Computer Game and Mobile Applications Programmer - Certificate

Certificate

game design

Faculty Adviser

Erika Feralova: 503-491-7434 | Room AC2779 | Erika.Feralova@mhcc.edu

There has been massive growth in both the video game and mobile app industries. MHCC’s program combines both, giving students strong skills that are high in demand. Students who complete this program will learn the tools to become entry level app and game programmers. In addition, students will also train in User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX).

All core courses must be completed within 5 years in order for the certificate to be awarded.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of this program, students should be able to:

  • Design games and systems which can be deployed in a mobile environment
  • Develop intermediately complex solutions to specific problems
  • Demonstrate basic fluency in Apple iOS Mobile Apps development and Unity Game programming
  • Demonstrate basic fluency in common web programming languages
  • Demonstrate basic fluency in a common scripting language (such as Python)
  • Critically analyze a customer request and provide multiple possible solutions
  • Critically analyze a basic design structure and provide input on enhancing user experience
  • Design an application or a game suitable for delivery in a mobile environment.

General education courses (such as math, writing, health, etc.) can be taken during any term, or before starting the program. 

Plan of Study Grid
First QuarterCredits
CIS125GA Beginning Game Programming (Course offered online) 3
CIS195 Interface Design for Interactive Applications (Course offered online) 3
CIS197CSP Web Authoring: Client-Side Programming (Course offered online) 3
CIS197HTM Web Authoring: HTML5 and CSS3 (Course offered online) 3
MTH065 Beginning Algebra II (Course offered online) (or higher) 4
 Credits16
Second Quarter
CIS235UNA Small Games Programming I (Course offered online) 3
ISTM133P Introduction to Python (Course offered online) 4
ISTM235MA Mobile Apps 1: Introduction to iOS Mobile Applications Development 3
WR121Z Composition I (Course offered online) 4
 Credits14
Third Quarter
CIS135TXP Special Topics in Emerging Technologies (Course offered online) 3
CIS235UNB Small Games Programming II (Course offered online) 3
ISTM235MB Mobile Apps 2: Intermediate iOS Mobile Applications Development 3
Human Relations requirement 3-4
 Credits12-13
 Total Credits42-43

CIS120 Computer Concepts I (Course offered online)

Credits 3Summer/Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels. Recommended co-requisite: CIS120L.

This course discusses computer technology and how this technology is used in business, industry and at home. Emphasis is placed on evaluating work-related and personal situations, and then determining how software and computer based systems can be used to solve the problem. The ethical, social and political implications of current and potential use are discussed. This course, only when in combination with CIS120L, may be considered for direct transfer.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Compare and contrast issues relating to e-mail communications
  2. Compare and contrast issues relating to intellectual property rights
  3. Compare and contrast systems software with applications software
  4. Define computer fluency
  5. Define computer literacy
  6. Describe a computer-based ethical situation and give examples of computer-based solutions to the situation
  7. Enumerate the basic hardware and software requirements necessary to satisfy an entry-level business information need
  8. Evaluate an existing computer system
  9. Evaluate work-related situations and apply computer-based solutions
  10. Identify legal implications of cyber crimes
  11. Identify social and legal implications of corporate computer policies
  12. Solve research questions using a web search engine

CIS120L Computer Concepts Lab I (Course offered online)

Credit 1Summer/Fall/Winter/Spring

Registration Requirement: MTH020 with a grade of "C" or better; or placement above stated course levels. All face-to-face sections require a headset. All sections (except W1) use instruction in the most current Microsoft Office Suite. Note: Not all hybrid sections start in week one.

This course shows students how to use the following common computer software productivity tools: word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, publication and web searching. The emphasis is on becoming proficient in the basics of each tool and demonstrate how and where each tool can be best used in various types of situations. Students can use these tools to be more productive in either business, industry or at home. Assignments in this course must be completed with Microsoft Office 365 software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Students can download this software for FREE at mhcc.edu/OfficeInstall.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Analyze spreadsheet results for reasonableness and accurate
  2. Apply simple formulas and functions on a spreadsheet, appropriately
  3. Create a new presentation
  4. Create a new spreadsheet
  5. Create a new word processing document
  6. Create a presentation hand-out
  7. Incorporate a table into a document
  8. Incorporate graphics into a document
  9. Modify the content and operation of a multi-slide presentation
  10. Perform common data entry and editing techniques to a spreadsheet
  11. Perform common document management techniques such as Open, Save, Save As and print
  12. Perform common editing techniques to a presentation
  13. Perform common editing techniques to a word processing document
  14. Perform common formatting techniques to modify the appearance of a document
  15. Perform common formatting techniques to modify the appearance of a spreadsheet
  16. Perform common spreadsheet management techniques such as Open, Save, Save As and print

CIS125DB Desktop Database (Course offered online)

Credits 3Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels. Recommended co-requisite: CIS125SS.

This course provides a hands-on overview of the capabilities of the Microsoft Access database product. Emphasis is on creating and populating databases; defining simple queries and reports; maintenance/modification of a database; creating and enhancing reports and forms for data output/input; creating an application system built around a database, multiple tables and queries; database administration; and customizing forms using Visual Basic for applications.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Administer a database by analyzing for performance, enhancing security for users vs. administrators, backup and use SQL to maintain tables and table contents
  2. Compare a set of Excel workbook to a database
  3. Create a relationships diagram and explain its value
  4. Define 1-to-1, 1-to-many, and many-to-many relationships by giving examples of each
  5. Define referential integrity by giving examples
  6. Define the terms field, record, table, filter, query, sort and database, giving examples of each
  7. Distinguish between primary and foreign key and state how each relates to tables within a database
  8. Import data from an Excel workbook for inclusion in an Access database
  9. Using a database, be able to perform the following tasks:a. Create and populate tablesb. Create forms, subforms, queries, hyperlinks and reportsc. Modify and enhance the structured. Create a report using multiple tables and multiple queriese. Use the Switchboard Manager to create a multiple-level switchboardf. Generate macros to automate an applicationg. Customize forms using Visual Basic for Applications

CIS125GA Beginning Game Programming (Course offered online)

Credits 3Summer/Fall/Winter

Registration Requirement: Recommended Basic proficiency using a PC such as launching software, locating and opening files, use of the internet and a web browser; familiarity with basic PC concepts and terms; familiarity with at least one common game platform; experience with common video games of various types all recommended.

This course introduces students to fundamental object oriented programming concepts and game design techniques. Students work within industry standard game engines to identify solutions and solve basic programming problems in interactive applications.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of Boolean and Conditional Logic
  2. Demonstrate how external actions can influence the actions of an object
  3. Implement OOP concepts within a game environment
  4. Demonstrate basic proficiency with the selected software.
  5. Demonstrate an understanding of basic programming terminology and vocabulary
  6. Identify logical and syntax errors within a programming environment
  7. Critically analyze the benefits of different solutions within a script's context

CIS125SS Spreadsheets (Course offered online)

Credits 3Summer/Fall/Winter/Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels.

This course provides an overview of the capabilities of the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet product. Emphasis is on spreadsheet creation, editing, formatting, copying, deleting and formula specification, spreadsheet functions, font selection, shading, borders, editing and data entry techniques, formulas, various file and printing options, window creation and election, advanced database-like activities, sort query, macros (recorded and written) and specialized menus. The outcomes of this class align with the NIST/CAE Knowledge Unit 'Basic Data Analysis'.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Apply standard statistical inference procedures to draw conclusions from data.
  2. Critically analyze data using common statistical analysis tools (e.g. spreadsheet functions)
  3. Demonstrate the process of recording and running Excel macros
  4. Describe the Excel (Windows) spreadsheet environment
  5. Describe the manipulation of spreadsheet data, using Sort and Query activities
  6. Describe the processes to freeze worksheet titles, split worksheet windows, open new window views and customize toolbars
  7. Describe the use of name formulas, names and references display, names and references, and 3-dimensional names
  8. Discuss the design and development of complex Excel spreadsheets
  9. Discuss the format of zero values, display of negative values, format styles, multiple worksheets and multiple ranges
  10. Discuss the process of consolidating ranges and workbook links
  11. Explain advanced editing, formatting, copying, deleting and formula specifications
  12. Explain specific features of the Excel menubar and toolbar
  13. Explain the process of finding and replacing data in tables
  14. Explain worksheet and range protection, hidden data and password protection
  15. Identify spreadsheet functions, including VLOOKUP, IF, MIN, MA,X COUNTA, ROUND and PMT

CIS125WP Word Processing (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall/Winter

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, each with a grade of "C" or better, or placement above stated course levels; or instructor consent.

This course provides an overview of the capabilities of the Microsoft Word product. Emphasis will be on word processing functions such as saving, retrieving, formatting, printing, layout and editing, formatting and font selection on a line, paragraph, page and/or document level. The course material also reviews editing methods and input/output options. This course is intended to provide students with advanced techniques in producing different forms of printed communications.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Describe basic word functions, including layout and editing
  2. Describe the creation and use of word processing glossaries
  3. Describe the process to modify existing styles
  4. Describe the Word (Windows) word processing environment
  5. Differentiate between simple and complex formatting and font changes
  6. Differentiate between various formatting styles
  7. Discuss effective title pages, the method of creating them, and their use in the workplace
  8. Discuss the practice and use of the software mailing labels feature
  9. Discuss the purpose of and process to Hide and UnHide text within the word processing environment
  10. Discuss the transfer of information between word processing applications and other software
  11. Discuss the use and creation of footnotes and endnotes in the workplace
  12. Explain how to create processing functions, including layout and editing
  13. Explain requirements for printing and/or interchanging text with other word processing programs and plain text files
  14. Explain the process of changing default software settings
  15. Explain the processes of moving other application information into a word processing environment
  16. Explain the use and creation of headers and footers in the workplace
  17. Explain the use and creation of word processing tabs and tables
  18. Identify standard default settings of the software
  19. Identify word processing keyboard shortcuts and their use in the workplace

CIS135 Introduction to Game Industry (Course offered online)

Credits 3Winter

Registration Requirement: Experience with different games across multiple platforms recommended.

This course is a general introduction computer gaming as an industry. Students evaluate and analyze a variety of aspects of games and related products, propose game concepts and create design documentation based on their findings. Topics are rotating based on current industry events and technologies, and may include market and legal analyses, representation and diversity, business practices, game and product evaluation and alternative uses for game technologies.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Analyze and define target audiences for a variety of interactive product types
  2. Critically analyze current legal, representational and ethical issues within the game industry
  3. Critically analyze what defines a successful gaming product
  4. Define and categorize different gaming genres and alternative uses for gaming technologies
  5. Design and pitch a game concept, with emphasis on market feasibility analysis
  6. Explain demonetization and market techniques used by currently trending packages
  7. Produce a design document for class evaluation and discussion

CIS135GMA Introduction to 3-D Modeling (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels. Recommended co-requisite: CIS125GA.

This class provides an overview of the Maya interface and an introduction to various topics and technique used in game, movie, commercial and interactive applications. Students achieve beginner-level Maya familiarity and an understanding of the first tier of menus. Topics covered include basic navigation and menu familiarity, polygon and "low-poly" techniques, non-uniform rational B-spline (NURBS), basic rendering and lighting in mental ray and Maya software.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Apply realistic lighting and shading
  2. Create and optimize game-ready low polygon models
  3. Demonstrate appropriate techniques for creating game engine ready UV layouts.
  4. Demonstrate correct use of a variety of texture maps within the Hypershade Material Editor
  5. Identify and understand object and component level elements of a model
  6. Produce studio quality renders

CIS135GMB Intermediate Game Modeling (Course offered online)

Credits 3Winter

Registration Requirement: CIS135GMA; or instructor consent.

This class provides further experience with the Maya interface and menus. Intermediate techniques and tools are covered, as well as further exploration of theory, lighting and rendering. Students create more advanced models and learn techniques to prepare them for export and use in interactive environments. Students are encouraged to select a focus for their modeling and begin creating content for an entry-level portfolio and demo reel.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Analyze different UV techniques for use on different model types
  2. Create complex lighting and rendering scenarios
  3. Create game ready, modular environment kits
  4. Model complex objects within given specifications and themes
  5. Prepare models and texture maps for import and use in game engines

CIS135GMC Advanced 3-D Modeling (Course offered online)

Credits 3Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels. Co-requisite: CIS235ANM.

(Formerly CIS235GMA) This course covers advanced 3-D modeling and character development using Maya. Emphasis is placed on proper topology for deformation and biomechanics, advanced modeling techniques, and character design.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Create animation ready character models
  2. Demonstrate different modeling techniques for high and low poly applications
  3. Efficiently UV and UVwrap a complex character model
  4. Evaluate topological needs based on use and natural biomechanics
  5. Identify main anatomical structures and muscle groups

CIS135GRA Graphics for Game Asset Development I (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels. Basic computer skills are required.

This course covers the basic fundamentals of 2D graphical element creation for use in various aspects of the computer game development, including asset texturing, Graphical User Interface / Heads Up Display (GUI/HUD) applications and Sprite sheets. Emphasis of this class is on technique and software usage. Various proprietary and open-source software packages are used.

Additional Course Fee: $35.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Create useable sprite sheets for 2D gaming applications
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of the basic tools sets needed to create 2d Graphical elements
  3. Design user friendly HUD interfaces
  4. Evaluate appropriate techniques and file formats on a per project basis
  5. Identify the various 2D elements for different genres in a production pipeline
  6. Use Vector based imaging programs to create custom branding for their projects

CIS135GRB Graphics for Game Asset Development II (Course offered online)

Credits 3Winter

Registration Requirement: CIS135GRA, or strong experience in image manipulation software (e.g., Photoshop); or instructor consent. Recommended co-requisite: CIS135GMB.

(Formerly CIS197TXT) This course covers basic and "Next-Gen" texturing for 3-D models and game applications. Texturing concepts and practice are used to create more efficient models and environments, as well as introducing core concepts of the Hypershad, UV texture editor and introductory digital sculpting techniques.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Create an entry level portfolio piece using digital sculpting with an industry standard software package
  2. Demonstrate how various attributes of a shader can be used to effectively simulate real world materials
  3. Demonstrate the construction of a variety of procedural materials
  4. Describe how controllable properties of light are used to define a surface within a rendering engine
  5. Identify techniques for using digital sculpting in an asset development pipeline
  6. Use the UV texture editor to unwrap, flatten and pack UV shells

CIS135TXP Special Topics in Emerging Technologies (Course offered online)

Credits 3Spring

Registration Requirement: CIS125GA, CIS135GMB, and either CIS135GRA or CIS197WAG; or workforce proficiency; or instructor permission.

This course covers a rotating topic in game technology, allowing students to supplement their skills with an specialty class in a variety of trending technological topics, such as Alternative User interfaces (Kinect, Oculus rift) Visual FX, AR (augmented reality), VR (Virtual reality), motion capture, and other currently relevant topics.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Compare and contract advantages and disadvantages of presented material in context with real world project scenarios
  2. Create a project demonstrating proficiency in the currently selected topic
  3. Design concept project documentation appropriate to the presented technology
  4. Evaluate topics potential in context of portfolio and job market
  5. Explore current, trending hardware/software or techniques

CIS151 Introduction to Networks

Credits 4Summer/Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels.

CIS151 is the first of a three-course sequence that uses the Cisco Networking Academy curriculum. The course is a comprehensive program designed to teach student networking and internetworking technology skills. It introduces networking standards, concepts, topology, media and terminology including LANs, WANs, the OSI model, cabling, IP addressing, subnetting, network hardware and various protocols. Additional material is supplied that goes beyond the scope of the Cisco curriculum.

Additional Course Fee: $35.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Explain advances in modern network technologies; identify and utilize all (7) layers of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model.
  2. Explain how routers use network layer protocols and services to enable end-to-end connectivity.
  3. Calculate numbers between decimal, binary, and hexadecimal systems.
  4. Configure initial settings including passwords, Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) or Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) addressing, and default gateway parameters on network switches, routers, and/or end devices (such as PCs, servers, printers, etc.); configure switches and routers with device hardening features to enhance security.
  5. Explain how Ethernet operates in a switched network to provide communication through the use of the physical and data-link layers; determine how Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) and Neighbor Discovery (ND) enable communication between devices.
  6. Use various tools to test network connectivity.

CIS152 Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials

Credits 4Winter

Registration Requirement: CIS151.

CIS152 is the second of a three-course sequence that uses the Cisco Networking Academy curriculum. This course provides an overview of hardware device configurations, switching and routing concepts, an introduction to wireless technologies, and extensive troubleshooting opportunities. This course also provides additional information on routing theory and protocols beyond that of the basic Cisco Networking Academy semester two course, leading to a more detailed understanding of routing.

Additional Course Fee: $35.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Explain how First-Hop Redundancy Protocols (FHRPs) provide default gateway services in a redundant network.
  2. Configure and troubleshoot static and default routes.
  3. Implement virtual local area networks (VLANs) and trunking in a switched network; troubleshoot inter-VLAN routing on Layer 3 devices.
  4. Implement Dynamic Host Control Protocol version 4 (DHCPv4) or Dynamic Host Control Protocol version 6 (DHCPv6) to operate across multiple local area networks (LANs); configure switch security to mitigate LAN attacks.
  5. Configure and troubleshoot static and default routes.
  6. Implement a Wireless LAN (WLAN) using a wireless router and Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) to enable network connectivity.

CIS153 Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation

Credits 4Winter/Spring

Registration Requirement: CIS152.

This third course is a sequence of Cisco Networking Academy curricula provides students with a deeper understanding of the advanced functionality of routers and switches. Students will get experience with the Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) routing protocol, design access control lists to filter network traffic. They will also develop the knowledge and skills needed to manage, design, troubleshoot, and virtualize networks while automate certain network tasks.

Additional Course Fee: $35.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Implement single-area Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) routing protocols in both point-to-point and broadcast multi-access networks.
  2. Implement Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) ACLs to filter traffic and secure administrative access; explain how networking devices implement Quality of Service (QoS).
  3. Configure network address translation (NAT) services on the edge router to provide IPv4 address scalability.
  4. Explain how virtual private networks (VPNs) and IP Security (IPsec) secure site-to-site and remote access connectivity.
  5. Explain the purpose and characteristics of network automation and virtualization through the use of RESTful APIs and configuration management tools.

CIS195 Interface Design for Interactive Applications (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: MTH020 with a grade of "C" or better; or placement above stated course levels.

This non-coding course covers the fundamentals of creating testable design prototypes for a variety of interactive applications including websites, mobile and application development, internet of things and game design. It brings together explorations of user feedback, prototyping methods and interface design to create optimal user experiences.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Contrast the pros and cons of different prototyping methods
  2. Describe the roles of user feedback testing in iterative prototyping
  3. Demonstrate various design techniques for mobile devices
  4. Critically analyze existing user interfaces for appropriate form and function in a variety of applications
  5. Critically analyzes social media's influence on UI (User Interfaces) and UX ( User Experience ) design
  6. Design an appropriate navigational structure for a complex application
  7. Identify and describe a target audience and create designs interfaces appropriate to a variety of human based scenarios

CIS197CSP Web Authoring: Client-Side Programming (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall

Registration Requirement: Co-requisite: CIS197HTM, or HTML experience equal to CIS197HTM and instructor consent.

This introductory programming course presents the fundamentals of creating dynamic HTML documents using client-side programming techniques such as JavaScript or AJAX. Topics included: variables and data types, syntax, objects and functions (built-in, user-defined), embedding scripts into HTML documents, security tips and concerns and using the Document Model (DOM).

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Demonstrate functions (built-in and user-defined)
  2. Describe and use variables
  3. Develop scripts that correctly implement solutions to specific web page tasks
  4. Embed script code into web pages
  5. Identify all components of objects
  6. Utilize DOM techniques on a form to capture data and prepare it for emailing
  7. Write a syntactically correct script

CIS197HTM Web Authoring: HTML5 and CSS3 (Course offered online)

Credits 3Summer/Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels. General computer and internet knowledge is strongly recommended for student success.

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of web design with a focus on exposing students to HTML5 and CSS3 (the building blocks of web design and development). Students will learn how to use the appropriate tools and strategies to build simple web pages fully from code intentionally and effectively. This course will also feature coding best practices and the fundamentals of layout design for modern usage.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Begin to demonstrate best practices within the web design field in terms of writing effective code and crafting page design
  2. Deeply understand fundamental concepts of the HTML5 and CSS3 languages and make intentional choices in code to produce desired outcomes
  3. Use the appropriate tools and organizational strategies to build a simple web page using HTML5 and CSS3 in a modern environment

CIS197WAA Web Authoring: Applications

Credits 3Winter

Registration Requirement: MTH020 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement above stated course levels.

This introductory course covers the basics of creating web pages using popular web design software. The course includes basic page creation, format and layout manipulation, basic site navigation, forms and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). Incorporation of various table styles, images, basic animation and media objects are covered. Intermediate knowledge of computers, computer systems and mobile devices equal to CIS120 is strongly recommended for student success.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Compare and contrast web hosting services to determine the most appropriate hosting service for a given website project
  2. Compare and contrast website designs to determine the most appropriate design for a given application
  3. Create complex websites accessible via appropriate navigational techniques
  4. Critique existing websites designs for form and function
  5. Cultivate and maintain a successful client-designer relationship for the duration of a website design project
  6. Demonstrate the techniques to incorporate various Web images and animation into a Web page
  7. Describe and demonstrate the interface between popular Web design software and other popular support software
  8. Design and defend a Web page layout using a variety of solutions

CIS225 Computer End-User Support I (Course offered online)

Credits 4Winter

Registration Requirement: Corequisite: CIS120 and CIS120L or ISTM183A; or instructor consent.

This course explores software tools to help manage requests for end-user support and resolve problems in a timely fashion including: computer-user support and customer service skills; troubleshooting basic computer problems; help desk operation; user support management; product evaluation strategies and support standards; user needs analysis and assessment methods; installing end-user computer systems; training computer users; and writing for end-users and computer facilities management. Various software will be explained for features such as logging and tracking incoming calls, audit trail, escalations, notification and follow-up, standard reporting, guide help systems and "gathered knowledge" for an expert system.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Demonstrate the use of a basic tracking or ticketing system providing support consistent with the needs of a small- or medium-sized non-technical business.
  2. Design and demonstrate communication skills (speaking, writing, presentation) appropriate for delivering technical support to non-technical customers.
  3. Discuss, design, and defend a variety of software, applications, and systems necessary to provide technical support to a small or medium sized business (including existing programs, applications, etc. necessary to organize and track customer service issues)

CIS235 Game Design Theory

Credits 3Winter

Registration Requirement: CIS135 or instructor consent.

Students design and describe various techniques for developing immersive game levels and how to use a variety of tools to make an engaging and successful game. Emphasis will be placed on design and analysis, as well as implementing strategy, conflicts and player goals.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Critically analyze a variety of game design theories and their usage in different genres
  2. Cite specific techniques for enhancing the playability of example designs
  3. Analyze and critique peer projects for playability, marketability and appeal
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of design theories through design documents and project proposals
  5. Apply iterative prototyping based on peer feedback
  6. Prioritize design elements with respect to the technological limitations of proposed build platforms
  7. Create project proposals on given criteria

CIS235ANM Introduction to 3-D Animation (Course offered online)

Credits 3Spring

Registration Requirement: CIS135GMA or instructor consent.

Students are introduced to the classical principles of animation and learn how to translate realistic movement, weight and appeal into a 3-D environment. Students study techniques used for both the games and movie industry and create action and idle loops for games, as well as learn how to create a narrative animation to a sound clip.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Compare and contrast different animations techniques useful for enhancing a story
  2. Create animations with realistic weight and movement
  3. Create game-engine ready looping cycles
  4. Describe how to use appeal and exaggeration to tell a story
  5. Identify and apply the 12 principles of animation
  6. Illustrate basic animation techniques
  7. Translate traditional animation methods into 3D space

CIS235CXP Career Specific Exploration for Game Majors (Course offered online)

Credits 3Winter

Registration Requirement: CIS135GMC, CIS235TLC, CIS235RIG, and either CIS135GRA or CIS197WAG; or workforce proficiency; or instructor permission.

This course allows students to engage in an instructor guided curriculum to enhance their skills in their selected game-career path. Students will use a variety of external multimedia sources to compose, with instructor assistance and evaluation, a skill enhancing exploration of their chosen field.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Analyze job opportunities to create a useful exploration plan
  2. Compare and contrast advantages / disadvantages of different techniques to real world scenarios
  3. Demonstrate results of exploration through a variety of targeted, in class projects
  4. Design a personalized curriculum with assistance from instructor
  5. Utilize a variety of multi-media elements to enhance their chosen skill set

CIS235DD Introduction to Digital Painting and Concepting (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall

Registration Requirement: CIS135GRA or CIS197WAG or instructor consent. Experience with image software preferred.

Students utilize industry standard image manipulation software (such as Photoshop) and other digital art software as a medium for creating concept art, illustration and fine art for a variety of potential applications. Emphases is placed on utilizing the students' individual styles to create a marketable portfolio geared for their chosen industry.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Communicate deep understanding of volume, light and color
  2. Convert project designs into digital images
  3. Defend chosen graphic designs and/or fine art concepts
  4. Demonstrate proficiency with the software
  5. Design projects from concept to implementation
  6. Differentiate the appropriateness of various artworks for industry applications
  7. Evaluate several alternative solutions while working within predefined constraints
  8. Projects enhanced design skills to solve intermediate-level image manipulation needs

CIS235PUB Publishing for the Game Industry (Course offered online)

Credits 3Spring

Registration Requirement: Either CIS235CXP or CIS135TXP; or CIS235UNA; or workforce proficiency; or instructor permission.

This course brings together the outcomes from preceding courses, adding in the finalizing elements needed to bring an interactive application from concept to market. Students will analyze a variety of publishing, funding and social media platforms to design an appropriate and cohesive brand identity and associated marketing packages for their projects.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Identify the risks and benefits of various funding and publishing platforms
  2. Produce a platform appropriate build of a custom application
  3. Describe the process and benefits of alpha, beta and focus group testing on product development
  4. Analyze technological constraints in conjunction with market share when choosing appropriate release platforms
  5. Create a professional marketing package using the "4 Ps" of marketing
  6. Assess how to leverage various social media platforms in reaching target markets
  7. Design a professional brand identity to represent specific career goals
  8. Evaluate and explain the implementation of DLC (Downloadable content), IAP (In app purchases), and advertising as methods to increase revenue streams in the context of specific projects.

CIS235RIG Rigging for Animation and Games (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall

Registration Requirement: CIS235ANM.

Students learn basic 3-D object rigging techniques to create an object with motion believability. Using animation software such as Maya, students build skeleton and joint hierarchies, bind skin and use weight painting techniques to create realistic simulations of biomechanical principles for games and animation applications. Students learn industry standard control schemes, set driven keys and blend shapes to enhance their rigging systems.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Construct biomechanically accurate skeleton and joint systems appropriate for a range of organic models
  2. Create Blend Shapes for highly controllable and natural facial movements
  3. Differentiate various skin binding techniques
  4. Identify and define various principles of biomechanics and movement
  5. Integrate simple scripts to expedite time consuming processes
  6. Create and implement "set driven keys" to create automated movement and limit deformations on a model
  7. Use "weight painting" to predict the actions of polygons on a movable object (such as a muscle)""

CIS235ST Game Studio (Course offered online)

Credits 3Spring

Registration Requirement: CIS235UNA, CIS235CXP and prior work; or instructor consent.

This sixth-term course provides the student the opportunity to put the final polish on previous work in preparation for final portfolio. Finished materials will be organized into a portfolio suitable for presentation or upload to the web.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Appraise local game studios and the local game industry
  2. Collaborate with other students to complete complex projects (team development optional)
  3. Compile a portfolio
  4. Create an online portfolio website
  5. Demonstrate appropriate techniques for producing a portfolio
  6. Demonstrate proficiency with the software
  7. Reconstruct prior work in preparation for inclusion in portfolio
  8. Synthesize the combined experience of previous classes to create a new portfolio piece

CIS235TLC Team Level Creation (Course offered online)

Credits 3Fall

Registration Requirement: CIS125GA, CIS135GMA, CIS135GRA or instructor consent. Recommended Second-year program standing.

Students gain industry experience through production of a small, portfolio-quality game demo. Students utilize their chosen disciplines in a team environment, and get hands on experience with an industry standard game engine.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Adapt design documentation to create a demo to predefined specifications
  2. Appraise various techniques to develop a cohesive team to produce a portfolio quality final product
  3. Evaluate various roles within the game creation pipeline
  4. Integrate models, sound and animation into an original playable demo
  5. Use the Unreal engine or equivalent industry standard game engine in a group production environment
  6. Adhere to agile project management standard practices
  7. Demonstrate proficiency with the software

CIS235UNA Small Games Programming I (Course offered online)

Credits 3Winter

Registration Requirement: CIS125GA; or strong experience in game engine software or instructor approval.

Students build on their programming foundations to work with a popular industry game engine to produce functional games ideal for the mobile environment.

Additional Course Fee: $55.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Apply logical thinking to find ideal solutions for common programming problems
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of programming foundations through assigned projects
  3. Demonstrate proficiency with the software and engines
  4. Design a game concept incorporating common game techniques (e.g. looping, decision structures, hit points, etc.)
  5. Diagram flow charts, storyboards and pseudocode to express logical flows
  6. Identify key games mechanics for popular genres
  7. Integrate externally produced assets into a cohesive project
  8. Utilize engine specific functions for appropriate output platforms

CIS235UNB Small Games Programming II (Course offered online)

Credits 3Spring

Registration Requirement: CIS235UNA; or instructor consent.

Students individually design and produce fully functional games for web and mobile, using industry standard games engines and languages. Through guided projects, students create a portfolio-level application of their own design, demonstrating their understanding of programming foundations and engine specific tool sets.

Additional Course Fee: $55.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Apply balance and risk reward theories to a fully realized design
  2. Create design documents in industry standard formats
  3. Demonstrate proficiency with the engine and software
  4. Design a game concept incorporating common game techniques (e.g. looping, decision structures, hit points, etc.)
  5. Design functional user interfaces
  6. Diagram theories of level design and play
  7. Evaluate appropriate controls / GUI/ HUD solutions based on platform constraints
  8. Present and defend the game concept to the class
  9. Produce a playable game demo within the constraints set forth by the project

CIS276 SQL

Credits 4Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels.

CIS276 addresses the needs of information technology organizations to solve their data problems. User interaction with databases is accomplished using a "Structured Query Language" or SQL per the industry ANSI-SQL standard. The course presents SQL using Oracle as a vehicle, yet concepts and exercises are solvable using any propriety SQL.

Additional Course Fee: $65.00

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Decribe privileges necessary for a user to complete various tasks within SQL.
  2. Create, modify and drop database tables.
  3. Enforce business rules through the use of table constraints.
  4. Identify SQL differences amongst various databases.
  5. Issue SQL commands that will retrieve data based on criteria specified by a user.
  6. Manipulate data stored in database tables.
  7. Perform calculations based on data contained within a database.
  8. Use SQL commands to join tables and retrieve data from the joined tables.
  9. Use subqueries to retrieve data based on unknown conditions.

CIS279S Windows Server OS

Credits 4Fall/Spring

Registration Requirement: CIS151 or ISTM151N or instructor consent.

This course provides a foundation for supporting Microsoft Windows Server OS, including the skills to configure, customize, optimize, integrate and troubleshoot networks. This course is designed for the individual who may become responsible for the planning, design, implementation and support of a Windows Server. Topics covered include the active directory, networking, security, creating users/groups, the NTFS file system and troubleshooting. This course can assist students preparing for the Microsoft Windows Server certification examination.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Analysis and implement a disaster recovery program for the server environment
  2. Configure a Windows Server OS application server
  3. Examine and discuss software update services and licensing agreements
  4. Manage and maintain access to resources in a server environment
  5. Manage local, roaming and mandatory profiles
  6. Monitor server hardware
  7. Optimize server disk performance

CIS284S Preparation for Security+ (Course offered online)

Credits 4Fall/Winter

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W; and MTH020, each with a grade of "C" or better; or placement above stated course levels.

This course is designed to provide students with the fundamentals of computer security, and to help prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam. It covers material related to general computer security concepts, communications security, infrastructure security, basics of cryptography and operational/organizational security. Packet filtering, password policies and file integrity checking are also covered.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Create security policies to secure files and print resources
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of cryptography, access control and authentication
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of operational and organization security
  4. Demonstrate knowledge of security threats
  5. Prevent against external attack

CIS297 Capstone Project Development

Credits 4Spring

Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W, each with a grade of "C" or better; and MTH020; or placement above stated course levels.

This course is a capstone class for all students in the CIS and CS curriculum tracks. The application of newly acquired knowledge and skills to the real world is the student's ultimate goal of this course. Students select and explore a topic that both relates to their specific studies and their field of work. The result of this project is presented in an appropriate form to the student's peers and potentially, to the student's future/present employer as evidence of competence. In addition, students prepare material necessary to market one's self into their chosen career path.

View Course Outcomes:

  1. Apply and demonstrate their specific Cybersecurity (ISTM), Computer Information Systems (CIS) or Computer Science (CS) curriculum track knowledge in a real-world environment
  2. Create material to market one's self consistent with their chosen career path
  3. Develop and implement a problem solution/project specifically related to their area of concentration within the Cybersecurity (ISTM), Computer Information Systems (CIS) or Computer Science (CS) program, preparing the necessary materials to present the project to peers as well as potential/future employers
  4. Perform and operate in a team setting with other information technology literate individuals

Online option regularly offered

Cultural Literacy course