Course Descriptions | Bismarck State College

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Course Descriptions

Students choosing to complete all courses within the Cybersecurity & Computer Networks program can follow the recommended sequence below or create a customized schedule based on their needs. We recommend that students consult with their academic advisor prior to registration for academic advice based on individual educational goals.

Please review the descriptions below for information on each course.

Recommended – 1st Semester
CIS 128 Computer Hardware
CIS 147 Principles of Information Security
CIS 212 Windows Operating System Client
CIS 164 Networking Fundamentals I
 
Recommended – 2nd Semester
CIS 165 Networking Fundamentals
CIS 185 Introduction to Programming
CIS 216 Implementing a Windows Network Infrastructure
CIS 255 Computer & Network Security
 
Recommended – 3rd Semester
CIS 107 Linux Fundamentals
CIS 214 Implementing a Windows Active Directory Infrastructure
CIS 267 Intermediate Networking I
CIS 274 Cybersecurity Operations
 
Recommended 4th Semester
CIS 223 Linux System Administration
CIS 268 Intermediate Networking II
CIS 269 Cybersecurity and Computer Networks Capstone
or CIS 197/297  or Cooperative Education/Internship 1
CIS 282 Ethical Hacking and Network Defense
 
In addition to the courses listed above, 5 general education credits are required.
 
Please visit the Degree Plan link for additional information.

 
1st Semester Courses
 
CIS 128 Microcomputer Hardware – 3 Credits
Students learn the functionality of hardware and software components as well as suggested best practices in maintenance and safety issues. The students, through hands-on activities and labs, learn to assemble and configure a computer, install operating systems and software, and troubleshoot hardware and software problems. In addition, this course helps students prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification. 
 
CIS 147 Principles of Information Security – 3 Credits
This course introduces students to the field of information security. Topics covered include basic security principles, terminology, legal and ethical issues, as well as examining security from business and personal perspectives. 
 
CIS 212 Microsoft Windows Operating System Client – 3 Credits
The course helps learners to gain the knowledge and skills to install, configure, customize, optimize, and troubleshoot the Microsoft Windows operating system in a stand-alone and network environment. This course provides a foundation for Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification. 
 
CIS 164 Networking Fundamentals I – 4 credits
This course focuses on learning the fundamentals of networking. Students will learn both the practical and conceptual skills that build the foundation for understanding basic networking. By the end of the course, student will be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes. 
 
2nd Semester Courses
 
CIS 165 Networking Fundamentals II – 4 Credits
This course focuses on learning the architecture, components, and operations of routers and switches in a small network. Students learn to configure a router and a switch for basic functionality. By the end of this course, students will be able to configure and troubleshoot routers and switches. Some topics include RIPv1, RIPv2, virtual LANs, and inter-VLAN routing in IPv4 and IPv6 networks. 
 
CIS 185 Introduction to Programming – 3 Credits
This course provides an introduction to the use of scripting and programming languages. 
 
CIS 216 Implementing a Microsoft Windows Network Infrastructure – 3 Credits
This course helps learners who will be responsible for configuring, managing, and troubleshooting a network infrastructure that uses the Microsoft Windows Server products. Students will learn how to install and manage a Microsoft Server and it roles. DHCP, DNS, RRAS, and File and Print services will be explored along with other roles and services. This course can help provide a foundation for the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) and Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certifications. 
 
CIS 255 Computer and Network Security – 3 Credits
This course introduces students to technologies and practices used to secure computers and networks. Topics covered include cryptography, authentication, VPNs, and other aspects of enterprise security. Extensive networking and operating system knowledge is recommended. In addition to practical security-related experience, this course helps to prepare students for the CompTIA Security+ certification exam. 
 
3rd Semester Courses
 
CIS 107 Linux Fundamentals – 3 Credits
This course introduces students to the Linux operating system. It provides practical skills using command line utilities, managing processes and file systems, as well as installing and maintaining software. In addition to gaining practical Linux experience, this course helps to prepare students for the CompTIA Linux+ certification exams. 
 
CIS 214 Implementing a Microsoft Windows Active Directory Infrastructure – 3 Credits
This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, and administer Microsoft Windows Active Directory services. The course also focuses on implementing Group Policy and performing the Group Policy-related tasks that are required to centrally manage users and computers. This course provides a foundation for Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification. 
 
CIS 267 Intermediate Networking II – 4 Credits
In this course, students learn to configure advanced router and switch functionality. Topics covered include single-area OSPF, multi-area OSPF, and the EIGRP routing protocols. STP, default gateway redundancy, and EtherChannel are also addressed. This is the third of four courses providing a foundation for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. 
 
CIS 274 Cybersecurity Operations – 3 Credits
This course teaches core security skills needed for monitoring, detecting, investigating, analyzing and responding to security events, thereby protecting systems and organizations from cybersecurity risks, threats and vulnerabilities. 
 
4th Semester Courses
 
CIS 223 Linux System Administration – 3 Credits
This course covers topics relating to the administration of Linux computer systems. It provides experience in user management, task scheduling, system logging, shell scripting, system security, and other common system administration tasks. In addition to gaining practical Linux experience, this course helps to prepare students for the CompTIA Linux+ certification exams. 
 
CIS 268 Intermediate Networking II – 4 Credits
In this course, students learn to connect networks together. Topics covered include Wide Area Networks, Frame Relay communication, broadband connectivity, and site-to-site VPNs. This is the fourth of four courses providing a foundation for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. 
 
CIS 269 Cybersecurity and Computer Networks Capstone – 3 Credits
A capstone course for the Cybersecurity and Computer Networks program. This class prepares students to enter the IT workforce. Students will compete in a national cybersecurity competition, prepare resumes, job shadow, and discuss other employment related topics. It is recommended that students take this course during their last semester in the Cybersecurity and Computer Networks program. 
 
CIS 197 Cooperative Education/Internship – 3 Credits
Cooperative education and internships provide students with real-world experience in business and industry as they explore careers or gain experience in chosen fields of study. The work experiences must be directly related to the discipline under which the credits are to be awarded. 
 
CIS 282 Ethical Hacking and Network Defense – 3 Credits
This course provides experience securing computer network resources. The tools and methodologies attackers use will be examined, as well as defenses against them.