
1999-2000 Undergraduate Catalog
Indiana, Pennsylvania 15705
IM 201 Internet and Multimedia
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: BE/CM/CO/IM 101 or prior exposure to word processing and electronic mail
The major focus will be on the evaluation of information and multimedia resources available on electronic networks when doing research in an area of one’s choice. This information literacy course is designed for students to gain a more in-depth understanding of the information resources available electronically and of how to utilize them more effectively in communicating. Students will learn how to access and utilize these resources for two-way communications and support for decision making while incorporating selected elements in multimedia presentations of their own design. (BE/CM/CO/IM/LB 201 may be used interchangeably for D or F repeats and may not be counted for duplicate credit.)
IM 205 Foundations of MIS
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: BE/CM/CO/IM 101
An introductory course designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of MIS. Systems theory, quality, decision making, and the organizational role of information systems are introduced. Information technology, including basic programming skills, is stressed. Concepts of organization, information system growth, telecommunications, and re-engineering are introduced.
IM 241 Introduction to Management Information Systems
3c-0l-3sh
Study of management information systems and their design and implementation. General systems theory, computer hardware, and programming are emphasized and then integrated to demonstrate how an MIS is developed. (Offered only at branch campuses after 1991-92)
IM 245 Introduction to Microcomputers
3c-0l-3sh
Demonstrates how to utilize the microcomputer in business. Topics will include hardware, operating systems, word processing, spreadsheets, data base, and BASIC. Offered for Associate Degree Program only.
IM 251 Business Systems Analysis and Design
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: IM241 or 300
Involves teaching the tools and techniques required for the analysis and the design of business systems. The major steps in the system’s development life cycle are presented along with practical applications from the major subsystems of typical business organizations. Issues related to personnel, hardware, software, and procedures are explored as students work individually and in project teams to solve typical business application problems.
IM 255 Business Applications in COBOL
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisites: AG201 and IM241 or 300
Introduces the student to the COBOL programming as it applies to business organizations and their applications. Structured COBOL concepts and methods are taught as the student learns how to solve business problems using computers. The student will be involved using files, reports, and tables to produce a variety of outputs utilized in operating and managing business activities.
IM 260 Business Computer Application Project
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: IM255
Provides each student an opportunity to utilize skills and concepts presented in previous COIS courses in the planning, design, and implementation of a comprehensive case study involving computerized business applications. Students will work in teams and individually in performing tasks that are necessary to solve each problem assigned. These tasks will include systems analysis, systems design, programming, testing, and implementing and documenting simulated business problems.
IM 281 Special Topics
var-1-3sh
Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content
Special topics are offered on an experimental or temporary basis to explore topics that are not included in the established curriculum. A given topic may be offered under any special topic identity no more than three times. Special topics numbered 281 are offered primarily for lower-level undergraduate students.
IM 300 Information Systems: Theory and Practice
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisites: BE/CM/CO/IM 101 , AG202
Includes basic MIS concepts, fundamentals, and practices. Broad areas of coverage are principles, the computer as a problem-solving tool, Computer-Based Information Systems (CBIS), organizational information systems, and Information Systems management.
IM 350 Business Systems Technology
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: CO220 or IM255
Student is taught fundamental and advanced concepts of computer hardware and a procedure for evaluation and acquisition of computer hardware.
IM 370 Advanced COBOL
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: CO220
Corequisite: IM350
Advanced COBOL is a continuation of introductory COBOL with an emphasis on structured methodology of program design, development, testing, implementation, and documentation of common business-oriented applications. It includes a heavy emphasis on the techniques and concepts of the table processing, file organization, and processing alternatives, internal and external sorting, subroutines, and application development for both the batch and on-line systems. Micro Focus COBOL software is utilized.
IM 372 Microcomputer Applications
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisites: IM350, CO220, AG201, or by permission
Demonstrates how to use the microcomputer in business and how to provide technical assistance to users of the microcomputer. Emphasis will be placed on integrating software and interfacing with mainframe computers or with minicomputers. Topics covered include microcomputer hardware, microcomputer operating systems, local area networks, and microcomputer software tools.
IM 382 Auditing for EDP Systems
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisites: AG201, CO220, or IM255
Emphasizes the responsibility of the systems analyst to include in systems design the proper management and financial controls and audit trails in business information systems. The design of controls for application programs and systems is covered. Audit software packages are examined.
IM 450 Data Base Theory and Application
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisites: IM370, upper-division students only
After learning data structures, the student will then apply them to CODASYL compatible data base management systems, TOTAL, and IBM’s data base management system. Student must develop and use a data base as part of requirement. [Course revision in process]
IM 451 Systems Analysis
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisites: IM350 and IM255 or CO220
Develops an understanding of concepts and techniques involving conventional and structured approaches to analyzing problems of business information systems and systems definition feasibility, as well as quantitative and evaluative techniques of business information systems analysis.
IM 470 Systems Design
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: IM451
Students learn tools and techniques for design of a business system. Along with classroom discussions of principles and techniques for analyzing, designing, and constructing the system, students will formulate system teams to analyze the problems of an existing business information system, to design an improved system, and to control implementation of a new system.
IM 480 Distributed Business Information Systems
3c-0l-3sh
Prerequisite: IM350
Study of the techniques involved in planning, design, and implementation of distributed processing systems. Distributed marketing, financial, and corporate accounting systems are included.
IM 481 Special Topics
var-1-3sh
Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content
Special topics courses are offered on an experimental or temporary basis to explore topics that are not included in the established curriculum. A given topic may be offered under any special topic identity no more than three times. Special topics numbered 481 are primarily for upper-level undergraduate students.
IM 482 Independent Study
var-1-3sh
Prerequisite: Prior approval through adviser, faculty member, department chairperson, dean, and provost's office
Individual research and analysis of contemporary problems and issues in a concentrated area of study under the guidance of a senior faculty member. Approval is based on academic appropriateness and availability of resources.
IM 493 Internship in MIS
var-3-12sh
Prerequisites: IM370, consent of department chairperson and dean
Positions with participating business, industry, or governmental organizations provide the student with experience in systems analysis. Note: Internship IM493 can be taken, if the student qualifies, as a general elective. It does not fulfill the major-area elective requirement.