Computer Science/Information Technology, Associate in Applied Science
Program Description
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Information Technology prepares students for entry-level positions in various computer-related roles within the IT field. The program features a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential areas such as hardware, software, operating systems, information security, networking, computing fundamentals, and cloud computing. It is also designed to equip students with the skills needed for the integration, design, deployment, and management of computing resources and services. This program prepares students for industry-recognized certifications, enhancing their qualifications and career prospects.
The department recommends the following minimal criteria for prospective students in the Computer Science/Information Technology program:
1. High school diploma or equivalent
2. Cumulative high school grade point average of C or above
3. Ranked in top half of high school graduating class
4. No developmental studies requirement
Transfer Information
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees are intended to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce. The NJ Statewide Transfer Agreement does not guarantee the transfer of credit/coursework when a student earns an AAS degree and continues on to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor's degree. Students are encouraged to work closely with OCC faculty and Advising Transfer Services. Students planning to transfer to a four-year institution in NJ can explore the “Transfer Programs” feature on NJ Transfer www.njtransfer.org.
Career Information
The Associate of Applied Science Degrees are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to start employment upon graduation. Several of the A.A.S. degrees provide the opportunity for the student to gain work experience by offering internship credit. These degrees are usually technical in nature and prepare the student for certification and licensing exams necessary to work in their field of choice. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with OCC faculty and Career Services as they begin to explore career options. OCC students can also utilize Focus2 Career, a resource provided by OCC, to explore degree programs and corresponding careers. To get started, log in through Ocean Connect.
Students are encouraged to keep track of degree requirements by using the “My Progress” screen on Student Planning. Student Planning can be accessed via logging into Ocean Connect.
Program Requirements
| First Semester | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL 151 | English I | 3 |
| MATH 151 | A Survey of Mathematics (or Higher) | 3-4 |
| Humanities Gen. Ed. or Social Science Gen. Ed | 3 | |
| CSIT 124 | Introduction to Programming | 3 |
| CSIT 144 Introduction to Operating System Using Linux | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15-16 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| ENGL 152 | English II | 3 |
| CSIT 185 | Networking I | 3 |
| CSIT 145 | Computing Fundamentals | 3 |
| CSIT 200 | Information Security Fundamentals | 3 |
| CSIT Elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Third Semester | ||
| CSIT 243 | Cisco Networking Fundamentals | 3 |
| CSIT 277 | Introduction to Cloud Computing | 4 |
| Any Gen. Ed. Requirement | 6 | |
| CSIT Elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 16 | |
| Fourth Semester | ||
| Any CSIT, Business, Math, or Science Electives | 14 | |
| Credit Hours | 14 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 60-61 | |
Computer Science/Information Technology Electives
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Students can choose any CSIT course (CSIT 115 or higher). Students are not required to select a specific area of interest/concentration. | ||
Suggested Business Studies Electives
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT 161 | Principles of Accounting I | 3 |
| BUSN 131 | Introduction to Business Administration | 3 |
| BUSN 134 | Principles of Marketing | 3 |