COMPUTER HARDWARE/SOFTWARE DESIGN A.A.S.

This program provides the foundation in the design of both computer hardware and software. It combines the electronics of hardware design with the problem-solving and logic skills of software design. It offers exciting and rewarding opportunities in the rapidly developing computer hardware/software industry.

PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

  • Develop modular programs with proper documentation and error trapping
  • Utilize methods involved in analyzing and designing information systems
  • Effectively utilize the major tools of Microsoft Office Professional including spreadsheets, databases, word processing and presentation programs
  • Understand electrical terminology and component recognition
  • Interpret manufacturers’ technical data sheets on components
  • Interpret electrical schematics
  • Build, test, and troubleshoot Analog and Digital electrical circuits on breadboards
  • Effectively communicate technical information to appropriate audiences

CAREER POSSIBILITIES

Entry-level positions for technicians in various fields of computers, and in programming, computer operations, communications, computer science, and automation.

TRANSFER INFORMATION

Students planning to transfer should contact their advisor and/or the Coordinator for Transfer and Articulation in the Centers for Student Engagement and Academic Advisement for more information. Early consultation to plan the most appropriate course sequence will optimize transferability.

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

This curriculum provides the knowledge and skill in both hardware and software needed to enter a professional career in computer design.

The curriculum listed on this page represents the minimum coursework required for the AAS degree in Computer Hardware/Software Design. Any exception must have the written consent of the chair of the Division of Natural and Health Sciences, Mathematics, and Technology.

A background in algebra and trigonometry is recommended.

Degree requirements for the Computer Hardware/Software Design A.A.S. program
COURSES CREDIT HOURS
FIRST SEMESTER
ENGL 101 Freshman English I 3
CS 120 Foundations of Computer Science 3
ELEC 101 Electrical Circuits 4
ELEC 105 Introduction to Digital Computers 4
MATH 104 College Algebra (or higher) * 3
17
SECOND SEMESTER
ENGL 102
OR
ENGL 270
Freshman English II
OR
Technical Writing
3
ELEC 102 Basic Electronics 4
ELEC 107 Fundamentals of Microcomputers 4
CS 200 Programming in Visual Basic 3
MATH 106 Pre-Calculus 3
17
THIRD SEMESTER
BUS 225 Microcomputer Application Software 3
CS 080 Microcomputer Maintenance 1
CS 222 Programming in C/C++ 3
Behavioral/Social Sciences 3
Liberal Arts Elective 3
Health or Physical Education 1
14
FOURTH SEMESTER
BUS 226 Advanced Microcomputer Application Software 3
CS 225 Introduction to Networks 3
CS 238 Java 3
Behavioral/Social Sciences 3
Technical Elective ** 3
15
TOTAL CREDIT HOURS 63

* MATH 112, 115, 116 or 121 will not fulfill Math requirement.
** Must be one of the following: CS 219 Database Management Systems, CS 228 Introduction to Unix/Linux, CS 235 Web Page Design, CS 236 Advanced Visual Basic, CS 237 Internet Security, ELEC 209 Programmable Logic Controllers

A prior felony conviction may hinder a student’s ability to enroll in a course or complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or meet the criteria for licensure required by certain professions.