Computer Information Systems - Associate of Applied Science

Statement of Purpose

The Computer Information Systems (CIS) program supports Information Technology (IT) operations in industry, business, education, services, and government sectors. Students study a wide variety of application areas, including computer maintenance, computer networking, databases, and digital media production.

Upon successful completion of the program, students will earn:

  • Associate of Applied Science - Computer Information Systems, or
  • Level 1 Certificate - Computer Information Technology

Who the Program Serves

The program is open to students from diverse backgrounds and skill levels who are seeking to enter the field of Information Technology.

Our students include:

  • Students seeking to enter the Information Technology field directly upon earning their associate degree-see a range of job titles in the Career Options section below.
  • Graduates from the program may choose to continue their education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology at a university, which may include specialized degrees in the areas of cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, computer networking, and web development.

If you are interested in learning more about whether this program is the right fit for you, contact one of our academic advisors today.

Skills and knowledge you will gain

Graduates will be able to:

  • describe the function of a computer information system,
  • create and implement computer programs for businesses and evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs,
  • apply productivity tools in a business environment, and
  • design hardware configurations and identify maintenance techniques.

Career Options

Our program leads to a number of occupations in the field, including:

  • Computer and Information Systems Managers
  • Computer Systems Analysts
  • Computer and Information Research Scientists
  • Computer Network Architects
  • Database Administrators
  • Database Architects
  • Network and Computer Systems Administrators
  • Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
  • Web and Digital Interface Designers

Job search assistance

TSC connects students to high-wage, high-demand jobs by aligning academic and continuing education pathways to the workforce. Texas Southmost College provides valuable experiences that make our graduates exceptionally marketable, such as:

  • Experiential Learning: Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through the practicum or field experience courses. These experiential learning opportunities allow students to apply classroom knowledge in practical industry situations and gain valuable professional experience.
  • Job Fairs: Each spring TSC hosts a job fair that features more than 70 employers, all looking for the next generation of qualified candidates. Students and alumni are invited to bring their resumes and strengthen their contacts in their chosen fields.
  • Career Services: TSC’s Transfer, Career, and Employment Services team assists students in mapping out college transfers, shaping career aspirations, and aiding in post-graduation job placements. Their services encompass guidance on job hunts, crafting compelling resumes and cover letters, and conducting interest inventory evaluations. More information may be found here.

Funding your education

Texas Southmost College remains the most affordable institution of higher education in the entire Rio Grande Valley. When we talk about financial literacy, we talk about accumulating wealth, not debt. If you want to make a good return on investment, Think TSC, and study local.

TSC offers a number of grants and scholarships for those who qualify.

  • Applying for scholarships is easy. Submit one application, and you are automatically matched with all of the scholarships you qualify for at TSC. Click here to learn more about the TSC scholarship portal.
  • Federal financial aid is available through grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Applying for financial aid is free! Click here to learn more.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete the program?

The Level 1 Certificate takes one year to complete; the Associate of Applied Science degree takes two years to complete.

How much time will I need to commit to coursework and assignments?

Students should budget 2-3 hours of study time for every credit hour they are taking, per week, and may consider planning for additional time for their more difficult classes.

How do I apply to the program?

To apply, complete the ApplyTexas application and follow the admissions process. If you need assistance, our advisors are available to guide you through the steps.

Testimonials from students, faculty, and/or employers

Italia Salazar, Italia.Salazar@co.cameron.tx.us - TSC Graduate, Cameron County District Attorney I.T. Manager

Andrea M. Galvan, Andrea.Galvan100@student.tsc.edu - TSC Student

Jeanette Reyes, Jeanette.Rodrigue100@student.tsc.edu - TSC Student

Jose A Zuniga Garcia, jose.zuniga106@student.tsc.edu - TSC Student

Michael Reyes, Michael.Reyes@co.cameron.tx.us - Cameron County District Attorney Office Manager

Request more information about Texas Southmost College, our programs, or upcoming events.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLO) are statements that specify what students will know, be able to do or be able to demonstrate when they have completed the program.

  1. Graduates of the AAS degree in CIS and Cert 1 will be able to describe the function of a computer information system.
  2. Graduates of the AAS degree in CIS will be able to create and implement computer programs for business and evaluate the effectiveness of the computer programs.
  3. Graduates of the AAS degree in CIS and Cert 1 will be able to apply productivity tools in a business environment.
  4. Graduates of the AAS degree in CIS and Cert 1 will be able to design hardware configuration and list maintenance techniques.

Program of Study

1st Semester

2nd Semester

3rd Semester

4th Semester

MATH-1314, COSC-1301, ITSC-1325, IMED-1416, ENGL-1301, ITSE-2409, ITNW-2413, IMED-2415, ENGL-1302, SPCH-1315, ITSE-2310, ITNW-2405, COSC-1336, ITSE-1350, ITSW-2365, and ITNW-2412: Grade of C or better is required for graduation

XXXX-X3XX (Language, Philosophy, and Culture Elective), XXXX-X3XX (Creative Arts Elective), and XXXX-X3XX (Social and Behavioral Sciences Elective): Students may take any course within this category of the TSC General Education Core Curriculum

This information is provided as an example only. You will develop a personalized plan with your Success Coach and faculty advisor/mentor that reflects your goals and interests. You are required to meet with an advisor each semester to ensure you are on track for graduation. This document does not contain all the information you need to stay on track for graduation.