By Kent Yang | Staff Writer
Infographic describing the differences between CS, CIT, and CIS programs, as of July 2023.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in Information Technology is projected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030—significantly faster than the 8% average for all other occupations. So, let me ask you this, do you want to be at the forefront of this boom and potentially even lead it? Or do you want to be at the consumer end of things?
At Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC), the Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Computer Science (CS) programs, led by Chairperson and Professor Tina Wilson, serve as pathways to careers in the thriving tech industry.
But what’s the difference between CIS and CS? While both focus on technology, their approaches differ: Computer Science emphasizes theories, programming, and computational solutions, while Computer Information Systems integrates technology with business operations. Both fields offer pathways to various IT roles and the chance to specialize in specific areas.
As technology evolves, MWCC’s CIS and CS programs are continually updated to stay relevant. In addition to the two main degree tracks, MWCC offers certificates in Cybersecurity, Data Analysis, IT Support Specialist, and Software Support. These provide additional entry points into the IT field. Under Wilson’s leadership, the department has worked to revamp, update, and reevaluate its courses.
Some recent additions to the Computer Science program within the past few years include the following courses: Computer Science I, Computer Science II, Systems Programming, and Algorithms and Data Structures. The Data Analysis certificate program now includes courses like Data Literacy, Management, Data Visualization, Data Ethics, and Introduction to Data Analytics. All of the mentioned courses have been approved by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education in both 2020 and 2023.
Several existing courses have also been updated to better serve students. For example, Introduction to Helpdesk Support now goes beyond PC repair, aligning with the CIS Internship program. Introduction to Networking has been redesigned to focus on CompTIA Network+ certification material, while a new Operating Systems course is set to debut this fall. Spreadsheet Applications has been refreshed with a new textbook and insights from business and math faculty to ensure a well-rounded curriculum. Introduction to Full Stack Development now includes dynamic web development, and Network Security incorporates hands-on exercises and active learning strategies. In Database Design and Implementation, transitioning from Oracle to MySQL has enhanced transferability by adding multi-layer applications. The CIS Internship has also been revamped to strengthen ties with MWCC’s career services and helpdesk teams. Additionally, Principles of Information Security is under review, preparing for updates to meet evolving industry standards. When enrollment for required courses like Data Literacy or Introduction to Data Analytics are low, independent studies are offered which gives students the opportunity to still take those courses while also supporting the program’s growth. Course substitutions have been necessary in some cases, such as for the Supporting Private Clouds course, which is currently on hold. A future redesign could include cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud.
“Substitutions are chosen thoughtfully to meet each student’s needs,” said Wilson.
This flexibility has benefited students like Tyler Rodriquez, 39, who is pursuing a Data Analysis certificate. Rodriquez described the Data Literacy and Management course as manageable but noted challenges with its abundance of terminology. “I think that’s to be expected,” he said, adding that the concepts weren’t overly complex. However, he found the mix of course materials, including some paywalled resources, frustrating. After discovering free instructional videos created by the professor, he found it much easier to understand assignments and expectations.
Looking ahead, Wilson has ambitious goals for the department, including hiring at least one, preferably two, full-time faculty members. While adjunct instructors like Dr. Gary Ackerman bring valuable expertise and energy to the program, Wilson emphasizes the critical role full-time faculty play in expanding course offerings across online, hybrid, and in-person formats.
Dr. Ackerman, who has been teaching CIS courses since 2013, highlighted the unique contributions of adjunct faculty, saying, “Adjunct faculty are frequently left out of decision-making processes, but the department’s recent efforts to include us in discussions show how much they value our contributions.”
Dr. Ackerman’s students spoke highly of the knowledge and practicality he brings to MWCC. In his Spreadsheet Applications course, Krista Burson, a 48-year-old Business Administration major, said the course content was “incredibly detailed” and taught her new ways to manage her Excel sheets even as an experienced user. She appreciated learning new techniques for tracking her monthly KPIs at work and would recommend the class to anyone, whether they’re earning a degree or just looking to build their skills. Jill Vescovi, a 43-year-old Business Administration major, called it one of her favorite classes highlighting its hands-on structure and how working with the downloadable data files alongside the textbook made a huge difference. She also credited Dr. Ackerman for providing extra context when needed, making the material even easier to grasp.
With the ongoing efforts to revamp even more programs, Ackerman praised the department’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of students pursuing IT careers, whether transferring to four-year institutions, entering the workforce, or refining their skills for specialized roles. “The department is doing a commendable job revamping the programs to better align with the current needs of students who want to be IT users, professionals, and leaders,” he said.
Building on the foundation laid by adjunct faculty, the addition of full-time instructors would allow the department to take its initiatives even further. A new faculty member could lead the main efforts of redesigning the cybersecurity certificate program, incorporating essential topics like intrusion detection, risk management, cryptographic solutions, ethical hacking, and advanced cyber threat mitigation techniques. This would not only make the program more robust and competitive but also ensure the department’s long-term growth, preparing students to thrive in an ever-evolving tech landscape.
Finally, Professor Wilson offers words of encouragement to students entering the CIS/CS programs: “Students entering any CIS/CS program—or any college program—should remember that learning new things takes time and practice. It helps to be patient with yourself as you expand your knowledge and skills.”
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