Computer Technology and Information Systems
31 courses · Merced College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
CTIS-02 Programming Concepts and Ai Driven Methodologies
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- ITIS 130
An introduction to the fundamental concepts and models of application development — including program design, data structures, programming, problem solving, programming logic, and basic design techniques for event-driven programs — enhanced by AI-driven code generation and development workflows. Students gain hands-on experience with a modern application programming language and development platform, and leverage AI-powered tools to assist in creating, testing, and maintaining applications. (12/25)
CTIS-03 Information and Communication Technology Essentials
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 6 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 110
This course provides an introduction to the computer hardware and software skills needed to help meet the growing demand for entry-level ICT professionals. The fundamentals of computer hardware and software as well as advanced concepts such as security, networking, and the responsibilities of an ICT professional will be introduced. Preparation for the CompTIA A+ certification exams. (12/24)
CTIS-04 Programming with Python
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- ITIS 130
An 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. Hands-on experience. Python is a dynamic, object-oriented language, is perfect for beginner and also meets industry needs. (03/21)
CTIS-05 Ai-Driven It Project Management
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 145
In this course, students will learn essential project management concepts and skills, including project integration, scope, time, cost, quality, human resources, communications, risk, and procurement, with a specific focus on the information technology (IT) environment. The course will also introduce students to how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance project management practices by automating routine tasks, providing predictive insights, and improving resource allocation. Students will explore AI-driven project management tools and techniques, gaining hands-on experience with technologies that support data-driven decision-making and workflow optimization. Additionally, this course prepares students for project management certification exams, such as CompTIA Project+ or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), providing a solid foundation for those pursuing professional credentials in project management. (CAPM). (12/24)
CTIS-06 Python Programming for Cyber Security
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- ITIS 136
Students will be introduced to Python programming techniques needed for crafting scripting tools for system administration, web application auditing, cybersecurity, and penetration testing for which Python is the preeminent language. (12/24)
CTIS-07 Linux Shell Scripting and Programming
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-11
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- ITIS 135
This course introduces a variety of the tools and concepts used while working with a UNIX/Linux-based computer system. Students will learn to write shell scripts using basic commands and regular expressions. They will then use those tools to write scripts first with basic shell commands, then with grep, sed, and awk, then with more advanced decision-making and flow control commands. Other scripting tools such as Perl and Python will also be explored. Students will write shell script programs to exercise their understanding of tools and concepts. This course will be taught using a combination of lectures, demonstrations, discussions, and hands-on labs. (04/22)
CTIS-08 Introduction to Smart Systems Analysis and Design
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- CPSC-01
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- ITIS 140
The course introduces a systematic methodology for analyzing business problems or opportunities, with a focus on leveraging intelligent systems. Students will learn to evaluate how intelligent, computer-based technologies—such as AI, machine learning, and data analytics—can support business needs and drive innovation. The course covers defining business requirements for these technology solutions, exploring alternative approaches to acquire necessary capabilities, and specifying requirements for intelligent information systems. Options include in-house development, collaboration with third-party providers, or adopting commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solutions, all with an emphasis on implementing intelligent, data-driven systems that enhance business decision-making, automation, and efficiency. (12/24)
CTIS-09 Cloud Computing Infrastructure and Services
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-11 and CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 170
This course covers cloud deployment and service models, cloud infrastructure, and the key considerations in migrating to cloud computing. This course also provides the required technology essentials across all domains—including compute, storage, networking, applications, and databases to help develop a strong understanding of virtualization and cloud computing technologies. Prepares students for the AWS Cloud Practitioner and the CompTIA Cloud+ certifications. (12/24)
CTIS-10 Introduction to Database and Intelligent Systems
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Advisory
- CPSC-01
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- ITIS 180
This course introduces students to essential concepts in databases and information management, focusing on identifying organizational information needs, modeling data, and implementing relational databases using industrial-strength DBMSs. Students will learn fundamental database skills, including normalization, data quality, and security, alongside basic administration tasks. The course also explores the integration of artificial intelligence(AI), covering topics such as data mining, machine learning, and intelligent systems that enhance decision support within a business intelligence framework. By leveraging AI, students will understand how DBMSs enable advanced analytics, predictive insights, and automation in data-driven processes. (12/24)
CTIS-11 Linux Systems Administration
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Advisory
- CPSC-01
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 155
This course will provide a student with the knowledge and skills required to build, maintain, troubleshoot and support server hardware and software technologies. The course also provides hands-on training of the Linux/Unix operating system. Topics include: installation, management, configuration, security, documentation, utilities, DOS, hacking and file protection on workstations in a LAN environment. This prepares CompTIA Linux+ and Server+ (03/21)
CTIS-12 Windows Server System Administration
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Advisory
- CPSC-01
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 155
This course will provide a student with the knowledge and skills required to build, maintain, troubleshoot and support server hardware and software technologies. This course is an introduction to Microsoft Windows Server, with emphasis on system administration. Provides occupational preparation for information systems professionals, such as PC support personnel, computer programmers, network/systems managers, and related technical and operations administration personnel. The course will help in preparation for CompTIA Server+ (12/24)
CTIS-13 Ai Concepts and Real-World Applications
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 6 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces the fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) and explores its diverse applications in real-world scenarios. Students will learn about the history and evolution of AI, core AI techniques such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. The course emphasizes practical applications, covering case studies from industries such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and autonomous systems. Students will gain hands-on experience with AI tools and frameworks, enabling them to understand how AI is transforming industries and addressing global challenges. (12/24)
CTIS-14 Advanced Python Programming
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-04
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces more advanced Python concepts. Topics will cover data structuring techniques using tuples, lists, and dictionaries, object-oriented programming concepts, and exception handling. Examples and labs used in this course will derive from library integration for applications in financial data processing, gaming applications, automation, machine learning, bigdata and more. (04/22)
CTIS-15 Computer Network Fundamentals
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 150
This course introduces the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and other computer networks. Students achieve a basic understanding of how networks operate and how to build simple local area networks (LAN), perform basic configurations for routers and switches, implement Internet Protocol (IP) and enterprise technologies, including cloud and virtualization. Students will apply the knowledge and skills required to troubleshoot, configure, and manage common network devices; establish basic network connectivity; and implement network security, standards, and protocols. Preparation for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam. (12/24)
CTIS-16 Routing and Switching
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 151
This course focuses on switching technologies and router operations that support small-to-medium business networks and includes Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) and security concepts. Students learn key switching and routing concepts. Students will perform basic network configuration and troubleshooting, identify and mitigate Local Area Network (LAN) security threats, and configure and secure a basic WLAN. (12/24)
CTIS-17 Systems and Network Administration
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-15 or CTIS-16
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 155
Demonstrate proficiency in network architecture, protocols, and services. Configure and secure network devices, including routers, switches, and firewalls. Implement virtualization technologies, including VMware, to optimize resource allocation. Administer server environments, encompassing Windows and Linux, within virtualized settings. Manage directory services, such as Active Directory and LDAP, for user and resource management. Utilize platform services, including cloud computing and containerization, to enhance scalability and efficiency. Develop comprehensive backup and disaster recovery plans for virtualized systems and platform services. Effectively troubleshoot common network, system, directory, and virtualization issues. Apply industry best practices in virtualization, virtual networking, directory services, and system administration. (4/24)
CTIS-18 Network Security and Automation
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-15 and CTIS-16
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 152
Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) curriculum describes the architecture, components, operations, and security to scale for large, complex networks, including wide area network (WAN) technologies. The course emphasizes network security concepts and introduces network virtualization and automation. Students learn how to configure, troubleshoot, and secure enterprise network devices and understand how application programming interfaces (API) and configuration management tools enable network automation. (12/24)
CTIS-19 Cyber Ops
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-15 or CTIS-20
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 166
This course introduces the core security concepts and skills needed to monitor, detect, analyze, and respond to cybercrime, cyberespionage, insider threats, advanced persistent threats, regulatory requirements, and other cybersecurity issues facing organizations. It also covers how to monitor, detect, and respond to cybersecurity threats, as outlined in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework. You will learn security concepts, security monitoring, host-based analysis, network intrusion analysis, and security policies procedures. This course also aligns with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Cybersecurity Workforce Framework to support consistent communication language for cybersecurity education, training, and workforce development. (12/24)
CTIS-20 Introduction to Information Systems Security
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 160
An introduction to the fundamental principles and topics of Information Technology Security and Risk Management at the organizational level. It addresses hardware, software, processes, communications, applications, and policies and procedures with respect to organizational Cybersecurity and Risk Management. Preparation for the CompTIA Security+ certification exams. (12/24)
CTIS-21 Introduction to Cybersecurity: Ethical Hacking
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-15 and CTIS-20
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 164
This course introduces students to the concepts, principles, and techniques, supplemented by hands-on exercises, for attacking and disabling a network within the context of properly securing a network. The course emphasizes network attack methods with the emphasis on student use of network attack techniques and tools and appropriate defenses and countermeasures. Students receive course content information through a variety of methods: lecture and demonstration of hacking tools will be used in addition to a virtual environment. Students experience a hands-on practical approach to penetration testing measures and ethical hacking. (12/24)
CTIS-22 Digital Forensics Fundamentals
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 165
This course is an introduction to the methods used to properly conduct a computer forensics investigation beginning with a discussion of ethics, while mapping to the objectives of the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) certification. Topics covered include an overview of computer forensics as a profession; the computer investigation process; understanding operating systems boot processes and disk structures; data acquisition and analysis; technical writing; and a review of familiar computer forensics tools. (03/21)
CTIS-23 Cyber Network Defense
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-15, CTIS-20, and CTIS-16
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 167
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills required to secure networks effectively. With this course, a network professional can demonstrate the skills required to develop a security infrastructure, recognize threats and vulnerabilities to networks, and mitigate security threats. The course will cover core security technologies, the installation, troubleshooting and monitoring of network devices to maintain integrity, confidentiality and availability of data and devices, and competency in the technologies that networking uses in its security structure. (12/24)
CTIS-25 Application Development in Amazon Web Services
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-09 and CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course helps students work with cloud computing systems based on AWS core technologies, algorithms, and design principles. The students will work with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to use services available to scale applications. The students will use design principles to develop scalable cloud applications. (12/24)
CTIS-26 Machine Learning, Analytics and Big Data in Cloud Services
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-09 and CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course will teach students how to use machine learning and conduct Big Data analysis with practical, real-world examples. Students will learn how to analyze extremely large data sets, and to create visual representations of that data, using a case-study approach. This is geared toward students interested in pursuing careers in data analysis, machine learning and cloud computing. (12/24)
CTIS-27 Cloud Security and Ai: Foundational Concepts
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-09 and CTIS-20
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 171
This course provides a broad overview of cloud security, allowing students to gain critical insights into issues such as techniques to implement security controls, threat protection, data security, key management, and identity and access management. In addition, students will explore AI-driven security solutions, such as threat detection, anomaly detection, and automated response systems. This course also covers networks in cloud and hybrid environments as part of an end-to-end infrastructure, with a focus on leveraging AI to enhance security monitoring, optimize network traffic, and identify vulnerabilities in real-time. (12/24)
CTIS-29 Ai Solutions with Microsoft Azure Cloud
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-19 and CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 172
In this course, students will learn to implement Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and AI solutions on the Azure cloud platform. They will gain hands-on experience managing Azure resources, including deploying and configuring virtual machines, virtual networks, storage accounts, and Azure Active Directory services to manage users and groups. Additionally, students will explore Azure’s AI services, such as cognitive services, machine learning, and analytics tools, to build and integrate intelligent solutions within the cloud environment. (12/24)
CTIS-30 Cybersecurity Analysis, Malware and Mobile Forensics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-20, CTIS-17 and CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ITIS 161
This course offers practical training in using threat detection tools data analysis, and identifying security risks, with a focus on IT security analytics. It's suited for aspiring IT security, vulnerability, and threat intelligence analysts. The course integrates malware forensics, covering the analysis and neutralization of malicious software, and mobile forensics, emphasizing securing and investigating mobile device data. These elements ensure a thorough grasp of contemporary cybersecurity challenges and solutions. (04/24)
CTIS-31 Ai Technology, Ethics, the Individual, and Society
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course delves into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), ethical considerations, and its impacts on individuals and society. Students will examine the ethical dilemmas posed by AI technologies, including privacy, bias, accountability, and fairness. The course covers topics such as the societal implications of automation, AI decision-making in critical areas like healthcare and law, and the broader consequences for employment, security, and human rights. Students will critically analyze AI's potential to both benefit and challenge societal norms and values. Case studies will be explored to understand real-world impacts, and frameworks for responsible AI development will be discussed. (12/24)
CTIS-32 Threat Hunting, Incident Response and Crisis Management
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-20 and CTIS-22
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course students will explore an introduction to cyber incident response using industry-recognized tools. Topics covered include incident response case studies, incident response tools used in industry, advanced persistent threats, documentation and technical reporting, timeline analysis, case management, and hunting, gathering, and foraging for cyber threats. Hands-on assignments will be used to help students develop introductory technical skills relevant to entry-level cybersecurity professionals. (04/22)
CTIS-33 Firewalls and Vpn
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-20 and CTIS-15
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course examines the major network security tools and equipment in use today, with the idea that firewalls are most effective when backed by thoughtful security planning, well-designed security policies, and integrated support from anti-virus software, intrusion detection systems, and related tools. Coverage includes packet filtering, authentication, proxy servers, encryption, bastion hosts, virtual private networks (VPNs), log file maintenance, and intrusion detection systems. (12/24)
CTIS-35 Security Policies and Compliance
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Advisory
- CTIS-20
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course enable students to learn how to write security policies for an organization and to be able to adapt an existing security policy to organizational needs. The students will understand the various areas that need to be addressed in implementing these policies. This course is Information technology professionals who are responsible for either creating, implementing, or complying with security policies. (12/24)