Incoming Lamoni Campus Graceland students for Fall 2023 –

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Computer Science & Information Technology

 “What I like the most about the CSIT program is the hands-on experience, from building LEGO Mindstorm robots, to building a computer, and the close relationships you can build between your professors.” 

Nathan Sowers ’20 

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Learn more about our program...

Want to study the ‘internet of things?’ Majoring in COMPUTER SCIENCE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (CSIT) at Graceland is a great place to start. Students who major in CSIT learn from top-notch instructors who help them strengthen their theoretical basis of computer science while building up problem solving skills through hands-on practical experience of information technology. With an autonomous, self-directed learning approach, students are trained to be responsible to perform projects and research. Graceland graduates work at local industries like Principal in Des Moines and Cerner in Kansas City and some work at powerhouses like Google and Apple because the skills they learn give them the capacity to stay at the top of their fields.

Offerings
Major, Minor
Field of Study
CSIT and Data Science
Format
Lamoni Campus
Curriculum
  • BS Degree – Computer Science & Information Technology Major

    In addition to the general education requirements*, students majoring in Computer Science and Information Technology must complete a concentration of 36 semester hours of CSIT courses as prescribed below:

    Courses Offered
    • CSIT1100Principles of Computing
      CSIT1100 Principles of Computing - 3 s.h.

      An introduction to the fundamentals of computer programming through extensive practice developing software in the Python language. Fundamental terminology and topics such as integrated development environments, variables, data types, control structures, functions, and objects will be covered. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    • CSIT1200Data Structures
      CSIT1200 Data Structures - 3 s.h.

      Continuation of CSIT1100 with emphasis on more advanced programming that involve classic data structures such as arrays, dictionaries, linked lists, queues, stacks, and trees. Recursive techniques and efficiency considerations will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT2010Object Oriented Programming
      CSIT2010 Object Oriented Programming - 3 s.h.

      A study in the design and development of object-oriented programs in the Java language for those with basic programming skills. Project assignments will give students extensive practice in designing classes and extending class hierarchies in order to develop software solutions based on interacting objects. UML diagrams and unique features of the Java language will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT2100Intermediate Programming
      CSIT2100 Intermediate Programming - 1-3 s.h.

      Intermediate-level programming using a specific programming language, tool-set, methodology, or genre such as COBOL, C++, PHP, Ajax, debuggers, etc. May be repeated for credit if the content is different. Scheduled course title and transcript listing will include the programming language or topic; e.g. Intermediate Programming - C++. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT2240Computer Hardware and Operating Systems
      CSIT2240 Computer Hardware and Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

      A study of the modern computer organization of computer systems at the discrete and operating system levels. Topics include the core components of hardware and operating systems such as processor organization, digital logic and circuitry, instruction processing mechanisms, process management, memory management, and virtualization. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    • CSIT2300Linux Operating Systems
      CSIT2300 Linux Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

      A study of various utility tools and script programming as well as system programming available in Linux systems. Students learn C programming language for system level programming and Unix/Linux shell script for system administration and maintenance. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    • CSIT3120Computer Networks and Network Security
      CSIT3120 Computer Networks and Network Security - 3 s.h.

      A study of networking technologies and network security. Topics include networking concepts, the OSI model, packet structure, and communication protocols as well as core concept of information security such as encryption, malware, and software exploitation. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT2240 (Computer Hardware and Operating Systems).

    • CSIT3200Systems Analysis and Design
      CSIT3200 Systems Analysis and Design - 3 s.h.

      A study of current strategies and techniques to analyze and model information system requirements, covering managerial, behavioral, and technical components of the system’s analysis and design process. Object-oriented software design will be emphasized. Prerequisite: CSIT2010.

    • CSIT3300Database Concepts and SQL
      CSIT3300 Database Concepts and SQL - 3 s.h.

      A study of the concepts and structures required to implement a database system including the logical design and physical organization of the database. Emphasis is given to the design and development of database systems that includes understanding and applying entity-relationship models. Implementation of a database using SQL on a database system is included. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT4100Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100)
      CSIT4100 Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100) - 3 s.h.

      In-depth project in consultation with the sponsoring faculty member. Students will complete a project that requires design, interactivity and creativity. The project will include some technical aspects and complete documentation of the project is required. The project requires a formal presentation at completion. Prerequisite: Instructor's consent.

    • DSCI1500Beginning Data Science and Data Analytics
      DSCI1500 Beginning Data Science and Data Analytics - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to the basic methods of analysis in Data Science and Data Analytics. This course introduces students to the basic statistical methods, coding applications, problem solving, and data integrity issues common to the field.

    • MATH1510Calculus I
      MATH1510 Calculus I - 4 s.h.

      Limits, continuity, differentiation, and applications including exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse functions. Mean value theorem, curve sketching, Riemann sums, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. Prerequisite: 2 years high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    • MATH2350Discrete Mathematics
      MATH2350 Discrete Mathematics - 3 s.h.

      A survey of topics in discrete mathematics focusing on introductory logic, methods of mathematical proof, set theory, determinants and matrices, combinatorics, and graph theory. Prerequisite: Instructor approval for non-CSIT/MATH majors, 2 years high school algebra or MATH1280. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    CSIT1100Principles of Computing CSIT1200Data Structures CSIT2010Object Oriented Programming CSIT2100Intermediate Programming CSIT2240Computer Hardware and Operating Systems CSIT2300Linux Operating Systems CSIT3120Computer Networks and Network Security CSIT3200Systems Analysis and Design CSIT3300Database Concepts and SQL CSIT4100Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100) DSCI1500Beginning Data Science and Data Analytics MATH1510Calculus I MATH2350Discrete Mathematics
    Course Descriptions
    CSIT1100 Principles of Computing - 3 s.h.

    An introduction to the fundamentals of computer programming through extensive practice developing software in the Python language. Fundamental terminology and topics such as integrated development environments, variables, data types, control structures, functions, and objects will be covered. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    CSIT1200 Data Structures - 3 s.h.

    Continuation of CSIT1100 with emphasis on more advanced programming that involve classic data structures such as arrays, dictionaries, linked lists, queues, stacks, and trees. Recursive techniques and efficiency considerations will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT2010 Object Oriented Programming - 3 s.h.

    A study in the design and development of object-oriented programs in the Java language for those with basic programming skills. Project assignments will give students extensive practice in designing classes and extending class hierarchies in order to develop software solutions based on interacting objects. UML diagrams and unique features of the Java language will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT2100 Intermediate Programming - 1-3 s.h.

    Intermediate-level programming using a specific programming language, tool-set, methodology, or genre such as COBOL, C++, PHP, Ajax, debuggers, etc. May be repeated for credit if the content is different. Scheduled course title and transcript listing will include the programming language or topic; e.g. Intermediate Programming - C++. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT2240 Computer Hardware and Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

    A study of the modern computer organization of computer systems at the discrete and operating system levels. Topics include the core components of hardware and operating systems such as processor organization, digital logic and circuitry, instruction processing mechanisms, process management, memory management, and virtualization. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    CSIT2300 Linux Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

    A study of various utility tools and script programming as well as system programming available in Linux systems. Students learn C programming language for system level programming and Unix/Linux shell script for system administration and maintenance. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    CSIT3120 Computer Networks and Network Security - 3 s.h.

    A study of networking technologies and network security. Topics include networking concepts, the OSI model, packet structure, and communication protocols as well as core concept of information security such as encryption, malware, and software exploitation. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT2240 (Computer Hardware and Operating Systems).

    CSIT3200 Systems Analysis and Design - 3 s.h.

    A study of current strategies and techniques to analyze and model information system requirements, covering managerial, behavioral, and technical components of the system’s analysis and design process. Object-oriented software design will be emphasized. Prerequisite: CSIT2010.

    CSIT3300 Database Concepts and SQL - 3 s.h.

    A study of the concepts and structures required to implement a database system including the logical design and physical organization of the database. Emphasis is given to the design and development of database systems that includes understanding and applying entity-relationship models. Implementation of a database using SQL on a database system is included. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT4100 Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100) - 3 s.h.

    In-depth project in consultation with the sponsoring faculty member. Students will complete a project that requires design, interactivity and creativity. The project will include some technical aspects and complete documentation of the project is required. The project requires a formal presentation at completion. Prerequisite: Instructor's consent.

    DSCI1500 Beginning Data Science and Data Analytics - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to the basic methods of analysis in Data Science and Data Analytics. This course introduces students to the basic statistical methods, coding applications, problem solving, and data integrity issues common to the field.

    MATH1510 Calculus I - 4 s.h.

    Limits, continuity, differentiation, and applications including exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse functions. Mean value theorem, curve sketching, Riemann sums, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. Prerequisite: 2 years high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    MATH2350 Discrete Mathematics - 3 s.h.

    A survey of topics in discrete mathematics focusing on introductory logic, methods of mathematical proof, set theory, determinants and matrices, combinatorics, and graph theory. Prerequisite: Instructor approval for non-CSIT/MATH majors, 2 years high school algebra or MATH1280. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

  • Computer Science & Information Technology Minor

    A minor in Computer Science and Information Technology requires 18 s.h. of CSIT courses including CSIT1100 and either CSIT1200 or CSIT2100.

    Courses Offered
    • CSIT1100Principles of Computing
      CSIT1100 Principles of Computing - 3 s.h.

      An introduction to the fundamentals of computer programming through extensive practice developing software in the Python language. Fundamental terminology and topics such as integrated development environments, variables, data types, control structures, functions, and objects will be covered. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    • CSIT1200Data Structures
      CSIT1200 Data Structures - 3 s.h.

      Continuation of CSIT1100 with emphasis on more advanced programming that involve classic data structures such as arrays, dictionaries, linked lists, queues, stacks, and trees. Recursive techniques and efficiency considerations will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT2100Intermediate Programming
      CSIT2100 Intermediate Programming - 1-3 s.h.

      Intermediate-level programming using a specific programming language, tool-set, methodology, or genre such as COBOL, C++, PHP, Ajax, debuggers, etc. May be repeated for credit if the content is different. Scheduled course title and transcript listing will include the programming language or topic; e.g. Intermediate Programming - C++. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT1100Principles of Computing CSIT1200Data Structures CSIT2100Intermediate Programming
    Course Descriptions
    CSIT1100 Principles of Computing - 3 s.h.

    An introduction to the fundamentals of computer programming through extensive practice developing software in the Python language. Fundamental terminology and topics such as integrated development environments, variables, data types, control structures, functions, and objects will be covered. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    CSIT1200 Data Structures - 3 s.h.

    Continuation of CSIT1100 with emphasis on more advanced programming that involve classic data structures such as arrays, dictionaries, linked lists, queues, stacks, and trees. Recursive techniques and efficiency considerations will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT2100 Intermediate Programming - 1-3 s.h.

    Intermediate-level programming using a specific programming language, tool-set, methodology, or genre such as COBOL, C++, PHP, Ajax, debuggers, etc. May be repeated for credit if the content is different. Scheduled course title and transcript listing will include the programming language or topic; e.g. Intermediate Programming - C++. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

  • Course list - Computer Science and Information Technology
    Courses Offered
    • CSIT1010Microcomputer Business Applications
      CSIT1010 Microcomputer Business Applications - 3 s.h.

      A proficiency-based course to develop intermediate level skills in Microsoft’s Windows® and Office Suite®. Does not count towards the CSIT major.

    • CSIT1060Introduction to Web Programming
      CSIT1060 Introduction to Web Programming - 3 s.h.

      Basics of how the World Wide Web works and web site construction using HTML and CSS. Related technology skills will be covered.

    • CSIT1080Technology in a Changing World
      CSIT1080 Technology in a Changing World - 3 s.h.

      A study of technology and its effects on the world. The world is connected by technology and how its connecting us is critical to how we live today. Knowing how to handle technology and make it work effectively will be increasingly important for the future. Exploration will include how technology impacts our world in both a positive and negative sense. The ethical use of technology will be explored. Students will understand how to solve simple programming problems. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    • CSIT1100Principles of Computing
      CSIT1100 Principles of Computing - 3 s.h.

      An introduction to the fundamentals of computer programming through extensive practice developing software in the Python language. Fundamental terminology and topics such as integrated development environments, variables, data types, control structures, functions, and objects will be covered. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    • CSIT1200Data Structures
      CSIT1200 Data Structures - 3 s.h.

      Continuation of CSIT1100 with emphasis on more advanced programming that involve classic data structures such as arrays, dictionaries, linked lists, queues, stacks, and trees. Recursive techniques and efficiency considerations will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT1900Elementary Topics in Computing or Information Technology
      CSIT1900 Elementary Topics in Computing or Information Technology - 1-3 s.h.

      A study of selected elementary topics in computing or information technology that are not offered in the regular curriculum. May be repeated for credit when topics are different.

    • CSIT2000Individual Study
      CSIT2000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • CSIT2010Object Oriented Programming
      CSIT2010 Object Oriented Programming - 3 s.h.

      A study in the design and development of object-oriented programs in the Java language for those with basic programming skills. Project assignments will give students extensive practice in designing classes and extending class hierarchies in order to develop software solutions based on interacting objects. UML diagrams and unique features of the Java language will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT2100Intermediate Programming
      CSIT2100 Intermediate Programming - 1-3 s.h.

      Intermediate-level programming using a specific programming language, tool-set, methodology, or genre such as COBOL, C++, PHP, Ajax, debuggers, etc. May be repeated for credit if the content is different. Scheduled course title and transcript listing will include the programming language or topic; e.g. Intermediate Programming - C++. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT2110Introduction to Geographic Information Sciences (also SUST2100)
      CSIT2110 Introduction to Geographic Information Sciences (also SUST2100) - 3 s.h.

      Students will learn theoretical and practical foundations related to geographic information systems and spatial analysis. Emphasis on teaching students to integrate and analyze spatial information from various sources. Includes a weekly laboratory section. Prerequisite: MATH1380.

    • CSIT2240Computer Hardware and Operating Systems
      CSIT2240 Computer Hardware and Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

      A study of the modern computer organization of computer systems at the discrete and operating system levels. Topics include the core components of hardware and operating systems such as processor organization, digital logic and circuitry, instruction processing mechanisms, process management, memory management, and virtualization. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    • CSIT2300Linux Operating Systems
      CSIT2300 Linux Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

      A study of various utility tools and script programming as well as system programming available in Linux systems. Students learn C programming language for system level programming and Unix/Linux shell script for system administration and maintenance. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    • CSIT3000Individual Study
      CSIT3000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • CSIT3100Operating Systems and Networks
      CSIT3100 Operating Systems and Networks - 3 s.h.

      A study of operating systems and networking concepts such as multithreading, task management, storage management, local and wide area networks, TCP/IP (Internet protocols), security, and distributed systems. Prerequisite: CSIT1300 and CSIT2200. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • CSIT3120Computer Networks and Network Security
      CSIT3120 Computer Networks and Network Security - 3 s.h.

      A study of networking technologies and network security. Topics include networking concepts, the OSI model, packet structure, and communication protocols as well as core concept of information security such as encryption, malware, and software exploitation. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT2240 (Computer Hardware and Operating Systems).

    • CSIT3200Systems Analysis and Design
      CSIT3200 Systems Analysis and Design - 3 s.h.

      A study of current strategies and techniques to analyze and model information system requirements, covering managerial, behavioral, and technical components of the system’s analysis and design process. Object-oriented software design will be emphasized. Prerequisite: CSIT2010.

    • CSIT3300Database Concepts and SQL
      CSIT3300 Database Concepts and SQL - 3 s.h.

      A study of the concepts and structures required to implement a database system including the logical design and physical organization of the database. Emphasis is given to the design and development of database systems that includes understanding and applying entity-relationship models. Implementation of a database using SQL on a database system is included. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    • CSIT3400Programming Languages
      CSIT3400 Programming Languages - 3 s.h.

      A study of programming language concepts across a wide variety of computer languages such as scripting languages, object-oriented languages, functional languages, and web-programming languages. A survey of specific languages will be studied and programming projects in several of them will be done. Prerequisite: CSIT1200 +This course is only offered every other year.

    • CSIT3500Management of Information Systems
      CSIT3500 Management of Information Systems - 3 s.h.

      Study of the fundamentals of information technology and how they support and interact with business organizations. Emphasis is on building a broad, basic technology framework.

    • CSIT3600Electronic Commerce (also BUAD3600)
      CSIT3600 Electronic Commerce (also BUAD3600) - 3 s.h.

      Exploration of the technologies and business environment surrounding the emergence of electronic commerce. There will be both a technical and non-technical track option for students, however, all students will be introduced to technical skills for implementing an electronic commerce website. Offered Spring even years. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • CSIT3700Internship in Computing and Information Technology
      CSIT3700 Internship in Computing and Information Technology - 1-3 s.h.

      This internship allows students to work with professionals in career areas relating to computing and information technology. Student will play an active role in identifying internship opportunities and field sponsors. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 semesters hours. (Graded on Pass/ Fail basis.) Prerequisite: Instructor’s consent.

    • CSIT3710Internship in Data Science (also MATH3710)
      CSIT3710 Internship in Data Science (also MATH3710) - 3 s.h.

      Application of data science skills and methods to client projects. Students will interact with clients and prepare formal reports and presentations. (Graded on Pass/ Fail basis.) Prerequisite: Instructor’s consent.

    • CSIT3800Current Issues and Technologies
      CSIT3800 Current Issues and Technologies - 1-3 s.h.

      Exploration of an issue or technology that has emerged or exists in a state of change. Typically there will be a significant hands-on component to the course. Course title will include a subtitle; e.g. Current Issues and Technologies – Data Mining. May be repeated for credit when the subtitle is different.

    • CSIT3900Topics in Computer Science and Information Technology
      CSIT3900 Topics in Computer Science and Information Technology - 1-3 s.h.

      A study of selected topics in computer science and information technology. May be repeated for credit when the topics are different.

    • CSIT4000Individual Study
      CSIT4000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.

      Research-level study, especially one in which a conference presentation or published paper is the goal. Prerequisite: Instructor's consent.

    • CSIT4100Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100)
      CSIT4100 Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100) - 3 s.h.

      In-depth project in consultation with the sponsoring faculty member. Students will complete a project that requires design, interactivity and creativity. The project will include some technical aspects and complete documentation of the project is required. The project requires a formal presentation at completion. Prerequisite: Instructor's consent.

    • CSIT4200Machine Learning
      CSIT4200 Machine Learning - 3 s.h.

      A study of regression, kernels, support vector machines, clustering, Neural networks. Prerequisites: MATH3340, MATH2520, MATH4350, CSIT1200 .(This course may be taken for graduate credit and is equivalent to DSCI5370. Students must also sign up for DSCI4371 and complete all graduate level assignments.)

    • CSIT4360Numerical Analysis (also MATH4360)
      CSIT4360 Numerical Analysis (also MATH4360) - 3 s.h.

      Analysis of numerical methods for computers covering iterative methods for finding roots of equations, numerical integration, interpolation and differentiation, and solution of ordinary differential equations. Error analysis and convergence of algorithms. Prerequisite: MATH2510 and a computer programming course. Goal 3A +This course is only offered every other year.

    • CSIT4370Mathematical Modeling (also MATH4370)
      CSIT4370 Mathematical Modeling (also MATH4370) - 3 s.h.

      Selected topics to demonstrate the interaction of mathematical thinking with real-world problems. Prerequisites: MATH1350 and MATH1520. Goal 3A +This course is only offered every other year.

    CSIT1010Microcomputer Business Applications CSIT1060Introduction to Web Programming CSIT1080Technology in a Changing World CSIT1100Principles of Computing CSIT1200Data Structures CSIT1900Elementary Topics in Computing or Information Technology CSIT2000Individual Study CSIT2010Object Oriented Programming CSIT2100Intermediate Programming CSIT2110Introduction to Geographic Information Sciences (also SUST2100) CSIT2240Computer Hardware and Operating Systems CSIT2300Linux Operating Systems CSIT3000Individual Study CSIT3100Operating Systems and Networks CSIT3120Computer Networks and Network Security CSIT3200Systems Analysis and Design CSIT3300Database Concepts and SQL CSIT3400Programming Languages CSIT3500Management of Information Systems CSIT3600Electronic Commerce (also BUAD3600) CSIT3700Internship in Computing and Information Technology CSIT3710Internship in Data Science (also MATH3710) CSIT3800Current Issues and Technologies CSIT3900Topics in Computer Science and Information Technology CSIT4000Individual Study CSIT4100Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100) CSIT4200Machine Learning CSIT4360Numerical Analysis (also MATH4360) CSIT4370Mathematical Modeling (also MATH4370)
    Course Descriptions
    CSIT1010 Microcomputer Business Applications - 3 s.h.

    A proficiency-based course to develop intermediate level skills in Microsoft’s Windows® and Office Suite®. Does not count towards the CSIT major.

    CSIT1060 Introduction to Web Programming - 3 s.h.

    Basics of how the World Wide Web works and web site construction using HTML and CSS. Related technology skills will be covered.

    CSIT1080 Technology in a Changing World - 3 s.h.

    A study of technology and its effects on the world. The world is connected by technology and how its connecting us is critical to how we live today. Knowing how to handle technology and make it work effectively will be increasingly important for the future. Exploration will include how technology impacts our world in both a positive and negative sense. The ethical use of technology will be explored. Students will understand how to solve simple programming problems. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    CSIT1100 Principles of Computing - 3 s.h.

    An introduction to the fundamentals of computer programming through extensive practice developing software in the Python language. Fundamental terminology and topics such as integrated development environments, variables, data types, control structures, functions, and objects will be covered. ELO4 Global Learning - Innovation

    CSIT1200 Data Structures - 3 s.h.

    Continuation of CSIT1100 with emphasis on more advanced programming that involve classic data structures such as arrays, dictionaries, linked lists, queues, stacks, and trees. Recursive techniques and efficiency considerations will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT1900 Elementary Topics in Computing or Information Technology - 1-3 s.h.

    A study of selected elementary topics in computing or information technology that are not offered in the regular curriculum. May be repeated for credit when topics are different.

    CSIT2000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    CSIT2010 Object Oriented Programming - 3 s.h.

    A study in the design and development of object-oriented programs in the Java language for those with basic programming skills. Project assignments will give students extensive practice in designing classes and extending class hierarchies in order to develop software solutions based on interacting objects. UML diagrams and unique features of the Java language will also be covered. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT2100 Intermediate Programming - 1-3 s.h.

    Intermediate-level programming using a specific programming language, tool-set, methodology, or genre such as COBOL, C++, PHP, Ajax, debuggers, etc. May be repeated for credit if the content is different. Scheduled course title and transcript listing will include the programming language or topic; e.g. Intermediate Programming - C++. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT2110 Introduction to Geographic Information Sciences (also SUST2100) - 3 s.h.

    Students will learn theoretical and practical foundations related to geographic information systems and spatial analysis. Emphasis on teaching students to integrate and analyze spatial information from various sources. Includes a weekly laboratory section. Prerequisite: MATH1380.

    CSIT2240 Computer Hardware and Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

    A study of the modern computer organization of computer systems at the discrete and operating system levels. Topics include the core components of hardware and operating systems such as processor organization, digital logic and circuitry, instruction processing mechanisms, process management, memory management, and virtualization. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    CSIT2300 Linux Operating Systems - 3 s.h.

    A study of various utility tools and script programming as well as system programming available in Linux systems. Students learn C programming language for system level programming and Unix/Linux shell script for system administration and maintenance. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT1200.

    CSIT3000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    CSIT3100 Operating Systems and Networks - 3 s.h.

    A study of operating systems and networking concepts such as multithreading, task management, storage management, local and wide area networks, TCP/IP (Internet protocols), security, and distributed systems. Prerequisite: CSIT1300 and CSIT2200. +This course is only offered every other year.

    CSIT3120 Computer Networks and Network Security - 3 s.h.

    A study of networking technologies and network security. Topics include networking concepts, the OSI model, packet structure, and communication protocols as well as core concept of information security such as encryption, malware, and software exploitation. Course will require significant programming. Prerequisite: CSIT2240 (Computer Hardware and Operating Systems).

    CSIT3200 Systems Analysis and Design - 3 s.h.

    A study of current strategies and techniques to analyze and model information system requirements, covering managerial, behavioral, and technical components of the system’s analysis and design process. Object-oriented software design will be emphasized. Prerequisite: CSIT2010.

    CSIT3300 Database Concepts and SQL - 3 s.h.

    A study of the concepts and structures required to implement a database system including the logical design and physical organization of the database. Emphasis is given to the design and development of database systems that includes understanding and applying entity-relationship models. Implementation of a database using SQL on a database system is included. Prerequisite: CSIT1100.

    CSIT3400 Programming Languages - 3 s.h.

    A study of programming language concepts across a wide variety of computer languages such as scripting languages, object-oriented languages, functional languages, and web-programming languages. A survey of specific languages will be studied and programming projects in several of them will be done. Prerequisite: CSIT1200 +This course is only offered every other year.

    CSIT3500 Management of Information Systems - 3 s.h.

    Study of the fundamentals of information technology and how they support and interact with business organizations. Emphasis is on building a broad, basic technology framework.

    CSIT3600 Electronic Commerce (also BUAD3600) - 3 s.h.

    Exploration of the technologies and business environment surrounding the emergence of electronic commerce. There will be both a technical and non-technical track option for students, however, all students will be introduced to technical skills for implementing an electronic commerce website. Offered Spring even years. +This course is only offered every other year.

    CSIT3700 Internship in Computing and Information Technology - 1-3 s.h.

    This internship allows students to work with professionals in career areas relating to computing and information technology. Student will play an active role in identifying internship opportunities and field sponsors. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 semesters hours. (Graded on Pass/ Fail basis.) Prerequisite: Instructor’s consent.

    CSIT3710 Internship in Data Science (also MATH3710) - 3 s.h.

    Application of data science skills and methods to client projects. Students will interact with clients and prepare formal reports and presentations. (Graded on Pass/ Fail basis.) Prerequisite: Instructor’s consent.

    CSIT3800 Current Issues and Technologies - 1-3 s.h.

    Exploration of an issue or technology that has emerged or exists in a state of change. Typically there will be a significant hands-on component to the course. Course title will include a subtitle; e.g. Current Issues and Technologies – Data Mining. May be repeated for credit when the subtitle is different.

    CSIT3900 Topics in Computer Science and Information Technology - 1-3 s.h.

    A study of selected topics in computer science and information technology. May be repeated for credit when the topics are different.

    CSIT4000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.

    Research-level study, especially one in which a conference presentation or published paper is the goal. Prerequisite: Instructor's consent.

    CSIT4100 Systems Development Project (also ARTS4100) - 3 s.h.

    In-depth project in consultation with the sponsoring faculty member. Students will complete a project that requires design, interactivity and creativity. The project will include some technical aspects and complete documentation of the project is required. The project requires a formal presentation at completion. Prerequisite: Instructor's consent.

    CSIT4200 Machine Learning - 3 s.h.

    A study of regression, kernels, support vector machines, clustering, Neural networks. Prerequisites: MATH3340, MATH2520, MATH4350, CSIT1200 .(This course may be taken for graduate credit and is equivalent to DSCI5370. Students must also sign up for DSCI4371 and complete all graduate level assignments.)

    CSIT4360 Numerical Analysis (also MATH4360) - 3 s.h.

    Analysis of numerical methods for computers covering iterative methods for finding roots of equations, numerical integration, interpolation and differentiation, and solution of ordinary differential equations. Error analysis and convergence of algorithms. Prerequisite: MATH2510 and a computer programming course. Goal 3A +This course is only offered every other year.

    CSIT4370 Mathematical Modeling (also MATH4370) - 3 s.h.

    Selected topics to demonstrate the interaction of mathematical thinking with real-world problems. Prerequisites: MATH1350 and MATH1520. Goal 3A +This course is only offered every other year.

Exceptional Faculty

Why Graceland

 • Students are introduced to a wide range of computer science and information technology fields, encouraging students to discover their talents and interests. 

• Graceland’s CSIT program balances computer science ideas with real-world experiences in information technology. 

• Students have opportunities to participate in regional conferences and competitions in programming, robotics, and cybersecurity. 

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Career Growth Ahead

A computer science and information technology major from Graceland University can help to prepare you for these careers:

  • Software Developer
  • Web Developer
  • Computer Systems Analyst
  • Information Security Analyst
  • Software Engineer
  • System Administrator
  • Database Administrator
  • SQL Programmer 

       …and many other exciting fields.

Employed in Field

79%

Computer Science & Information Technology graduates

Estimated Salary

$96,900

Computer Science & Information Technology graduates

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Tuition & Aid

Over 98% of students on the Lamoni campus receive financial aid.

An education from Graceland is one of the greatest investments you can make but we understand that cost is often a concern. With our generous scholarships and awards, you will find a truly affordable private education – often the cost of attending Graceland is less than a public university.

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Resch Scholars Program Scholarship

Exclusively for students majoring in Allied Health, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science and Information Technology, and Data Science, the Resch Scholars Program rewards high-performing science students through a combination of enhanced learning opportunities and the Resch Scholars Program scholarship. The scholarship is for a variable amount up to full tuition and is renewable for up to four years.

To be eligible, students must also hold a 3.0+ GPA (3.5+ GPA for full tuition) and Graceland must receive a completed FAFSA by January 1, 2023. Be sure to use Graceland’s FAFSA code 001866. Other eligibility and renewal requirements can be found on the Resch Scholars website at the link below.

In addition to the Resch Scholars Program Scholarship, CSIT majors also have access to the Ackerley Computer Science and Technology Scholarship and the Wildermuth Asian – Technology Endowed Scholarship.

Find out more!