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Computer Information Science

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

The Folsom Lake College educational curriculum in computing consists of courses, certificates, and degrees in a variety of areas related to computing. Individual courses are organized into several groups related to computer application user skills (CISA), general “core” topics (CISC), computer networking (CISN), computer programming (CISP), computer security (CISS), and the web (CISW). Students interested in pursuing a certificate or degree may choose from a variety of educational programs. These educational programs are organized into two groups:

Degrees and Certificates Offered

A.S. in Computer Science
A.S. in Information Technology
Computer Programming Certificate
Algorithmic and Logical Thinking Certificate
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Certificate
Information Technology Certificate

Division Dean Greg McCormac
Department Chair Dr. Suha Al Juboori
Phone (916) 608-6615
Email mccormg@flc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees

A.S. in Computer Science

The Computer Science degree provides a comprehensive exposure to computer science in preparation for upper-division computer science courses. The program also prepares students for entry level employment in the computer and related industries.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science	3
CISP 300	Algorithm Design/Problem Solving	3
CISP 310	Computer Architecture and Organization (4)	4
or ENGR 303	Introduction to Logic Design (4)
CISP 360	Introduction to Structured Programming	4
CISP 400	Object Oriented Programming with C++ (4)	4
or CISP 401	Object Oriented Programming with Java (4)
CISP 430	Data Structures	4
CISP 440	Discrete Structures for Computer Science	3
A minimum of 5 units from the following:		5
CISP 370	Beginning Visual Basic (4)
CISP 400	Object Oriented Programming with C++ (4)
CISP 401	Object Oriented Programming with Java (4)
CISP 405	Object Oriented Programming using C# on Visual Studio .NET (4)
CISP 407	Programming in Python (4)
CISC 315	Introduction to Computer Game Design (3)
CISN 304	Networking Technologies (3)
CISS 310	Network Security Fundamentals (3)
CISW 400	Client-side Web Scripting (4)
CHEM 400	General Chemistry I (5)
ENGR 303	Introduction to Logic Design (4)
ENGR 400	Introduction to Electrical Circuits and Devices (3)
MATH 400	Calculus I (5)
PHYS 411	Mechanics of Solids and Fluids (4)
Total Units:		30

The Computer Science Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See FLC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

design, write, test and debug computer programs, using a low-level language, a structured language, and an object-oriented language.
evaluate various solutions to a proposed problem in terms of programming languages, software architecture, and other appropriate computer technologies.
demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of the basic concepts that define the discipline of computer science, such as data structures, discrete mathematics, basic computer architecture, operating system internals, networking fundamentals, and programming languages.

Career Information

Career opportunities include various technical and support jobs in the computer industry, such as software tester, software developer, programmer, analyst, etc... Additional opportunities include business-related jobs in the computer industry that require a fundamental knowledge of computer science.

A.S. in Information Technology

This degree allows students to acquire basic core Information Technology competencies that will prepare them for a career in Computer Networking, Cybersecurity, and related fields.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science	3
CISN 304	Networking Technologies (3)	3
CISP 300	Algorithm Design/Problem Solving	3
CISP 360	Introduction to Structured Programming	4
CISS 310	Network Security Fundamentals	3
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6
BUS 310	Business Communications (3)
CISC 326	Linux Systems (3)
CISC 315	Introduction to Computer Game Design (3)
COMM 341	Organizational Communication (3)
A minimum of 4 units from the following:		4
MATH 341	Calculus for Business and Economics (4)
MATH 343	Modern Business Mathematics (4)
MATH 400	Calculus I (5)
STAT 300	Introduction to Probability and Statistics (4)
Total Units:		26

The Information Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See FLC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

apply fundamental knowledge of computing and the current use of technology techniques, skills, and tools necessary for the computing practice.
evaluate and solve business problems with technology solutions using qualitative and quantitative information.
assess user needs in the selection, creation, evaluation and administration of computer-based information systems.

Career Information

The Associate's degree in Information Technology prepares students to either enter the workforce as an entry-level computer or network support technician or pursue a bachelor's degree in managing information systems. Several CSUs currently offer baccalaureate IT programs, as do several private universities. More CSUs are working to build upper division programs similar to the recently approved IT Model Curriculum.

Certificate of Achievement

Computer Programming Certificate

The Computer Programming Certificate provides students with the basic proficiencies required of entry level software technicians and computer programmers, or for further study in computer science.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science	3
CISP 300	Algorithm Design/Problem Solving	3
CISP 360	Introduction to Structured Programming (4)	4
or CISP 370	Beginning Visual Basic (4)
CISP 400	Object Oriented Programming with C++ (4)	4
or CISP 401	Object Oriented Programming with Java (4)
or CISP 405	Object Oriented Programming using C# on Visual Studio .NET (4)
or CISP 407	Programming in Python (4)
CISP 430	Data Structures	4
CISP 440	Discrete Structures for Computer Science	3
Total Units:		21

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

design, write, test and debug computer programs, using a structured language, and an object-oriented language.
evaluate software systems for conformance to system requirements.
participate as a member of a software development team.

Career Information

Career opportunities include various technical and support jobs in the computer industry, such as software tester, software developer, programmer, analyst, etc.

Certificates

Algorithmic and Logical Thinking Certificate

This certificate certifies students have demonstrated the fundamentals of thinking logically with a variety of tools, such as: algorithms, computer programs, argumentation, or statistical methods.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science	3
CISP 300	Algorithm Design/Problem Solving	3
CISP 360	Introduction to Structured Programming	4
PHIL 320	Logic and Critical Reasoning	3
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 315	Persuasion (3)
PHIL 300	Introduction to Philosophy (3)
PHIL 325	Symbolic Logic (3)
PSYC 330	Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3)
or STAT 300	Introduction to Probability and Statistics (4)
Total Units:		19

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

verify empirically the correctness of an algorithm by means of tracing values of variables to validate the accuracy of the solution.
demonstrate logical thought by writing accurate and functional computer programs or proper utilization of flowcharts or pseudocode.
demonstrate familiarity with several methods of constructing logical chains of reasoning.

Career Information

Logical and rational thought is a prerequisite for successful careers in the Sciences, Engineering and Management and most other fields.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Certificate

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning certificate focuses on building machine learning models that can be used for predicting, making decisions and enhancing human capabilities. The program provides opportunities to develop the necessary skills and basic aptitudes in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning that is required in different fields including the information technology, automotive, healthcare, aerospace, industrial, and manufacturing industries.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISD 300	Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Data Science	3
CISP 407	Programming in Python	4
CISD 307	Introduction to Machine Learning	3
CISD 410	Natural Language Processing	3
CISD 412	Computer Vision	3
Total Units:		16

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

explain how artificial intelligence and machine learning is useful in business or career.
apply common artificial intelligence (AI) concepts and methodologies.
utilize methods of machine learning and deep learning to build and run analytical models.
explain how to use existing artificial intelligence and machine learning programming libraries on a data set to create a valid model that justifies their design decisions.

Career Information

Artificial intelligence programmer, machine learning engineer, data scientist, and business intelligence developer are possible job opportunities. The program provides the industry professional with the knowledge and skills used in a variety of fields using artificial intelligence.

Information Technology Certificate

The Information Technology prepares students for careers or further education in information technology, networking, cyber security, and related fields. There is considerable employment opportunity in these areas.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science	3
CISC 326	Linux Systems	3
CISN 304	Networking Technologies	3
CISP 300	Algorithm Design/Problem Solving	3
CISS 310	Network Security Fundamentals	3
Total Units:		15

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

apply fundamental knowledge of computing and the current use of technology techniques, skills, and tools necessary for the computing practice.
evaluate and solve business problems with technology solutions using qualitative and quantitative information.
assess user needs in the selection, creation, evaluation and administration of computer-based information systems.

Computer Information Science - Applications (CISA) Courses

CISA 299 Experimental Offering in Computer Information Science - Applications

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

CISA 499 Experimental Offering in Computer Information Science - Applications

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

Computer Information Science - Core (CISC) Courses

CISC 310 Introduction to Computer Information Science

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); AA/AS Area III(b)
C-ID:C-ID BUS 140; C-ID ITIS 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an examination of information systems and their role in business. The focus is on information systems, database management systems, networking, e-commerce, ethics and security, computer systems hardware and software components. Students will develop experience applying these concepts and methods through hands-on projects creating computer-based solutions to business problems.

CISC 315 Introduction to Computer Game Design

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of game design with an emphasis in applying those fundamentals to the creation of computer games. Students will explore the various genres of computer games, including hardware and mobile games. No programming skills are required. Students will explore the relationship between player experience and game mechanics.

CISC 326 Linux Systems

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the Linux operating system for microcomputers. Concepts include kernels, file structures, daemons, and shells. The course will also include procedures for installing software, creation of user accounts, shell commands, scripts, file security, Perl and C scripting, Common Gateway Interface, system installs, administration, security, and graphical user shells such as X-Windows.

CISC 495 Independent Studies in Computer Information Science - Core

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

CISC 498 Work Experience in Computer Information Science - Core

Units:0.5 - 4
Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Enrollment Limitation:Student must be in a paid or non-paid internship, volunteer opportunity, or job related to career interests.
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment or advancement within the field of Computer Information Science. Course content will include understanding the application of education to the workforce; completing required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. During the semester, the student is required to attend orientation. Students must complete 27 hours of related paid or unpaid work experience for .5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional .5 unit. The course may be taken for a maximum of 16 units. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Online students must have an email account. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

CISC 499 Experimental Offering in Computer Information Science - Core

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is a course designed to give students an opportunity to study topics in Computer Information Science which are not included in the current course offerings. This course may be repeated for credit providing there is no duplication of topics.

Computer Information Science - Data Science (CISD) Courses

CISD 299 Experimental Offering in Computer Information Science - Data Science

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

CISD 300 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:Students must have basic familiarity with computers (e.g. working with files, internet searches). Additionally, students should have some knowledge of types of emerging technologies and their impact on organizations and society. No programming background is needed.
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the basics of artificial intelligence (AI) and data science, explore use cases and applications of AI, understand AI concepts and terms like computer vision, natural language processing, machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks. Students will be exposed to various issues and concerns surrounding AI such as ethics and bias. This course does not require any programming.

CISD 307 Introduction to Machine Learning

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:CISD 300 and CISP 407 with grades of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the basics of machine learning (ML). Topics include understanding the mathematics behind artificial intelligence (AI), and realize the difference between Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Students will be taught different methods to overcome variance and bias.

CISD 330 Data Analytics with Tableau

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the basics of Data Analytics using Tableau which is an end-to-end data analytics platform that allows students to prep, analyze, collaborate, and share big data insights. Tableau builds transparent AI into its platform so students can easily understand how predictions and perceptions emerge and how they are helping to make smarter decisions right in the flow of data analysis.

CISD 410 Natural Language Processing

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:CISD 307 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the basics of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and how to give the ability of a computer program to understand human language as it is spoken and written, referred to as natural language. It is a component of artificial intelligence (AI).

CISD 412 Computer Vision

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:CISD 307 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the basics of Computer Vision (CV) which is a subset of Artificial Intelligence that train computers to automatically process, extract and manipulate visual data from images and videos.

CISD 499 Experimental Offering in Computer Information Science - Data Science

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

Computer Information Science - Networking (CISN) Courses

CISN 304 Networking Technologies

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:CISC 310 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
C-ID:C-ID ITIS 150
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides a comprehensive survey of local and wide area networks, technologies, protocols, and connectivity. Topics covered include network topologies, the Open Systems Interconnection seven-layer model for communication, communication protocols and standards, access methods, and data translation and transmission equipment and media. This course is intended to prepare students for programming and system administration activities as well as the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.

Computer Information Science - Programming (CISP) Courses

CISP 300 Algorithm Design/Problem Solving

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:CISC 310
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the Computer Science major to methods for solving classical computer problems through algorithm design. Topics include introduction to structured design, control structures, arrays, object oriented programming, and file processing. Students will learn how to assess and analyze computer problems in a top-down, divide-and-conquer approach that leads to a programming solution. It also includes creating programming plans and detailed design documents from which source code versions of programs will be created.

CISP 310 Computer Architecture and Organization

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CISP 360 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
C-ID:C-ID COMP 142
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to computer architecture using assembly language programs. Topics include binary representation of data and instructions, memory addressing modes, subroutines and macros, operating system interrupts, processor architecture, and interfacing with high level languages.

CISP 360 Introduction to Structured Programming

Units:4
Hours:72 hours LEC
Prerequisite:CISP 300 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b)
C-ID:C-ID COMP 112; C-ID COMP 122
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to structured programming. The topics covered include: top-down design, input/output considerations, control structures and flow control, variables, constants, the use of libraries, simple to intermediate data structures, functions, and arguments. An introduction into objects will be included.

CISP 370 Beginning Visual Basic

Units:4
Hours:72 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the Visual Basic programming language. Students will design Console and Graphical User Interface programs for the Windows environment. Topics include control structures such as simple sequence, decisions, iteration, procedures, events, properties, error handling, form handling, and the use of typical controls such as buttons, textboxes, checkboxes, and listboxes. This course will provide students with a foundation in the use of objects, object libraries, and object-oriented-event-driven programming techniques.

CISP 400 Object Oriented Programming with C++

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CISP 360 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b)
C-ID:C-ID COMP 122
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to object-oriented programming using the C++ programming language. This course is designed to enhance students' abilities to implement object-oriented programs and to further develop programming proficiency. Detailed topics include classes, storage class and scope, encapsulation, polymorphism, inheritance, function overloading and overriding, virtual functions, operator overloading, templates, exception handling, stream I/O, file processing, and the Standard Template Library. Also covered are introductions to Graphical User Interface (GUI) development using class libraries, and object oriented design methodology.

CISP 401 Object Oriented Programming with Java

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CISP 360 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to Object Oriented Programming using the Java language. Topics include: objects, classes, UML, function overloading, inheritance, static and dynamic class relationships, polymorphism, components, graphical user interfaces, event driven programming, class associations, interfaces, error handling, threads, file I/O, testing and debugging. This provides the student with a well rounded background in Java and is good preparation for advanced topics.

CISP 405 Object Oriented Programming using C# on Visual Studio .NET

Units:4
Hours:72 hours LEC
Prerequisite:CISP 360 or 370 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the C# programming language using Visual Studio.NET. Topics include the Visual Studio .NET Integrated Development Environment (IDE), object oriented programming concepts, and various .NET technologies. Students will develop programs for the Windows desktop and Web browsers (ASP.NET), as well as explore other .NET technologies such as Web Services, Windows Services, and .NET Remoting.

CISP 407 Programming in Python

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CISP 360 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides an introduction to programming with Python. It is designed to enhance students’ abilities to implement programs in Python. Topics include input/output considerations, decision structures and flow control, functions, file processing, and data structures. An introduction to objects will be included.

CISP 430 Data Structures

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CISP 400 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
C-ID:C-ID COMP 132
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is a course in data structures for computer science. Topics include time complexity analysis and big-O notation, searching and sorting, linked lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, lists, binary trees, B-trees, AVL trees, splay trees, graphs, and hash tables. Analysis of algorithms including mergesort, quicksort, heapsort. Graph theory, including shortest paths, topological sort, depth-first search, minimum spanning tree. If time permits, any of the following topics: tries, Huffman codes, branch and bound, Fibonacci heaps, critical path analysis, Open Shortest Path first (OSPF), and basic encryption algorithms.

CISP 440 Discrete Structures for Computer Science

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:CISP 360 and MATH 370 with grades of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the essential discrete structures used in Computer Science, with emphasis on their applications. Topics to be covered include: binary number representation and arithmetic, sets, relations, functions, formal propositional logic and proofs, digital logic and combinational circuits, finite state machines, regular expressions and formal grammars. Students will implement programs to illustrate principles of discrete structures.

CISP 454 Introduction to Software Testing

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CISP 400 or 401 with a grade of "C" or better; or object oriented programming industry experience.
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Students will learn and apply industry standard processes and methods for analyzing and testing software, reporting defects effectively, and developing and executing test plans for software projects. Students will be exposed to software tools that implement various testing approaches, including test driven development (TDD). Student teams apply what they learn throughout the course on small development projects. This course prepares students for practical work in the software industry by exposing them to the latest approaches and tools. Examples will be presented in Java and C++.

CISP 499 Experimental Offering in Computer Information Science - Programming

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

Computer Information Science - Security (CISS) Courses

CISS 310 Network Security Fundamentals

Units:3
Hours:45 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CISN 304 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
C-ID:C-ID ITIS 160
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides fundamental knowledge for system risk analysis and a workable security policy implementation that protects information assets from potential intrusion, damage, or theft. The required content of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) Security+ certification exam is covered.

Computer Information Science - Web (CISW) Courses

CISW 320 Introduction to Web Development

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:CISC 310 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces fundamental aspects of coding HTML and CSS. Technical aspects of Web development will be included for using text, images, links, objects, and multimedia on Web pages. Open source developer tools and online resources will be introduced. Websites will be managed locally and on a network using effective file management and file transfer protocols. World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) recommended standards will be emphasized using a structured approach in writing validated, adaptive code for multiple devices: cell, tablet, desktop. Students must have access to high-speed internet, necessary hardware, software, and other digital resources.

CISW 400 Client-side Web Scripting

Units:4
Hours:72 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:CISC 310 and CISP 300
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course emphasizes the creation of dynamic and interactive Web sites using a client-side scripting language such as JavaScript. Topics include the Document Object Model (DOM) that defines structured Web pages, core features of the client-side scripting language, event handling, control of windows and frames, functions, and form validation.

CISW 499 Experimental Offering in Computer Information Science - Web

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.