Course Descriptions

Information Resource Management


IRM 100
Fundamentals of Information Systems
3 credits

This course provides an introduction to systems and development concepts, information technology, and application software. It explains how information is used in organizations and how IT enables improvement in quality, timeliness, and competitive advantage.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206 or equivalent


IRM 200
Information Systems Theory and Practice
3 credits

This course provides an understanding of organizational systems, planning, and decision processes and how information is used for decision support in organizations. It covers quality and decision theory, information theory, and practice essential for providing viable information to the organization. Also outlined are the concepts of IS for competitive advantage, data as a resource, IS and IT planning and implementation, Total Quality Management (TQM) and reengineering, project management and development of systems, and end-user computing.


IRM 230
Introduction to Linux
3 credits

Designed for the serious computer user, this course will introduce the student to the basic concepts of the Linux operating system. Completion of the course will provide a good basic working knowledge of: essential Linux commands, login and logout sequences; Linux e-mail; fundamentals of the vi editor; piping and redirection; security and process control; Directory and File Systems and essential utilities; Linux shell programming; X Windows; Linux installation; and basic system administration.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206 or equivalent


IRM 300
Information Technology Hardware and Software
3 credits

This course provides the hardware/software technology background to enable systems development personnel to understand trade-offs in computer architecture for effective use in a business environment. System architecture for single user, central, and networked computing systems is examined, as are single and multi-user operating systems. An advanced library orientation has been incorporated as part of this course.

Prerequisite(s): IRM 100


IRM 310
Programming, Data, File, and Object Structure
3 credits

This course provides an understanding of algorithm development, programming, computer concepts, and the design and application of data and file structures. It includes an understanding of the logical and physical structures of both programs and data.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206 or equivalent


IRM 320
Networks and Telecommunications
3 credits

This course provides an in-depth knowledge of data communications and networking requirements, including networking and telecommunications technologies, hardware, and software. Emphasis is upon the analysis and design of networking applications in organizations. Management of telecommunications networks, cost-benefit analysis, and evaluation of connectivity options are also covered. Students learn to evaluate, select, and implement different communication options within an organization.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206


IRM 330
Linux for Systems Administrators
3 credits

This course covers key network services managed by the Linux Administrator. Focus is on Web servers, e-mail (POP and SMTP protocols), and security. The course will present the following Internet services: DNS, FTP, HTTP (Apache Web Server), telnet, and SSH. Intranet topics included are: NFS (Network File System), NIS (Network Information Services) and interoperability with the Windows system using Samba. At the conclusion of the course students will explore topics in networking: network configuration, security and interoperability.

Prerequisite(s): IRM 230 or permission of the program coordinator


IRM 340
Windows Operating Systems and Systems Administration
3 credits

This course uses practices and procedures for installing and configuring modern Windows operating systems, including user accounts; file, print, and terminal servers; mobile computing; and disaster recovery. User account management, security, disk configuration, and backup procedures are addressed, with particular attention to coverage of TCP/IP and TCP/IP applications. Students will learn system installation, configuration and administration issues as well as network file systems, network access and compatibility with other operating systems. Through practical lab sessions, students receive real-world experience administering Windows operating systems.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206 or equivalent


IRM 400
Analysis and Logical Design
3 credits

This course provides an understanding of the system development and modification process. It enables students to evaluate and choose a system development methodology. The factors for effective communication and integration with users and user systems are emphasized. Interpersonal skill development with clients, users, team members, and others associated with development, operation, and maintenance of the system is encouraged. Other topics examined are object-oriented analysis and design, use of data modeling tools, and development and adherence to life-cycle standards.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206


IRM 410
Physical Design and Implementation with DBMS
3 credits

This course covers information systems design and implementation within a database management system environment. Students demonstrate their mastery of the design process acquired in earlier courses by designing and constructing a physical system using database software to implement the logical design.

Prerequisite(s): BCS 206


IRM 420
Physical Design and Implementation with a Programming Environment
3 credits

Physical design, programming, testing, and implementation of the system are covered in this course. A major focus is implementation of object-oriented, client-server designs using a programming environment.

Prerequisite(s): IRM 400


IRM 430
Advanced Network Management
3 credits

This course builds on Introduction to Network Management to develop an understanding of advanced networking management and Management Information Systems, MIS. Students will design and maintain their own corporate network configuration. Topics will be covered in a theoretical and practical way. There is a large component of hands-on computer work. Students will practice network theory, hardware selection and upgrading, operating systems, platforms, programming languages, batch control, shared resources, security systems, anti-virus procedures, and specific manufacturers’ methodology.

Prerequisite(s): IRM 320


IRM 450
Project Management and Practice
3 credits

The factors necessary for successful management of system development or enhancement projects are covered in this course. Both technical and behavioral aspects of project management are discussed. The focus is on management of development for enterprise-level systems. This is a capstone course which includes elements of BBM 402, by incorporating such functional areas as finance, marketing, and production in the project.

Prerequisite(s): IRM 400; Corequisite: IRM 420


IRM 460
Topics in IRM
3 credits

This course surveys contemporary subjects and current events pertaining to Information Resource Management.

Prerequisite(s): Approval from Program Coordinator


IRM 490
Information Resource Management Internship
6 credits

Students in the final year of the program who have completed the bulk of the program requirements will be offered the option, as an elective, to receive academic credit of up to six credit hours for a supervised field experience.

Prerequisite(s): approval from program coordinator