Computer Information Systems
OVERVIEW
The Computer Information Systems program prepares students for a wide range of careers in Information Technology. We offer a Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Systems degree, associate degrees and certificates. Prepare for industry certifications, such as A+, CISSP, CCNA and MCP, in the areas of Cisco, Microsoft, Security, Technical Support, Networking and Project Management. These and other industry certification exams are offered at the Olympic College Testing Center.
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Now Enrolling!
Now Enrolling!
Reach new heights in the Olympic College Computer Information Systems program. Learn networking, cybersecurity, website development, drone piloting and more. Certificates, associate and bachelor’s degrees. Online and in-person!
Watch this short video to find out more about our program and contact us today to get started!
Academic Programs: Stackable Certificates
The Computer Information Systems program offers the following "stackable certificates" that can be earned independently or as you work towards completing you associate degree.
Academic Programs: Degrees
Computer Information Systems is a modular program that allows students to custom design their degree based on their needs with a series of certificates that can add up to a degree. You can earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Systems (BAS IS). The Associate in Applied Science - Transfer degree (AAS-T) is available with several areas of emphasis, and you can earn the following certificates: Network Support Technician, Technical Support, Cyber-Security, Web Page Development Essentials, Cisco Certified Network Associate, and Technical Support.
Transfer, Career & Resources
Transfer Info
Careers
Linux Server
Recommended Hardware Specifications
In order to realize the greatest level of success in the Computer Information Systems (CIS) degree and certificate programs at Olympic College, it is critical that students have their own computers to work on. Most of the course content found in our CIS offerings is now online, and much of what we do entails working directly with applications and operating systems in virtual environments. While many of the software applications used throughout the program are provided to students for their various courses of study to install and practice with at home, a highly-capable hardware system for home use is not. As such, a highly-capable computer will go a long way to help ensure the student has the tools needed to succeed.
The following specifications are for a computer that would be sufficient for a two-year program of study in the CIS program for a student pursuing the Associate of Applied Sciences degree or certificate in the area of Information Systems Specialist. These specs are recommended as a minimum, since systems can exceed this, and those less than this might introduce barriers to success with some assignments.
Students unable to obtain these resources should consult with faculty to discuss options. Note that access to these resources are, in general, provided at on-campus facilities. Mac users may need to utilize tools such as VMware to run Windows OS virtualized on their Mac (see FAQs or a CIS instructor).
- Intel Core i7 CPU or equivalent
- 32GB of DDR4 RAM for multiple Virtual Machines (VMs) for learning other operating systems
- High performance NVidia or AMD GPU
- 256GB to 1TB of Hard Drive (HD) storage for curriculum support of the networking courses
- Webcam if you plan to take classes remotely
- 802.11a/b/g/n/ac wireless Network Interface Card (NIC) for the widest range of wireless connectivity (laptop systems only)
- Ethernet NIC, gigabit Ethernet
- Bluetooth 5.2 capable
- USB 3.0 for faster data transfer when storing VMs on a flash memory device (i.e. “thumb drive”)
The following items are considered necessary as well, though no minimum specifications are called for:
- A primary display
- Keyboard
- Mouse (or integrated trackpad)
- Speakers
- Microphone
- Headset
- 32G removable solid-state storage (a.k.a. thumb drive)
- Printer (monochrome laser recommended)
- Access to high-speed (broadband) Internet
The following items are optional and optimal for augmenting the learning environment:
- 2nd display can be very useful for interacting in Zoom while working
- Laptop case for a laptop
- Laptop anti-theft hardware for a laptop
Please feel free to contact your CIS faculty advisor with any questions or concerns you may have on any of this.
Faculty Advisors
The Computer Information Systems faculty provides a range of scheduling options to meet the needs of full-time and part-time students and those who need day, evening or distance classes.
In addition, “We are highly sensitive to the differential needs and learning styles of our students and utilize a variety of perspectives and pedagogical styles so that both traditional and nontraditional students will find a comfortable and safe learning environment in our classes.”
Every student is assigned an advising team consisting of your Student Success Coach and Faculty Advisor. Your Faculty Advisor is determined once you decide on your specific academic program. The following professors are the advisors for Computer Information Systems.
Program Faculty
Academic Division
Computer Information Systems is part of the Business & Technology (B&T) Division. Visit the B&T webpage for more info, including support resources and services, and contact info for division staff and the dean. The B&T Division can assist you with:
- Advising
- Connecting with faculty
- Finding campus resources
- Support for procedural processes such as a grade appeal or student complaint