Computer jobs are waiting for you.
Check out the two new degree tracks we offer:
- Programming: Information Systems Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
- Networking: Networking Services Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Build on your existing job skills:
Earn a certificate in:
Computer Assistant - A 2-semester program designed to get you in the work force fast.
Students successfully completing this certificate will have satisfied the requirements of the first year of the Networking Services AAS degree.
Linux Administrator - add Linux knowledge to your resume for your next job interview.
Security Manager - An advanced certificate designed for the growing need for managers of Information Security.
Security Specialist - An advanced certificate to give you the valuable security knowledge every IT department is needing in today's world.Web Programmer - Add web programming skills to your resume including XHTML, Java, ASP.NET, PHP, Web Servers, and XML. These courses may also be applied to the Information Systems AAS degree.
Earn a four-year programming degree starting at South Central
Students successfully completing the Information Systems Associate degree have the opportunity to apply their degree toward:
- A Bachelor of Applied Science
(BAS) in Computer & Information
Technology at Minnesota State University, Mankato
(MSUM)
- A BAS in Management at Southwest
State University (SSU)
-- For more information contact: Robert Moorehouse
Email: roberta.moorehouse@southcentral.edu
Phone: 507 389-7311)
- A BAS in Organizational Administration at Metropolitan State University, College of Management.
On Line Courses
Integrated Software Applications I (Word, Excel, Access)
Integrated Software Applications II (Word, Excel, Access)
Course Descriptions
COMP1000 – Programming Fundamentals – 2 credits
This course is designed to be a student's first exposure to computer programming. This course covers an introduction to the BASIC programming language using Microsoft QuickBASIC. Topics include basic input and output operations, comparing, control break logic, and array processing. An introduction to Visual Basic is also included.COMP1002 – Internet Fundamentals – 1 credit
Students will learn to use the Internet in a productive and satisfying way.
Coursework is designed for
new or occasional users. The text, examples and exercises will take you through the basic
tools, services
and methods used for working with the Internet. You'll see how to tap into large collections
of resources available on the Internet. Through e-mail you will learn how to communicate
with anyone accessible via the Internet. You'll also learn a little bit about how the Internet
works. Icon-based browsers such as NetScape and a variety of search engines will be introduced
to the learner.
COMP1100 – Introduction to Information Systems - 1 credit
This course introduces the student to the world of information systems and networking.
Students will be trained on the history and role of computing, the relationship of
information systems to other business entities, legal, liability, licensing and privacy
concerns, information security, and other related subjects common to all fields in
the information systems and networking industry.
Prerequisite: None
COMP1105 – Integrated Software Applications I – 2 credits
This course is designed for students who have a basic knowledge of spreadsheets, word
processing and slideshows. Topics to be covered include: formatting, creating formulas
and functions, using wizards to create charts, graphs and pivot tables, linking documents,
creating a slideshow using text, images and multimedia, mail merge, creating web ready
documents and macros. Students will learn how to integrate applications together to
create final capstone project for this course.
Prerequisite: Basic Windows Navigation Skills
COMP1110 – Integrated Software Applications II – 2 credits
This course covers the concepts and construction of a relational database. The student
will be trained on the design and creation of a relational database. Included will
be table structures, queries, forms, and reports. The course will also cover the creation
of user interfaces (macros & menus) and integration with spreadsheets.
Prerequisite: COMP1105
COMP1200 – PC Hardware and Software Essentials – 4 credits
This course presents an in-depth exposure to computer hardware and operating systems.
Students learn the functionality of hardware and software components as well as suggested
best practices in maintenance, and safety issues. Through hands on activities and labs,
students learn how to assemble and configure a computer, install operating systems
and software, and troubleshoot hardware and software problems. In addition, an introduction
to networking is included. This course helps students prepare for CompTIA's A+ certification.
Prerequisite: Basic Windows Navigation Skills
COMP1205 – IBM MVS Operating System – 3 credit
This course introduces the IBM mainframe computer system. Topics include: hardware
components of a mainframe computer system, OS390 operating system concepts, data storage
concepts and file access methods, using ISPF and SDSF, job control language, using
various batch utility programs, file transfer, program development process, and UNIX
system services.
Prerequisite: None
COMP1210 – IBM iSeries Operating System – 3 credits
This course introduces the student to the IBM i-Series midrange computer and its
operating system. Students will be trained on the basics of the OS, library and object
management, work management concepts, CL commands and basic CL programming, and the
SEU, DFU, and SDA utilities, security, and system administration.
Prerequisite: None
COMP1220 – Hardware Maintenance I [PC] – 2 credits
This course is designed to be an introduction to microcomputer system maintenance.
Topics include basic microcomputer components (floppy drives, hard drives, CD-ROM
drives, video, memory, system boards, and other essential hardware devices), proper
hardware installation, repair, troubleshooting, as well as, operating system installation.
Students will be doing in-class hands-on projects relating to each topic.
Prerequisite: COMP1200
COMP1300– Java I – 3 credits
This course is an introduction to the Java programming language. Students will be
trained on data types, control statements, methods, overloading, and data structures.
Cross-platform debugging techniques will be introduced as well as program development
concepts. This course is procedurally oriented and does not cover OOP (object oriented
programming)
Prerequisite: COMP1000 or previous programming experience, Minimum typing speed
20 WPM
COMP1310 – COBOL – 3 credits
This course introduces the COBOL programming language. Topics include: structured
program design, basic input & output operations, arithmetic operations, editing, comparing,
sorting, control-break processing, table processing, subprograms, and SAM & VSAM file
updating.
Prerequisite: COMP1205, COMP1000 or previous programming experience
COMP1400 - Web I - 3 credits
This course focuses on using HTML to create attractive web presentations. Students
will be trained on elementary HTML programming techniques, good graphical design, planning
a web presence, major HTML structures, text formatting, hyperlinks, ftp, color and
image usage, tables, frames, and forms.
Prerequisite: COMP1002 or equivalent knowledge, Minimum typing speed 20WPM
COMP1500 – Networking Essentials (Basic) – 2 credits
This course serves as a general introduction for students to acquire a foundation
in current network technologies for local area networks (LANs), wide area networks
(WANs), and the Internet. The course provides an introduction to the hardware, software,
terminology, components, design, and connections of a network. Network concepts such
as the OSI model, topologies, and major protocols, as well as the basic functions of
system administration and operation are covered. The course is operating system independent
and provides an introduction to several popular network operating systems (NOSs).
Prerequisite: COMP1200
COMP1505 – Networking Essentials (Advanced) – 1 credit
This course serves as an advance course in the network concepts such as the OSI model,
topologies, and major protocols, as well as the advance functions of system administration
and operation are covered, such as TCP/IP subnetting, installing DHCP, and DNS. The
course is operating system independent and provides setup of some of the advance functions
most popular network operating systems (NOSs) use.
Prerequisite: COMP1500
COMP2115 – Advanced Software Applications – 1 credit
This course covers advanced topics using primarily database and spreadsheet software.
The students will automate tasks in the applications using the VBA macro language.
They will also be integrating data into their applications from other sources (such
as iSeries data files). Students will work on individual and team projects.
Prerequisite: COMP1105, COMP1110
COMP2305 – Java II – 3 credits
This course covers OOP (Object Oriented Programming) using the Java language. Inheritance,
polymorphism, abstract classes, and interfaces are covered. SWING, JDBC, exceptions,
internationalization, multithreading, data structures, and I/O streams will also be
covered, demonstrating each of the OO concepts.
Prerequisite: COMP1300
COMP2315 – CICS Programming– 2 credits
This course introduces interactive programming on an IBM mainframe computer system
using the teleprocessing monitor CICS. Students will develop CICS application programs
using the COBOL programming language. Topics include: CICS services, designing screens
and coding maps, conversational and pseudo-conversational program design, data validation,
debugging and testing using EDF, accessing VSAM files and DB2 databases, temporary
storage concepts, creating a report using the CICS spool facility, designing a menu
system including security, web enabling a CICS application program.
Prerequisite: COMP1205, COMP1310
COMP2320 – RPG I – 3 credits
This course introduces the RPG programming language which is used primarily on IBM's
i-Series midrange computers. Students will be trained on basic I/O, report editing,
arithmetic operations, comparisons, control-break logic, tables, arrays, and disk file
creation and updating.
Prerequisite: COMP1210
COMP2325 – RPG II – 2 credits
This course presents advanced RPG capabilities. Students will be trained on creating
and maintaining physical and logical files, using embedded SQL, creating interactive
applications using display files, and doing control language programming.
Prerequisite: COMP2320
COMP2330 – VB .NET – 2 credits
This course covers the VB.NET language which utilizes object oriented principles.
Topics include building a VB.net application using the Visual Studio environment, debugging,
converting VB 6 programs to VB .NET, accessing databases using ADO.net controls, and
writing web services.
Prerequisite: COMP1300
COMP2335 – Client/Server Programming – 2 credits
This course will familiarize students on the principles of client/server computing.
Students will work with in teams to develop databases, user interfaces, and any other
application software required to design and deploy a client/server application as well
as appropriate documentation.
Prerequisite: COMP1200,COMP1300,COMP1400
COMP2340 – Database Management [SQL] – 2 credits
This course introduces IBM's mainframe database management system DB2. Topics include:
database design concepts, creating a relational database, developing batch COBOL application
programs to access and update a relational database, using column and scalar functions,
using union and join functions, using sub-queries, and using the interactive tools
SPUFI and QMF.
Prerequisite: COMP1310
COMP2405 – Web II – 3 credits
This course emphasizes the programming aspects of web page development. Students will
be trained how to create web-based applications using both client and server-side programming.
Prerequisite: COMP1400
COMP2410 – Web III – 2 credits
This course focuses on XML and its supporting technologies that are used in person-to-computer
and computer-to-computer communications. Students will be trained on DTDs, schemas,
namespaces, Xpath, DOM, SAX, XSLT, SVG and SOAP, as well as web services.
Prerequisite: COMP1400
COMP2415 – Web IV [Server Technologies]– 3 credits
This course concentrates on installing, configuring, and managing the Apache and IIS
web servers. Students will be trained on what a web server is, how it works, and the
planning, installation, configuration, and maintenance aspects of managing a web site
as well as server-side programming.
Prerequisite: COMP1400
COMP2510 – Networking I (Netware) – 3 credits
This course is designed to be an introduction to network administration, using Novell's
Netware operating system. Students will be trained on directory structure, eDirectory,
security, utilities, operating system installation and printing with the primary emphasis
being how to manage a Novell Network.
Prerequisite: COMP1200, COMP1500, COMP1505
COMP2515 – Networking II (MCSE Core) – 3 credits
This course will introduce students to Microsoft Windows Server and directory services
through lectures, demonstrations, discussions, and hands-on labs. Students will learn
how to use Active Directory and Microsoft Management Console to centrally manage users,
groups, shared folders, and network resources, and to administer the user environment
and software with group policies. This course shows how to implement and troubleshoot
security in a directory services infrastructure, and monitor and optimize Active Directory
performance. The class also focuses on how to administer Internet Information Services,
Terminal services and Print services. Students will also learn how to deploy Windows
remotely using Remote Installation Services (RIS).
Prerequisite: COMP1500, COMP1505
COMP2520 – Networking III (MCSE Advanced) – 3 credits
This course will show students how to plan their network infrastructure around features
supported by Windows. Issues such as network protocols and services are compared based
on the requirements of your organization. This includes compatibility with Novell NetWare,
UNIX, and Macintosh computers. In addition, the importance of the Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) for enterprise networks is emphasized because of
the new feature set of Windows. This includes using Domain Name System (DNS), Windows
Internet Name Service (WINS), and Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) in Active
Directory-enable environments. Students will also learn how to manage, secure, and
troubleshoot features and services for Windows enterprise networks, including Routing
and Remote Access.
Prerequisite: COMP1500, COMP1505
COMP2525 – Networking IV (Security) – 3 credits
Fundamentals of Network Security will teach students to design and implement security
solutions that will reduce the risk of revenue loss and vulnerability.
The course will be an introduction to network security and overall security processes. There
will be particular emphasis on security policy design and management, security technologies,
products and solutions, firewall and secure router design, installation, configuration and
maintenance, AAA implementation using routers and firewalls, and VPN implementation using
routers and firewalls.
Prerequisite: COMP1500,COMP1505
COMP2530 – Networking V (Wireless data networks) – 2 credits
Fundamentals of Wireless LANs is an introductory course that will focus on the design,
planning, implementation, operation and troubleshooting of wireless networks. It covers
a comprehensive overview of technologies, security, and design best practices with
particular emphasis on hands-on skills in the areas of wireless LAN setup & troubleshooting,
802.11a & 802.11b technologies, products and solutions, wite Surveys, resilient
WLAN design, installation and configuration, WLAN Security - 802.1x, EAP, LEAP, WEP,
SSID, and vendor interoperability strategies.
Prerequisite: COMP1500,COMP1505
COMP2535 – Linux Administration and Services – 2 credits
This course trains students on how to use the Linux operating system and introduces
them to the GNOME, and KDE graphical user interfaces (GUI). The class is for new users
of the Linux operating environment. They will learn fundamental command-line features
of Linux including file system navigation, changing file permissions, the vi text editor,
Bash shell features, and basic network services.
Prerequisite: COMP1500, COMP1505
COMP2600 – Systems Analysis and Requirements – 1 credit
This course exposes students to the design and management aspects of the industry.
Students will be trained on the methods used to develop and manage system specifications,
feasibility studies, analyses, RFPs, risk assessments, training considerations, prototypes,
and other project management documents.
Prerequisite: Advisor Approval
COMP2605 – Capstone Project – 1 credit.
This course is used to assess and validate student learning and performance throughout
the previous semesters as well as to give students an opportunity to practice their
skills in a simulated business environment. Students will work in teams under the supervision
of faculty members who will act as project managers.
Prerequisite: Advisor Approval
COMP2610 – Special Problems – 1 credit
This course will enable students to gain exposure to emerging technologies.
Prerequisite: Advisor Approval
COMP2700 – Linux For Users – 1 credit
This course introduces the PC user to the fundamentals of the UNIX operating system.
Using a hands-on, practical approach, the student will be guided through the basics
of UNIX system concepts and architecture. The student will practice these basic concepts
and approaches using a dialect of UNIX called Linux. Specific areas covered in this
course are the UNIX file system, text editors, file processing, shell programming,
utility programs, the X-windows system, and a brief exposure to shell programming languages.
This course is a five-week modular course. Please contact the instructor for additional
information.
Prerequisite: COMP1200 or equivalent industry experience and instructor's
permission
COMP2705 – Linux System Administration – 1 credit
This course, while including some basic concepts, is designed to serve the needs of
students who plan to work as Linux system administrators. It will train the student
in the installation and use of a Linux-based computer from the point of view of a systems
administrator. Students enrolling in this class must have some prior experience in
one of the UNIX dialects, preferably Linux. The student will become familiar with tools
and processes related to installing and administering a Linux system. The course makes
use of hands-on projects and case studies taken from real-life situations that will
challenge the student's critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. This course is
a five-week modular course. Please contact the instructor for additional information.
Prerequisite: COMP1200, COMP2700 or equivalent industry experience and instructor's
permission
COMP2710 – Programming For Linux – 1 credit
The course is designed to train the student who plans to work on Linux and/or UNIX
systems in the use of those programming languages commonly found in Linux and UNIX
environments, such as the AWK, Perl, and C languages and shell scripts. Students enrolling
in this class must have some prior experience in one of the UNIX dialects (preferably
Linux) as well as some programming experience. The student will become familiar with
tools and processes related to writing, compiling, debugging and installing programs
on Linux and UNIX systems. The course makes use of hands-on projects and case studies
taken from real-life situations that will challenge the student's critical-thinking
and problem-solving skills. This course is a five-week modular course. Please contact
the instructor for additional information.
Prerequisite: COMP1000, COMP2700 or equivalent industry experience and instructor's
permission
COMP2715 – Advanced Linux System Administration – 2 credits
This course is a follow-on to COMP2705 and delves more deeply into the Linux operating
system. It includes in-depth experience in the details of Linux installation, file
system operation and management, system initialization, the X-Windows graphical user
interface and process management. It also addresses common administration tasks, system
backup operations, software installation and performance tuning. This course maps to
CompTIA's Linux+ certification objectives and is a good method to use in preparing
for this certification exam. This course is a ten-week modular course. Please contact
the instructor for additional information.
Prerequisite: COMP2705 or equivalent industry experience and instructor's
permission
COMP2720 – Linux Network Services – 1 credit
This course contains practical, hands-on instruction on those networking technologies,
protocols and applications commonly found in Linux environments. Students will work
with client, network and file-sharing services on live Linux servers, including applications
such as the r-utilities, NFS, Samba and ftp. In addition to these common Linux networking
topics, business-critical services will also be covered, such as e-mail servers, terminal
services, and an introduction to firewalls. This course is a five-week modular course.
. Please contact the instructor for additional information.
Prerequisite: COMP2715 or equivalent industry experience and instructor's
permission

