Mr. Terry Ayers, Department Chair
256.352.8104
terry.ayers@wallacestate.edu
Associate in Applied Science Degree (5 semesters)
Short-Term Certificates (1 semester)
At a Glance
Computer security specialists may plan, coordinate, and implement an organization’s information security. These workers may be called upon to educate users about computer security, install security software, monitor the network for security breaches, respond to cyber-attacks, and in some cases, gather data and evidence to be used in prosecuting cybercrime. The responsibilities of computer security specialists has increased in recent years as there has been a large increase in the number of cyber-attacks on data and networks.
Computer programmers write, test, and maintain detailed programs that computers must follow to perform their functions, as well as conceive, design, and test logical structures for solving problems by computers. Computer programs tell the computer what to do – which information to identify and access, how to process it, and what equipment to use. Many programmers update, repair, modify, and expand existing programs.
Computer support specialists and help-desk technicians provide technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and other users. These troubleshooters interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software, and systems.
Network administrators design, install, and support an organization’s local-area network (LAN), wide-area network (WAN), network segment, Internet, or intranet system. They provide day-to-day on site administration support for software users in a variety of work environments. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems, and monitor the network to ensure its availability to system users.
Web designers are responsible for developing and maintaining World Wide Web (WWW) sites for public and private organizations. Business and industry (both large and small) need web professionals to develop and maintain corporate web sites (intranet, extranet, and internet sites).
Program Description
The Computer Science Program is designed to prepare students for employment in industry or business. Emphasis is on the knowledge and skills needed in the small business computer environment.
Career Path
Job prospects should be best for college graduates who are up to date with the latest skills and technologies. Employers will continue to seek computer specialists who possess a strong background in fundamental computer skills combined with good interpersonal and communication skills.
The median annual wage for computer support specialists was $60,810 in May 2023. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. Employment of computer systems specialists is projected to grow 5 percent from 2022-2032, as fast as average for all occupations. Growth in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and mobile networks will increase demand for these workers. (Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics).
If Math courses are taken for math elective credit, the course must be higher level than College Algebra. Computer Science courses DO NOT meet this requirement.
Typing proficiency is a prerequisite for CIS 146 and other programming courses. Students that are not proficient should take a keyboarding class prior to enrollment in computer science courses.