Online Computer Networking
Bachelor's Degree Program

This course provides instruction in fundamental object-oriented programming concepts. Topics include problem solving and algorithm development, programming standards, variables, data types, operators, decisions, repetitive statements, modularity, methods, attributes, objects, classes, arrays, file I/O, and software testing and debugging, all within an object-oriented programming framework. Concepts may be introduced with a visual tool. Topics are demonstrated and implemented in a higher-level contemporary language such as Java or C#.

This course provides instruction in network design and technologies using the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. Topics include network fundamentals, the OSI model, network operating systems, TCP/IP fundamentals and utilities, network installation and upgrades, network remote access configuration and protocols, network administration and security, fault tolerance and disaster recovery considerations and procedures, and network troubleshooting procedures.

This course is designed to introduce the transition or bridge student to the basic concepts related to information technology. Emphasis will be placed on the scope of computer architecture and troubleshooting, basic network concepts, TCPIP, Windows and Linux operating systems, network security fundamentals, routing and switching concepts, and virtualization.

This course provides an introduction to fundamental principles and guidelines for designing, developing, and implementing secure relational databases. Topics include: Database as a Service (DBaaS); entity relationships as foundations of relational database design; ensuring data integrity; the use of standard SQL as a means of developing complex queries; and the use of comparison operators to customize data presentation for reporting.

This course provides instruction in microcomputer software and hardware concepts using the latest technology and troubleshooting techniques. Topics include the function and purpose of hardware and software, system board components and memory management, working with floppy and hard drives, supporting input and output devices, multimedia technology, supporting operating systems, printers, and notebook computers, troubleshooting fundamentals, applying disaster-recovery techniques and developing maintenance plans, and working with networks and the Internet.

This course introduces the capabilities and features of Linux as a multi-user operating system. Topics include planning and installing a Linux system, using and managing desktop interfaces, working with Linux shells and text files, performing system administration and management tasks such as file system management, application, process, and module management, network services installation and configuration, system security evaluation and enhancement, performance tuning, and troubleshooting techniques.

This course introduces basic security principles, such as establishing an effective security policy, and the different types of hacker activities that are most likely to be encountered. It will instruct the student in the latest security industry recommendations and how to properly protect leading OS servers in a variety of settings as well as how to conduct security audits.

This course introduces part one of concepts and procedures required to utilize industry standard switches and routers in multi-protocol internetworks. Topics include exploring router components and their function, configuring routers according to the industry standard operating system (OS), routing fundamentals in a subnetted network infrastructure, and LAN design technologies. The class focuses on the TCP/IP protocol suite and IP addressing in regards to function and importance in a routed environment. Routing protocol basics, such as static and dynamic routing techniques, are covered, with extensive labs and hands-on exercises.

This course is a continuation of the Routers and Switches I course and is based on current industry standards. The focus of the course will cover topics such as switching basics, intermediate routing, introduction to VLSM (variable length subnet masking), scaling IP addresses, route flapping, RIP version 2, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol implementation, switching concepts in regards to LAN design, VLAN configuration, and VLAN trunking techniques. The class also explores the leading industry standards associated with WAN communication technologies and design such as ISDN, PPP, and Frame Relay operations.

This course is a study of intermediate to advanced topics regarding Linux server-based applications. Topics include advanced Linux system administration, using Linux as an e-mail server, FTP server, database server, web server, and news server. Topics will also discuss implementing Linux services including DHCP, DNS, NIS, firewall, and network security.

This course covers the Python programming language. Topics include the basic elements of programming, variables, assignment statements, built-in data types, conditions, loops, arrays, and I/O. This class covers programming skills such as algorithm development, and program design with functions. It also includes an introduction to object-oriented programming and GUI programming concepts and topics.

This course is designed to help students develop skills that will enable them to produce clear and effective scientific and technical documents. Focus will be on basic principles of good writing-which scientific and technical writing shares with other forms of writing-and on types of documents common in scientific and technical fields and organizations. While the emphasis will be on writing, oral communication of scientific and technical information will form an important component of the course, as well. The processes and techniques used to produce manuals and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily will be explored.

This course develops knowledge and skills in data storage. Students will learn data storage principles, architectures, and implementations. Topics include: storage system principles, architectures, and implementations; storage networking technologies; datacenter environment, storage backup, archive, and replication; cloud computing; and data storage security and infrastructure management.

This course covers techniques and managerial concepts of information technology project management. It prepares students to manage complex information technology projects. Students are introduced to all five major process groups in project management, namely initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing. Topics include project life cycles, cost benefit analysis, work breakdown structure, staffing, roles, responsibilities, accountability, finance, estimation, budgeting, planning, risk management, scheduling, and tracking. The course also introduces students to computer software for project management. Students will work in teams to design a project plan for a real-world IT project that demonstrates an ability to follow standard project management methodology.

This course develops knowledge and skills in cloud computing. Students will learn cloud computing principles, architectures, and implementations. Topics include cloud computing history, principles, architectures, and implementations, cloud services and solutions, virtualization, network infrastructure and access, data storage, security, end-user access, and standards and compliance.

This course develops knowledge and skills in Microsoft Windows client and server operating systems. Topics include installing the client and server operating systems, planning, installing, managing, and troubleshooting server roles, features, and network services, implementing and conducting administration of resources, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting hardware devices and drivers, monitoring and optimizing performance, reliability and availability, managing, configuring, and troubleshooting storage use, configuring and troubleshooting the desktop environment and network connections, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting network protocols, and implementing, monitoring, and troubleshooting security.

This course is designed to provide instruction in implementing and administering a modern network infrastructure. Topics include installing, configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting domain name services, network protocols, Windows Internet Name Services (WINS), Internet Protocol Routing, network address translation (NAT), and Certificate Services.

This course provides instruction in computer operating system virtualization concepts and practices. Topics include business and performance benefits of virtualization, local and network storage management, creating and managing stand-alone virtual machines, cloning virtual machines, virtualization in the network operations center, software and network testing using virtualization, virtualization as a disaster recovery tool, and managing and tuning virtual machine and virtual infrastructure performance. Emphasis is placed on learning several virtualization environments and approaches, both proprietary and open-source. Concepts will be illustrated and enforced with a variety of actual installations and practical projects.

This course provides instruction on both general and specific wireless technologies. Topics include wireless theory, including radio frequency and infrared transmissions. It also covers wireless topologies, access points, wireless bridges, antenna theory, wireless security, site surveys, and troubleshooting techniques.

This course provides an introduction to automating administrative tasks using scripts. Students will design and implement scripts of moderate complexity that automate administrative tasks such as the creation of user accounts, the administration of disk drive and printer, and the management of system services and event logs. Scripts may be written using languages such as Bourne and C, and Korn shells and JScript, VBScript, and Perl. Topics include tools and utilities, interactive command line programs, shell programming using constructs, variables, commands, functions, and debugging processes.

This course provides instruction in the implementation, administration, and troubleshooting of e-mail messaging systems. Topics include the architecture and communication abilities of mail servers, installation of mail servers, backward integration and compatibility, client support and configuration, real-time collaboration, foreign mail system connectors, SMTP and Internet-based client access, security techniques, performance monitoring, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting issues.

This class will immerse the student into an interactive environment where they will be shown how to scan, test, hack, and secure their own systems. The lab-intensive environment gives each student in-depth knowledge and practical experience with the current essential security systems. Students will begin by understanding how perimeter defenses work and then be led into scanning and attacking their own networks; no real network is harmed. Students then learn how intruders escalate privileges and what steps can be taken to secure a system. Students will also learn about intrusion detection, policy creation, social engineering, open-source intelligence, incident handling, and log interpretation.

Voice-over IP is an emerging technology which allows the transmission of voice signals over a data network. This course teaches the student how to install and configure the voice-over IP telephony technology. Topics include installing and configuring voice and data network routers, configuring voice-over frame relay, ATM and IP, configuring voice ports and dial peers, voice traffic analysis, and QoS.

Students work individually or in project teams on an industry-sponsored or instructor-approved project. They will identify a problem, develop design specifications based on stakeholder needs, consider alternative designs, develop a schedule and/or budget, and design, develop, and test the proposed process or product. Interim reports to the sponsor or to the class, a final project report, and a final presentation will be required.

This is an elective course in bachelor's programs that students may take in their final semester. The career internship course is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in the computer science and information technology fields. The outcome of the internship is an informed student fully apprised of the opportunities their program offers for professional growth. During the internship, the student will experience various aspects of working in the actual field in which the student has been educated. The internship is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to experience and participate in duties typical of a contemporary workplace setting. Student learning centers on observing experienced personnel as well as participating in actual hands-on procedures under close supervision of trained professionals.

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success.  Topics include but are not limited to Canvas support, student support services, e-books, university policies, resumes, self-reflection, time management, goal setting, and strategies for anxiety reduction.

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.