KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE. Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences

Transcription

1 KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences COURSE CATALOG

2 Knowledge Systems Institute Graduate School of Computer & Information Sciences Course Catalog Updated on 06/04/2015

3 847/ ii 3420 Main Street Skokie, Illinois 60076

4 Knowledge Systems Institute Graduate School of Computer & Information Sciences Course Catalog Master of Science Degree in: Computer and Information Sciences with Areas of Concentration in: Management Information Systems Health Informatics Digital Media Information Security Knowledge Management Computer Networks Software Engineering and Certificate Program in: Computer and Information Sciences iii

5 Board, Faculty Board of Directors Barr, Tony, M.S., North Carolina State University Chang, Cybele, M.S., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Chang, Shi-Kuo, Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley Graupe, Daniel, Ph.D., University of Liverpool Koss, Nicholas, Ph.D., Indiana University Liu, C. N., Ph.D., University of Illinois Rhem, Anthony J., Ph.D., Walden University Sitrick, David, J.D., Southern Methodist University iv Dean of Students Affairs Chao, Shih-Chang, Ph.D., Illinois Institute of Technology Chief Academic Officer & Dean of Academic Affairs Hsieh, Cheng-Yuan, Ph.D., Illinois Institute of Technology Executive Director Pan, Judy, Illinois Institute of Technology Chief Financial Officer Smith, Gabriel, B.A., Oberlin College Director of Development Chang, Emily, B.A., Yale University Director of Research Chang, Paosheng, Ph.D., Northwestern University

6 & Administration Librarian Mondrus, Maryann, M.L.S., Rosary College (Dominican University) Director of Digital Media Center Rogala, Miroslaw, Ph.D., University of Wales Faculty Chang, Paosheng, Ph.D., Northwestern University Chang, Shi-Kuo, Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley Chao, Shih-Chang, Ph.D., Illinois Institute of Technology Chi, Yao-Teng, M.S., Knowledge Systems Institute Graduate School Gong, Tony, M.S., PMP, Knowledge Systems Institute Graduate School Grant, Phoebe J., M.S., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Hsieh, Cheng-Yuan, Ph.D., Illinois Institute of Technology Kordylewski, Hubert, Ph.D., University of Illinois Rhem, Anthony J., Ph.D., Walden University Richards, David, M.F.A., School of the Art Institute of Chicago Rogala, Miroslaw, Ph.D., University of Wales Schmoll, George F., M.B.A., Roosevelt University Thulin, Frederick, Ph.D., University of Illinois Veselinovic, Dusan, Ph.D., University of Illinois Wang, Edward, Ph.D., Case Western Reserve University Yeh, Shu-Jen, Ph.D., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute v

7 Table of Contents GENERAL INFORMATION 1-2 Mission 1 History and Objectives 1 Accreditation 2 Table of Contents vi ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 3-4 How to Apply 3 When to Apply 3 Credit Transfer Policy 3 Required Documents for Admission 4 CALENDAR 5 MS DEGREE PROGRAM 6-14 Graduate Study in Computer and Information Sciences 6 Areas of Concentration 6 Graduate Study in Computer and Information Sciences (CIS) 7 Area of Concentration in Management Information Systems (MIS) 8 Area of Concentration in Health Informatics (HI) 9 Area of Concentration in Digital Media (DM) 10 Area of Concentration in Information Security (IS) 11 Area of Concentration in Knowledge Management (KM) 12 Area of Concentration in Computer Networks (CN) 13 Area of Concentration in Software Engineering (SE) 14

8 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Individual Research Project (MS Thesis Project) 31 Comprehensive Examination 31 TOEFL 32 Awarding of the Diploma 32 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND STUDENT LOANS Financial Assistance 33 Student Loans 33 Federal Stafford Loan Amounts 34 Federal Stafford Loans 34 VA Benefits 34 Table of Contents TUITION AND FEES Tuition and Fees 35 Audit Policy 36 Registration and Refund Policy for Domestic Students 36 Withdrawal Policy 36 Textbooks 36 vii

9 Table of Contents viii STUDENT REQUIREMENTS & POLICIES General Regulations 37 Approval 37 Non-Discrimination Policy 37 Time Schedule 37 Holidays 37 Academic Calendar 37 Academic Integrity Policies 38 Student Obligations 38 Procedure for Adjudication 38 Appeal Procedure 38 Faculty Responsibilities 38 Grievance Procedure 38 Academic Load 39 Credit Deficiency 39 Full-time Domestic Students 39 Part-time Domestic Students 39 International Students 39 Academic Advising 39 Grading 40 Incomplete Grade Policy 40 Grade Point Average 41 Transcripts 41 Academic Progress, Probation, and Dismissal 41 Self-Discipline 42

10 Student Rights and Privileges 42 Change of Schedule 42 Class Attendance 42 Illness or Emergency 42 Immunization and Health Report 43 Health Insurance Policy 43 Reinstatement of Student Status and Reinstatement of Aid 43 ONLINE LEARNING 44 FACILITIES 45 Classrooms & Laboratories 45 Library 45 Digital Media Studio & Gallery 45 Wireless Network 45 Table of Contents WHERE IS KSI GRADUATE SCHOOL? CALENDAR CONTACT KSI 49 ix

11 General Information General Information MISSION Knowledge Systems Institute Graduate School (KSI Graduate School) is a degree granting notfor-profit institution of higher learning governed by an independent Board of Directors. Its mission is to provide instruction in graduate level academic programs emphasizing computer and information sciences with a faculty of recognized experts using state-of-the-art research facilities and advanced computer systems; to assist and facilitate student learning through the assessment of student academic achievement; to offer such services and facilities to professionals in the Chicago metropolitan area; and to serve the domestic as well as international student populations. KSI Graduate School grants the Master of Science (MS) Degree in Computer and Information Sciences. The MS degree program in Com puter and Information Sciences also offers various areas of concentration. These areas of concentration are: Management Information Systems, Health Informatics, Knowledge Management, Software Engineering, Digital Media, Information Security, and Computer Networks. HISTORY & OBJECTIVES KSI Graduate School originally established in 1978 for research and profes sional education, has grown in its scope, purpose and design. Originally founded in response to the needs of the business and engineering communities, KSI Graduate School has developed into a graduate school, dedicated to training professionals in solving complex problems in science, business and engineering by employing advanced computer and information sciences methodologies. 1 The school s excellence is maintained by its dedicated faculty and distinguished advi sors, its low student-to-faculty ratio, and the philosophy of granting ample opportunity for students to combine theory with practice. Besides learning advanced theory and concepts of computer and information sciences, students at KSI Graduate School learn to translate theory into practical applications by conducting research projects under the guidance of faculty advisors. Through such projects, students gain technical experience, improve their abilities to carry out applied KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

12 re search and develop a critical appreciation of the engineering, scientific, and management dimensions of the computer profession in the course of developing new and specialized knowledge. The combination of theoretical and applied knowledge is fundamental to the educational philosophy at KSI Graduate School. This educational approach is both sound and meaningful for professionals in the Chicago area seeking advanced education relevant to their jobs. To train scientists and engineers, it is not enough just to put them to work in the classroom and the laboratory. They must also experience the frustration and the excitement of putting advanced technology to work. KSI Graduate School s small size provides students with a high degree of specialized training and education through one to one work with professors and advanced research. Accreditation Knowledge Systems Institute Graduate School is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). The contact information for the NCA: The Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL Phone: (800) , (312) Fax: (312) [email protected] 2General Information

13 3Admission Requirements Admission Requirements Admission as a graduate student requires a Bachelor s Degree. A student may be required to take prerequisite courses to make up for deficiency in previous education. Students with an inadequate background are required to complete a program of up to 20 prerequisite courses before being considered for admission to the graduate program. Such prerequisite courses shall not be counted toward the fulfillment of degree requirements. Applicants who are transferring from a United States university must have a minimum 2.75 GPA. An applicant from a country whose native language is not English must submit the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores before admission. International students can only be admitted as full-time students. Before a student may matriculate, he or she must have an official transcript of previous college work on file in the registrar s office. How to Apply Students must send the completed application form, the non-refundable applica tion fee of $50, official transcripts (mailed in a sealed envelope), copy of three signed reference letters, copy of diploma (no certificates), passport, visa, I-94, I-20(s) copies (international students only), original affidavit of support & bank balance (international students only) and a TOEFL Grade Report (international students only) to the Admissions Office. This grade report should be sent directly from the testing center to the school using the KSI Graduate School s TOEFL test center code, which is For the MS Degree Application please refer to KSI Graduate School s website at: application When to Apply Applications for admission are accepted throughout the year*. Classes begin at various times as indicated in the academic calendar. * Deadline to apply for a particular semester is two weeks prior to the start date of the semester. Credit Transfer Policy Students who have completed graduate-level coursework in computer and information sciences but did not earn a Master s Degree in computer science at a regionally accredited institution may request the credit of equivalent graduate courses be applied towards a graduate degree. Students may transfer a maximum of six (6) credits. For more details, please see the current student handbook available at KSI s website: KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

14 Required Documents for Admission Application Form Non-Refundable Application Fee $50 Official Transcript(s)* (Photocopy not accepted) WES or ECE Evaluation of Transcript** Copy of Three Signed Reference Letters Copy of Diploma Passport, Visa, I-94, I-20(s) Copies (International Students Only) Original Affidavit of Support & Bank Balance*** (International Students Only) TOEFL Grades 80iBT or Higher (International Students Only) * Photocopies of official transcripts are not accepted. The official transcripts must be released and sent directly to KSI s Admissions Office in a sealed envelope. ** All international students are required to submit their official transcripts to World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) for evaluation. The purpose of the evaluation is to make sure that you have the US Equivalency to a Bachelor s Degree. KSI only accepts WES and ECE evaluations, other evaluation companies will not be accepted. To find out more about WES, please visit this website: To find out more about ECE, please visit this website: Each evaluation company has a fee to do the evaluation, their websites will guide you on the fees and requirements. *** Affidavit of Support & Bank Balance can not be older than six months of application date. Photocopies are not acceped. Please visit page 49 for KSI s contact information. General Information: Admissions: Online Application: Application Form: Prospective Students: Student Handbook: Admission Requirements

15 Calendar 5Calendar Academic Year Semester Application Deadline Begins Ends Fall August 05, 2013 August 26, December 15, 2013 Spring December 23, 2013 January 11, May 08, 2014 Summer May 05, 2014 May 24, August 14, Fall August 04, 2014 August 23, December 11, 2014 Spring December 22, 2014 January 10, May 07, 2015 Summer April 27, 2015 May 16, August 09, Fall August 03, 2015 August 22, December 10, 2015 Spring December 21, 2015 January 09, May 05, 2016 Summer May 02, 2016 May 21, August 11, 2016 Academic Year Spring Break Graduation Ceremony* Graduation Rehearsal March 08-14, 2014 May 18, 2014 May 17, March 07-13, 2015 May 10, 2015 May 09, March 05-11, 2016 May 15, 2016 May 14, 2016 * The Administration Office must receive the completed Graduation Application by the dates specified below. Please note: graduation ceremonies are held once a year in May and the rehearsal is held the day before the graduation ceremony. If students plan to participate, they must register at the office by the middle of March. Degrees may also be conferred in the months of August and December. Application for Graduation Deadline Comprehensive Examinations (offered three times a year) August Degree Conferral 1st Friday in February Last week of April December Degree Conferral 2nd Friday in June Last week of July May Commencement 3rd Friday in November First week of December KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

16 MS Degree Program KSI Graduate School offers a Master of Science Degree in Computer and Information Sciences. The MS Degree Program is offered on-campus, online or in combination. The study of computer and information sciences is viewed as the inquiry into the nature of information processing systems and computational processes, and the application of information processing tools for solving problems in modern society. The MS degree program in computer and information sciences covers the core areas of programming languages, database systems, operating systems, theory of computation and ethics in the field of technology. Therefore, students trained by KSI Graduate School will be able to apply their knowledge of the newest information processing tools in their work environment. AREAS OF CONCENTRATION Students are required to complete the Required Core Courses listed under the area of concentration in which they are enrolled. Courses listed as Area Courses (electives) may be substituted with other graduate level courses with advisor and approval of Dean of Academic Affairs. MS Degree Program Areas of concentration are academic programs that allow a student to focus on specialized areas of computer and information sciences. The seven areas of concentration are: Management Information Systems, Health Informatics, Digital Media, Information Security, Knowledge Management, Computer Networks, and Software Engineering. Students who wish to specialize in an area of concentration should take one (1) more course as specified in the program requirements in addition to the nine (9) courses required by the standard Master s in Computer and Information Sciences Degree Program

17 7Computer and Information Sciences (CIS) MS Degree Program Degree Requirements for The Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences The Master of Science Degree program in Computer and Information Sciences (CIS) provides students with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to understand, design and use modern computer-based systems. It fosters innovative thinking and encourages new approaches to solving business and technological problems through the use of information technology (IT). Students will gain the expertise needed to meet the demands of the rapidly growing and changing information industry. Students are also exposed to ethical considerations in contemporary technological settings. Graduates can begin an IT career, advance in IT if they already have an IT career, or prepare for future advanced studies in computer science. Degree Requirements The MS degree in Computer and Information Sciences requires 27 graduate level credit hours of coursework (9 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and a Comprehensive Examination. Prerequisite Courses CIS310 Introduction to Programming CIS321 Computer Languages CIS331 Database Programming CIS340 Operating Systems CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks Required Core Courses BA531 Data Mining CIS501 Information System Design CIS502 Database Management Systems CIS503 Theory of Computation CIS504 Programming Languages CIS510 Software Project Management Area Courses BA501 Management Information Systems BA511 Statistics CIS506 Advanced Operating Systems CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks CIS508 Database Network Administration and Tuning CIS509 Knowledge Engineering CIS520 Advanced Computer Networks and Security CIS522 Computer Security and Cryptography CIS566 Software Testing Techniques CIS567 Software Test Automation HI536 Business Intelligence in Health Informatics HI581 Foundations of Health Informatics CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

18 AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS The Master of Science Degree with an area of concentration in Management Information Systems is designed for individuals seeking executive positions with responsibilities for achieving competitive advantage through the effective integration of information technology into organizations. Strategic advantages in the internet age have been developed in adoption of a new paradigm for organizing businesses. In this new paradigm, core competencies of information technology, IT management and knowledge management capabilities could determine winners and losers in global electronic markets, which results in a growing need for managers at all levels in all functional areas of an organization to be conversant with strategies and tactics for managing the use of information technology. This MIS concentration is designed to fulfill this pressing need and expose students to IT management concepts, theory, and ethical concerns. The courses use an interdisciplinary approach, are project and case based and lay a solid foundation in systems analysis and design, IT project management, enterprise information architecture planning and design, evaluation of IT value, identification and assessment of opportunities for IT-enabled business process re-engineering and information systems construction. Most MIS graduates will find managerial positions in the information systems departments in organizations and in consulting. Degree Requirements The MS Degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a concentration in MIS requires 30 graduate level credit hours of coursework (10 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and a Comprehensive Examination. Prerequisite Courses BA301 Principles of Management or BA302 Accounting Principles and Computerized Applications BA305 Principles of Marketing CIS310 Introduction to Programming CIS331 Database Programming CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks Required Core Courses BA501 Management Information Systems BA503 Decision Support Systems BA531 Data Mining CIS501 Information System Design CIS502 Database Management Systems CIS510 Software Project Management Area Courses BA504 Business Management BA511 Statistics BA533 Fundamentals of Knowledge Management CIS504 Programming Languages CIS506 Advanced Operating Systems CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks CIS509 Knowledge Engineering HI536 Business Intelligence in Health Informatics CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) Management Information Systems (MIS)

19 9Health Informatics (HI) MS Degree Program AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN HEALTH INFORMATICS The Master of Science Degree with an area of concentration in Health Informatics is designed to meet the rapidly growing need for technical professionals in the healthcare industry by preparing students through an integration of technological expertise in informatics, computer science, mathematical statistics, networks, database engineering and knowledge management with a knowledge of the clinical environment in the health care professions. This discipline involves the development and application of methods for acquiring, representing, retrieving and analyzing biomedical knowledge and data. Degree Requirements The MS Degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a concentration in Health Informatics requires 30 graduate level credit hours of coursework (10 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and a Comprehensive Examination. Prerequisite Courses CIS310 Introduction to Programming CIS321 Computer Languages CIS331 Database Programming CIS340 Operating Systems CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks Required Core Courses BA531 Data Mining CIS502 Database Management Systems CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks HI503 Clinical Decision Support HI510 Health IT Project Management HI581 Foundations of Health Informatics Area Courses BA511 Statistics CIS501 Information System Design CIS504 Programming Languages CIS520 Advanced Computer Networks and Security HI522 Computer and Network Security for Health Informatics HI535 Knowledge Representation in Health Informatics HI536 Business Intelligence in Health Informatics CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

20 AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN DIGITAL MEDIA The Masters of Science degree with an area of concentration in Digital Media combines high-end production classes in media with research-grade investigation of new tools, techniques, and practices. Students take graduate-level coursework in media studies, media theory, and aesthetics, as well as graduate level production classes in Web Design, Digital Cinema, Digital Photography, Game Design, Sound, and 3D Graphics. Students also take courses in Computer Science and Engineering as well as Management Information Sciences. Students are expected to produce professional quality studio work in an experimental practice environment, and create a Thesis that brings together their creative and technical skills in digital media to create a fully realized research project around the creative applications of media technology. Degree Requirements The MS Degree in Computer and Information Sciences, with a concentration in Digital Media requires 30 graduate level credit hours of coursework (10 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and extended creative work. Prerequisite Courses CIS321 Computer Languages CIS331 Database Programming CIS345 Game Programming CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks CIS393 Design of Interactive Systems Required Core Courses CIS513 Multi-Media Information Systems CIS517 Advanced Computer Graphics CIS551 Digital Media: History, Theory and Methods CIS570 Principles of Interactive Design CIS573 Digital Production Studio Area Courses CIS552 Advanced Game Design CIS572 Digital Art Workshop CIS574 Digital Video Production CIS575 Digital Audio Production CIS576 DV Independent Film Production CIS577 Digital Cinematography CIS578 Art and Technology Seminar (I) CIS579 Art and Technology Seminar (II) CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) Digital Media (DM)

21 Information Security (IS) 11 MS Degree Program AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN INFORMATION SECURITY The Master of Science Degree with an area of concentration in Information Security is designed to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of computer system components. People involved in information security must be able to comprehend and scientifically employ and manage information security concepts, principles, methods, techniques, practices and procedures. The nature of information security education demands expertise concentrated in areas of information technologies and administrative operations. The area of concentration in Information Security is designed to provide an interdisciplinary education combined with a technical background in computer science. The program consists of courses on information security management, computer network security, data protection using encryption techniques and information security assurance. Students not only learn how to make an organization s database more secure and how to protect a computer network by a combination of firewalls and encryption techniques, but also acquire the important practical knowledge of ISO standards and procedures for assuring an organization s information security. Degree Requirements The MS Degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a concentration in Information Security requires 30 graduate level credit hours of coursework (10 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and a Comprehensive Examination. Prerequisite Courses CIS310 Introduction to Programming CIS321 Computer Languages CIS331 Database Programming CIS340 Operating Systems CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks Required Core Courses BA531 Data Mining CIS501 Information System Design CIS502 Database Management Systems CIS504 Programming Languages CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks CIS522 Computer Security and Cryptography Area Courses BA511 Statistics CIS506 Advanced Operating Systems CIS508 Database Network Administration and Tuning CIS509 Knowledge Engineering CIS520 Advanced Computer Networks CIS566 Software Testing Techniques HI536 Business Intelligence in Health Informatics CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

22 AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT The Master of Science Degree with an area of concentration in Knowledge Management is most suitable for people who already have a career in a field other than information technology, but now find the need to acquire new IT skills in order to remain technologically competent. Since knowledge industry is the wave of the future, to acquire the necessary data management and knowledge management skills enables an individual to compete successfully in a demanding job market. The program is designed as concentration for individuals who need to acquire actionable insights, methodologies and strategies of knowledge management to enhance knowledge transfer and collaboration as a driving principle of organizational success. Business processes naturally involve generating knowledge and sharing knowledge to ensure that an organization maximizes the value it achieves through its knowledge base. Degree Requirements The MS Degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a concentration in Knowledge Management requires 30 graduate level credit hours of coursework (10 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and a Comprehensive Examination. Prerequisite Courses CIS310 Introduction to Programming CIS321 Computer Languages CIS331 Database Programming CIS340 Operating Systems CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks Required Core Courses BA501 Management Information Systems BA531 Data Mining BA533 Fundamentals of Knowledge Management BA534 Topics in Knowledge Management CIS502 Database Management Systems CIS510 Software Project Management Area Courses BA504 Business Management BA511 Statistics BA535 Knowledge Acquisition and Modeling with UML CIS501 Information System Design CIS504 Programming Languages CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks CIS509 Knowledge Engineering CIS566 Software Testing Techniques CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) Knowledge Management (KM)

23 Computer Networks (CN) 13 MS Degree Program AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN COMPUTER NETWORKS The Master of Science Degree with an area of concentration in Computer Networks is designed for individuals who want to specialize in computer networks and data communications, which emphasizes on essential network security concepts, secure information transfer and storage, risk management and perimeter and internal protection. Computer networks have become the driving force in information systems for the knowledge industry. Computer networks can be wired or wireless. They are the glue that ties the system together. This area of concentration enables individuals to find employment in the fast growing fields of computer networks and data communications. Degree Requirements The MS Degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a concentration in Computer Networks requires 30 graduate level credit hours of coursework (10 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and a Comprehensive Examination. Prerequisite Courses CIS310 Introduction to Programming CIS321 Computer Languages CIS331 Database Programming CIS340 Operating Systems CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks Required Core Courses BA531 Data Mining CIS501 Information System Design CIS502 Database Management Systems CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks CIS520 Advanced Computer Networks CIS522 Computer Security and Cryptography Area Courses CIS504 Programming Languages CIS506 Advanced Operating Systems CIS508 Database Network Administration & Tuning CIS509 Knowledge Engineering CIS566 Software Testing Techniques HI536 Business Intelligence in Healthcare Informatics CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

24 AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING The Master of Science Degree with an area of concentration in Software Engineering is designed for individuals who want to learn the theory and practice of software engineering, knowledge engineering and software project management. The goal of software engineering is to adapt engineering practices to software development, so we can design better software, which is characterized by maintainability, correctness, reusability, portability and efficiency. Software engineers are in high demand because these are the professionals who can design correct, maintainable, reusable and portable software products. Degree Requirements The MS Degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a concentration in Software Engineering requires 30 graduate level credit hours of coursework (10 courses), a nine (9) graduate level credit hour (3 courses) individual research project and a Comprehensive Examination. Prerequisite Courses CIS310 Introduction to Programming CIS321 Computer Languages CIS331 Database Programming CIS340 Operating Systems CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks Required Core Courses BA531 Data Mining CIS501 Information System Design CIS502 Database Management Systems CIS504 Programming Languages CIS510 Software Project Management CIS566 Software Testing Techniques Area Courses CIS503 Theory of Computation CIS506 Advanced Operating Systems CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks CIS508 Database Network Administration and Tuning CIS509 Knowledge Engineering CIS567 Software Test Automation HI536 Business Intelligence in Health Informatics CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum CIS599A, B, C Research Project (Course Descriptions begin on Page 15.) Software Engineering (SE)

25 Course Descriptions 15 Course Descriptions BA501 Management Information Systems: This course covers introduction to information resource management, business systems, economics of information, and the information services organization. Effective and efficient utilization of computer technology, including hardware, software and system development. Role of database administration. (3 credits) BA502 Financial Accounting: Based on an overview of accounting principles and basic concepts of financial reporting, students will conduct case studies such as the computerization of a general ledger system, information processing in accounting systems, global issues in understanding accounting practices. Major steps in computerization related to financial accounting will be explored. Prerequisite: BA302. (3 credits) BA503 Decision Support Systems: This course covers introduction to decision support systems and the techniques and manner in which these systems are constructed and used. This is done through Webrelated issues which parallel business intelligence/ business analytics for electronic commerce and other Web application cases. (3 credits) BA504 Business Management: This graduate level seminar focuses on management concepts and techniques for organizations experiencing rapid and/or continuous change and/or dedicated to technological innovation. Special attention is given to social responsibility, managerial ethics, non-traditional organizations and global enterprises. Prerequisite: BA301. (3 credits) BA505 Marketing Management: This course covers marketing principles, analysis, planning and decision making. Special attention is given to marketing management, buyer behavior, segmentation, product policy, forecasting, pricing, distribution, advertising, promotion, marketing information systems, ethical marketing, social responsibility and competitive strategy. Prerequisite: BA305. (3 credits) BA506 Organization and Management Development: This course covers characteristics of business and other types of organization. Special attention is given to system concepts in organizations, organization theories, behavioral factors in leadership, managing change, motivation and interpersonal communication, impacts of information technologies and strategies for managing organizational change. Attention is given to ethical management and social responsibility. (3 credits) BA508 Quantitative Methods for Business Decisions: A study of modern management decision-making techniques through theory and hands-on case studies in financial analysis, capacity planning, inventory control, work-force management, transformation process and quality enhancement. (3 credits) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

26 BA509 Operations and Production Management: This course provides a conceptual framework for studying and organizing the operation/production functions efficiently for management decisions involving inputoutput transformations. Work design and processing, capacity planning and labor-force management, scheduling, assignment and inventory control. (3 credits) BA510 Corporate Finance: This course provides students a comprehensive study of corporate financial management. Special attention is given to capital budgeting, the role of financial markets, risk and return, financial decision, dividend policy, capital structure and ethical financial procedures. Prerequisite: BA307. (3 credits) BA511 Statistics: This course provides students with a broad overview of statistical methods. The emphasis is on interpretation and concepts rather than calculations or mathematical details. The course intends to provide students with an ability to read the scientific literature in order to critically evaluate study designs and methods of data analysis. Basic concepts of statistical inference including hypothesis testing, p-values, and confidence intervals will be introduced. Specific topics will include comparisons of means and proportions, the normal distribution, regression and correlation, confounding, and concepts of study design including randomization, sample size, and power considerations. Examples of the use and abuse of statistical methods will be drawn from current literature. (3 credits) BA512 Financial Markets and Institutions: This course covers the analysis of financial markets and institutions. Students will learn the structure of financial intermediaries such as banks, investment companies and stock exchanges, as well as options and future markets. Prerequisite: BA307. (3 credits) BA519 Electronic Enterprise Engineering using Java: Enterprise engineering is an emerging discipline for the 21st century. This course will explore the development of electronic enterprise to facilitate electronic commerce, to integrate enterprise information, and to empower knowledge workers of all levels with decision-support capabilities using the Java programming language, EJB, J2EE, etc. Prerequisite: CIS321. (3 credits) BA523 Organization and Management in Instructional Systems: This course covers management techniques and procedures in the planning, design and implementation of instructional systems in education, business and industry. Fiscal, logistical, allocative, informational and planning methods. (3 credits) BA531 Data Mining: This course is intended to explore both the data mining and its applications. Data mining is the process of analyzing data from different perspectives and summarizing it into useful information. Data mining software is one of the many analytical tools used to interpret data. This course is going to cover the principles and techniques for extracting information. Students will learn the fundamentals of data mining, strategies, approaches, techniques to discover intelligence from data, and evaluation of data mining models. Some examples are, supervised/unsupervised learning, classify, cluster, associate, etc. Practical applications include sales promotion, marketing strategies and fraud detection. Prerequisite: CIS502. (3 credits) Course Descriptions

27 Course Descriptions 17 Course Descriptions BA533 Fundamentals of Knowledge Management: This course provides a detailed understanding of the practice of Knowledge Management (KM). Content includes understanding the best practices used in commercial and public sectors today, establishing KM practice, defining and understanding knowledge modes - tacit/explicit, knowledge sharing techniques, communities of practice (CoP), conducting after action reviews and case studies and future implications of KM. (3 credits) BA534 Topics in Knowledge Management: This course provides a detailed understanding of the practice of Knowledge Management (KM). Content includes KM evolution; best practices used in commercial and public sectors today, where KM is headed, and why it is so vital to an organization s success. At the end of this course, the participants will have an advanced understanding of knowledge management, knowledge management concepts and principles and how to apply them. (3 credits) BA535 Knowledge Acquisition and Modeling with UML: This course will instruct students on the various concepts and methods used for knowledge representation. Students will learn how to apply the Unified Modeling Language (UML) and the Knowledge Acquisition Unified Framework as a standard process to capture and build knowledge models to represent knowledge. This course on knowledge modeling will focus on three (3) major representations of knowledge. These representations include Ladders, Network Diagrams and Decision Trees. In this course, students will examine the knowledge modeling and UML concepts and applying those concepts to build knowledge models with UML. A demonstration of the Knowledge Acquisition Unified Framework software will be incorporated within the framework of the course. (3 credits) BA563 Electronic Commerce Workshop: In this course, students will engage in group projects to go through the entire process of e-commerce application development, including the business model, materials flow, cash flow and web-based system prototyping. Prerequisites: BA519 & CIS513. (3 credits) CIS501 Information System Design: This course covers the fundamentals of information structures, data compression and indexing techniques. It emphasizes the design and implementation of webbased information systems, distributed systems, knowledge-based systems, XML, ASP.Net, etc. Prerequisite: competency in high-level languages and data structures. (3 credits) CIS502 Database Management Systems: This course is intended to cover both the theoretical concepts of modern database systems, and the practical usage of commercial database systems (ORACLE). Students will learn the fundamentals of relational database, database architecture, relational theory, relational algebra, Entity-Relation diagram, normalization and normal forms, database integrity, file structure and indexing structure. Prerequisite: CIS331. (3 credits) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

28 CIS503 Theory of Computation: This course covers computation models and formal languages. Students will learn correspondence of machine hierarchy with language hierarchy, precise definition of the concept of an algorithm and turing machines and undecidability results. (3 credits) CIS504 Programming Languages: This course covers surveys and comparisons of various programming languages, including language syntax, grammar, parser, procedural, non-procedural, logic, functional, object-oriented programming languages, VB.Net, Visual C++, Java, C#, etc. Visual Programming is emphasized. Prerequisite: CIS321. (3 credits) CIS505 Compiling Techniques: This course covers marketing principles, analysis, planning and decision making. Students will learn marketing management, buyer behavior, segmentation, product policy, forecasting, pricing, distribution, advertising, promotion, marketing information systems and competitive strategy. (3 credits) CIS506 Advanced Operating Systems: This course is focused on how to distribute operating systems, including communication, synchronization, processes, file systems and memory management. Four examples of distributed systems are given in detail. (3 credits) CIS507 Principles of Computer Networks: This course is intended to discuss how local area networks, enterprise networks, wide area networks and their various hardware and software components work. By using the seven-layer OSI/ISO model as a framework, students will have an in-depth understanding about the protocols of computer networks. Class project includes TCP/IP network programming using Java and/or Winsockets of VB.Net running on Internet. Case studies include all kinds of enterprise networks. The course also prepares students to the industrial certification Network+. Prerequisite: CIS370. (3 credits) CIS508 Database Network Administration and Tuning: This course covers database performance tuning, SQL and application design tuning, I/O tuning, resource management, database network architecture and administration, server and client configuration and advanced security options. Prerequisite: CIS331. (3 credits) CIS509 Knowledge Engineering: This course discusses the use of heuristics, production rules, and theoremproving techniques to design expert systems and knowledge-based systems. Class projects include the design of knowledge-based systems using CLIPS and expert-system-tool designed by NASA. Prerequisite: CIS504. (3 credits) CIS510 Software Project Management: Students will learn software engineering techniques and management practices for large scale information system development, including the software development process, methodology, environment, tools and teamwork concepts. Communication, presentation and documentation skills will also be emphasized. A group project is required in this course. Prerequisite: CIS331. (3 credits) Course Descriptions

29 Course Descriptions Course Descriptions CIS511 Mini/Micro-Computer Systems: This course examines survey of popular microprocessors and their architectures, hardware design considerations and trade-offs. Students will learn memory, interrupt handling, I/O structures, interfacing techniques, hardware and software design tools. Troubleshooting, Real-life applications are also emphasized. This course includes several laboratory projects. Prerequisite: CIS506. (3 credits) CIS513 Multimedia Information Systems: This course concentrates on the design of multimedia information systems involving the integration of contemporary media formats including video, audio, graphics, text and interactive elements. Students engage in discussions about the conception, creation and distribution of media across systems as well as a survey of system types. (3 credits) vision. Applications to industrial robotics, parts inspection and factory automation will be discussed. Prerequisites: CIS503 & CIS504. (3 credits) CIS517 Advanced Computer Graphics: Hardware, software, data structure, programming language and mathematical requirements for developing 2D and 3D applications of computer graphics. Various 2D, 3D and interactive authoring tools are utilized. Prerequisites: CIS321 & CIS393. (3 credits) CIS518 Computer Architecture: This course is an introduction to computer architecture. Students will learn processor architecture, sequential and micro-programming controls, memory organizations, I/O structures, bus structures, peripherals and interfacing, computer communication. Prerequisite: CIS506. (3 credits) 19 CIS514 User Interface Engineering: This course examines the principles of user interface design, including discussions of visual, usability, and technical considerations. Various media editing and design tools are utilized with an emphasis on interactive content. (3 credits) CIS516 Computer Vision: This course discusses image processing techniques which include segmentation, boundary detection, object recognition, 3D object representation and recognition. Students will learn knowledge representation for computer CIS519 Electronic Enterprise Engineering: Enterprise engineering is an emerging discipline for the 21st century. It is a subdiscipline of systems engineering, which applies the knowledge and methodology of systems engineering to the design of enterprises, or businesses. This course will explore the development of electronic enterprise to facilitate electronic commerce and to integrate enterprise information and empower knowledge workers of all levels with decision-support capabilities using the Java programming language, EJB JEE5. Prerequisite: CIS321. (3 credits) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

30 CIS520 Advanced Computer Networks: This course discusses advanced issues of TCP/IP networking. Class project includes the implementation of TCP/ IP applications using WinSockets, JavaMicroEdition. The content covers Client/Server Model, Network Management, Network Security, Cisco Router Configuration, broadband communication and ATM concepts, Enterprise Network Systems, etc. The course also prepares students to the industrial certification Network+ and CCNA/CCNP Prerequisite: CIS507. (3 credits) CIS521 Queuing Theory and Simulation: This course covers queuing models of computer networks and systems. Students will learn birth-death systems; single and multiple server systems, steady-state behavior of general service time queues, priority queues, approximation methods and algorithms for complex queues. Simulation. Prerequisites: CIS350 & CIS370. (3 credits) CIS522 Computer Security and Cryptography: This course will present a practical survey of concepts, principles and practice of cryptography and computer security. Course content include: General Networking and Security Concepts, Encryption and Certificate Basics, Network Infrastructure Security, TCP/IP Basics and port security, Communications Security, Application Security,User Security, Security Baselines, Operational Security, Organizational Security, Incident Detection and Response. The course also prepare students to the industrial certification Security+. Prerequisite: CIS507 (3 credits) CIS551 Digital Media: History, Theory and Methods: This course provides a historical and critical overview of artists and scientists pioneering the digital arts and media. Discussions involve important digital media issues from aesthetics, creative strategies, emerging trends and socio-cultural aspirations. (3 credits) CIS552 Advanced Game Design: This is a project oriented course on game design and programming. Students will design, implement and test a three-dimensional game with various levels of interactivity, animation, sound, constraints, and networking capabilities. Students must already have advanced graphics experience. The course will also touch on the software engineering and project management aspects of developing a high-end video game. (3 credits) Course Descriptions

31 Course Descriptions 21 Course Descriptions CIS566 Software Testing Techniques: This course presents a comprehensive study of software testing and quality control concepts, principles, methodologies, management strategies and techniques. The emphasis here is on understanding software testing process, planning, strategy, criteria, and testing methods, as well as software quality assurance concepts & control process. It covers the various subjects, including test models, test design techniques (black box and white-box testing techniques), integration, regression and system testing methods. Prerequisite: CIS321. (3 credits) CIS567 Software Test Automation: This course presents a comprehensive study of software test automation, including concepts, principles, methods, test automation scripting, and test tools. The course covers the major software test automation topics: test automation infrastructure, test generation, test scripting and execution, test tool development, autotest regression, and automatic test coverage analysis. By providing different types of test automation tools (black-box and white-box test tools), this course covers several important test automation topics, such as automatic GUI testing solutions and tools, b) automatic component testing and testability, c) model-based test automation, d) performance testing and automation, e) web-based and SOAbased test automation. This course provides students with test automation project experience based on existing test tools and created automation solutions. Prerequisite: CIS566. (3 credits) CIS570 Principles of Interactive Design: Interactive design is the human-centered iterative approach to search for new design patterns, refine the design patterns and derive final products from the design patterns. In this course the students will study the basic techniques of interactive design and either employ 3D printing technology to design a physical artifact, or use Android to design a simple app for customized devices such as the smart phone. (3 credits) CIS572 Digital Art Workshop: This workshop provides an intensive training environment for students to engage in individual experiments on digital art and design applications utilizing various media, including images, sound and other sensory information. (3 credits) CIS573 Digital Production Studio: This course will enable students to understand the theory and practice of a multimedia, multichannel production and installation and display techniques, and allow students to develop skills and attitudes that foster creativity, innovation and collaboration. Prerequisite: CIS517. (3 credits) CIS574 Digital Video Production: The goal of the course is for each student to gain in-depth experience throughout a video production process as a crew member and to explore wide variety of new techniques like HDR / High Dynamic Range digital photography and new aesthetics in DV film making. (3 credits) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

32 CIS575 Digital Audio Production: This course is a studiolecture-discussion course that investigates the artistic potential of sound and media performance and installation art making and explores the intricate dynamics and relationships of electronic and digital music and sound environment in design for public presentation of multi-media performance and installation. (3 credits) CIS576 DV Independent Film Production: This course requires students to engage themselves in DV (Digital Video) film production with a focus on the art, technology and business of low-budget digital film making. Students will work through the several key phases of independent film, High Definition video creation process: pre-production, production and post-production, editing and worldwide promotion. (3 credits) CIS577 Digital Cinematography: This course introduces the theories and innovative, state of the art techniques used in scripting, scene composition, lighting and design when creating a setting for digital video, animation and/or game projects. Students will also learn to apply these hands-on production techniques like multi-channel design and digital story telling, the lighting elements of visibility, selective focus, modeling and setting the mood of a scene in order to create a physiological portraiture or a composite, multilayered landscape. (3 credits) CIS578 Art and Technology Seminar I: This course is intended to help students at the graduate level find their own voice or vision as artists. The idea is to help them to investigate and bring together their various fields of interest, deepen these fields through research and explore ways of putting them into play in their work. The course is not media specific and students are expected to come to the class already possessing a degree of competency in their media of choice and access to equipment to execute their work. The course will consist of weekly presentations and lectures on a variety of topics and individual meetings with the instructor to discuss and critique their work. Most work will be completed outside of class. (3 credits) CIS579 Art and Technology Seminar II: The process of helping students develop their individual voice or vision is continued in this course, which focuses on the dark side of human experience. Students will do research and develop artwork based on various themes. The course is not media specific and students are expected to come to the class already possessing a degree of competency in their media of choice and access to equipment to execute their work. The course will consist of weekly presentations and lectures on the topics listed above and individual meetings with the instructor to discuss and critique their work. Most work will be completed outside of class. (3 credits) CIS599A, CIS599B, CIS599C Research Project for MS Degree: Nine credit hours are required. Students will be guided individually to do an advanced project. (9 credits) CIS600 Applied CIS Practicum: This course includes collaboration with industry, practical training, research assistant-ships with professors and faculty grant recipients directly related to the student s field of study. This specialized practicum gives students the unique opportunity to add an applied experience to their curriculum. (9 credits maximum) Course Descriptions

33 Course Descriptions 23 Course Descriptions CIS700 Special Seminars: Under the supervision of an instructor, students may request to study individually in an advanced subject not included in the regular courses. Students are required to read one or more textbooks and/or a collection of papers, do exercises and take examinations. All the requirements are identical to the requirements for a regular graduate course. (3 credits) HI503 Clinical Decision Support: This course will introduce students to key concepts in healthcare and clinical decision making, decision analysis techniques as applied in the medical domain, common clinical decision support functions and systems, evidence based practice guidelines, and performance measurement techniques. Methods and issues related to the design and implementation of clinical decision support systems will also be discussed. (3 credits) HI510 Health IT Project Management: This course will introduce the students to managing health-care informatics projects, including the techniques, process and procedures used to manage small, medium, and large software and systems projects. The students will be introduced to the waterfall, iterative and agile methodologies and will also include topics such as project planning, estimating, budgeting, and human resource management. The course will also discuss stakeholders analysis, administrative and clinical applications, as well as key health informatics concerns and regulations and change management. Prerequisite: CIS331. (3 credits) HI522 Computer & Network Security for Health Informatics: The major objective of this course is to introduce the basic concepts of computer and network security. The course covers general security concepts, TCP/IP protocol, communications security, infrastructure security, basics of cryptography, and operational/organizational security. The course provides students with knowledge to create a more secure computing environment for business professionals. Prerequisite: CIS370. (3 credits) HI533 Fundamentals of Knowledge Management for Health Informatics: This course provides a detailed understanding of the practice of knowledge management (KM) within the healthcare industry. Content includes: Critical Aspects of Healthcare Operations, Knowledge Strategies for Healthcare Operations, Knowledge Essential Elements for Healthcare, Knowledge Mapping and Medical Informatics, Knowledge Creation and Discovery in Medical Informatics, Applying KM to Healthcare, Knowledge Tools and Techniques for Healthcare. (3 credits) HI535 Knowledge Representation in Health Informatics: Healthcare IT researchers are mining information from electronic patient records and clinical guidelines to better understand the relationship between symptoms/conditions. As this knowledge is discovered a clear way to model and represent this knowledge is needed. In this course students will examine and apply knowledge acquisition and KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

34 modeling that includes leveraging the Knowledge Acquisition Unified Framework (KAUF) as a standard process to capture and build knowledge models as it pertains to healthcare informatics. This course will examine Medical Concept Representation, Biomedical Ontology s and Modeling Text Retrieval in Biomedicine. The students will build comprehensive taxonomies, ontology s, and knowledge architectures to aid in the understanding the relationships between symptoms, conditions and treatments. The KAUF software tool will be incorporated within the course. (3 credits) HI536 Business Intelligence in Health Informatics: This course provides processes of modern enterprise information integration and data management - with an emphasis in healthcare. This course will begin with an in-depth review of baseline data integration concepts and best practices, and will introduce students to key activities involved in a data warehouse (DW) implementation project, as propelled by the high demand for building and managing Business Intelligence systems in today s very competitive and challenging economy. This class will also survey advanced topics such as agile project management, KPI dashboarding, predictive analytics, and data virtualization. This course guides students through the complete life cycle of building and managing DW/BI systems. Students are introduced step by step to the various phases and complexities in implementing successful DW/BI projects. (3 credits) HI581 Fundamentals of Health Informatics: This course provides an overview of the fundamental concepts, important issues, and major application areas of health informatics. Topics include: history and current environment of health IT, healthcare data, information flow, and information technology opportunities; health IT standards, information exchange, and integration; electronic health records; clinical decision support; consumer health informatics; mobile and ehealth. Privacy, security, and ethical issues related to healthcare IT will also be discussed and the relevance emphasized. (3 credits) HI582 Database Management Systems in Health Informatics: This course is intended to cover both the theoretical concepts of modern database systems and the practical usage of commercial database systems. Students will learn the fundamentals of relational database, SQL language, database architecture, relational theory, Entity-Relation diagram, normalization and normal forms, database integrity, file structure, and indexing structure. Discussion and examples from health informatics area will be used in this class. Prerequisite: CIS331. (3 credits) HI587 Computer Networks in the Healthcare Industry: This course has two purposes. One is to explain how computer networks and their various hardware and software components work. The second is to do enterprise-network survey on many medical institutions. This is to study their network configuration and administration features. By using the seven-layer OSI/ISO model as a framework, students will have a solid understanding about the protocols of computer networks in depth. Class project includes implementing wired and wireless Local Area Network using TCP/IP protocol to connect to Internet. (Can be replaced with CIS507) Prerequisite: CIS370. (3 credits) Course Descriptions

35 Course Descriptions 25 Course Descriptions BA301 Principles of Management: This course provides the foundation for a thorough and systematic understanding of management theory and practice, including organizational concepts; the basic roles, skills and functions of management particularly as related to planning, organizing, leading and controlling, with special attention to managerial responsibility for effective and efficient achievement of goals; special attention is given to social responsibility, managerial ethics, non-traditional organizations and multi-national corporations. (3 credits) BA302 Accounting Principles and Computerized Applications: This course covers basic accounting theory and its computerized applications. Both financial and managerial accounting concepts, standards and practices will be studied. Students will learn how to develop computerized applications for accounting exercises as well as explore model building to solve financial and managerial accounting issues. Special attention is given to managerial ethics and non-traditional organizations. (3 cred its) BA305 Principles of Marketing: This course introduces students to principles of marketing in the context of organizational operations - for both for-profit companies and not-for-profit agencies - including, but not limited to: buying motives, habits and demands of consumers; channels of distribution; marketing functions and policies; marketing costs and marketing; marketing trends and innovations including e-commerce; and, government relations. Special attention will be given to organizations strategic integration of marketing, to ethical marketing and to socially responsible marketing. Prerequisite: BA301. (3 credits) BA307 Managerial Finance: This course is an introduction to capital budgeting and financial accounting practices in organizational management. Topics include external and internal sources of funds, risk analysis, dividend policy and retained earnings. Ethical financial procedures is given special attention. Prerequisite: BA302. (3 credits) BA308 Managerial Economics: This course covers economics principles. Students will learn the application of micro-economics and macroeconomics to managerial decision making to help organizations better forecast, plan and control their environments. (3 credits) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

36 CIS310 Introduction to Programming: This course covers fundamental concepts in programming using the Visual Basic programming language. Data structures and file management techniques are also covered in this course. (3 credits) CIS311 Introduction to Object Oriented Programming: This course covers fundamental concepts in programming using the C# programming language. (3 credits) CIS320 Computer Systems: This course introduces computer architecture and organization, machine instructions and reading assembly code. Operating systems concepts and software tools such as the assembler, linker and debugger are discussed. (3 credits) CIS321 Computer Languages: In this course, students are exposed to the basic concepts of Java, fundamental syntax, statements, and basic programming skills. This class begins from basic methods, such as, what is an operating system, how data is stored in memory, etc. In addition, this course introduces students OOP techniques, such as, inheritance, method overriding/hiding, and overloading. The class will cover some subjects about algorithms. Students have the chance to experience the concepts and techniques from beginning to end. (3 credits) CIS322 Object-Oriented Programming: C# is an objectoriented programming language and is designed to work with Microsoft s.net platform. C#, aims to facilitate the exchange of information and services over the Web and to help developers to succeed in creating a safe, component-based, portable console or web application. (3 credits) CIS323 Java Graphical User Interface: This course will emphasize Java Swing, the framework that defines the look and feel of the modern Java Graphical User Interface (GUI). Swing streamlines the design of Java GUI and allows users to create an attractive and efficient GUI that can be customized for relevant applications. In this course, students will be exposed to the basic concepts, design philosophy and core features of Java Swing. It examines the Swing component set. Prerequisite: CIS321. (3 credits) CIS331 Database Programming: This course introduces students to database technology and the role of databases within an organization. The main concepts and functions from a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) are studied. Syntax and features of Structured Query Language (SQL) and PL/SQL (Procedural Language/SQL) are covered. Students will learn how to create and alter tables, how to insert, update, and delete data. Students will also learn the powerful SQL query with join, aggregation, ordering, subquery, and conditional query. (3 credits) CIS333 Database Administration: This course covers the techniques and procedures for database administration, database creation, performance monitoring, maintenance, change management, backup and recovery. Information in meta data and data dictionary will be discussed. Student will learn basic database administration in Oracle or MySql environment. Prerequisite: CIS331. (3 credits) Course Descriptions

37 Course Descriptions Course Descriptions 27 CIS338 Web Programming using ASP.NET: ASP.NET is a part of the Microsoft.NET framework, and a powerful tool for creating dynamic and interactive web pages. In this course, students will learn complete ASP.NET references about built-in objects and components, and their properties and methods, such as HTML server controls reference, Web server controls reference, and Validation server controls reference are studied. Prerequisite: CIS322. (3 credits) CIS340 Operating Systems: In this course, students will learn the principles of modern operating systems, processor management, scheduling, memory management, paging, virtual storage, and virtual machine concepts are introduced. Students will also learn features of such operating systems as Windows, UNIX, and the.net architecture of Windows. Prerequisite: CIS310 or CIS321. (3 credits) CIS341 UNIX Operating System: This course is an in-depth study of the UNIX/LINUX operating system. In this course, shell programs and commands of UNIX are analyzed. Students will gain insight into the inner workings of a modern operating system. Prerequisite: CIS321. (3 credits) CIS345 Game Programming: This course is an introduction to the principles of game programming. Students draw from prior knowledge in multiple fields including software programming, digital graphic arts, and computer generated audio and combine these fields in the effort of making a complete video game. The game loop, rendering engine, OpenGL, and basic control logic are all covered. (3 credits) CIS346 Advanced Game Programming: This course is a further study in the field of game programming. A game state structure is formally introduced, and more advanced rendering techniques (such as HDR rendering and particle effects are covered). Students learn about physics engines to simulate real world physics laws. All of this knowledge is combined to make an advanced game. (3 credits) CIS347 Web Game Programming: This course is an in-depth course on Javascript based game programming. The web offers a unique delivery mechanism for games, and making games in HTML and Javascript can take advantage of those unique points. A full browser based game will pull together everything learned here, including game states, rendering/manipulating via DOM elements, and browser game logic. (3 credits) CIS350 Data Structures & Advanced Programming: To write good programs, a thorough understanding of data structures and their mathematical basis in discrete structures is necessary. In this course, students will learn basic data structures - stacks, queues, trees, lists, graphs - and their implementation. Prerequisite: CIS321. (3 credits) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

38 CIS360 Digital Systems: This course covers fundamentals of digital systems, integrated circuit (IC) components, microprocessors and peripherals. Several laboratory experiments are included in the course. Prerequisites: CIS320 & CIS321. (3 credits) CIS363 Systems Programming: This course is an introduction to basic software component and hardware features of computer systems. This course also covers machine architecture of several computer systems, interrupt and trap systems, I/O programming at the hardware level, interface design, operating systems, Windows programming and networking. Prerequisites: CIS322 & CIS340. (3 credits) CIS367 Computer Graphics: This course is an introduction to software and hardware for computer graphics. Students will have hands-on exercises to develop graphics applications. Prerequisite: CIS350. (3 credits) CIS370 Introduction to Computer Networks: This course provides an introduction to networking, local area network operation, configuration, and management. Client/server PC networking is emphasized. Laboratory project includes; network setup, administration, trouble shooting, and configuration of wired/wireless routers/firewalls, etc. The course also prepare students to the industrial certification Network+. (3 credits) CIS391 Introduction to Web Design: This course is an introduction to the principles and tools of design for the web. Students begin with fundamental issues of composition and coding, and then introduce more advanced techniques of layout and image editing. The creative compositional and artistic visual aspects of web design as well as practical use of software is covered. (3 credits) Course Descriptions

39 Course Descriptions Course Descriptions 29 CIS392 Advanced Web Design: This course will build upon the basic principles of design and focus on more advanced techniques. Students will continue to develop the creative compositional and artistic visual aspects of web design as well as their use of design tools, incorporating some new behaviors and interactive design techniques. Prerequisite: CIS391. (3 credits) CIS393 Design of Interactive Systems: In this course the students will study the design of three types of interactive systems: web-based systems, game stations and personal devices such as smart phones, computing pads and wearable devices. Different interaction styles, effects of size of display screens, wearable sensors and ubiquitous computing will be discussed. Students will either use HTML and JavaScript to design a simple web-based system or employ Android to design a very simple app for personal devices. (3 credits) HM381 Global Communications: This course is an examination of the structure and flow of international communication and media products. Studnts learn the organization of media and international impact of new media and information technology. The global village and the electronic cottage are also discussed. (3 credits) HM382 Introduction to Computer Law: Computer professionals need to understand the legal issues involved in the computer industry including copyright and patents, confidentiality, ownership, licensing, consulting, fraud, privacy, the Internet, and international law. Students will gain an understanding of the use of law as a management tool and legal responsibilities required in the industry. (3 credits) HM383 Advanced Computer Law: This course focuses on specialized legal issues relating to commerce and the computer industry. Students will explore legal issues associated with the Internet and electronic commerce leading to an understanding of the law as a management tool for commerce in the context of the Internet environment. Prerequisite: HM382. (3 credits) HM384 Introduction to Psychology: This course is an introduction to the modern theories of psychology, cognitive science and learning for computer and information scientists. (3 credits) HM385 Computers and Thought: This course will explore different ways of thinking: logical thinking, levels of thinking, cultural differences in thinking, and AI models in thinking and knowledge representation. (3 credits) HM388 Manuscript Writing and Communications: This course covers theory and practice in writing manuscripts for presentation and communications in academics, business, industry and government. (3 credits) KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

40 MA177 Introduction to Statistical Computing: This course is an introduction to statistical computing focused on data analysis and reporting applications. The course offers both conceptual and applied knowledge. It also provides an in-depth working knowledge of the SAS language with or without prior SAS knowledge. (3 credits) MA371 Boolean Algebra and Logic: Boolean algebra and mathematical logic will be explored in this course. Topics include: Boolean algebra, applications to computer design, propositional and predicate logic, and logic of programs. (3 credits) MA374 Continuous Mathematics: This course is designed for students who have inadequate background in continuous mathematics. Topics include: basic concepts in calculus, differentiation, integration, numerical analysis and differential equations. (3 credits) MA377 SAS Programming: This course is designed for new SAS users who are interested in learning the SAS base programming. It provides students a start in all basic concepts and techniques of SAS base programming in both the SAS and SAS Enterprise Guide programming workspace, which includes creating data, modifying and combining data sets, summarizing and presenting data and debugging SAS programs. (3 credits) MA379 Advanced SAS Programming: The course discusses how to read external data in relational databases or spreadsheets, perform queries on data using SQL queries, as well as use SAS macro facility to build macro-based systems. This is an advanced course for experienced SAS programmers. Prerequisite: MA377. (3 credits) Course Descriptions

41 Graduation Requirements Graduation Requirements The MS Degree Program in Computer and Information Sciences requires a curriculum of 27 graduate level credit hours of coursework, a minimum nine (9) credit hours (3 courses) of individual research project, Comprehensive Exami nation, TOEFL submission of at least 80 ibt or higher (international students only) and thesis presentation. The MS Degree Program in Computer and Information Sciences with an area of concentration, requires a curriculum of 30 graduate level credit hours (10 courses) of coursework, a minimum nine (9) credit hours (3 courses) of individual research project, Comprehensive Examination and TOEFL. INDIVIDUAL RESEARCH PROJECT (MS THESIS PROJECT) Each MS degree program student will have an assigned Project Advisor. The Administrative office will assign a Project Advisor to the student. However, another faculty member may be selected as a co-advisor depending on the nature of research project proposed. Once the Project Advisor is selected, the Project Advisor will provide the project guidebook and supervise the progress of the student s research activities. The MS Project Report must be signed by the Chairman of the Thesis Committee and by the Project Advisor for final approval (for MS Thesis Project Advising Procedure and Forms, please refer to KSI Graduate School s website at msprojectworksheet.pdf). 31 COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION A student can take the Comprehensive Examination only when he or she is about to complete all coursework in a designated program. Students will take the Comprehensive Examination based on their concentration. The core courses will be tested. The student should obtain the Comprehensive Examination Request form from the Administration Office or refer to KSI s website at and formally submit the request to the school. If the request is approved, the school will inform the student of the date of the ex amination (for an exam schedule listing refer to page 5). A written report will be mailed to the student after the Comprehensive Examina tion is graded. The student must follow the recommendation of the report, which may specify retaking certain courses or retaking the examination. KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

42 TOEFL For International Students conditionally admitted to KSI Graduate School, submission of TOEFL scores of 80 ibt or higher are due four (4) months prior to graduation. If a student has not submitted a TOEFL score of 80 ibt or higher, this will be stated in a student s I-20 as The student is not yet proficient English instructions will be given at the school. This clause will only be removed from a student s I-20 after they submit a TOEFL score of 80 ibt or higher. AWARDING OF THE DIPLOMA After the student has fulfilled all the above mentioned graduation requirements, the student will be awarded the diploma at the end of the semester he or she is currently registered. A formal Graduation Ceremony is held for all graduates during the month of May. (Please refer to the Academic Calendar). Graduation Requirements

43 Financial Assistance KSI Graduate School is certified by the Department of Education to participate in the Title IV Student Financial Assistance Program. The school offers College Work Study (CWA) and offers loans through the William D. Ford Federal Direct (Stafford) Loan program, in which borrowers obtain loan funds directly from the US Department of Education. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Application materials are available from the Administrative Office. Financial Assistance STUDENT LOANS Direct Stafford Loans include the following two types of loans: 1) Direct Subsidized Loans for students with financial need. KSI Graduate School will review the results of your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and determine the amount you can borrow. You are not charged interest while you re in school at least half-time and during grace periods and deferment periods. 2) Direct Unsubsidized Loans are not required to demonstrate financial need to receive a Direct Unsubsidized Loan. Like subsidized loans, your school will determine the amount you can borrow. Interest accrues (accumulates) on an unsubsidized loan from the time it s first paid out. You can pay the interest while you are in school and during grace periods and deferment or forbearance periods, or you can allow it to accrue and be capitalized (that is, added to the principal amount of your loan). In order to qualify for a Direct Student Loan, a student must be a U.S. citizen (including a U.S. National or a permanent resident of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, Guam, or the Northern Mariana Islands), or an eligible noncitizen*. *An eligible non-citizen must be: A U.S. permanent resident who has an Alien Registration Receipt Card (I-151 or I-551), or a non-citizen with a Departure Record (I-94) from the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service showing any one of the following designations: (1) Refugee, (2) Asylum Granted, (3) Indefinite Parole and/or Humanitarian Parole, or (4) Cuban-Haitian Entrant. 33 KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

44 FEDERAL STAFFORD LOAN AMOUNTS Stafford Loan Limits Dependent Students First Year Second Year Third Year and Beyond Annual Loan Limits $5,500 ($3,500 subsidized/$2,000 unsubsidized) $6,500 ($4,500 subsidized/$2,000 unsubsidized) $7,500 ($5,500 subsidized/$2,000 unsubsidized) Independent Students First Year Second Year Third Year and Beyond Graduate or Professional Undergraduate Dependent Undergraduate Independent $57,500 Graduate or Professional FEDERAL STAFFORD LOANS Interest rate: variable, but never exceeds prime rate. For undergraduates and graduates enrolled at least half-time. Students can get a loan regardless of income, but federal government pays interest only on need-based loans. Maximum award depends on length of enrollment and year in school. Students must sign a promissory note, agreeing to repay the loan. Under certain conditions, repayment may be deferred (postponed) or canceled. Please see the Financial Assistance Policy Handbook for complete information about student loan policy. Annual Loan Limits $9,500 ($3,500 subsidized/$6,000 unsubsidized) $10,500 ($4,500 subsidized/$6,000 unsubsidized) $12,500 ($5,500 subsidized/$7,000 unsubsidized) $20,500 ($8,500 subsidized/$12,000 unsubsidized) Lifetime Limits $31,000 (Up to $23,000 may be subsidized) $138,500 (Up to $65,000 may be subsidized) or $224,000 (for Health Professionals) VA REFUND POLICY Veterans Administration tuition is subject to the following pro-rata refund policy. Percentage of Days in Class Completed by Student at Notice of Cancellation Greater than 5% - 10% Greater than 10% - 15% Greater than 15% - 20% Greater than 20% - 25% Greater than 25% - 30% Greater than 30% - 35% Greater than 35% - 40% Greater than 40% - 45% Greater than 45% - 50% Greater than 50% - 55% Greater than 55% - 60% Greater than 60% - 65% Greater than 65% - 70% Greater than 70% - 75% Greater than 75% - 80% Greater than 80% - 85% Greater than 85% - 90% Greater than 90% - 100% Percentage of Tuition & Instructional Charges The School May Retain 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55% 60% 65% 70% 75% 80% 85% 90% 95% 100% Financial Assistance

45 Tuition & Fees Tuition & Fees Description of Services * Fees Application Fee (Non-refundable) $ Domestic Students per credit hour $ International Students per credit hour $ Late Registration Fee $ Distance Learning Lab Fee per course $ Laboratory Fee per semester $ Materials Fee per course $ 5.00 Library Overdue Fee (late charge) per day / per book $ 0.25 Transcript Request $ 5.00 Transcript Request (Expedited processing: same day) $ International Student Status Conversion Service Fee* $ International Student Reinstatement Service Fee* $ Dependent I-20 for International Students $ Re-issue of I-20 for International Students $ Returned Check Fee** $ Student ID Card (renewed every year) $ 5.00 Preparation of OPT Package (includes Shipping & Handling Fee) $ Preparation of OPT Extension Package (includes Shipping & Handling Fee) $ Preparation of Specialty Letters per letter Service Fee* $ *All Service Fees are non-refundable. **For all checks returned by the bank. ***Specialty and Statement Letter, please see the current student handbook available on KSI s website at Shipping and handling costs differ on case by case basis and will be charged separately. Handling fee is flat fee of $10 per package. Conversions and Reinstatements include a $45 FedEx one-day shipping and $10 handling fee. KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

46 AUDIT POLICY A student may elect to take a course on a listen-in basis. However, his/her decision must be made when he/she registers for the course. Students taking an audited course are to finish all coursework as required and will not receive a grade for the course or credit for the completed course. Tuition fees must always be paid in full for an audited course. No student will be allowed to audit the same course twice. REGISTRATION AND REFUND POLICY FOR DOMESTIC STUDENTS Domestic students must register at least one (1) week prior to the beginning of each semester. Domestic students may cancel registration and obtain a full refund within six (6) class hours from the beginning of the course. However, a completed Add/Drop Form must be completed and turned into the Administration Office in order to be eligible for refund. WITHDRAWAL POLICY A student may withdraw from a course within the first six (6) class hours from the beginning of the course and a tuition refund or credit may be granted. The student should come to the Administration Office and complete an Add/Drop form in order to withdraw from a course. The Form must be signed by the instructor of the course from which he/she withdraws. Any student who fails to follow this procedure or does not withdraw until the seventh class hour shall receive no refund or credit. International students who withdraw and fall below the full-time status will face severe consequences which could lead to losing their active F-1 status. Tuition & Fees TEXTBOOKS Each student is responsible for the purchase of textbooks required by the instructor

47 Student Requirements & Policies 37 Student Requirements & Policies For complete student policies and requirements please see the current student handbook. Specific policies and requirements may change, please see the current student handbook available on KSI Graduate School s website at GENERAL REGULATIONS Approval The approval to grant Master of Science degrees to qualified candidates is conferred to KSI Graduate School by the Board of Higher Education of the State of Illinois. This school is authorized under Federal Law to request SEVIS I-20 and enroll non-immigrant international students. Non-Discrimination Policy KSI Graduate School admits students of any race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, height, weight, physical limitation, veteran or military status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at this school. KSI Graduate School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, disability, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, or school administrative programs. Time Schedule The academic year at KSI Graduate School consists of the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. The Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in duration. The summer term is 12 weeks in duration. Classes are scheduled from 9:30 am to 9:30 pm during weekdays and from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm on Saturdays and Sunday. The Instructional Computer Laboratory is open during normal school hours. Holidays New Year s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Academic Calendar KSI Graduate School reserves the right to change dates, offerings or requirements without notice with the assurance to concerned parties that such changes will not alter the integrity or continuity of programs offered. KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

48 ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICIES Student Obligations Academic integrity is one of the primary expectations all academic institutions require of their members. At KSI Graduate School, a student violates academic integrity when he/she participates in one of the following: cheating, plagiarism, deceitful practice and/or unauthorized collaboration. Procedure for Adjudication When a faculty member becomes aware of a possible academic integrity violation either on or off campus, the faculty member should first discuss the matter with the suspected violator. If the discussion leaves the faculty member convinced that a violation has occurred, then he/she will prepare an Academic Integrity Violation Report specifying the sanction recommended ranging from grade reduction on an assignment to receiving a failing grade for that course. The student will have an opportunity to review the violation report prior to both the faculty member and student signing the report. The completed report will then be forwarded to the Administration Office of KSI Graduate School. Appeal Procedure A student who wishes to appeal a sanction should contact the department chair. The department chair will then conduct either a formal or informal hearing(s), and communicate the determination in writing to both the student and the reporting faculty member. Faculty Responsibilities Faculty members are also expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner, including the following: conduct their classes when scheduled, be available for appointments, keep appointments, make appropriate preparations for classes, grade and return tests and assignments promptly, grade fairly and give appropriate recognition to contributions made by students in research, publication, service or other activities. Student Requirements & Policies Grievance Procedure A student (or group of students) who wishes to voice a grievance should contact the department chair. The department chair will then conduct formal or informal hearings, and communicate the determination in writing to both the student (or group of students) and the faculty member

49 Student Requirements & Policies Student Requirements & Policies 39 ACADEMIC LOAD Credit Deficiency A student may be required to take prerequisite courses to make up for deficiency in previous education. Full-time Domestic Students The full-time academic load for domestic students during the fall or spring semester ranges between nine (9) and twelve (12) credit hours. The minimum registration required for full-time status during the fall or spring semester is nine (9) credit hours. The minimum registration required for full-time status during the summer term is six (6) credit hours. However, registration in the summer is optional. To maintain full-time status, full-time students must register in both the fall and spring semesters each year. Students of exceptional ability who wish to enroll for more than fifteen (15) credit hours during the fall or spring semester must obtain written permission from the Dean of Academic Affairs. Part-time Domestic Students To maintain part-time status for domestic students, students must register for at least three (3) credit hours during one (1) of the three (3) semesters. International Students As mandated by immigration law, students must maintain full-time student status. At KSI Graduate School, for International Students to maintain full-time status they must complete eighteen (18) credit hours each year. KSI Graduate School offers three semesters per year: Fall, Spring and Summer. Thus the student has the ability to utilize these three semesters and register accordingly to achieve the full course of study requirement by immigration law. (Further information is available online, pdf). Academic Advising Each student is assigned an Academic Advisor. During the registration period, before each semester, the student should discuss courses to be taken with his or her Academic Advisor who will then fill out the Advising Form. The Advising Form is a permanent document to be kept as part of the student s academic record. KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

50 GRADING Letter grades will be given for all courses, except those courses that are related to a student s thesis project. MS project courses will be graded as either Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. MS students must maintain a B in all core (required) courses. If the student achieves a grade lower than a B for a core course, the student must retake the course in order to graduate. MS students must maintain a B average for all area (elective) courses. If the student must retake a class due to low grades the student will not be entitled to a refund or credit on tuition. The following grades, listed in the table below, are used to report the quality of work for both prerequisite and graduate courses. KSI Graduate School is on the semester hour system. Grading Scale Quality Points A Excellent 4.0 B Good 3.0 C Satisfactory 2.0 D Minimal Passing 1.0 F Failing 0.0 I Incomplete None N Non-Credit None O Maternity Leave or Other Leave None P Passing None R Retake None S/U Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (MS Project only) None W Withdraw None WF Withdrawal Fail None X Audit None +/- (plus/minus) can be attached to grades A, B, C, or D to modify the grades further: 0.25 quality point is added by each plus, except grade A quality point is subtracted by each minus. Incomplete Grade Policy Any student who has failed to fulfill all of the requirements of the class when the grades are turned in will automatically receive an I (incomplete) grade from the professor. Thirty (30) calendar days after receiving an I grade, the grade will be converted into an F grade if the student fails to finish the required coursework. Any student who receives the grade of F on a required course will have to retake the course and pay the full tuition fee associated with that course. In no event shall a student who has received an I grade be entitled to a grade higher than a B+. More details on the Incomplete Grade Policy is mentioned in the Student Handbook, Student Requirements & Policies

51 Student Requirements & Policies Student Requirements & Policies 41 Grade Point Average The computation of cumulative total grade point average (GPA) takes into account the 500-level courses exclusively. A grade point system is used to determine academic rank. To determine GPA, divide the total number of grade points earned by the total number of graded semester credits. Note: graded semester credits do not include course registrations graded I, W, R or X. Transcripts Transcripts may be requested from the Administrative Office by completing a Transcript Request Form (available at and paying the document preparation fee per transcript. Requests must bear the signature of the student. ACADEMIC PROGRESS, PROBATION, AND DISMISSAL All full-time and part-time students who are degree candidates are expected to maintain a satisfactory grade point average and a satisfactory rate of progress toward the completion of their degree program. An unsatisfactory grade point average and/or lack of a satisfactory rate of progress will result in academic probation or dismissal from the school. A graduate student is required to maintain a B grade in the core required nine (9) graduate courses for the CIS program or the required ten (10) graduate courses for any chosen area of concentration. Furthermore, students are to maintain a C average in any and all prerequisite (300 level) courses. Any student failing to meet these requirements will be placed on academic probation. Any student whose grade average falls below the requirements must raise their grades in the following semester; otherwise, the student may continue only at the discretion of the Dean of Academic Affairs. A student may proceed toward a degree as either a full-time student or a part-time student. A fulltime student is expected to complete the degree program within three calendar years from the time of initial registration earning a minimum of nine (9) credit hours per semester (excluding the summer term). If during any semester a student s rate of progress falls below the standard outlined above, the student will be placed on academic probation. If the student does not bring his/her rate of progress up to the minimum standard, that student may only continue with the permission of the Dean of Academic Affairs. A part-time student is expected to complete the degree program within eight calendar years from the time of initial registration. If a student s rate of progress is unsatisfactory, he/she may only continue with the permission of the Dean of Academic Affairs. KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

52 Self-Discipline KSI Graduate School believes that acquiring self-discipline is part of the educational process. As in any civic community, students will be held accountable for their own conduct. They are therefore responsible for any damage they may do to the school property and/or dorms and should observe satisfactory standards of conduct both on and off campus. Complaints of student misconduct are handled by the Committee on Discipline. Students are expected to keep themselves informed of all school regulations. Student Rights and Privileges Each student is expected to be thoroughly familiar with the school s policies for maintaining the privacy of education records. Students may obtain access to their own educational records by presenting proper identification with their written request to view their records. Petitions and redress of grievances are noted by the administration when fully explained in writing before presentation. Change of Schedule Students who wish to change their class schedule must contact at the Administration Office for the necessary forms. Dropping and/or adding classes will be accepted within the first six (6) class hours as per availability of the class. Class Attendance All students are expected to attend class regularly. Any student who attends less than seventy (70%) of the classes will receive an F grade for the course and will not be entitled to any type of tuition refund. Excessive absences may cause a student to be dropped from a course at the discretion of the instructor and the department chair. Illness or Emergency In the case of illness or hospitalization which will require a student to be absent for two or more days, the student is required to give the professor(s) written notice explaining the reason for non-attendance. Furthermore, the student will be required to provide documentation for the absence such as a statement from a hospital indicating admittance/release dates or an attending physician letter stating the nature of the illness. Student Requirements & Policies

53 Student Requirements & Policies 43 Immunization and Health Report International students are required to get immunization shots and provide personal health reports to the Administration Office. To receive immunization shots (MMR and TD) free of charge, the student must make an appointment through the Administration Office. The other option is for a student to schedule his/her own appointment for immunizations through a private physician or health care facility. Furthermore, all international students should get a medical examination from their own physician and request the physician to provide the school with a proper medical report.physician and request the physician to provide the school with a proper medical report. Health Insurance Policy International students are required to carry health insurance. KSI Graduate School students may obtain health insurance information from the Administration Office. Reinstatement of Student Status and Reinstatement of Aid After a prolonged absence of enrollment students may be required to reapply to KSI Graduate School for continued student status. Student Handbook: Download Forms: Transcript Request Form: MS Project Worksheet: KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

54 Online Learning Online Learning at KSI Graduate School offers a unique approach. Our expertise as a leading provider of advanced computer science education has allowed us to develop a flexible and robust approach to course content and student-faculty interaction through various online platforms and media. In addition, we continue to offer traditional interaction by phone and to provide students with the ultimate flexibility to determine their own style of learning. Here are some of KSI Graduate School s advantages: Fully accredited online MS Degree program Faculty-authored courseware with multi-media content Ph.D. faculty providing personal attention through chat, and phone Full on-campus facilities for students wanting a hybrid approach Technical support offered online, by phone or in person according to student needs An online chat forum developed in house with increased capabililty to communicate with teachers and other students Other tools such as discussion thread forum, faculty blogs, video conferencing and shared video as needed Online Learning The online content and presentation of KSI Graduate School programs and courses are substantially the same as the program that is offered on the premises of the facility. Our online program includes lessons presented by KSI Graduate School faculty, and employs the methods of multimedia, online learning education: online video, PowerPoint presentations, flash graphics, pdf documents, programming code examples, and relevant resource hyperlinks. Archived online discussions are also available. KSI Graduate School faculty remain available via and, during normal business hours, via telephone. Online courses are only offered with sufficient enrollment levels

55 Facilities CLASSROOMS & LABORATORIES KSI Graduate School classrooms and Instructional Laboratories are equipped with the latest workstations and servers and include various platforms. In addition, classrooms are equipped with projectors and other multimedia capabilities. Students enjoy broadband Internet connections and large flat screen monitors. Food and drink are not allowed in classrooms & laboratories. Facilities LIBRARY KSI Graduate School s library contains books on all aspects of computer science, as well as computer industry journals. A full-text article database is available for in-depth research in computer science and general subjects. Students have remote access to the database, while the campus library offers comfortable seating and research consultation with the librarian. Research assistance is available during library hours or by appointment. Visit the online library at DIGITAL MEDIA STUDIO & GALLERY KSI Graduate School maintains a space for digital media which is used as a gallery and performance space for KSI Graduate School students, faculty and community members. The space is also used as a digital media laboratory in conjunction with campus classrooms and the private studios of faculty. The dynamic quality of the digital media equipment allows for an adaptable approach to the format and quality of the instructional and exhibition spaces on campus. 45 WIRELESS NETWORK KSI Graduate School maintains a wireless network available for student access from classrooms, labs and work areas. Registered students will be provided with the access key by the IT support staff. Students may bring their own laptop computers to class in order to get the network access via wireless network. It is the students responsibility to purchase and install their own wireless network card. KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES

56 Where is KSI Graduate School? From I-94: Exit Dempster Street East and proceed to McCormick Boulevard. (The last major traffic light preceding McCormick is at Crawford.) Turn right on McCormick, going south, and proceed to the first traffic light at Main Street. Turn right on Main, going west, and proceed 3 blocks to KSI. Look for the Institute s blue sign. From I-294: Exit Dempster Street East and proceed to McCormick Boulevard. (You will pass Milwaukee Road, Waukegan Road, Edens Expressway (I-94) before you reach McCormick. The last major traffic light preceding McCormick is at Crawford.) Turn right on McCormick, going south, and proceed to the first traffic light at Main Street. Turn right on Main, going west, and proceed 3 blocks to KSI. Look for the Institute s blue sign. From Lake Shore Drive: Go north on Lake Shore Drive. Lake Shore turns into Devon. Remain on Devon and proceed to Ridge. At Ridge turn right, going north, and proceed to Main Street. (Watch for Oakton for Main is after Oakton.) At Main, turn left, going west, and proceed towards McCormick Boulevard. Cross McCormick and proceed 3 blocks to KSI. Look for the Institute s blue sign. I-294 I Skokie Blvd Crawford Main Golf Dempster KSI Oakton Touhy McCormick N Where is KSI Graduate School?

57 Application Deadline Semester Begins Semester Ends Holidays Spring Break Graduation Ceremony Registration Calendar January February March April S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S May June July August S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S September October November December S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S January February March April S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S May June July August S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S September October November December S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S

58 Application Deadline Semester Begins Semester Ends Holidays Spring Break Graduation Ceremony Registration 2016 January February March April S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S May June July August S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S September October November December S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S Calendar Knowledge Systems Institute Graduate School Gallery 3414 Main St. Skokie, IL Curator: Gabriel Smith ([email protected]) 48

59 Contact KSI KSI Graduate School staff and student advisors are available to assist you in obtaining information and answering your questions. Please contact us by phone or any time. Visit the KSI Graduate School campus (see page 45) or visit our website at PHONE FAX (847) (847) ADDRESS 3420 Main Street Skokie, IL General Information: Admissions: Online Application: International Students: Prospective Students: Student Handbook:

60 KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS INSTITUTE Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences Course Catalog Phone: 847/ Fax: 847/ Web: Address: 3420 Main Street, Skokie IL 60076