Course Descriptions

Computer Information Systems - CIS
Course Classification

Courses numbered 1-49 — are baccalaureate level (transfer) courses. Courses thus numbered are transferable to four- year institutions. Agriculture courses are designed to parallel the work taught in similar courses at California Polytechnic State University or at California State University, Fresno but may not carry the same number.

Courses numbered 50-99 — are associate degree level courses. Courses thus numbered are primarily for the student who does not plan to continue his/her education beyond the community college level; however, occupational education courses may transfer according to articulation agreements. Complete information on articulation is available through the Counseling Center.

Courses Numbered 100-201 — are non-transfer and are non-degree applicable; they are skill building or remedial.

Abbreviations for Degree, Non-Degree, and Transfer Courses

The following abbreviations designate degree applicable, transfer, and non-degree applicable courses:
(AA) Associate Degree
(CSU) Transferable to California State University System
(UC) Transferable to University of California System
(NDA) Non-Degree Applicable

  • CIS-002
  • Internet Programming HTML/CSS
  • Credit(s) 3

Internet Programming HTML/CSS
CIS 002 is an intensive nine week course that helps students develop the skills needed to create and maintain well-organized and well-formed Web pages and sites. Students will learn the history, power and limitations of basic Web page development through the Web's foundation languages, Hypertext Mark-up Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) as specified by the official Web standards body. Students learn to build solid Web pages at a RAW level through a series of hands-on exercises. The course is targeted toward Web designers, developers and publications specialists. This course serves as a tutorial for students who have not coded Web pages before and a review for students who have some HTML/CSS coding knowledge and want to build on that knowledge. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have clear understanding and knowledge of Web-standards foundations for coding pages today and into the future.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-002B
  • Internet Programming CSS
  • Credit(s) 3

Internet Programming CSS
CIS 002B is an introductory course using Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). CSS are an addition to Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML). CSS allows web page designers to expand their ability to control a web page. CSS allows for the nesting of key page elements to allow page designers to achieve a consistent look and feel throughout a web site. This course builds upon the knowledge and experience students have gained from taking CIS 002 Internet Programming HTML/CSS. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have clear understanding and knowledge of Web-standards foundations for coding pages that include intermediate to advanced CSS options.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-002C
  • Internet Programming Scripting
  • Credit(s) 3

Internet Programming Scripting Languages
CIS 002C is an introductory course in the scripting languages that are used for the creation of web pages. HTML/CSS documents alone create web pages that are static, but with scripting languages, web pages can be dynamic and interactive. This course teaches students how to incorporate various scripting languages in HTML/CSS documents. Students will learn the basic syntax for scripting, as well as how to use objects and event handlers to interact with users. Additional topics may include how to respond dynamically to user actions and cross-frame communication. This course builds upon the knowledge and experience students have gained from taking CIS 002 Internet Programming HTML/CSS. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have clear understanding and knowledge of Web-standards foundations for coding pages that include intermediate to advanced scripting options.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-002D
  • Intro to Prog. Concepts & Meth
  • Credit(s) 3

Introduction to Programming Concepts and Methodologies-Java
CIS 002D Introduction to Programming Concepts and Methodologies - JAVA is a nine-week introduction to the fundamental concepts and models of application development including the basic concepts of program design, data structures, programming, problem solving, programming logic, and fundamental design techniques for event-driven programs. CIS 002D introduces students to the Java programming language. Good programming practices will be emphasized, including structures and object-oriented techniques.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-007
  • Computer Concepts
  • Credit(s) 3

Computer Concepts
CIS 007 is an examination of information systems and their role in business. The course focuses on information systems, database management systems, networking, e-commerce, ethics and security, computer systems hardware and software components. The course includes application of these concepts and methods through hands-on projects developing computer-based solutions to business problems.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
BUS140/ITIS120
  • CIS-008
  • Microcomputer Operating Enviro
  • Credit(s) 1

Microcomputer Operating Environment
CIS 008 provides an overview of the Windows operating system on microcomputers including interface, using programs, working with permanent and removable storage media and files, customizing the desktop, creating shortcuts, and changing the way Windows looks and sounds. This should be the first class for students in the CIS series who are not proficient in how to use a computer.

Class Hours:
9 Lecture | 27 Laboratory
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-015X
  • Occupational Work Experience
  • Credit(s) 1 - 8

Occupational Work Experience
Cooperative Work Experience Education (CWEE) develops skills and knowledge by integrating classroom study with planned, supervised work experience. It is based on the principle that well-educated individuals develop most effectively through an educational plan that incorporates work experience. Through these structured experiences,the students enrich their college studies, which enhance their total development. Occupational Work Experience is supervised employment which is intended to assist students in acquiring desirable work habits, attitudes, and career awareness in the field of the student's major. Students may earn up to 8 units per semester for a maximum of 16 total units. Credits are awarded for paid or voluntary work. Forevery 75 hours of paid work completed within the semester, 1 unit of credit is awarded. For every 60 hours of volunteer work completed within the semester, 1 unit of credit is awarded. Occupational Work Experience credits are counted as electives toward an Associate's Degree at West Hills College Coalinga and are transferable to four year universities (for specific transfer eligibility, please contact a counselor or an advisor).

Class Hours:
Work Experience
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-019B
  • Database Creation & Management
  • Credit(s) 3

Database Creation & Management
CIS 019B (ACCESS) will teach the student to use a database program on a microcomputer. Students will learn database creation, report generation, updating, editing, and form structure and use.

Class Hours:
36 Lecture | 54 Laboratory
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-020
  • Digital Image Prod-Photoshop
  • Credit(s) 3

Digital Image Production - Photoshop ACA
CIS 020 introduces the principles of composition, design and typography for digital imagery and photography. Students explore Adobe Photoshop's extensive tools and learn the fundamentals of image editing and transformation; applying filters, masks and color correction; and preparing files for export and printing. Frequent critiques foster creativity, reinforce the principles of effective design and address current industry standards. Enrollment includes practice tests and the Adobe Certified Associate Photoshop exam.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-021
  • Desktop Publishing
  • Credit(s) 3

Desktop Publishing
CIS 021 introduces the basic concepts and techniques of digital 2D design and typography along with creating press-ready, digital layouts. Using Adobe InDesign, students explore the elements and principles of design and create projects to apply concepts in practice. Topics include the formal elements and principles of design, the acquisition of technical print, make-ready skills, and the development of a personal creative vision. This project-driven course includes printable postcard mailers, event posters, business cards, and other items that replicate planning, creating, and problem-solving skills in the workplace.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-022
  • Digital Image Prod - Illus
  • Credit(s) 3

Digital Image Production - Illustrator ACA
CIS 022 introduces the principles of digital illustration and vector graphics. Students explore Adobe Illustrator's extensive tools and learn the fundamentals of shapes, colors, effects and typography. Frequent critiques foster creativity, reinforce the principles of effective design, and address current industry standards.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-022A
  • Digital Motion Graphics
  • Credit(s) 3

Digital Motion Graphics
CIS 022A introduces the basic concepts of motion graphics with a focus on combining 2D graphics, video, typography and sound. Topics include composition and design, storyboarding, project planning, adding music and sound synchronization. Students learn to set keyframes on a timeline and work with transform properties, motion paths, masks, effects, and more.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-023
  • Digital Video Production
  • Credit(s) 3

Digital Video Production
CIS 023 introduces the theory and practice of video production for a wide variety of distribution forms including broadcast television, the internet, product demonstrations, and corporate and educational videos. Students learn basic theory, grammar, and practice of video production and non-linear video editing. Students plan and assemble video, audio, images, and titles into a cohesive sequence that addresses project goals and target audience priorities. Using cameras and video editing software, students gain experience in lighting, capture, and assembly of video content. Frequent critiques foster creativity, reinforce the principles of effective design, and address current industry standards.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-024A
  • Game Design Essentials
  • Credit(s) 3

Game Design Essentials
CIS 024A introduces the theory and practice of using Unity as a foundation tool to create and design projects and demos within the Unity game engine. These projects can be exported as multiple formats and will serve as the core result portraying the students proficiency within the Unity environment. A variety of design skills regarding level design, basic 3D modeling, lighting, animation, particle FX and UI creation will be created so that students will have a complete understanding of Unity as a design tool.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-024B
  • Game Art Essentials
  • Credit(s) 3

Game Art Essentials
CIS 024B introduces the theory and practice of using separate industry using software packages, such as Photoshop, Mudbox, Maya and Unity, to create a sample prototype game project within the Unity Game Engine. Assets will be created by the students using Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Mudbox and Autodesk Maya. These assets will consist of 2D and 3D created assets, and will contain basic animation. Assets will then be integrated into the Unity Game Engine for use in a students prototype project to serve as a Game Design portfolio piece.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-025
  • Digital Audio Production
  • Credit(s) 3

Digital Audio Production
CIS 025 Introduces the theory and practice of audio production for radio, television, game design, film, and digital recording applications. Students will learn the fundamentals of sound design and aesthetics, microphone use, and digital recording equipment. Students gain experience recording, editing, mixing and mastering audio. Upon completion, students will have basic knowledge of applied audio concepts, production workflow, equipment functions, and audio editing software.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CIS-026A
  • Audiovisual Essentials w/AVIX
  • Credit(s) 3

Audiovisual Essentials With Avixa
CIS 026A provides a comprehensive, introductory overview of science and technology for audio, visual and audiovisual systems integration. Students explore microphones, cameras and displays, digital signals, networking, future trends and everything AV. Student may use this course as preparation for the AV Technologist test, a certificate program to demonstrate AV knowledge.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-028
  • Digital Entrepreneurship
  • Credit(s) 3

Digital Entrepreneurship
CIS 028 digital Entrepreneurship explores creating, marketing, distributing, ad profiting in the creative economy. Students learn how entrepreneurs validate concepts through structure experiments, refine their busines strategy, and raise the capital necessary to create value and grow their business.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-031A
  • MS PowerPoint I
  • Credit(s) 1

MS PowerPoint I
CIS 031A provides the learner with experience planning, creating, editing, and printing PowerPoint presentations. Included is the opportunity to add and modify both text and graphics; insert and modify information graphics and multimedia; apply, modify, and create master pages; and to apply, modify, and create templates. integration with other Microsoft programs is included. This course is designed for all individuals including professional acquiring or updating basic skills in creating and editing professional presentations. This course prepares for the Microsoft Office User Certification in MS PowerPoint.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
BSOT 114X
  • CIS-031B
  • MS PowerPoint II
  • Credit(s) 1

MS PowerPoint II
CIS 031B features PowerPoint as a tool for designing, producing and controlling visual elements to build and deliver effective presentations. Creating templates, publishing, customizing, and procteting presentations as well as inserting audio, video, and animations and integrating with other programs is included. This course focuses on the design and effective delivery methods which are explored through project presentations.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Prerequisite(s):
CIS-031A
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
BSOT 124X
  • CIS-032A
  • MS Outlook
  • Credit(s) 1

MS Outlook
CIS 032A introduces personal management software and the use of Microsoft Outlook functions. Topics include management of email, organization of contacts, creation and scheduling of events using calendar, and creating and managing tasks for personal and business use. Customization of Outlook features is also covered.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
Computer Literacy or equivalent
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
BSOT 106X
  • CIS-034
  • Introduction to Spreadsheets
  • Credit(s) 3

Introduction to Spreadsheets
CIS 034 is an introduction to microcomputer spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel, Primary emphasis will be on the use of the command structure and operation.Topics covered will include spreadsheets design and format, graphs, and database functions.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-035
  • Advanced Spreadsheets
  • Credit(s) 3

Advanced Spreadsheets
CIS 035 is an advanced spreadsheet course using Microsoft Excel. Primary emphasis will be on the use of the program's advanced features, such as file management, multiple worksheets, data tables and scenario management, and application development with macros using Visual Basic. Students should have a firm understanding of Microsoft Excel prior to taking this course.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Prerequisite(s):
CIS 034
P/NP
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CIS-049
  • Directed Study
  • Credit(s) 1 - 2

Directed Study
CIS 049 is designed for students who wish to undertake special projects related to a particular field. Student, under instructor guidance and acknowledgement, may pursue individual exploration after completing or while currently enrolled in at least one course in the department of directed study.

Class Hours:
108 Laboratory
Transfers to:
CSU