Department of Information Systems
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Undergraduate Course Listing
Information Systems (IS) Courses
| IS 101 | Introduction to Computer Based Systems (Credits: 3) |
| An overview of computer information systems. This survey course introduces computer hardware, software, procedures, systems, and human resources and explores their integration and application in business and in other segments of society. The fundamentals of computer problem solving and programming in a higher-level programming language are discussed and demonstrated. | |
| IS 125 | Information Systems Logic and Structured Design (Credits: 3) |
| This course teaches the development of well-structured solutions to various programming applications as a preparation for programming languages courses. Concepts of data's representations, handling, and physical/logical interface are emphasized. A variety of logical and mathematical tools for problem solving are introduced. | |
| IS 147 | Introduction to Computer Programming (Credits: 3) |
| This course introduces the basic principles and techniques involved in computer programming and computing. Methods of algorithm development, program development and program design are taught using an object-oriented programming language. Projects are geared toward those typically encountered in the information systems field Prerequisite: IS 101 recommended. | |
| IS 199 | Service Learning and Information Systems (Credits: 3) |
| This service-learning experience is for all levels of students providing IS-related support for community organizations. The course has a co-requisite of Prac 096 which needs to be arranged through the Shriver Center prior to registering for IS 199. This service-learning experience is for all levels of students providing IS-related support for community organizations. The course has a co-requisite of Prac 096 which needs to be arranged through the Shriver Center prior to registering for IS 199. This service-learning experience is for all levels of students providing IS-related support for community organizations. The course has a co-requisite of Prac 096 which needs to be arranged through the Shriver Center prior to registering for IS 199. This service-learning experience is for all levels of students providing IS-related support for community organizations. The course has a co-requisite of Prac 096 which needs to be arranged through the Shriver Center prior to registering for IS 199. | |
| IS 202 | Systems Analysis Methods (Credits: 3) |
| An overview of the system development life cycle. Emphasis on current system documentation through the use of both classical and structured tools/techniques for describing process flows, data flows, data structures, file designs, input and output designs and program specifications. Discussion of the information gathering and reporting activities and of the transition from analysis to design. Prerequisite: IS 101. | |
| IS 246 | Topics in Programming Languages and Tools (Credits: 3) |
| This course will introduce a high-level programming language or a development tool. The specific language or tool may vary and more than one may be offered (the letter suffix will be used to distinguish them). Prerequisite: One semester of programming. Note: This course may be repeated when the language or tool is different. IS 246 counts as a third semester of programming for the IS BS majors. | |
| IS 247 | Computer Programming II (Credits: 3) |
| This second course in a sequence continues the development of programming and problem-solving skills, focusing on topics such as: lists, searching and sorting, sets, stacks, queues, trees and an introduction to analyses of algorithm time and space requirements. Prerequisite: IS 147. | |
| IS 295 | Intermediate Business Applications (Credits: 3) |
| Extends the introduction of business-oriented application programs to include intermediate functions from typical productivity software found in many businesses and organizations. Stresses the use of case studies to develop and implement solutions using functions from programs such as spreadsheet and databases. Prerequisite: IS 101. | |
| IS 298 | Special Topics in Information Systems (Credits: 1 - 3) |
| A topic at the intermediate level which deals with the design, implementation or post- installation review of information processing systems. Note: Admission by permission of the instructor. | |
| IS 300 | Management Information Systems (Credits: 3) |
| An overview of Management Information Systems (MIS) including the development of transaction processing systems and their relationship to management reporting systems. The course objectives include developing an understanding of the purpose, functions, components, and applications of transaction processing systems and management reporting systems in private and public organizations; and describing and evaluating policies for information resource management. Prerequisite: One course in Information Systems or Computer Science. | |
| IS 303 | Human Factors in Computer System Design (Credits: 3) |
| This course provides a survey of human factors and human-centered computing relevant to the design and use of information systems. It describes the contributions of information systems, computer science, psychology, sociology, and engineering to human-centered computing. Emphasis is placed on human factors theories, human information processing concepts, interaction design approaches, and usability evaluation methods. Application areas and current research are also reviewed. Prerequisite: One course in Information Systems or Computer Science. | |
| IS 304 | Ethical Issues in Information Systems (AH) (Credits: 3) |
| A survey course that reviews the ethical impact of information systems and related technology throughout the world. The course examines the policy issues that relate to the use of information systems, such as persona, privacy, rights of access, security, trans-border data flow and confidentiality. Prerequisite: Any 300 level IS course. Note: Credit will not be given for both IS 304 and PHIL 252. | |
| IS 310 | Software and Hardware Concepts (Credits: 3) |
| A survey of technical topics related to computer systems with emphasis on the relationships between hardware architecture, system software, and applications software. The architecture of processors and storage systems are explored and the implications for systems software design are covered along with the impact of hardware and system software design on the development of application programs in a business environment. Prerequisite: One semester of programming and Calculus placement. | |
| IS 317 | Accounting Information Systems (Credits: 3) |
| This course examines accounting systems concepts and technologies, transcation processing systems and the control of accounting information. The roles and uses of technology will be explored in regard to accounting systems design, financial and processing controls, performance evaluation and information security. Prerequisite: ECON 122. Note: Also listed as ECAC 317. | |
| IS 325 | Introduction to Management Science (Credits: 3) |
| A survey of the concepts and techniques of management science, including decision making tools, mathematical programming, networks, and operations management and simulation. Prerequisite: IS 300 and Calculus or permission of the instructor. | |
| IS 350 | Business Communications Systems (Credits: 3) |
| A survey of business data communications for end users of computer networks. Students will gain a basic understanding of the features, operations and limitations of different types of communications and network systems. Topics covered include: fundamentals of data and signals, telecommunications systems, wired and wireless media, error control, local area networks, wide area networks, the internet and network security. This course will provide the student the knowledge and ability to interact with the system professional administering these areas. Prerequisite: IS 300. Note: Open to B.A. students only. | |
| IS 352 | Women, Gender, and Information Technology (Credits: 3) |
| This course examines important issues concerning women, gender, and information technology (IT). Students will consider topics as history of women’s involvement with IT; how women are impacted by technology; how women and girls fare in the educational setting as well as online; and the way that gender intersects with IT in relation to other dimensions of women’s experience such as race, class, and age. Students will connect issues relevant to women and IT to their own career choices, interact with women in the IT field, and utilize technology for research and presentation. Prerequisite: A prior course in Computer Science, Information Systems, or Women’s Studies. Note: Also listed as GWST 352 and CMSC 352. | |
| IS 369 | Research Seminar: Writing in Information Systems (W) (Credits: 3) |
| This seminar course introduces students to current research writing in the fields related to Information Systems. Students will be required to read examples of current research publications in order to immprove their professional analytical, communications and interacting skills. The course is designed to improve students skills through reading and critiquing the IS literature, preparing written reviews of journal articles, making presentations and interacting collaboratively. The content areas for this work will relate to the broad topical areas that encompass the field of information systems that have been encountered through other courses in the program. Prerequisite: ENGL 100 plus on IS 200-level course. | |
| IS 387 | Web Content Development (Credits: 3) |
| This course focuses on the creation and organization of web content that meets the information needs of end-users and serves the communication purposes of the site’s sponsors or creators. Students will learn how to analyze information architecture, navigation, audience and usability of good and bad Websites; conduct online research about best practices; talk with Web content developers from a variety of fields; and develop the Web content plan for a site. Prerequisite: ENGL 391, ENGL 393, or permission of the instructor. Note: This course does not fulfill the requirement for a third semester of programming for the IS B.S. | |
| IS 399 | Cooperative Education in Information Systems (Credits: 1 - 3) |
| This course provides the opportunity for IS majors to earn academic credit while employed in a professional position under the Cooperative Education Program. The course is repeatable to a maximum of six credits for a second co-op assignment. Course grading is Pass/Fail only, based on the students meeting the requirements of the Office of Professional Practice, and an acceptable performance evaluation from the employer. Note-. This course cannot be used to fulfill the major requirement for an upper-level IS elective. Prerequisite: Admission to the Cooperative Education program. | |
| IS 400 | Individual Study in Information Systems (Credits: 1 - 3) |
| Course open to IS majors only. Students considering enrolling in this course are encouraged to meet with the faculty member coordinating the individual study to determine the course requirements, and there is advisor to determine if the course fits their needs. Note: Repeatable for a maximum of 6 credits. | |
| IS 403 | User Interface Design (Credits: 3) |
| A second semester human-centered computing course in which the student will have the opportunity to apply the user interface theories, guidelines and principles presented in the introductory course. The goal of the course is for the student to follow the complete systems development life cycle in analyzing, designing, developing, implementing and evaluating an interactive user interface. Course activities include producing project milestone deliverables, developing a design report, coding an interactive interface and conducting a formal interface evaluation. Prerequisite: IS 303. | |
| IS 410 | Introduction to Database Design (Credits: 3) |
| The course introduces the student to the process of database development, including data modeling, database design, and database implementation. Students learn basic interactive SQL for both data definition and queries. Students practice design skills by developing a small database project. Note: Completion of the IS B.S. gateway. | |
| IS 413 | GUI Systems Using Java (Credits: 3) |
| This course has the objective of introducing the student to graphical user interface systems using the most current version of Java. Students will learn to implement a series of interactive stand-alone or web-based interfaces. Event handling and multi-threaded Java programs will be studied. Image and data transmission via the internet will be presented. Students will read articles from the current research literature that offer guidelines in interface design. Familiarity with UNIX file and directory manipulation is recommended. Prerequisite: IS 247 or CMSC 201. Note: Permission of the department is required. | |
| IS 417 | Information Systems for Auditors (Credits: 3) |
| Information Systems Auditing involves the examination of controls within an organization's IT inforstructure. Formerly known as EDP Audit, the IS Audit involves collecting and evaluating evidence about an organization's systems, practices and operations. This course covers methods and outcomes of those procedures as well as the impact and implications involving controls mandated by governmental agencies. Prerequisite: ECAC 321 and IS 300. Note: Also listed as ECAC 420. Credit will not be given for both IS 417 and ECAC 420. | |
| IS 420 | Database Application Development (Credits: 3) |
| The course offers hands-on experience for developing client/server database applications using a major database management system. Students learn how to create and manipulate database objects including tables, views, and sequences; develop program units using SQL; and implement client applications such as forms and reports. The course provides students with first-hand experience developing prototype client/server applications. Prerequisite: IS 410. | |
| IS 425 | Decision Support Systems (Credits: 3) |
| This course provides an overview of the theoretical and organizational aspects of decision support systems (DSS), including descriptive and prescriptive decision making concepts, individual and group decision support systems, and executive information systems. Management of DSS within the end-user environment also is discussed. Projects using DSS software are required, and case examples are discussed. Prerequisite: IS 410 and ECAD 210. IS 325 is strongly recommended. | |
| IS 427 | Artificial Intelligence (Credits: 3) |
| This course will provide an introduction to, and hands-on experience with, several Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques. It will begin with the concepts and design of knowledge-based systems; the students will identify the issues arising in the design of rule-based systems. Machine learning, particularly neural network topologies will be introduced. The class will also include a discussion of recent advances in AI, including intelligent agents, natural language processing, evolutionary computing and case based reasoning. Prerequisite: IS 425. | |
| IS 428 | Data Mining Techniques and Applications (Credits: 3) |
| ata mining is the exploration and analysis of large quantities of data in discover hidden and meaningful patterns. Students will learn both how data mining techniques work and how to apply data mining to various business and organizational contexts in this course. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of how data mining is changing the way businesses understand their customers and make decisions. Prerequisite: IS 410 and STAT 351. | |
| IS 430 | Information Systems & Security (Credits: 3) |
| A survey course relating to the establishment and maintenance of a practical information security program. The security implications of databases, telecommunications systems and software are examined, as are techniques to assess risks and to discover abuses of systems. Prerequisite: IS 300 and IS 310. | |
| IS 432 | Computer Viruses (Credits: 3) |
| Through a review of the current literature, a survey of state-of-the-art software tools, and an examination of actual microcomputer based viruses, the course is intended to prepare students for the eventuality of having to protect their machines and data against the increasingly common threat of viruses. Prerequisite: IS 300 or permission of the instructor. | |
| IS 434 | The Evolution of Modern Information Systems (Credits: 3) |
| This course examines the impact of information systems on nearly every aspect of life in the United States and other countries. It traces the developments that have made this situation possible; especially those changes following the release of the personal computer and the rise of networking. Included are topics related to increasing reliance on information systems within the economic and social context of the "computer revolution". Prerequisite: IS 300 or permission of the instructor. | |
| IS 436 | Structured Systems Analysis and Design (Credits: 3) |
| A capstone course involving advanced study and application of structured analysis and design methods through the system life cycle. Emphasis is given to the common approaches for gathering requirements, modeling, analyzing, and designing information systems. Managing the complexity of system development projects is also addressed. These skills are applied via a semester-long team-based field research. Prerequisite: IS 410. | |
| IS 437 | Applied Systems Design (Credits: 3) |
| Applied Systems Design extends material from IS 436 and allows students to apply the material from IS 436 in project teams to create a working Information System. Emphasis is on real-world requirements and constraints. Students may be have to sign non-disclosure forms if involved on projects sponsored by organizations providing design opportunities. Prerequisite: IS 436 Note: IS 438 is recommended pre- or corequisite. | |
| IS 438 | Project Management (Credits: 3) |
| A course covering the manner in which a system project is planned, scheduled and controlled during the project's life, The use of project management techniques such as PERT (Project Evaluation and Review Technique) and Gantt charts will be examined in depth as will be other techniques of planning, scheduling and controlling projects. Prerequisite: IS 300. | |
| IS 439 | Advanced Project Management (W) (Credits: 3) |
| Advanced Project Management is a seminar style course that focuses on extending students’ project management skills by actively engaging in existing and proposed projects through a case studies approach. Students will take a critical approach to creating and evaluating modern Information Systems projects with the goal of bringing current practice in line with recent research in the field. Prerequisite: IS 438 | |
| IS 440 | Integrating Technology into Business Processes (Credits: 3) |
| Office information and decision support systems are examined as emerging and critical elements in business data and information systems. Emphasis is given to information processing considerations at the systems level, including analysis and management of support activities such as data and records management, electronic filing and retrieving systems, word processing, micro and reprographics, and (tele) communications. The course includes discussion of person/machine interfaces and appraisals of current and future technological trends and their impacts on data processing and office equipment. Prerequisite: IS 350. Note: IS 350 can be taken as a corequisite. | |
| IS 448 | Markup and Scripting Languages (Credits: 3) |
| This course covers the history, theory, and practice of markup languages and their associated scripting languages. The markup languages of SGML, XML, and HTML along with the standard scripting language ECMAScript (JavaScript) are included along with the Document Object Model. Prerequisite: CMSC 201 or equivalent. | |
| IS 450 | Data Communications and Networks (Credits: 3) |
| This is an introductory survey course in data communications and networking. It surveys basic theory and technology of computer networking. A single networking protocol stack is also covered in depth. Prerequisite: Completion of the IS B.S. gateway. | |
| IS 451 | Network Design and Management (Credits: 3) |
| This course covers implementation and administration of enterprise networking and distributed applications. It includes readings and case studies on middleware, network architecture for distributed applications, and selected technologies to support enterprise systems. Prerequisite: IS 450. | |
| IS 451M | LAN Management Using Microsoft Windows (Credits: 3) |
| A hands-on course using the latest version of the Microsoft Server which covers the design, building, management, security and technical issues involved in a local area network. Prerequisite: IS 451. Note: IS 451 can be taken as a corequisite. | |
| IS 451U | LAN Management Using UNIX (Credits: 3) |
| A hands-on course taught in a computer classroom in Unix operating system management and networking. The design, building, management, security and technical issues involved in a local area network will be covered. Prerequisite: IS 450. Note: IS 451 can be taken as a corequisite. | |
| IS 452 | Internetworking (Credits: 3) |
| This course covers network routing and other topics in internetworking. This will be a project-oriented course that will consist of lectures and hands-on laboratory experience creating projects that simulate real-world networks. Prerequisite: IS 450. | |
| IS 454 | Survey of Telecommunications (Credits: 3) |
| This course examines the design and management issues in communications beyond the local area, including wide-area networks, high speed data transfer, integrated voice and data communications, distributed processing and internetworking. Prerequisite: IS 450. | |
| IS 456 | Telecommunications Policy (Credits: 3) |
| This course presents and discusses current telecommunications policy issues based on technological advances and both national and international regulatory developments. The course provides a background in the development and progression of telecommunications regulation and discusses the impact of such policies on various segments of the telecommunications industry. Prerequisite: IS 450. | |
| IS 460 | Health Care Informatics I (Credits: 3) |
| The focus of this course is on health care information systems. Examples of topics covered include: requirements and design, providers and payers, regulations, ecommerce, privacy and security, personnel and vendors, knowledge and diffusion. Prerequisite: IS 300. | |
| IS 461 | Health Care Informatics II (Credits: 3) |
| The focus of this course is on health care information systems. Examples of topics include E-commerce standards, government regulation of privacy and security, and cancer information systems. Prerequisite: IS 460. | |
| IS 464 | Telemedicine in Trauma Care (Credits: 3) |
| This course addresses topical issues of telemedicine in pre-hospital and trauma care. It covers issues in designing, developing, deploying and evaluating telemedicine systems, research methodologies including field and laboratory experimentation and the role of information technologies in supporting team coordination in trauma care from the accident scene to the emergency room. Students will be exposed to the ongoing telemedicine research projects and state of the art telemedicine systems at the Maryland Shock Trauma Center. Prerequisite: IS 461. | |
| IS 469 | Senior Project in Information Systems (Credits: 1 - 3) |
| This course is designed to help a student synthesize material learned in other courses by applying it to a project in the student’s area of interest. It is open to IS majors by permission of the department. It will consist of an independent study/research project directed by a faculty member or a work-related internship experience focused on computer systems in a setting appropriate to the student's interests under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite: Senior standing, two or more IS courses at the 400 level or permission of the department. Note: Repeatable to a maximum of six credits. | |
| IS 474 | Legal Aspects of Information Systems (Credits: 3) |
| This course focuses on the legal issues surrounding the use and misuse of computer- stored information, and copyrights and piracy of computer software. Prerequisite: IS 300. | |
| IS 498 | Special Topics in Information Systems (Credits: 1 - 3) |
| Topics in the design and implementation of information processing systems. Repeatable when topics differ. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Note: Repeatable when topics differ. |
Management (MGMT) Courses
| MGMT 210 | The Practice of Management (Credits: 3) |
| The study of the role of the manager in leading and controlling organizations ranging from small entrepreneurships to large corporate environments. Topics will include management theories, corporate culture, goal-setting and measuring performance. | |
| MGMT 310 | Human Resource Management (Credits: 3) |
| Examination and review of human resource management and of resource materials in the field. Examination of human resource policies as dictated by legal and cultural constraints and traditions within the organization. May include extensive use of case studies. Prerequisite: Junior standing. | |
| MGMT 360 | Business Law (Credits: 3) |
| A study of legal principles and laws that affect business activities. Topics include foundations of law and organization of the legal system. Additionally, the course will focus on legal issues involving business organizations, business torts and crimes, as well as the common law topics of contracts, property law, warranty, liability and intellectual property issues. The course also will include legal issues involved in competition, marketing and employment. Prerequisite: Junior standing. | |
| MGMT 385 | Business Ethics and Society (Credits: 3) |
| Study of the standards of business conduct and the role of business in society with consideration of the sometimes conflicting interests of the firm and society. The course will survey applied topics relating to business ethics, including corporate social responsibility, the relationship of law and ethics, and the ethical decision-making process. Prerequisite: Junior standing. | |
| MGMT 399 | Administrative Internship (Credits: 3) |
| This course provides the student with an opportunity to obtain training and experience in positions related to management or administration. The course may include on-the-job training, as well as directed reading and research. The course grade will depend on reports that demonstrate the student’s professional development and on the instructor’s evaluation (which may be based in part on information provided by the supervisor) of the student’s internship performance. Course is offered P/F only. Prerequisite: MGMT 210 and junior standing. | |
| MGMT 410 | Production Management (Credits: 1 - 3) |
| Study of operation of a manufacturing enterprise and the analysis of production system design. Techniques developed include linear programming, simulation and statistical forecasting. Topics include resource allocation, production scheduling, inventory management and quality control. Prerequisite: Junior standing. | |
| MGMT 425 | Marketing (Credits: 3) |
| An inquiry into the theory and practice of marketing. Consideration is given to methods of analysis and prediction of demand and marketing costs. Prerequisite: ECON 101, 102, 121 and 122. | |
| MGMT 489 | Seminar in Management and Administration (Credits: 3) |
| The purpose of this seminar is to synthesize the analytical and applied experiences of the student in managerial and administrative sciences through simulation, case studies and related activities. Prerequisite: The purpose of this seminar is to synthesize the analytical and applied experiences of the student in managerial and administrative sciences through simulation, case studies and related activities. |