If you are interested in getting started in the Computer and Information Science (CIS) program, you need to first determine which CIS career path you'd like to take. The course or program you choose is dependent on if you want to learn about computers, if you are thinking about computer programming, if you want to work toward a CIS degree or certificate or if you are planning to transfer to another school after earning an associate in applied science degree.
Suggested Starting Courses
Many CIS courses do not have a course prerequisite. For complete course descriptions, visit the course catalog.
CIS 1110 - Using Computers
- Will not transfer
- Not part of a CIS degree or certificate
- Intended for some of the Health Science areas, the home or casual user
CIS 1150 - Introduction to Computer and Information Science
- Transfers to most four-year schools
- Required for all CIS certificates and degrees
CIS 1160 - Windows Command Line
- Overview of Windows Command Shell
- Required as a program requirement for some CIS programs
CIS 1400 - Programming and Logic Techniques
- Required for all CIS certificates and degrees
- Required for enrollment in any programming language
- Prerequisite - Math 0482 or Math 1115
Computer Programming Interest
If you enjoy working with computers, solving puzzles, are attentive to small details and if you are good at organizing, planning and prioritizing your work, computer programming may be of interest to you. To help you decide, try beginning programming at Hour of Code or Codeacademy.
Earning a Degree or Certificate
Students who intend to transfer or intend to complete a certificate or degree at COD e start with CIS 1150 - Introduction to Computer and Information Science. CIS 1150 is a survey course that covers many areas of computers, such as hardware, software and the Internet. Hands-on experience with the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office is included. CIS 1150 is required for all certificates and degrees at College of DuPage and will transfer to most four-year schools.
If you are interested in transferring to a four-year school, start with exploring the transfer requirements of some of the schools that offer Computer Science Bachelor Degrees.
COD Stories
"For students thinking about the CIS program, I highly recommend it. The professors are all incredibly knowledgeable and wonderful to be around." - Kali Gooderham
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"COD provided classes that allowed me to achieve my degree, as well as opportunities to capitalize on other experiences." - Dimitri Stojanovski
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"College of DuPage has sparked my quest for knowledge and is allowing me to serve as an example to my daughters by demonstrating that it is never too late to set a goal, work toward it and get rewarded for working hard.” - Violet Jackson
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"I would highly recommend this college because it is a place where we can find good people, counselors and teachers who are willing to help us succeed in our education.” - Adrianna Mendez
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