermediate Computer Applications
Web 2.0
Technology, the Individual, and Society
Industry Certification
Web Design 1: Fundamentals
Flash 1: Animation and Interactivity
Digital Imaging 2: Adobe Illustrator
Publishing 1: Adobe InDesign
Total Units28

  

Certificate of Achievement

Computer Studies

This certificate provides students with a broad foundation in computer theory and skills. These courses expose students to a wide range of fundamentals across each of the Computer Studies Department's disciplines. Completing this certificate will prepare individuals to launch or further advance their careers as computer, information technology, or related professionals in a variety of industry sectors.

Required courses: 
BOT 106Introduction to Office Technology3
CS 107Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming3
CSIT 110Computer Applications3
CSIT 120Fundamentals of Computer Information Systems3
One of the following:3
Microsoft Word for Business
Microsoft Excel for Business
Microsoft Access for Business
Microsoft PowerPoint for Business
Google Apps for Business
Internet Presence for the Small and Medium Business
Microsoft Windows
CSIT 155Web 2.03
CSIT 160Technology, the Individual, and Society3
CSIT 171Fundamentals of Computer Networks and Security4
CSIT 195Computer Studies Portfolio Development1
MAP 100Introduction to Administrative Medical Assisting3
Total Units29

  

Certificate of Achievement

E-Commerce

The E-Commerce Certificate is designed for individuals interested in exploring the process of conducting business on the Internet and related design and technical considerations. Students are advised to enroll in CSIT 146 prior to selecting electives.

Required courses: 
CSIT 120Fundamentals of Computer Information Systems3
CSIT 146Internet Presence for the Small and Medium Business3
MAT 125Web Design 1: Fundamentals3
MAT 165Web Design 2: Tools and Techniques3
BUS 132Marketing3
Select courses from below for a minimum of 6 units:6-8
Entrepreneur I
Entrepreneur II
Fundamentals of Computer Networks and Security
TCP/IP and Network Infrastructure
Dynamic Web Development
Web Design 3: Site Design and Architecture
Total Units21-23

  

Certificate of Achievement

Microsoft Certified Application Specialist for Business

The Microsoft Certified Application Specialist for Business certificate is designed for individuals who will work or currently work in a business setting using Microsoft Office business productivity applications as a vital part of their job functions. This certificate will enhance career prospects in a competitive job market by enabling the student to demonstrate proficiency (based on globally recognized Microsoft standards) in the world's foremost desktop computing applications for business. Each course in this certificate offers a comprehensive overview, starting with fundamentals and finishing with advanced features. In addition, certificate completion helps prepare individuals for the Microsoft Certified Application Specialist certification exams.

Required courses: 
CSIT 125Microsoft Word for Business3
CSIT 128Microsoft Excel for Business3
CSIT 131Microsoft Access for Business3
CSIT 134Microsoft PowerPoint for Business3
Total Units12

  

Certificate of Achievement

Network and Desktop Systems Administration

This certificate is designed to meet the demand in the business community for individuals trained in computer networking, network administration, Enterprise networking, and Internet or intranet administration.

Required courses: 
CSIT 171Fundamentals of Computer Networks and Security4
CSIT 172Windows Networking Environment4
CSIT 173Desktop Support4
CSIT 174TCP/IP and Network Infrastructure4
Select one course from below:4
Linux Networking Environment
System Integration - Small Business Server
Total Units20

  

Certificate of Proficiency

Computer Applications User

This certificate is designed to provide individuals with basic computer applications skills and techniques for jobs in any industry. Together, these courses provide a foundation for working with computer applications to perform essential job functions proficiently.

Required courses: 
CSIT 110Computer Applications3
CSIT 115Intermediate Computer Applications3
Select at least 3 elective units from the following courses:3
Computer Basics I
Computer Basics II
Microsoft Word for Business
Microsoft Excel for Business
Microsoft Access for Business
Microsoft PowerPoint for Business
Google Apps for Business
Microsoft Windows
Web 2.0
Digital Imaging 1: Adobe Photoshop
Flash 1: Animation and Interactivity
Total Units9

  

Certificate of Proficiency

Computer Competencies for the Workplace

This certificate is designed for those who need foundation computer competencies for entry-level jobs in the workplace or for those who are transitioning to a computer-based work environment. The skills and competencies practiced in this certificate will provide computer knowledge and hands-on workplace experiences using computer application software and hardware.

Required courses: 
BOT 100Beginning Keyboarding1
CSIT 110Computer Applications3
CSIT 120Fundamentals of Computer Information Systems3
CSIT 137Google Apps for Business3
Select at least 5 elective units from the following courses:5
10-Key
Word Processing
Basic Office Skills
Computer Basics I
Computer Basics II
Internet Presence for the Small and Medium Business
Total Units15

  

Certificate of Proficiency

Emerging Technologies in Computer Studies

This certificate provides students with the opportunity to explore emerging technologies in computer studies to enhance their future or current work perspectives. Emphasis is placed on the changing landscape of computers, information, and technology and understanding how trends in these areas may impact current and future business and industry.

Required courses: 
CSIT 137Google Apps for Business3
CSIT 155Web 2.03
CSIT 160Technology, the Individual, and Society3
Total Units9
How to Read Course Descriptions

Courses

CSIT 100: Computer Basics I

Units: 1.5
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours. (0701.00)

This first in a two-course sequence is intended for students wishing to develop or strengthen their basic computer skills. Topics include basic computer techniques and literacy in computer concepts, Windows, working with files and folders, word processing, browsing and searching the Web, sending and receiving email, and academic computing course management systems, such as Blackboard. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be prepared for CSIT 105, Computer Basics II.

CSIT 105: Computer Basics II

Units: 1.5
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 100.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours. (0701.00)

This second in a two-course sequence is intended for students wishing to develop or strengthen their basic computer skills. Picking up where CSIT 100 leaves off, this course includes new and expanded study in the areas of basic computer techniques and literacy in computer concepts. Topics include Windows, hierarchical file and folder management, multi-tasking, word processing, safe and ethical Internet practices, email, spreadsheet creation, computer maintenance, security, and purchasing a computer.

CSIT 110: Computer Applications

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 105.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

This course provides an in-depth, hands-on introduction to computer applications and fundamentals. Topics include computer concepts, the operating system, and word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, database, and Web browser applications. The course emphasizes applied computer applications skills and techniques, computer concepts and ethical considerations, and the use of computer applications as integrated tools to perform professional-level analyses. (Formerly CIS 100.) UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for CSIT 110 or CSIT 120.

CSIT 115: Intermediate Computer Applications

Units: 3
Prerequisites: CSIT 110.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

Picking up where CSIT 110 leaves off, this course features the use and integration of computer applications at the intermediate level. Topics include further development of concepts, skills, and techniques in word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database applications. (Formerly CIS 105.)

CSIT 120: Fundamentals of Computer Information Systems

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (0701.00)

This course covers the concepts of information systems in business, which include the integration of information technology, e-commerce, systems analysis, data storage, data processing, security, and communications. The course applies information system concepts by developing solutions to business problems using financial analysis and database management tools, such as Microsoft Excel and Access. This course is intended for students majoring in Business and Information Systems. (Formerly CIS 101.) UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for CSIT 110 or CSIT 120.

CSIT 125: Microsoft Word for Business

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 105
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 151.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

Students learn how to use Microsoft Word, the industry-standard tool for word processing in business environments. This comprehensive course includes fundamentals, such as document design, section breaks, table of contents, graphics, columns, and tables, as well as more advanced features, such as document collaboration, workgroup tools, template customization, mail merge, object linking, forms, security, and Web enabling. This course helps prepare students for the Microsoft Certification Exam.

CSIT 128: Microsoft Excel for Business

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 105.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 154.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

Students learn how to use Microsoft Excel, the industry standard tool for spreadsheet and chart creation in a business environment. This comprehensive course includes fundamentals, such as workbook and worksheet design, formulas, functions, and charts, as well as more advanced features, such as pivot tables, what-if analysis, three-dimensional worksheets, goal seek, and collaboration tools. This course helps prepare students for the Microsoft Certification Exam.

CSIT 131: Microsoft Access for Business

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 105.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 165.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

Students learn how to use Microsoft Access, the industry standard tool for database creation in a business environment. This comprehensive course includes fundamentals, such as relational database design theory, tables, queries, reports, and forms, as well as more advanced features, such as complex validation rules, action queries, report controls, form automation, database customization, and data integration tools. This course helps prepare students for the Microsoft Certification Exam.

CSIT 134: Microsoft PowerPoint for Business

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 105.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

Students learn how to use Microsoft PowerPoint, the industry standard tool for creating electronic presentations in business environments. This comprehensive course includes fundamentals, such as electronic presentation design and delivery concepts, slide layout, graphics, diagrams, charts, and sound, as well as more advanced features, such as complex animation, transitions, action buttons, video, custom backgrounds, and collaboration tools. This course helps prepare students for the Microsoft Certification Exam.

CSIT 137: Google Apps for Business

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 105.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

In this course, students learn how to use Google Apps, a collection of free Web-based productivity tools, in a business environment. Topics include Google Search, Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Docs, Google Spreadsheets, Google Presentations, and emerging trends in Google Apps. Students use the Internet to access their files and the tools to manipulate and collaborate with them.

CSIT 146: Internet Presence for the Small and Medium Business

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0709.10)

This course teaches the principles and technologies involved in creating a Web presence for a small or medium-sized business (SMB). It addresses the needs of both online and traditional brick and mortar businesses and provides students with a basic working knowledge of how to sell products and services on the Web. It covers aspects of business and marketing planning, a survey of Web technologies, such as HTML, XHTML and CSS, use of digital media, building an online store, e-commerce security, electronic payment systems, international and legal issues, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and current marketing trends. Students create a starter e-business Web site or improve an existing site that can be used for their business or to help them get a job in the field. (Formerly CIS 191.)

CSIT 149: Microsoft Windows

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

This course introduces students to the current Microsoft Windows operating system. Students learn how to install the operating system, create and manage user accounts, view system components and properties, install applications, switch between different application windows, manage files and folders, and customize the Windows environment. The course also covers networking, file and folder sharing, computer security, malware, and safe Internet use. (Formerly CIS 185.)

CSIT 155: Web 2.0

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 105.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours. (0702.10)

This course examines Web 2.0 with a focus on Web applications and services that facilitate creativity, collaboration, and information sharing among users. It explores historical development as well as emerging trends. Students preview as well as learn to manipulate the most significant various Web 2.0 applications and services, such as wikis, mashups, folksonomies, blogs, podcasts, social media, video sharing, and social networks.

CSIT 160: Technology, the Individual, and Society

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: ENGL 50 or equivalent.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (0701.00)

This course critically examines the interrelationships among technology, the individual, and society. Students investigate the historical, political, and economic factors that influence the growth and development of technology and assess how individuals and society respond to the challenges and consequences of the technology revolution. Appropriate for both technical and non-technical majors, students explore principles, methodologies, and value systems from a technology and social science interdisciplinary perspective.

CSIT 171: Fundamentals of Computer Networks and Security

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 187 and CIS 195.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 4 hours. (0702.00)

This course presents an overview and introduction to computer networking components, network design, operation, protocols, network operating systems, and computer and network security. Students learn the fundamentals of configuring and using secure network resources, such as file servers, printers, e-mail, the Internet, and networked applications. This course prepares students for the CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certification exams. (Formerly CIS 141.)

CSIT 172: Windows Networking Environment

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 188 and CIS 200.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 4 hours. (0708.00)

This course provides students with a broad understanding of Microsoft Windows Server and prepares them for network server administration and Windows certification exams. The course focuses on administrative tasks; operating-system selection, installation, and configuration; Active Directory design and implementation; user management; group policy; printers; network services, especially Domain Name System (DNS); and system security, monitoring, and optimization. Students develop skill and apply their knowledge through hands-on projects and case-study assignments. (Formerly CIS 142.)

CSIT 173: Desktop Support

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 193 and CIS 208.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 4 hours. (0708.00)

This course prepares students to support desktop users. It covers desktop operating system and computer implementation and support and emphasizes workstation integration in the network environment. Topics include installation and upgrades, configuration, management, operation, optimization, and troubleshooting of desktop operating systems and applications. Students diagnose problems in connectivity, manage security settings, troubleshoot hardware and software issues, and optimize system performance. (Formerly CIS 143.)

CSIT 174: TCP/IP and Network Infrastructure

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 198 and CIS 201.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 4 hours. (0708.00)

This course introduces students to the theory and application of the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) upon which the Internet is based. Students learn the layered functions of the TCP/IP stack and how they relate to Internet architecture. Topics include TCP/IP addressing, subnetting, host and domain name resolution, routing considerations, and practical management of TCP/IP protocols and services. Students install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot network servers and services in a domain environment. The course emphasizes directory service and domain name system (DNS) administration. (Formerly CIS 144.)

CSIT 175: Linux Networking Environment

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in CIS 199 and CIS 203.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 4 hours. (0708.00)

This course covers the installation, configuration, management, and troubleshooting of the Linux operating system. It includes basic topics related to the administration of Linux systems, basic scripting, system performance and tuning, troubleshooting, system security, package installation and removal, logging, scheduling, and Linux tools. The course also introduces Web servers, mail servers, and internetworking with other network-operating systems. (Formerly CIS 145.)

CSIT 177: System Integration - Small Business Server

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: CSIT 171, CSIT 172 or CSIT 176.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 4 hours. (0702.00)

This course covers server integration and troubleshooting based on Microsoft Small Business Server or an Open Source equivalent. It challenges students to use server virtualization and integrate Windows Server in an Active Directory environment with Exchange Server, Structured Query Language (SQL) Server, Share Point Server and Web Services, and Internet Security and Acceleration Server (Web Caching and Firewall). Students install and configure the servers, create accounts, and maintain security and functionality on systems connected to the Internet. They also troubleshoot problems and update, manage, and protect their systems from Internet intrusions and other challenges. (Formerly CIS 204.)

CSIT 190: Industry Certification

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour. (0702.00)

This course provides students with information and practice to prepare for industry certification exams. Students choose a module related to certification exams in the following discipline areas: administrative professional, computer applications, networking, medical coding, medical billing, medical language specialist, programming. Modules present information on test taking, test presentation, time management, and practice exams.

CSIT 195: Computer Studies Portfolio Development

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour. (0702.00)

This course teaches students how to create a portfolio to professionally display their best work and to increase job opportunities. Topics include defining an audience, organizing and adapting a body of work, and formatting and creating a finished portfolio designed to reflect the student's vision and highlight the quality of his or her accomplishments. Note: Students should complete most courses within their chosen Computer Studies certificate program before enrolling in CSIT 195.

CSIT 292: Internship Studies

Units: 0.5-3
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 75 hrs paid or 60 hrs non-paid work per unit.
Enrollment Limitation: Instructor, dept chair, and Career Center approval. May not enroll in any combination of cooperative work experience and/or internship studies concurrently.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU

This course provides students the opportunity to apply the theories and techniques of their discipline in an internship position in a professional setting under the instruction of a faculty-mentor and site supervisor. It introduces students to aspects of the roles and responsibilities of professionals employed in the field of study. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or intern at a new site upon each repetition. Students may not earn more than 16 units in any combination of cooperative work experience (general or occupational) and/or internship studies during community college attendance.

CSIT 296: Topics in Computer Studies and Information Technology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (1701.00)

This course gives students an opportunity to study topics in Computer Studies and Information Technology that are not included in regular course offerings. Each Topics course is announced, described, and given its own title and 296 number designation in the class schedule.

CSIT 298: Directed Study in Computer Studies and Information Technology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Instructor and department chair approval and successful completion of 12 units of college work with at least a 3.0 grade-point average.
Repeatability Rule: May be taken for a total of 3 units.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Laboratory 3 hours
Laboratory 6 hours
Laboratory 9 hours. (1701.00)

This course allows students to pursue a special area of interest in order to achieve specific goals beyond the scope of existing courses within the discipline. Students work independently and interact directly with an instructor on an individual basis and as prescribed by the Directed Study Agreement. (Formerly CIS 298)

CSIT 299: Occupational Cooperative Work Experience

Units: 1-4
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 75 hrs paid or 60 hrs non-paid work per unit.
Enrollment Limitation: Career Center approval. May not enroll in any combination of cooperative work experience and/or internship studies concurrently.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU

Cooperative Work Experience is intended for students who are employed in a job directly related to their major. It allows such students the opportunity to apply the theories and skills of their discipline to their position and to undertake new responsibilities and learn new skills at work. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students may not earn more than 16 units in any combination of cooperative work experience (general or occupational) and/or internship studies during community college attendance.

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