Information Systems

Contents

Course Descriptions

Foundation Course

ISYS 6100 Preparation for Graduate Study in Information Systems and Technology (1 sem. cr.)The purpose of this course is to introduce you to Walden University and the requirements for your successful participation in an online curriculum, as well as to provide a foundation for your academic and professional success. Course assignments focus on the practical application of professional practice with professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice.

Information Systems Courses

ISYS 6010 Fundamentals of Information Systems (3 sem. cr.)The principles of computer hardware, software, and networks underlie the techniques and practices of information systems professionals. This course surveys the fundamental aspects of computing and prepares students to use computers effectively for problem solving. It delves into the types and construction of hardware, software, and networks and introduces tools for data management. Students explore how to create an algorithm, represent data, and express their designs in a programming language.

ISYS 6020 Core Web Technologies (3 sem. cr.)Students can develop and manage Web-based applications using a handful of fundamental tools and techniques. This course introduces the key technologies and design principles of interactive Web applications and gives students an opportunity to practice their use in a variety of contexts.

ISYS 6030 Principles of Programming (3 sem. cr.)The discipline of software development demands a variety of skills. This practicum introduces students to the fundamental practices and principles of designing and constructing object-oriented programs. Substantial hands-on practice reinforces algorithmic thinking, logical design, precise coding, and careful attention to quality.

ISYS 6040 Systems Analysis and Design (3 sem. cr.)Like building a skyscraper, developing a large-scale software system may require the work of thousands of people over a period of several years. Analysts and designers coordinate technical plans so that individuals’ efforts combine into a complete and effective system. This course surveys structured and object-oriented approaches to defining a system’s functional and quality requirements. It also examines how to convert these requirements into the structural and functional design elements of an effective organizational information system.

Information Technology Core

ISYS 6110 Foundations of Information Systems and Technology (3 sem. cr.)Through a review of modern computer systems and the social and economic issues related to their use, this course introduces the conceptual foundations for designing, developing, and deploying large-scale management information systems. It investigates the role of information technology in an organization—particularly the collection, storage, and distribution of information for operations, planning, and decision making.

ISYS 6120 Operating System and Network Architecture (3 sem. cr.)The infrastructures of operating systems and networks are the fundamental technologies that support enterprise information systems. This course examines the components of computer systems, their underlying operating systems, and their data communications networks. Students critically investigate the services these components provide and draw implications for the large-scale enterprise.

ISYS 6130 Advanced Software Development (3 sem. cr.)Contemporary software development principles continue to evolve. This course explores historical and contemporary software development concepts and tools. It applies object-oriented techniques, usability principles, and design for reuse. The focus of this course is on the development of sound, maintainable, and extensible software.

ISYS 6140 Data Modeling and Database Design (3 sem. cr.)Data is the lifeblood of nearly every business enterprise. Through careful planning and management, the organization can ensure that its critical data remains consistent, correct, secure, and available. This theoretical and practical introduction to relational database systems presents students with accepted practices for data modeling, database design, and implementation in a range of application contexts.

ISYS 6150 Principles of Software Engineering (3 sem. cr.)The principles of software engineering and software design allow for the methodical construction and controlled development of complex software systems. This course surveys the evolution and current practices of software engineering through the entire software life cycle, with emphasis on the elements that significantly influence software system quality.

ISYS 6160 Enterprise Systems Architecture (3 sem. cr.)Large-scale enterprise systems often rely on architectural frameworks that define their main components as well as the interactions among these components. This course surveys the principal design strategies and tools for constructing the modern information system. It identifies common vendor and open-source components, illustrating how they can create and integrate robust Web- and cloud-based services and applications.

ISYS 6170 Fundamentals of Information Assurance (3 sem. cr.)The principles of confidentiality; integrity; and availability of data while it is being stored, processed, or communicated guide the policies and practices of information assurance. In this course, students investigate the theory of information security and data protection, study common system risks and vulnerabilities, and follow best practices to protect computer and data assets. These practices address organizational policies, access controls, software and network design, and logging and auditing.

Capstone

ISYS 6900 IT Capstone (3 sem. cr.)The capstone course provides an opportunity to synthesize concepts and skills in a reflective project and builds a bridge from the academic experience to the workforce. In the context of a specific IT problem, appropriate technologies are evaluated and a solution is designed.

Accreditation

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org. The North Central Association is one of the six regional accrediting associations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).