Computer & Information Technology Systems

Research engineer Nick Konefal works on a remote battery operated video recording system in the Energy Technology Facility at UAF's Alaska Center for Energy and Power on the Fairbanks campus

Community and Technical College
Computer & Information Technology Systems
907-455-2800 

Department Overview

The computer and information technology program at the UAF Community & Technical College offers certificate and associate degree programs that prepare students for careers in cybersecurity, computer networking, and systems administration.

Learn more about the Computer & Information Technology program, including an overview of the program, career opportunities, and more.


A.A.S., Certificate, Information Technology Specialist

The information technology specialist certificate and associate programs teach students how to use, support, implement and troubleshoot the computer and information technology systems found in educational, governmental and corporate settings.

The certificate program focuses on foundation-level support skills required to effectively use and troubleshoot computer and information technology systems. Students completing the certificate program will be prepared for entry-level IT positions and to continue their education in the information technology specialist A.A.S. degree program.

The A.A.S. degree program prepares individuals to implement, support, and troubleshoot computer and information technology systems and obtain employment as an IT professional. Associate degrees in computing technology, network and cybersecurity, and network and system administration are offered.

Students entering either the certificate or A.A.S. degree program should meet with a faculty advisor to discuss program requirements and develop an education plan that matches the current skills and goals of the student.

This degree program is delivered collaboratively within the UA system.

Minimum Requirements for Information Technology Specialist Certificate: 30 credits; for Associate Degree: 60 credits


Occupational Endorsement, Computer Support Specialist

The computer support specialist occupational endorsement provides education and training to develop the knowledge and skills to provide technical assistance to computer users and qualify for entry-level computer technical support positions. This program also serves as a stepping stone to the information technology specialist certificate and associate degree.

Minimum Requirements for Computer Support Specialist Occupational Endorsement: 16 credits


Occupational Endorsement, Cybersecurity Foundations

The occupational endorsement in cybersecurity foundations provides education and training to develop the knowledge and skills to implement security measures for computer and information systems and qualify for entry-level cybersecurity information technology positions. This program also serves as a stepping stone to the information technology specialist certificate and associate degree and the following industry certifications: CompTIA A+, CompTIA NET+, CompTIA SEC+.

Minimum Requirements for Cybersecurity Foundations Occupational Endorsement: 18 credits


Courses

Computer & Info Tech Systems (CITS)

CITS F201      Operating Systems Support
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Comprehensive exploration of a current operating system: use, configuring, installing and administering. Topics include end-user and technical support.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CITS F202      Microcomputer Hardware Support
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Fundamental hardware and software (associated with hardware) configuration and troubleshooting. Includes installing, removing and configuring computer hardware components; installing and configuring software applications and operating systems to support hardware; diagnosing hardware and software problems; and developing troubleshooting and configuration procedures.

Recommended: CITS F201 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CITS F203      Information Technology Support Fundamentals
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Overview of skills/knowledge required by professional computer support technicians to support/troubleshoot computer operating systems and computer hardware. Includes: purpose and function of internal computer components, how to assemble a computer system, how to install an operating system, basic skills/knowledge required to connect to and share resources in a network environment.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Special Notes: Course covers objectives defined for CompTIA A+ certification.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F204      Introduction to Computer Networks
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

This foundational course introduces several ways that computers interact and the tools used in analysis and troubleshooting. Examples include local and wide area networks, also known as LANs and WANs; the "internet of things"; and cloud computing. Networking careers may also be explored. CITS F203 may be taken concurrently.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F205      Introduction to Coding and Programming
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Computer programming focused on programming concepts with programming tools.

Prerequisites: Math placement at the 100-level.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CITS F212      Server Operating Systems
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Fundamentals in installing, configuring and maintaining server operating systems. Learn how to configure and administer network accounts, resources, and common services deployed on server operating systems. Course covers foundation server operating system knowledge required for Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification exams related to server technologies.

Prerequisite: CITS F204 (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F219      Operating Systems: Topics
1-4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

In-depth and comprehensive technical class covering operating system skills and concepts.

Recommended: CITS F203 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 6 times for up to 6 credits

CITS F220      Implementing Internet Tools and Technologies
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Exploration of advanced Internet topics. Building a presence on the Internet -- evaluate web hosting services, domain names and registration services. How to implement and understand web communication tools and develop and understand the impact of participating in social networks and the changing nature of these networks.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F221      Graphics and Multimedia for the Web
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Creating graphics and multimedia content for the Web. Graphic topics include formats, size and resolution, optimization and design fundamentals. Multimedia topics include animation, interactivity and combining sound, speech, graphics, photographs and video.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F222      Website Design
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

A comprehensive survey of professional website design and authoring tools used to create Internet websites. Topics include website design and planning, HTML and CSS.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CITS F224      Web Scripting
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Introduction to client-side Web page scripting. Covers basic programming concepts, including data representation, functions, control structures and arrays. Topics include client-side scripting with JavaScript, object-oriented JavaScript, design issues, error handling, security, the Document Object Model and dynamic HTML and AJAX.

Prerequisite: CITS F205 or CS F103; CITS F222; or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F225      Web Databases and Programming
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Programming and database design as it relates to creating dynamic web sites and applications. Develop web applications to automate websites, create and access web databases, provide tools for users to modify parts of their own website, create and access files on the fly and reduce repetitive maintenance.

Prerequisites: CITS F205 or CS F103; CITS F222; or equivalent skills.

Special Notes: Course topics include CSS, SSI, DHTML, SQL, PHP and other web technologies.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F228      Advanced Website Design and Development
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Plan and implement professional and comprehensive websites that utilize and integrate multiple website design and development technologies such as XHTML, CSS, XML, Ajax, Web APIs, client-side and server-side programming, graphics and multimedia, and web communication tools.

Prerequisites: CITS F221; CITS F222; CITS F224; CITS F225; or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F240      System and Network Services Administration
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Implement and administer core network services operating within a network environment. Topics include: WSUS, WDS, DHCP, DNS, remote access, file and print, security and network management services. Course covers system and network services objectives required for Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification exams related to server technologies.

Prerequisites: CITS F212 (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F241      Networking and LAN Infrastructure Basics
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

The first of three courses (with CITS F242 and CITS F243) providing coverage of networking topics designed to prepare students for the CCNA certification exam. Covers the OSI and Internet models, IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, and network security fundamentals, while providing hands-on practical experience and career skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F242      Routing and Switching Essentials
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Second of three courses providing integrated coverage of networking topics designed to prepare students for the CCNA certification exam. Covers an in-depth study of the network switching concepts, VLANS, STP, DHCP, SLAC and DHCPv6 addressing, LAN security, and an introduction to routing concepts while providing learners for hands-on practical experience.

Prerequisites: CITS F241.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F243      Intermediate Networking and LAN Infrastructure
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Third of three courses providing coverage of networking topics designed to prepare students for the CCNA certification exam. Covers network routing concepts, including OSPF, ACL concepts, WAN, VPN and IPSEC, QoS, and network design, troubleshooting, virtualization and automation, while providing opportunities for hands-on, practical experience and career skills development.

Prerequisites: CITS F241.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F244      Advanced Network Infrastructure Services
4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Covers the architecture, components and operations of cloud-based computer systems. Covers topics that prepare students for the AWS cloud foundations certification as well as other cloud formats.

Prerequisites: CITS F241.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F245      Cloud Computing Foundations
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Cloud Computing Foundations is intended for students who seek an overall understanding of cloud computing concepts, independent of specific technical roles. It provides a detailed overview of cloud concepts, Amazon Web Services (AWS) core services, security, architecture, pricing and support. Students will study AWS and other cloud computing models.

Prerequisites: CITS F204.

Recommended: CITS F203, CITS F212, CITS F241.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 1 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F249      Networking and Communications: Topics
1-4 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

In-depth technical and comprehensive coverage of networking and communications skills and concepts.

Recommended: CITS F204 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-4 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 6 times for up to 6 credits

CITS F261      Computer and Network Security
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

The fundamental concepts of computer and network security. Course topics include: understanding threats to a computing infrastructure, understanding encryption technologies, securing network communications and applications, security policies and responding to incidents. Course covers objectives defined for CompTIA Security+ certification.

Prerequisites: CITS F204 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F262      Cybersecurity Defense and Countermeasures
3 Credits

Focus on network and information systems security from a defensive point of view. Students learn how to analyze internal/external security threats, develop security policies and implement security measures to protect information within an enterprise. Topics include risk assessment, security policies and procedures, incident response, cryptographic services, network and host-based security.

Prerequisites: CITS F261 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F263      Network Security Penetration Testing
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Course focuses on network and information systems security from an offensive point of view. Students will learn technical testing and examination techniques used to identify, validate and assess technical vulnerabilities within an enterprise. Topics include penetration testing methodology, footprinting and reconnaissance, scanning and enumeration, vulnerability validation, data collection and reporting.

Prerequisites: CITS F261 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F265      Directory Services Administration
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Creation and configuration of directory service objects to manage access to network resources, implement and manage group policy objects, and to backup, restore, monitor and troubleshoot directory service related issues. Course covers advanced directory services administration objectives required for Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification exams related to server technologies.

Prerequisite: CITS F212 (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F281      Professional Practices in IT
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Prepares students for work as an IT professional. Topics include: providing computer technical support, user support management, soft skills in IT, resume writing and career exploration, diagnosing problems, researching and documenting solutions, meeting user needs, developing training materials and giving workshops and lessons.

Prerequisites: 24 credits in CITS courses.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F282      IT Troubleshooting Skills
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Practical IT troubleshooting skills, including hardware, software, networks and operating systems. The course will include practical and useful troubleshooting scenarios.

Prerequisites: CITS F203; CITS F204 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F284      Independent Project
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Student created project or internship that includes learning new skills, applying the skills to significant problems, and demonstrating the results to other computer users. Includes application of learned skills in a professional manner.

Prerequisites: 12 credits in CITS courses.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CITS F285      Cooperative Work Experience
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

On-the-job training related to occupational objectives. Weekly seminar with coordinator required.

Prerequisites: 12 credits in CITS courses.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CITS F288      Professional Certification Review
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Prepares students for national or industry specific certification examination.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CITS F289      Information Technology: Topics
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Comprehensive coverage of a specific information technology topic.

Recommended: CITS F203 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 6 times for up to 6 credits

Computer Info & Office Systems (CIOS)

CIOS F100      Introduction to Personal Computers
1 Credit

Offered As Demand Warrants

Introduction to basic computer skills including using the mouse and menus, opening and exiting applications, creating basic word processing and spreadsheet files, basic file management, web browsing, email and virus protection.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

CIOS F103      Computer Survey
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

An introduction to the world of computers emphasizing microcomputers. Provides computer terminology and how to use computers as a tool to make work easier and to extend the reach of the mind.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F128      Microcomputer Operating Systems
3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Introduces the use and configuration of a current microcomputer operating system. Topics include: basic use, configuration, troubleshooting and maintenance, connecting to the Internet and security basics and safe computing practices.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CIOS F130      Word Processing
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Comprehensive exploration of topics related to using word processors. Includes creating, formatting and revising documents; using proofreading and editing tools; implementing styles; using templates; and customizing the application.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F133      Microcomputer Presentation Software
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Designing effective presentations. Includes organizing and designing an effective presentation of information using current microcomputer software.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F135      Microcomputer Spreadsheets
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Comprehensive exploration of topics related to using microcomputer spreadsheets. Includes creating, formatting and revising spreadsheets; creating formulas, graphics and charts; and using spreadsheets to organize, analyze and query information.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F146      Using Internet Tools and Technologies
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Presentation of the Internet. Includes using and configuring current World Wide Web and email, and other communication tools; developing searching strategies; current and future trends; and basic web authoring. Develop a basic understanding of technologies and protocols used on the Internet.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F146C      Using the Internet
1-3 Credits

Presentation of the Internet. Includes using and configuring current World Wide Web and e-mail tools; developing searching strategies; current and future trends; and basic web authoring.

Recommended: Basic computer literacy, including saving and retrieving files and using basic software.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken unlimited times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F150      Computer Business Applications
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Designed to develop computer literacy in the use and understanding of computer systems, office productivity applications and the Internet. Topics include operating system fundamentals, file management, word processing and spreadsheet fundamentals and safe, secure and effective use of Internet technologies.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F189      Microcomputer Applications: Topics
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Extensive coverage of a specific microcomputer application. May be repeated for credit.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 6 times for up to 6 credits

CIOS F230      Advanced Word Processing
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Advanced concepts of word processing using various software.

Prerequisites: CIOS F130.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F231      Introduction to Desktop Publishing
1-2 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Entry-level desktop publishing course introducing the chief features of a page layout program. Step-by-step instructions to create at least three simple publications.

Prerequisites: Previous computer experience.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-2 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 2 times for up to 2 credits

CIOS F233      Desktop Publishing
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Publication design and layout using desktop publishing software. Includes integrating text and graphics, page layout design, scanning and basic image editing.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F240      Microcomputer Databases
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Comprehensive introduction to microcomputer databases. Includes basic database concepts; how to maintain and update databases; how to build and use queries and forms; and how to build reports. Introduction to database design.

Recommended: CIOS F135 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F255      Digital Graphics
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

This course provides a foundation in the techniques, methods and principles of digital graphics creation. Through the use of professional software applications, students gain skills and knowledge useful for graphic design and visual communication in today's world.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 3 times for up to 3 credits

CIOS F257      Digital Video
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Comprehensive survey of creating and editing digital video using microcomputer tools. Includes the use of professional-level digital video applications to create short videos for a variety of uses.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

CIOS F258      Digital Photography
1-3 Credits

Offered As Demand Warrants

Comprehensive survey of tools and methods to create and edit digital images using microcomputer tools. Includes the use of professional-level digital photography applications.

Recommended: CIOS F150 or equivalent skills.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1-3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

Faculty

Mel Denning

Associate Professor | Program Advisor | Program Director
Computer and Information Technology Systems

mrdenning@alaska.edu

907-455-2957
UAF CTC


Keith Swarner

Associate Professor | Program Advisor
Computer and Information Technology Systems

kswarner@alaska.edu

907-455-2820
UAF CTC