Computer Information Systems

Computer Lab

Bachelor of Science

The CIS degree program offered by the department is designed to prepare students to become efficient programmers, networking experts, web designers, end user support specialists, and system analysts. There is a great demand for these positions in government, industry, and private firms currently and our graduates are ready to fill these positions. Most of our graduates are employed immediately after the graduation. The design of the curriculum, well qualified faculty, small class size, effective advising, internship opportunities, and research opportunities are contributing reasons for the success of our students. The department of business offers an MBA program in Management Information Systems in collaboration with our department and it offers a great opportunity for the CIS and business graduates to obtain a master's degree specializing in business computing. Get a degree in CIS at Lincoln and make a difference in your life!

Students majoring in the CIS degree program will complete the core courses; introduction to CS/CIS, Microsoft office applications (introduction and advanced), data files and data bases, computer hardware architecture, system development methods & project, CIS communications techniques,  CIS seminar, and 12 hours of programming or networking or web development emphasis area courses.   In addition students will also take courses in business administration, economics, accounting, applied or college algebra, elementary statistics, and approved elective courses to fulfill the core requirements.  Students in their senior year are able to receive 6 credit hours of paid internship training in any of the emphasis areas.  The IT department of the state of Missouri is the biggest provider of these internships.  The office of academic support services of the university and the internship instructor provide help in finding internship opportunities.  Students majoring in other disciplines can also obtain a minor in CIS by completing a total of 21 hours of CIS courses.

A student may complete a BS degree in computer information systems by completing the following courses with a minimum grade of "C":
CS 101, 105, 205, 321, 342, 351, 443, 451, 460;
plus 12 hours from one of the three major areas of emphasis:

Area 1(Programming): Required courses CS 235 or 237, CS 335 or 338, CS 331 or 336 or 339, CS 310 or 442                       

Area II (Networking): Required Courses: CS 237, 310, 442, 445

Area III (Web Development): Required Courses: CS 237, 336, 341, 344

plus 3 hours of approved upper division (above 300 level) CS electives;
plus ACC 246, ECO 201 or 202, BAD 101, MAT 112 or 113, 117;
and 6 hours of Business, Mathematics, Technology, GIS or other approved elective courses.
Note: In addition 47 hours of General Education courses and a total 121 hours are required to complete the program

BS in Computer Information Systems - Programming Pathway

BS in Computer Information Systems - Networking Pathway

BS in Computer Information Systems - Web Development Pathway

CS 101 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE AND COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS(3)

Students majoring in CS or CIS are introduced to a brief history of computers, numbering systems, Boolean logic, operations, and basics of programming concepts, decision making, and system development.


CS 103 INTRODUCTION TO MICROCOMPUTERS(3)

An introduction to Microsoft Office Applications using windows operating system. This course is primarily designed for non-computer science majors. Students develop basic skills in operating system commands, and the use of Microsoft Office Applications; word processing, electronic spreadsheets database and electronic presentation using Power Point. This course may not be used to meet CS/CIS major requirements. Three hours of combined lecture and laboratory.


CS 105 BUSINESS APPLICATIONS FOR THE MICROCOMPUTER (3)

CS/CIS majors receive hands-on skill development in the use of the Windows operating system, word processing, electronic spreadsheets, file and database management systems, graphics, and other common application packages used with the microcomputer. Three hours of combined lecture and laboratory.

CS 190 INTRODUCTORY TOPICS IN CS & CIS. (1-3).

Introductory topics in computer science and computer information systems appropriate for lower division credit. Specific topics to be listed in the schedule. Prerequisites: Listed in the schedule when specific topic is offered, or instructor consent.


CS 205 ADVANCED MICROCOMPUTER APPLICATIONS (3)

Students will receive hands-on skill development in advanced microcomputer operating system commands, electronic spreadsheets, file and data base management systems, graphics, and other common application packages. Emphasis will be on interfacing applications. Three hours of combined lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: CS 105.


CS 235 INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS APPLICATION PROGRAMMING USING COBOL. (3, LF)

An introductory course in COBOL program design and development, applying a structured, multiphase program development process that features a series of steps that involve understanding a problem, format problem definition, and graphic design. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisites: None.


CS 237 INTRODUCTION TO C++ PROGRAMMING. (3, LF)

An introduction to the fundamentals of programming in the C++ programming language. Topics covered include: discussion of data types, looping, decision making, arrays, pointers, structures, and functions. Develops a background in programming which will assist in solving scientific and mathematical equations and problems. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory programming assignments. Prerequisite: None.


CS 305 VBA PROGRAMMING. (3)

Provides the students with knowledge and experience of VBA programming in both EXCEL and ACCESS. Prerequisite: CS 105.


CS 310 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEMS. (3, LF)

The functions of various operating systems, their functional characteristics, and the interface through which the user addresses these operating systems are explored. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: CS 235 or 237.


CS 321 DATA FILES AND DATABASES. (3)

Stresses basic knowledge in data structures, normalization of data, data modeling, database methods, and schema construction. Three hours lecture. Prerequisite: CS 105.


CS 322 C-SHARP.NET. (3)

An Introduction to Microsoft C#, a widely used WEB language. Program and function, development, screen handling, use of text boxes, option buttons, check boxes, etc. Some file handling and some use of regular expressions. Prerequisite: CS 235 or 237


CS 326 INTRODUCTION TO ORACLE DATABASE PROGRAMMING. (3)

An introduction to features and programming of the ORACLE DBMS; lectures with extensive laboratory assignments. It includes programming assignments in SQL and PL*SQL, and the creation and use of scripts. Prerequisites: CS 321 and 235 or 237, or 331 or 336.


CS 331 VISUAL BASIC.NET PROGRAMMING. (3, LF)

An introduction to the fundamentals of programming in Visual BASIC. Visual BASIC is a major programming language used with the Microsoft Windows environment and for programming Internet sites. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: Any beginning programming language, CS 235 or 237.


CS 335 INTERMEDIATE BUSINESS APPLICATION PROGRAMMING USING COBOL. (3, LF)

A continuation of COBOL programming tech-niques designed to allow students to write programs for more advanced reporting and for indexed files. Students are introduced to interactive processing. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: CS 235.


CS 336 INTERNET PROGRAMMING WITH JAVA. (3)

An introduction to the fundamentals of programming on the Internet using JAVA. JAVA is a major Internet language. Other Internet programming language such as JAVASCRIPT may be discussed. Prerequisites: CS 235 or 237 or permission of instructor.


CS 338 OBJECT ORIENTED PROGRAMMING USING C++. (3, LF)

An introduction to object oriented programming (OOP) through the C++ programming language. This course covers user-defined data types, encapsulation, inheritance, object, polymorphism, constructors, and destructors. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: CS 237.


CS 339 DATA STRUCTURES AND ALGORITHM ANALYSIS. (3)

This course covers topics in advanced data structures and algorithms; including stacks, queues, linked lists, trees and graphs. Also included are searching graphs, hashing, external sorting, and recursion. Prerequisites: CS 338 and MAT315.


CS 341 COMPUTER GRAPHICS IN BUSINESS. (3, LF)

Identifies the needs and applications for graphics in business, and highlights developments such as laser printers and advanced displays and techniques. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: CS 105.


CS 342 COMPUTER HARDWARE, AND ARCHITECTURE. (3)

Provides an in-depth look at computer equipment, components and devices. The result will be an understanding of how computer systems are configured, upgraded and repaired. Three hours lecture. Prerequisites: CS 101 and CS 105.


CS 343 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES FOR INFORMATION SYSTEMS. (3, LF)

Development of programs and implementation of computer information systems through use of three major families of programming languages: procedural, nonprocedural, and current generation. Three hours of combined lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: CS 321.


CS 344 WEB DESIGN. (3)

This course is designed to give the student a working knowledge of HTML and ―Dreamweaver‖ software, as well as webpage and website design techniques. Upon completion of this course, students should understand the navigational structure of a website and be able to design and build easy-to-use informative websites. Prerequisite: CS 105.


CS 351 SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT METHODOLOGIES: A SURVEY. (3)

Traditional analysis, design, and implementation through a data flow analysis and systems development life cycle approach. Methods for structured analysis and design, data structures, data definition, and normalization are covered. Three hours lecture. Prerequisite: CS 235 or 237.


CS 360 END USER TRAINING AND SUPPORT. (3)

Stresses information center methods for building systems in direct collaboration between users and analysts. This course covers end user services including education and training, hardware and software support, consulting, data access support and productivity aids. Prerequisites: CS 105.


CS 365 SCRIPTING LANGUAGES. (3)

Introduction to Scripting Languages, using PYTHON and PERL as primary tools, especially suitable for making complex data selections and file changes. Prerequisites: CS 321 and CS 235 or 237.


CS 370 INFORMATION ENGINEERING. (3)

An introduction to Information Engineering (IE) modeling. Emphasis will be on the analysis phase of the IE life cycle. Students will analyze a process and model the data and the activities using IE modeling concepts and the Sterling Software COOL: Gen Tool. Three hours lecture. Prerequisite: CS 321 and 351.


CS 385 DIRECTED TUTORING. (1-3)

Within a laboratory environment, students provide CS/CIS tutoring to other students. One hour credit given for each 3 hours of actual tutoring. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.


CS 390- SPECIAL TOPICS. (3)

Specific topics to be listed in the schedule. New 393 topics of concern to computer science and computer information systems will be offered under this category. Prerequisite(s): Listed in the schedule when specific topic is offered. May be lecture only or a combination of lecture and laboratory (lab fee charged).


CS 394 INDEPENDENT STUDY. (3)

A course of independent study on a computer science topic, in a mentoring environment, with one-on-one collaboration between faculty and student. Prerequisite: Must be a Computer Science major with at least junior standing. Permission of Department Head required.


CS 395 RESEARCH SEMINAR (1-3)

Seminar to provide a forum for discussing research topics, methods, and results. Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor


CS 441 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE. (3, LF)

Presents the manager's responsibilities for problem solving and decision making using artificial intelligence, decision support systems and expert systems. The systems covered go beyond traditional program files and information. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: CS 321.


CS 442 NETWORKING AND DATA COMMUNICATIONS. (3, LF)

Covers microcomputer-based work stations, digital voice communication, local area networking, computer load sharing, decentralized transaction processing, distributed databases, and other evolving technologies. Three hours lecture with outside laboratory assignments. Prerequisite: CS


CS 443 CIS COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES. (3) (3, LF)

Helps students to develop basic written communication techniques and presentation skills as they relate to Computer Information Systems. Theory and practice in writing and presenting technical papers, reports, and correspondence will be emphasized along with documentation procedures and handbook development. This course is designated writing intensive. Three hours lecture. Prerequisite: CS 351, ENG 102, SPT 206 or 207.


CS 444 TCP/IP FUNDAMENTALS. (3, LF)

A study of TCP/IP Fundamentals. Topics covered include installation, addressing, subnetting, routing, WINS, DCHP and security. There will be hands on exercises as well as lecture. Prerequisite: CS 442.


CS 445 NETWORKING WITH MICROSOFT IIS. (3, LF)

A study of Microsoft's Internet Information Services. Topics such as implementation and administration, WWW service, FTP service, Virtual directories and security will be covered. Prerequisite: CS 442.
CS 446 MANAGEMENT OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS. (3)

Using the case study method, examines ways that information systems enable businesses to address customer demands, competition, and a rapidly changing technology. Three hours lecture. Prerequisite: CS 105.


CS 451 SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT PROJECT. (3)

A project course which emphasizes the development of a computer application using the life-cycle methodology. The class organizes into project teams, accepts developmental assignments, and follows the life cycle process to produce specifications for a current system. Three hours lecture. Prerequisites: CS 321 and 351.


CS 460 CIS SEMINAR. (1)

A capstone course required for CIS majors in their final year. A research paper and an oral presentation of a CIS related topic will be required for completion of the degree program. Prerequisites: CS 443 and completion of 105 hours.


CS 481H HONORS SUMMER MENTORSHIP. (3)

Designed to provide students with the opportunity to engage in individual research under the close supervision of a faculty member. Twenty hours of research required per week. Prerequisites: Previous honors coursework with 3.2 GPA; 3.2 cumulative GPA; junior standing; consent of department and Honors Committee.


CS 482H HONORS THESIS. (3-6)

Provides students with the opportunity to engage in a major research or creative project in their degree major under the direction of a thesis committee. Prerequisites: 18 hours of honors courses with 3.2 GPA; 3.2 cumulative GPA; senior standing; consent of department and thesis committee.


CS 486 INTERNET AND NETWORK SECURITY. (3)

This course introduces students to the broad subject of network security through the study of computer and network security principles, network and server security, securing network transmission, security management, fault tolerance and disaster recovery, intrusion detection and response, and remote access and wireless security. Prerequisite: CS 442.

CS 497 NETWORKING INTERNSHIP. (3)

May be repeated once for a total of 6 hours. Provides the student with an opportunity to apply networking skill in a supervised work setting. Each student will be required to complete a minimum of 320 hours at the designated internship facility. Prerequisites: Must be a major in CIS, have completed at least 5 upper division CIS courses, and must obtain consent of the Department Head.

CS 498 COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS INTERNSHIP. (3-6)

Provides students with an opportunity to apply their computer knowledge and skills in a work setting and begin to formulate a career plan through supervised instruction in business or government environment. Each student will be required to complete a minimum of 320 hours at the designated internship facility. May be repeated twice for a total of six credit hours. Prerequisites: Must be a major in CIS, have completed at least 5 upper division CIS courses, and obtain consent of the department.

Lincoln's academic programs are designed specifically to prepare students for a career in the real world. But it's more than just job preparation; it's preparing students to make a full impact in their profession through the unique combination learning of concepts and application of those concepts. Here are some of the potential professions for Computer Information System's majors:

  • Director of IT
  • Database Manager
  • Web Designer
  • Application Developer
  • Chief Information Officer