Preparation for a successful information technology career requires a knowledge base of major elements in the technological sciences. The 60-unit Associate of Science (A.S.) in Information Technology at Azusa Pacific Online University equips students with professional knowledge and practical skills in information technology, the liberal arts, and general electives integrated with a Christian worldview.
Learn more about the career opportunities available with an A.S. in Information Technology.
Career Opportunities
The ASIT program fulfills many of the basic requirements for those students that desire to enter professional positions in the information technology field such as computer repair technician, network technician, technical sales support, technical support agent or representative, and other IT positions, as well as students who wish to prepare for professional certification exams. The adult learner may complete the ASIT in order to gain promotions, develop Information Technology skills, and/or prepare for bachelor’s-level studies. Graduates may apply for employment with various companies that offer technical support, consulting, or repair services, or with a business’s own IT support desk/office.
Program Highlights
- Learn practical skills and tools
- Gain understanding of methods, theories, and concepts in technological sciences
- Integrate IT and the Christian faith
- Apply effective written and oral communication skills in the field
- Learn IT-based solutions for business settings
Coursework
Skills and University Requirements (18 units)
APOU 101 Momentum: Success in the University
Course Description
APOU 101
Momentum: Success in the University
3 units
This course lays a strong foundation for a successful transition to college by increasing critical thinking, curiosity, goal orientation, and motivation skills. It provides an orientation to Azusa Pacific Online University, the Moodle online learning system, digital library services, and other support services. Students will be introduced to the idea of a Christian Liberal Arts education, a strengths approach to learning, and opportunities to develop practical skills and strategies for addressing the challenges of college. This course is a prerequisite for all other APOU courses.
MATH 110 College Algebra
Course Description
MATH 110
College Algebra
3 units
This course is a study of basic college algebra, including polynomial and rational functions, inverse functions, the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, advanced graphical procedures and interpretations, linear and nonlinear systems of equations, matrix representations of systems of equations, and introductory concepts in sequence, series and probability. Prerequisite: MATH 095 Intermediate Algebra, SAT 540/ACT 23 math score, or appropriate score on APOU mathematics placement test.
ENG 101 Expository Writing
Course Description
ENG 101
Expository Writing
3 units
This course focuses on the literacy skills essential to effective writing, including reading comprehension, audience awareness, genre knowledge, grammatical efficacy, syntactic fluency, and rhetorical sufficiency. Course is limited to 15 students.
ENG 102 Composition: Argument and Analysis
Course Description
ENG 102
Composition: Argument and Analysis
3 units
This course promotes the intellectual and rhetorical skills necessary to write persuasive and argumentative prose. Specific areas addressed include logic, grammar, and rhetoric. Clarity of purpose and perspicuity of argument are examined through attention to critical thinking, logical fallacies, and textual analysis. Prerequisite: ENGL 101. Course is limited to 15 students.
COMM 111 Public Communication
Course Description
COMM 111
Public Communication
3 units
This course offers practical instruction in how to speak effectively and introduces the basic principles underlying effective communication. Topics range from the study of theoretical models of interpersonal and public communication to the fundamental skills of research, organization, and delivery of informative and persuasive discourse.
CS 205 Basic Software Tools
Course Description
CS 205
Basic Software Tools
3 units
This PC-based course covers the basics of MS Windows and the use of applications software as problem-solving tools. In-depth coverage of popular word processing, database, and spreadsheet packages is included.
Foreign Language Requirements (4-6 units)
Select one of the following:
One intensive language course:
SPAN 123 Intensive Beginning Spanish
Course Description
SPAN 123
Intensive Beginning Spanish
4 units
This is an intensive accelerated course which emphasizes practical Spanish communication in real-life situations for beginners. The course addresses the pronunciation, intonation, and structure of Spanish within an online framework designed to develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Special cultural presentations supplement language study.
-or-
Two 3-unit language sequence:
SPAN 121 Beginning Spanish I
Course Description
SPAN 121
Beginning Spanish I
3 units
This two-course sequence emphasizes practical Spanish communication in real-life situations for beginners. The course addresses the pronunciation, intonation, and structure of Spanish within an online framework designed to develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Special cultural presentations supplement language study.
SPAN 122 Beginning Spanish II
Course Description
SPAN 122
Beginning Spanish II
3 units
This is a continuation of SPAN 121. Prerequisite: SPAN 121, passing Spanish CLEP Exam.
Information Technology Core Requirements (33 units)
God’s Word and the Christian Response (9 units)
APBL 100 Biblical Survey of the Old Testament* or BIBL 100 Exodus/Deuteronomy*
Course Description
APBL 100
Biblical Survey of the Old Testament
3 units
An overview of the Old Testament focusing on the biblical writers, book outlines, major themes, key individuals, and events in biblical history, along with personal application for students today. Subject matter includes creation, revelation, sin, redemption, and the Messianic promises.
APBL 105 Biblical Survey of the New Testament* or BIBL 230 Luke/Acts*
Course Description
APBL 105
Biblical Survey of the New Testament
3 units
An overview of the New Testament focusing on the political, cultural, religious, literary, and historical perspectives during the life of Jesus and during the early Church. Authorship, book outlines, key themes, persons, and events in pre- and early church history are examined, along with personal applications for students today.
Course Description
BIBL 100
Exodus/Deuteronomy
3 units
This course introduces Old Testament biblical literature, hermeneutics, and literary critical methodologies with a primary focus on the books of Exodus and Deuteronomy. Students learn to observe the overall structure of these books, their historical settings, and modern approaches to their literary analysis. Students learn to interpret individual texts within each book. Students study how Deuteronomy uses the material of Exodus to communicate God’s Word to a new generation.
Course Description
BIBL 230
Luke/Acts
3 units
This course introduces New Testament biblical literature, hermeneutics, and literary critical methodologies with a primary focus on the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Special attention is given to the meaning of the texts with regard to their political, cultural, religious, and geographical settings; the literary structures and genres employed; and how those texts are relevant for faithful Christian living. Prerequisite: BIBL 100
MIN 108 Christian Life, Faith, and Ministry
Course Description
MIN 108
Christian Life, Faith, and Ministry
3 units
The theological, educational, and social bases for ministry and service are examined. An analysis of the church’s responsibility and methods for carrying out the ministry mandate of Jesus is emphasized. Field experience is required.
Statistical/Critical Thinking Component (3 units)
MGT 280 Applied Statistics
Course Description
MGT 280
Applied Statistics
3 units
This is an elementary course in basic statistical concepts. Students are introduced to the understanding and use of necessary computational procedures to attain the basic skills in the following: frequency distributions, graphs, central tendency, variability, normal curve, probabilities, correlation, hypothesis testing, and chi square. Understanding and use of the above statistics are stressed over mathematical development. Prerequisite: MATH 110 College Algebra with a grade of B or higher
Information Technology Fundamentals (21 units)
CIT 100 Introduction to Computer Information Technology
Course Description
CIT 100
Introduction to Computer Information Technology
3 units
This course provides students with an overview of Computer Information Technology, its history, current computer technology, and future trends. In this course students are introduced to relevant terminology and fundamental concepts of today’s information technology that provide the technical foundation for information systems and its relationship with people, organization, and society. The topics in this course include computing and network basics, telecommunications, human computer interactions, computer-support, social aspects of information technology, legal and ethical considerations, security, and Internet/Web technologies. This course focuses on information technologies and its impact on organizations – structure and decision making, as well as culture and society.
CIT 105 Programming and Database Concepts
Course Description
CIT 105
Programming and Database Concepts
3 units
This course provides students with basic concepts of computer programming, and programming concepts, and constructs. In addition, the course includes an introduction to the design and use of database systems, while familiarizing students in concepts such as data modeling, file management, database programming, and security issues.
CIT 200 Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design
Course Description
CIT 200
Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design
3 units
This course introduces contemporary concepts and methodologies underlying the design, analysis, and implementation of information systems. It provides an introduction to project management and professional standards in the development of organizational information systems. Students will become acquainted with both structured and object oriented analysis and design, with a focus on competency in contextual inquiry, utilization of logical methodologies, critical evaluation of project feasibility, and successful execution of system implementation. Students will apply their learning to real world situations.
CIT 205 Network Concepts
Course Description
CIT 205
Network Concepts
3 units
This course is an introduction to basic concepts in the application, design, and implementation of computer and telecommunication networks. It includes an overview of various network topics including network architecture and protocols, network management, routing, security, hardware, and basic programming principles. Students will analyze common problems in network implementation, maintenance, and repair, while assessing various strategies to address those problems.
CIT 220 Hardware and Software Troubleshooting
Course Description
CIT 220
Hardware and Software Troubleshooting
3 units
This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for computer configuration, maintenance and repair. The course covers hardware and software installation, diagnoses trouble shooting, and integrating peripherals. Students will also explore methodologies for installing system enhancements and upgrades. The course focuses on preparing the student to take the CompTIA A+ Certification exam.
CIT 250 Emerging Issues and Technologies
Course Description
CIT 250
Emerging Issues and Technologies
3 units
This course provides students with the skills to understand and analyze the ethics, opportunities, and impacts of new technologies and practices. The course will focus on assessing the potential benefits and challenges of new technologies from a Christian worldview. A variety of current technological issues will be explored including protecting personal information, cyber crime, privacy, military applications, viruses, artificial intelligence, and social media. Students will discuss how new technology can be incorporated into or enhance existing systems and practices. The course will also provide students with a framework of technological knowledge and ethical principles necessary for sound decision making in the information age.
CIT 265 Project Management and Integration
Course Description
CIT 265
Project Management and Integration
3 units
This course introduces the application of skills, tools, and strategies used in the management of information technology projects. Students will learn decision making and management skills that address factors such as budget, timelines, requirements gathers, third-party services, client expectations, and project scope. Focus will be placed on learning current practices in project management, as well as professional communication and quality assurance. Students will be expected to apply these skills to business and management scenarios.
General Electives (3-5 units)
To complete the 60-unit General Studies Core requirement students may utilize any 100+ level college or university course. The elective requirement provides students an opportunity to pursue interests beyond program requirements.
*Must be taken at APOU
Note: This information is current for the 2012–13 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. To view 2012 program information, please refer to the Academic Catalog.