Bachelor of Applied Science - Applied Information Technology

The applied information technology degree is designed to provide the flexibility to integrate specialized technology and skills into a customized information technology program. It is intended for individuals with degrees, diplomas, certificates or certifications in specialty areas, such as information technology, computer science, programming, networks, computer aided design and database, or other related areas. A minimum of 27 credit hours in one specialty area is required to complete this program. This degree prepares the graduate for advancement in management or technical areas associated with their specialty field. Two options are available under this program: (1) transfer of credit from the source of the specialty training, or (2) creation of a specialty area using approved National American University courses.

Program Goals
The program will:

• provide students with knowledge of current information technology, the foundation knowledge of business operations and practices, and the analytical skills to support the information needs of a business.
  
• develop the problem-solving skills needed to adapt technology to meet the needs of business.
  
• provide students with methods to analyze, design, implement and maintain computer-based information systems to support the decision-making function of management.
  
• provide a balanced curriculum that addresses the knowledge and skills related to programming, databases, operating systems, and networking in business environments.
  
• prepare students to secure positions commensurate with their emphasis areas (network administration, network management, management information systems, programming, or Web development).
  
• encourage students to participate in continuing education activities and maintain professional memberships.
  
• measure key student learning outcomes continuously, and identify and implement opportunities for improvement.
  

Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the program will:

• support the data management needs of business through the design, implementation, and maintenance of relational databases.
  
• solve a variety of business problems through the application of structured program analysis and design concepts.
  
• explain current networking technologies, including local area networks, wide area networks, the Internet, and the hardware and software used in constructing a network infrastructure.
  
• implement and manage commonly used computer operating systems including both proprietary and open source systems.
  
• identify, describe, install and configure the hardware associated with personal computer systems.
  
• establish the information technology needs of a business, and plan an appropriate solution and procurement strategy.
  
• demonstrate the use of project management techniques within an appropriate system analysis, and design lifecycle framework to develop an information system.
  
• administer a network infrastructure designed to support management and production functions in business or industry.