Information Technology Programming Option, A.A.S.
Are you passionate about creating software and solving programming challenges? Prairie State College’s Information Technology Programming Option A.A.S. program provides hands-on training in programming languages like Java, C++, and Python. This degree prepares you for a career in software development, coding, and application support, equipping you with the skills to develop innovative solutions for a variety of industries.
What Can You Do with a Programming Degree in Information Technology?
With this degree, you can develop and maintain software applications, write code to
solve technical problems, and support the deployment of new software solutions. You
may also pursue industry certifications or transfer to a four-year college for further
specialization. Graduates are prepared to contribute as software developers, application
programmers, or support technicians, helping organizations innovate and improve their
digital systems.
The demand for skilled programmers and software developers continues to grow, with
employment expected to increase significantly in the coming years. Graduates can pursue
roles such as software developer, application programmer, or IT support technician.
Proficiency in popular programming languages and software development practices makes
graduates highly competitive in the job market, with opportunities across technology,
finance, healthcare, gaming, and other industries.
Suggested Curriculum
This program prepares students for the rapidly changing world of computers. After
completing introductory core courses, students may choose one of the following options:
Cyber Defense, Cyber Systems, Networking, Programming, or Web. Career opportunities
vary according to the option selected.
Area A: Communication (6 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C of better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts or Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 credits)
Select one course from Area B (3) or Area E (3)
Area C: Mathematics (3 credits)
- IT 106 Mathematics for Computers
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (3 credits)
Select one course from Area D (3)
Core Courses:
- BUS 101 Introduction to Business
- IT 101 IT Orientation
- IT 140 Introduction to Operating Systems
- IT 201 Systems Design and Development
- IT 205 Ethics in Information Technology
- ITAPP 101 Introduction to Computers (BUS 902)
- ITCYB 103 Introduction to Cybersecurity
- ITPRG 299 Internship or
- IT 295 Portfolio Seminar
Programming Concentration Courses:
- ITPRG 103 Introduction to Programming Logic
- ITPRG 144 C++ Programming I (CS 911)
- ITPRG 147 Java Programming I (CS 911)
- ITPRG 244 C++ Programming II (CS 912)
- ITPRG 247 Java Programming II (CS 912)
Select 11 credits from the following:
- BUS 104 Professionalism in the Workplace
- ITAPP 121 Word Processing Applications – Level 1
- ITAPP 125 Spreadsheet Applications - Level 1
- ITAPP 128 Database Applications - Level 1
- ITAPP 133 Presentation Applications
- ITPRG 154 C#.Net Programming
- ITPRG 157 JavaScript Programming
- ITPRG 158 Python Programming
- ITPRG 171 Game Design
- ITWEB 101 Web Page Fundamentals
- ITWEB 103 Web Site Design - Level 1
Note: Due to the rapid change of technology in IT fields, there is a five year time limit on applying courses with IT, ITAPP, ITNET, ITPRG, and ITWEB prefixes to this program. Information Technology will accept returning student courses that are 5-7 years old if the student received a grade of “A” or “B” for the course. If the student did not receive a grade of “A” or “B” for the course and the course is older than 5 years, the course will not be accepted for completion of any IT degree or program. Courses beyond 7 years, with any grade, will not be accepted for this program.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Jackie Dennis
Professor Emeritus
Email: jdennis@prairiestate.edu
Brian Donovan
Professor, Department Chair
Email: bdonovan@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708)709-2959
Office: 2184
Nichelle Manuel
Associate Professor
Email: nmanuel2@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708)709-3649
Office: 2184
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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