The Computer and Information Science (CIS) program gives students a variety of options to prepare for a career in information technology (IT). Earn one of six Associate in Applied Science degrees in application and technical support, game animation and design, game programming and development and software development. Over fifteen certifications are also available for students interested in taking specialized courses to update their skills.
CIS courses are designed to give professionals working outside the IT field the knowledge to utilize current and emerging technologies required for their jobs. A few recent course additions include: AI Technical Essentials, Swift Programming Language, AR and VR Development, Introduction to Human-Computer, Interaction and Data Analytics and Visualization.
Facilities and equipment for the CIS program are housed in the Seaton Computing Center (SCC) and Berg Instructional Center (BIC). Facilities include high-tech classrooms, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), a visual and simulation lab, networking hardware labs, a server/internetworking lab, software/web development labs and end-user labs.
Determine Your Path
Job growth in computer-related careers is expected to continue into the next decade. Career opportunities are varied and include application developers, computer service technicians, data entry personnel, network administrators, programmers, software developers, support technicians, video game developers and web specialists.
Whether you are preparing for a career in the IT industry, planning to transfer to a four-year baccalaureate-granting institution or updating your skills, College of DuPage has the right program for you. We offer:
- Dedicated instructors with years of practical industry experience, certification and licensing.
- Instruction in top-notch facilities and on cutting-edge equipment.
- Flexible schedules with day, evening and online learning.
- Practical, hands-on experience as well as classroom-based studies.
- Affordable programs that get you on the fast track to success without breaking the bank.
- Training that is accredited and certified by industry associations and educational organizations ensure the most up-to-date and relevant training necessary for a competitive edge on the job market and a successful career.
- Articulated computer and information system transfer and 3+1 agreements with respected baccalaureate-granting institutions enable seamless transfer of earned credits.
Each degree program consists of a minimum of 64 credits in general education requirements and program requirements.
Application and Technical Support Specialist
The Application and Technical Support Specialist degree program prepares students to work as support specialists for a range of technology products.
Students gain skills and knowledge in computer programming, customer service, Linux and UNIX operating systems, networking, PC maintenance and upgrading, and system analysis and design.
Game Animation and Design
The Game Animation and Design degree program prepares students to create animations, design and develop video games and incorporate art assets using game industry tools.
Students learn concepts and techniques in 2D and 3D game design and development for Windows PC, game consoles and virtual reality, basic theory of design through practiced professional game design techniques, game asset creation, programming logic using Python.
Animation will be stressed in a studio art atmosphere where students will be introduced to historical through present day animation, and will create 2D and 3D animations and special effects for film and video games.
The Game Animation and Design Associate in Applied Sciences degree is a nationally accredited program through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Game Design and Development
The Game Design and Development degree program prepares students to design and develop video games through application of game design elements and development tools used in the game industry.
Students learn concepts and techniques in 2D and 3D game design and development for Windows PC, game consoles virtual reality, game asset creation, programming logic using Python, and C++ language programming.
Game design will be stressed in both theory and practice, from basic theory of design through practiced professional game design techniques.
Game Programming and Development
The Game Programming and Development degree program prepares students to develop video games using industry standard programming languages, tools, and techniques. Students will learn concepts and techniques in 2D and 3D game design and development for Windows PC, game consoles and virtual reality, programming logic using Python, system analysis.
The C++ programming language will be stressed both in theory and in practice, from basic syntax to development of data structures required during software development. Assembly language programming, software engineering techniques needed to create custom game engines.
Software Development
The Software Development degree program prepares students to work in a variety of roles in the field of computer technology. Students gain knowledge and skills in computer programming, HTML and XML programming languages, database applications, Linux and UNIX operating systems, networking, and system analysis and design.
This degree can be earned with emphasis in C++, Java, Visual Basic, or .NET.
Web Development
The Web Development degree is designed for students who wish to enter into the web development market or already working as a web developer in the industry. This degree prepares students to design and develop web sites using the popular web development technologies of the day.
The CIS program offers certificates in a variety of disciplines. These targeted programs range in length from 12 to 35 credit hours. Most students enroll in these programs to improve their on-the-job credentials, retrain for a new career in technology, or upgrade skills for a competitive edge in the job market.
Please note: Several classes have prerequisite requirements. Students should consult with a faculty advisor for more information on prerequisite requirements for specific programs.
Business Productivity
The Business Productivity Software certificate requires 19 credits.
C++ Language Proficiency
The C++ Language Proficiency certificate requires 15 credits.
Data Analytics and Visualization
The Data Analytics and Visualization certificate prepares students for entry-level data analysis, setup and usage of business intelligence and data analysis solutions.
Database Proficiency
The Database Proficiency certificate requires proficiency in using Windows.
Enterprise Database Proficiency
The Enterprise Database Proficiency certificate recommends the completion of 4932 Desktop Database Proficiency certificate.
Game Design and Development
The Game Design and Development certificate will prepare the student for careers in video game design and development.
Game Programming and Development
The Game Programming and Development certificate prepares the student to program and develop video games using programming languages and development tools used in the game industry.
Internet of Things (iOt) Proficiency
The Internet of Things (IoT) Proficiency certificate is designed for students who have already earned an associates or baccalaureate degree in a technical field and/or are employed in the technical industry.
This certificate prepares students to design and develop applications using Internet connected single-board computers and sensor devices.
iOS Developer Proficiency
The iOS Developer Proficiency certificate prepares the student to design and develop applications for Apple iOS platform in accordance with Apple development standards.
JAVA Language Proficiency
The JAVA Language Proficiency certificate requires 15 credits.
LINUX
The LINUX certificate documents proficiency in the Linux operating system and its environment.
Python Language Proficiency
The Python Language Proficiency certificate provides students with core competencies in the use of the Python Programming Language.
Students are required to complete coursework that includes basic and advanced concepts in Python language programming, computer information systems, data structure application, Python standard library applications, Data science, and programming logic and design.
Spreadsheet Proficiency
This Windows based Spreadsheet Proficiency certificate prepares students to utilize spreadsheets, analyze data, and apply business intelligence tools in business applications.
UNIX Proficiency
The UNIX Proficiency certificate requires 16 credits.
Visual BASIC Language Proficiency
The Visual BASIC Language Proficiency certificate requires 15 credits.
Web Client Developer
The Web Client Developer certificate provides the necessary skills and knowledge for client-side Website development.
Learn to develop Websites using Hypertext Markup Language version 5 (HTML5), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and JavaScript. You will write code manually, as well as use graphical user interface (GUI) authoring tools, and program client-side, platform-independent solutions.
Web Programmer
The Web Programmer certificate requires 32 credits.
Windows Network Administration
The Windows Network Administration certificate for Information Technology (IT) professionals with the knowledge to design and implement a Microsoft network using Active Directory (AD).
COD Stories
"COD taught me that anyone can be a lifelong learner, and I certainly plan to keep learning forever as I continue to carry the momentum forward in my American dream.” - Ayesha Shafiuddin
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"Because computer science is such a versatile skill, with more and more companies implementing AI and becoming digitalized, I am confident that I will learn and develop useful skills that can be applied to the real world in various ways." - Isabella Chou
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"Knowledge is knowledge, and you can pay $10,000 a year for it or $40,000 a year. Either way, it’s still the same knowledge." Matthew Vitt
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“The best thing about the internship was doing the hands-on work. It was great to take the knowledge I had gained at COD and apply it in a professional setting, which prepared me for my future education and career." - Lashawna Harris
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The first step to getting started in Computer and Information Science is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
- Application and Technical Support Specialist, Associate in Applied Science
- Business Productivity Software, Certificate
- C++ Language Proficiency, Certificate
- Data Analytics, Certificate
- Database Proficiency, Certificate
- Enterprise Database Proficiency, Certificate
- Game Animation and Design, Associate in Applied Science
- Game Design and Development, Associate in Applied Science
- Game Design and Development, Certificate
- Game Programming and Development, Associate in Applied Science
- Game Programming and Development, Certificate
- Internet of Things (IoT) Proficiency, Certificate
- iPhone/iPad Developer Proficiency, Certificate
- JAVA Language Proficiency, Certificate
- LINUX, Certificate
- Python Language Proficiency, Certificate
- Software Development, Associate in Applied Science
- Spreadsheet Proficiency, Certificate
- UNIX Proficiency, Certificate
- Visual BASIC Language Proficiency, Certificate
- Web Client Developer, Certificate
- Web Development, Associate in Applied Science
- Web Programmer, Certificate
- Windows Network Administration, Certificate
Computer and Information Science Program graduates will:
- Demonstrate knowledge in the discipline of computer science.
- Demonstrate competency in software usage and Internet technologies.
- Explore emerging information technologies
- Demonstrate proficiency in problem-solving techniques
- Perform data analysis using technology.
- Comprehend software development best practices.
- Recognize importance of data privacy and information security.
- Practice ethical use of technology.
College of DuPage has several computer and information science transfer agreements in place with four-year colleges and universities to save you time, money and make the transfer process easier.
Many of these agreements with other colleges and universities have specific course requirements and a pre-determined course plan that needs to be followed to be eligible to transfer. Contact a program faculty member or academic advisor to learn more as course requirements vary by institution.
Explore the Visualization and Simulation Lab
Located in the Seaton Computing Center, the Visualization and Simulation Lab is where students collaborate and develop their own video games to be played on PC and the latest video gaming consoles.
Career Information
Explore careers based on your interest, location and salary range or view top occupations by income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your frequently asked questions regarding the Computer and Information Science program.
Computer and Information Science is for you if you are interested in:
- Programming, web development or game programming or design
- Excel, Access, SQL, Oracle or Linux/Unix
- Becoming more computer literate
Computer and Information Technology (CIT) is for you if you are interested in building and repairing computers and networks, Cisco or CompTIA certifications, computer forensics or network security.
Graphic Design is for you if you are interested in Graphic Design, Illustrator and Photoshop.
Office Technology Information (OFTI) is for you if you'd like to learn computers skills to become an administrative assistant, office manager, work in a medical office or be an event planner.
If you still aren’t sure which program would be best for you, ask a contact a CIS faculty member.
You can refer to the table on the Getting Started page to help you determine which CIS course to take. If you still aren’t sure, ask a CIS faculty member.
You do not need to have your own computer to take a computer course. Computer labs are available at the Glen Ellyn campus. The main computer lab is the Academic Computing Lab on the third floor of the Student Resource Center.
- CIS 1120 (The Internet)
- CIS 1130 (Windows Basics)
- CIS 1150 (Introduction to CIS)
- CIS 1160 (Windows Command Line)
- CIS 1221 (Intro to Spreadsheets)
- CIS 1230 (Microcomputer Database Application)
- CIS 1400 (Programming Logic and Technique)
For a list of topics covered on the tests, contact Testing.
