Computer Information Systems

Program Information

The Computer Information Systems Program at Trenholm State Community College is progressive and innovative in its approach to remain viable and current with computer technology and applications trends. Students enrolled in the CIS Curriculum will gain knowledge and skills that are valuable to a dynamically changing workforce, including—but not limited to—soft skills and preparation for industry-recognized certifications. Trenholm State will meet student needs for Information Systems Technology training while providing students with effective and personalized instructional methods in various technical concentrations. The CIS program also emphasizes leadership and teamwork within and throughout the Plan of Study.

Occupational Choices

At Trenholm State, we teach skills needed by programmers, computer system analysts, database designers, and network designers; Microsoft Certified Desktop Technicians; A+, Security+, and Linux+ Technicians; Cisco CCNA certified networkers; and Office Technology Specialists with MS Office skills. We also offer other education and training and a full spectrum of soft skills. Job prospects should be best for college graduates who are up to date with the latest skills and technologies, particularly if they have supplemented their formal education with relevant work experience and industry-recognized certifications. Employers will continue to seek computer specialists with a strong background in fundamental computer skills and good interpersonal and communication skills. Due to the demand for computer support specialists and systems administrators over the next decade, those with strong computer skills but who do not have a bachelor’s degree should continue to qualify for some entry-level positions. However, certifications and practical experience are essential for persons without degrees.

Source: Bureau of Labor and Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2018-2028 Edition, 2019 Survey

Average Full-Time Wage

Employment opportunities are expected to grow, and earnings can range from entry-level positions to much higher incomes for certified and experienced individuals. The average full-time annual wage of a CIS trained IT employee is $57,910(Computer Support Specialist) to $133,490 (Computer and Information Research Scientist), based on skill level, experience, and field of work. Other job titles include Computer Network Architect $120,500; Computer Programmers, $93,000; Computer Systems Analysts$99,270; Database Administrators 101,000; Information Security Analysts $102,000; Network and Computer System Administrators $90,000; Software Developers, $109,120; and Web Developers $78,300. Other titles and skills are also within these job categories, depending on skills, degrees, certifications, experience, availability, relocation, and variable employment factors.

Source: Bureau of Labor and Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2018-2028 Edition, 2019 Survey

Program Contact

Omekia Harrison
Program Coordinator/Instructor
334-420-4291
Location: Patterson Site - Bldg. E

Awards Available

Associate in Applied Science
Computer Information Systems
Networking (Cisco Networking)
System Support (Microsoft Desktop/Server Support)
Programming (Object Oriented Programming)
Cyber Security
Program Coding
AWS Cloud Computing

Short Term Certificate
Computer Information Systems
Cisco Networking
System Support (Microsoft Desktop/Server Support)
Web and Database Applications
Object Oriented Programming
Cyber Security
Program Coding
AWS Cloud Computing
Development, Security and Operations

The College regularly evaluates student learning outcomes for each program as part of ongoing planning and evaluation.

Estimated Program Length and Cost*                                                                 

* Tax not included. Prices are subject to change without prior notice; the cost of books may vary considerably among suppliers. The cost of general education books is in addition to the total listed above. The length of the program is based on full-time status of 12-15 credit hours per term. Enrollment in transitional-level general education courses will alter the length of the program.

*You must earn a final grade of 70 (“C”) or above to receive credit for CIS courses. Any final grade of 69 or below will constitute a failure (F) in the course, and you will have to repeat the course to attempt to earn the appropriate credit. (This does not include CIS-149 or CIS-146).