Computer Information Systems and Network Administration Program Site
Welcome
to the Alpena Community College (ACC) program page for the Computer
Information Systems (CIS) and Network Administration (NA) programs.
This program provides
students with the resources and high-demand training necessary to start a career in the exciting world of
Information Technology (IT). If you're already working in IT, look at our course
offerings. We have a variety of classes designed to meet current industry trends.
Through special relationships with industry leaders such as Juniper,
Microsoft, and VMWare students are provided multiple opportunities to
learn and practice on the latest software and hardware platforms.
Students have the option to download a number of software titles as a
benefit of attending Alpena Community College.
-Microsoft
Downloads-
-VMWare Downloads-
-Microsoft
E-Learning-
-Juniper
E-Learning-
Courses will use Microsoft Server 2008 and
Windows Vista products.
Our Program Requirements
- Computer Information Systems AA -
link
- Computer Science AS-
link
- Network Administration AAS -
link
- Network Administration Certificate -
link
Program News and Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between CS, CIS, and Network Administration?
The terms Computer Science (CS), Computer Information Systems (CIS), and Network
Administration all refer to different programs of study available at Alpena Community
College.
The CS program is loosely defined and results in an Associates
of General Studies (AGS) degree. This program has a stronger math component and
requires lab science, beyond that however, there is a great amount of freedom in
your class choices. Traditionally the Computer Science curriculum would be utilized
for students who plan to pursue study in Computer Engineering or Software Development
and Programming.
The CIS curriculum is designed for those students who plan
to pursue a four year degree from another institution. This program includes the
necessary course requirements to receive a MACRAO transfer stamp which will help
with admissions and transferability of courses to other colleges and universities
in the state.
The Network Administration program is designed for those seeking
a more technical program. The Network Administration coursework is designed for
those wishing to obtain employment after two years of study who do not necessarily
plan to pursue a four year degree. The program is almost entirely technical coursework
with a strong concentration on developing skills for outside vendor certification.
Which program is better?
It Depends!
The best way to answer this question is to meet with a program advisor to help determine
how each program will help you reach your individual goals.
I am a
veteran, is IT a good field for me?
First and foremost, thank you for
your service. The Network Administration program currently has veterans representing
the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines. In addition, there are fulltime members
of the Michigan Air National Guard and students who serve in guard and reserve capacities.
If you are a veteran you may have unique skill sets, training, or security clearances
that will help you prepare for a new career in IT. If you are currently serving,
or planning to serve, our coursework will help you prepare to meet
DoD Directive
8570.1.
When can I start courses?
The CIS and Network Administration programs can be enrolled in at any semester (Fall,
Spring, or Summer). Course selection varies, but most students can start taking
technical coursework in their first semester on campus!
How do I pick my classes?
The first
thing that a new student must do is submit an application to ACC. Once the application
has been processed you can meet with a program advisor to determine the courses
that will help you reach your personal and professional goals.
I'm a high school student, can I dual-enroll?
Decisions regarding dual enrollment eligibility can be addressed by your high school
counselor. Once you have been approved by your school, you may contact a program
advisor to learn more about our specific classes. Students have been successful
in several of the courses listed below. Depending on your interests, ideal classes
would include CIS120, CIS140, or CNS170.
I've been out
of school for years, will I be able to adjust?
The program
advisors are sensitive to your needs and have worked with many students returning
to school after a break in their education. Students come from a varying background
and instructors know some of the struggles that you may face. You will find a supportive environment
in the classroom as well both professional counseling and tutoring staff available
through The Learning Center.
About the Instructors
The core classes of the CIS and NA programs are
delivered by full time instructors and a group of dedicated part-time adjunct professionals.
Our adjunct instructors are able to bring their real world experience and knowledge
into the classroom to benefit YOU the student.
Lee Kirkpatrick
Lee teaches courses in
Business, Business Information Systems, and CIS at Alpena Community College. Lee
holds her Master and Bachelor degrees from University of Akron.
You may contact Lee at
kirkpatl@alpenacc.edu or via telephone
at 989-358-7230.
Mary Jane Thomson
Mary Jane has taught
in the Business, Business Information Systems, and CIS programs at Alpena Community
College since 1997. Prior to beginning her service at ACC she worked for sixteen
years in Information Technology roles within the Banking, Health Care, and Insurance
fields. Positions that she has held include Programming, Systems Analysis and Design,
and MIS Management.
A trail of high distinction follows Mary Jane; she has
earned numerous awards for both academic and professional accomplishments. Most
recently, Mary Jane has been awarded the 2009 Distinguished Graduate from Ferris
State University. She has served organizations on and off campus including her church,
Ferris State University Honors Program, Girl Scouts, Junior Miss, and Kappa Beta
Delta honor society.
Mary Jane obtained her Master and Bachelor degrees
in Business Administration from Lake Superior State University. She completed her
Associate in Applied Science degree in Business Data Processing from Ferris State
University, and also holds an Associate in Arts degree from Alpena Community College.
Mary Jane is compassionate regarding challenges that non-traditional learners may
encounter as she completed both her Master and Bachelor degree requirements while
parenting three young children and working full-time. Her studies have also included
post-MBA coursework at Michigan State, Ferris State, Purdue, Boise State, St. Cloud
State, UCLA, and she is MCAS-credentialed.
You may contact Mary Jane at
thomsonm@alpenacc.edu or via telephone
at 989-358-7313.
Dedicated Part-Time (Adjunct) Instructors:
Craig Brownridge (CIS140)
Craig is an adjunct instructor;
he may be reached at: brownric@alpenacc.edu
David Cummins (BUS262)
David is an adjunct instructor;
he may be reached at: kmomrik@gmail.com
John Parris (CNS151)
John is an adjunct instructor;
he may be reached at: parrisj@alpenacc.edu
Ron Sytek (CNS150)
Ron is an adjunct instructor;
he may be reached at: sytekr@alpenacc.edu
Important
ACC links
- WebAdvisor -
link - Course schedule
and registration.
- Learning Center -
link
- Tutoring and Learning Support services.
- Admissions Information -
link - Information about how to apply to ACC.