Courses in Informatics

C INF 100X Information in the 21st Century (3)
Introduction to information and technology in the 21st Century. Different resources, including the Internet, libraries, news sources and other sources of information, hardware, and Web 2.0 technologies will be explored. The primary emphasis of the class is on discovering reliable information sources for any and all subjects so that a student's future research and other pursuits are supported by the methods developed in this course. Each student is called upon to fortify their own individual communication and reasoning skills and will demonstrate the use of those skills through course assignments, class presentations and group activities.

C INF 108 Programming for Problem Solving (3)
Ever thought about a problem and said, "There should be an app for that"? This course provides an introduction to computer programming using modern programming languages as a way to solve problems. It focuses on programming concepts and fundamentals within the context of solving real world problems.

C INF 124X Computer Security Basics (3)
An introduction to security in computer and network systems for a general audience. The operation of computers and networks is explained to show how they are the basis for attacks. The course will confer a basic but comprehensive understanding of how cybersecurity attacks (e.g., viruses, worms, denial of service) work. It will also cover aspects of privacy and other human elements of cybersecurity. Takes a general approach that will result in students prepared to learn about and defend themselves from current and future attacks.

C INF 131 Introduction to Data Analytics: Seeking Information in Data with Computation (3)
This course will offer an introduction to the key terms, concepts and methods in data analysis, with an emphasis on developing critical analytical skills through hands-on exercises of actual data analysis tasks. In addition, students will learn and practice basic programming skills to use software tools in data analysis. Most importantly, this course aims to help students look at the data and their analysis from new points of view, and nurture a habit of finding relevant patterns in large data sets with appropriate analysis steps. This ability becomes particularly important when facing large amounts of data, be they from natural or social science, engineering or business.

C INF 196 Beginning Special Topics in Informatics (3)
The contents of this course will vary from semester to semester. Each offering will cover an introductory topic in Informatics. May be repeated for credit when content varies.

C INF 197 Beginning Mini Special Topics in Informatics (1)
The contents of this course will vary from semester to semester. Each offering will cover an introductory topic in Informatics. May be repeated for credit when content varies.

C INF 200 Research Methods for Informatics (3)
In this course students will gain an understanding of key methods and techniques in research and will prepare to critically evaluate and engage in research. Topics covered will include: identifying and articulating research problems, posing research questions, research design, data collection strategies, quantitative and qualitative analyses, interpreting results of analyses, and concerns in human subject research. Prerequisite(s): C INF 100.

C INF 201 Introduction to Web Technologies (3)
A technique-oriented introduction to client-based Web design and development technologies, including HTML/XHTML, CSS, JavaScript, digital imaging, file formats, etc.; also the elements of UNIX and networks necessary to understand and implement basic information management and transfer. Prerequisite(s):  C INF 100 or by permission of instructor.

C INF 202 Introduction to Data and Databases (3)
This course introduces students to data and databases. It covers both long-standing relational (SQL) databases and newly emerging non-relational (NoSQL) data stores. The nature of data, Big Data, intellectual property, system lifecycle, and development collaboration are also explored. Team-based activities alternate with hands-on exercises. Prerequisite(s): I INF/C INF 108, I CSI 101, 105, 110 or I CSI/I CEN/ I ECE 201 or B ITM 215; not open to students who are taking or have completed I CSI 410 or 411 or B ITM 331.

C INF 203 Introduction to Networks and Systems (3)
This course provides an introduction to computer networking and computer systems. The course covers the fundamentals of networked computing systems with an emphasis placed on the basics of network protocols and how they operate at all layers of the networking models. The course also introduces students to personal computer internal system components, storage systems, peripheral devices, and operating systems from an introductory computer architecture perspective.

C INF 300 Probability and Statistics for Data Analytics (3)
Probability and statistical methods applied to the analysis of various kinds of data. Includes underlying theoretical justification and appropriateness for different models and analyses. Conceptual and implemented approaches to data analysis. Prerequisite(s): A MAT 108, I CSI/C INF 131.

C INF 301 Emerging Trends in Information and Technology (3)
This course is designed to address challenges of the 21st century from the information science framework. The class will explore emerging technologies and discuss how they alter and create new information environments. Examples of these technologies include Big Data, 3D Printing, Social Media, Wearable Computing, etc. Attention will be paid to real world uses of these technologies, emphasizing how they are changing business, education, and government, including implications for emergency preparedness, homeland security, and cybersecurity. This course also focuses on career paths for digital citizens in the 21st century.

C INF 302 Human-Computer Interactive Design (3)
This course examines human factors, Human-Computer Interaction aspects of application domains, human-centered evaluation, developing effective interfaces, accessibility, emerging technologies, and human-centered computing. Students learn several techniques for rapid prototyping and evaluating multiple interface alternatives and principles of visual design. Information visualization, user-interface software architecture, and formal methods in HCI will be explored. Prerequisite(s): C INF 301.

C INF 303 Intermediate Networking (3)
This course is designed to convey the essentials of data communication networks. It will cover concepts, technologies and architectures. There will be practical lessons built into the semester's topics and assignments whenever possible. This course will build on the networking knowledge gained in C INF 203, covering the major conceptual areas balanced with practical discussions and exercises. It will also discuss important network management topics such as domain management and security. Prerequisite(s): C INF 203. Students who have taken C INF/IST 423 may not take C INF 303 for credit.

C INF 304 Intermediate Hardware and Operating Systems (3)
The primary objective of this course is to provide the student with a detailed understanding of computer systems from an architectural perspective. The material covered in this course, which builds on that learned in C INF 203, is intended to form a foundation of technical knowledge for systems analysis, design, configuration, selection, and management. The primary emphasis is expanding students' technical knowledge of hardware and system software, with topics including advanced digital circuits, integrated circuits, application development, operating systems, file systems, and systems security. Prerequisite(s): C INF 203. Students who have taken C INF/C IST 424 may not take C INF 304 for credit.

C INF 305 Digital Project Management (3)
This course provides an introduction to current practices in project management with a focus on the management of digital projects. It is intended to provide a broad overview of the concepts, issues, tools and techniques related to the management of digital projects from concept to completion. Topics covered include project manager role/responsibilities, project team structure, project documentation, project phases/SDLC, project management methodologies, troubled projects, digital analytics and more. Prerequisite(s): C INF 201 and C INF 202.

C INF 306 Information Security and Assurance (3)
Technical aspects of cybersecurity in computer and network systems. The nature of attacks and defense in digital systems; models of vulnerabilities, threats, and security; cryptography; forensics; security policies and procedures; software and network security. Prerequisite(s): C INF 124X or C INF 203 or C EHC 242.

C INF 307 Current Topics in Social Media (3)
In this course students will explore current topics and trends in social media. An emphasis will be placed on investigating and evaluating multiple social media outlets, writing across social media platforms, and current trends in managing social media programs and understanding the implications for emergency preparedness, homeland security, and cybersecurity. Prerequisite(s) C INF 301.

C INF 308 Programming for Informatics (3)
Computer programming in an Informatics environment. The fundamentals of programming, including introduction to algorithms, object-oriented design, and data structures. Additional topics include basic interface design, security, networking, use of data bases, and mobile and other non-traditional computing platforms. Prerequisite(s): C INF 100 and C INF108 or I CSI/I ECE 201.

C INF 362 Intermediate Interactive Design (3)
A technique-oriented intermediate exploration of client-based Web design and development technologies, using current and emerging technologies. Design, planning, security, administration and management of websites will also be examined. Prerequisite(s): I CSI 101, 105, 110, I CSI/I ECE 201, or C INF 201.

C INF 363 Digital Design (3)
Students apply design theory to the development and delivery of digital media with emphasis on digital imagery, video, and music. Topics may include consumption of digital media on a variety of devices, creation, acquisition, editing and processing of digital content. Students will develop an appreciation for the role that each media element may contribute to the final user experience. Students will cultivate an understanding of how public policy issues apply to technology, in particular copyright, privacy, and freedom of expression. Prerequisite(s): C INF 201.

C INF 395 Internet Practicum (3-6)
The course provides students the opportunity to work as a teaching aide and lab assistant in information science. Students will hold weekly lab assistant hours, monitor and respond to student questions on the class listserv, and provide feedback to the course instructor. May be repeated for credit up to a total of 6 credits with permission of department. Prerequisite(s): a grade of B or higher in C INF 100X and permission of instructor. S/U graded.

C INF 398 Field Experience in Informatics (0-9)
This course provides academic structure and oversight to service-learning and community engagement components available as options in other Informatics offerings. The goal of the field experience course is to improve students' understanding of a topic explored during a semester length course. Courses will typically include guest speaker events, field excursions, and class session on-site (i.e. Montreal, New York City, etc.) The course topic will change from semester to semester based on the topic of the semester length course. A version of the course could be used to offer a stand-alone course with service learning, community service, internship and other community engagement activities as a central theme.

C INF 401 Case Studies in Digital Citizenship (3)
The purpose of this course is for students to explore topics related to digital citizenship through the close examination of case studies. Students will be asked to look to current issues and cases involving digital citizenship and apply themes, such as the ethical use of information, in their examination and discussion of them. Prerequisite(s): C INF 301.

C INF 403 Advanced Networking and Security (3)
This course is designed to provide an advanced coverage of networking with a specific focus on network security and cryptography. This course builds on the concepts and issues examined in I INF 404. Networking security is examined through a study of digital signatures and certificates, authentication protocols, and firewalls and key establishment and management. Also considered are security issues related to people's use of computer networks, communication channels, mobile devices, and the Internet. Also examined are new access control paradigms such as Java security and .NET security. Prerequisites: C INF 303, C INF 404, some programming experience.

C INF 404 Advanced Systems and Security (3)
This course is designed to provide an advanced coverage of systems with a specific focus on cybersecurity. Engineered security is examined through the application and introduction to authentication protocols and intrusion detection for UNIX, Windows, databases, and general software security. Also considered are security issues related to people's use of systems including policies and practices for password management and protecting privacy rights. Students also study options for maintaining business continuity in the event of a disruption of business operations. Security models such as Bell-LaPadula are introduced and studied. Specific case studies are used to highlight the choices that must be made to balance operational efficiency of business functions with protecting the business from the onslaught of security threats. Prerequisite(s): C INF 304 and some programming experience.

C INF 407 Modern Issues in Databases (3)
This is an advanced undergraduate course to introduce the students to emerging topics in database systems. This course is especially designed for junior/senior students with emphasis on advanced concepts and algorithms in database systems, topics that are state-of-the-art research, or recent seminal contributions in the broad field of database and information systems and will include discussions of security and privacy of information data systems. Prerequisite(s): C INF 202.

C INF 428 Analysis, Visualization, and Prediction in Analytics (3)
Principles of data analysis, emphasizing modern statistical and machine-learning based approaches. Also, the important role of simple analyses and visualization to gain an overall understanding of data sets, regardless of size. The role of analytics in creating predictive models of phenomena. The importance of understanding the nature of the data and other methodological considerations. Prerequisite(s): C INF 300.

C INF 451 (= A PHY 451/451Y & I CSI 451) Bayesian Data Analysis and Signal Processing (3)
This course will introduce both the principles and practice of Bayesian and maximum entropy methods for data analysis, signal processing, and machine learning. This is a hands-on course that will introduce the use of the MATLAB computing language for software development. Students will learn to write their own Bayesian computer programs to solve problems relevant to physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and signal processing, as well as hypothesis testing and error analysis. Optimization techniques to be covered include gradient ascent, fixed-point methods, and Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling techniques. Only one of C INF 451, I CSI 451, or A PHY 451/451Y may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A MAT 214 (or equivalent) and I CSI 101 or I CSI/I ECE 201.

C INF 452 Computer and Network Security (3)
Theoretical, conceptual and practical aspects of computer and network security. The role of algorithms, systems, humans, software and hardware in computer and network vulnerabilities and defense. The two primary focuses of the course will be on the computer and networks, as centers of vulnerability and defense. The course will emphasize hands-on analysis of security issues. Prerequisite(s): C INF 306.

C INF 453 Information Security and Privacy (3)
Security and privacy issues in computer and networked systems. The role of systems, design, implementation, etc. on data security in digital systems. Case studies of these roles and how they affect both data security and vulnerability. The legal and ethical aspects of data security and privacy. Prerequisite(s): C INF 306.

C INF 454 Human Aspects of Cybersecurity (3)
The roles of individuals, groups, organizations and governments in computer and network security. How the interactions of these with the technical nature of digital systems in many cases forms the core of vulnerabilities. The trade-offs between security and various measures of utility. Conflicting definitions of security at different levels (e.g., governmental vs. individual). Societal measures and values of security. The course will feature case studies to explore many of these issues. Prerequisite(s): C INF 306.

C INF 455 Prevention and Protection Strategies in Cybersecurity (3)
The role of security policies and design strategies to minimize security vulnerabilities in computer and networked systems. The affected areas range from the overall design of systems, networking protocols, operating systems, and applications software on individual computers to the role of coding standards and end user education in security. Prerequisite(s): C INF 306.

C INF 462 Current Technologies in Interactive Design (3)
Provides an advanced coverage of web design and development, with a focus on current technologies and processes. Students will develop skills on the use of software development practices such as agile development and test-driven development. Develop familiarity with current technologies in particular web-based and mobile applications. Prerequisite(s): C INF 362 and C INF 363.

C INF 463 Professional Innovations I (3)
Students from particular INF concentrations will represent their area of expertise on an individual or group project. The projects will either be real-life problems as presented by partnering external organizations or real-life problems as posed and solved by the group itself. A culminating paper, application, or presentation will be produced. The instructor will act as a mentor to the student teams and help to guide them through their projects. This is the first of a two-course series. Prerequisite(s): senior in Informatics major.

C INF 464 Professional Innovations II (3)
Students from particular INF concentrations will represent their area of expertise on an individual or group project. The projects will either be real-life problems as presented by partnering external organizations or real-life problems as posed and solved by the group itself. A culminating paper, application, or presentation will be produced. The instructor will act as a mentor to the student teams and help to guide them through their projects. This is the second of a two-course series. Prerequisite(s): C INF 463, senior in Informatics major.

C INF 465 Senior Capstone in Informatics (3)
Students create teams, each representing their specialization, to solve a current technology challenge. The purpose of this course is for students from all the different Informatics tracks to come together and work on a real world Informatics related problem. This course will require completion of 120 hours in a field placement. During their field placement, students will work as part of a team comprised of their peers from other Informatics tracks to complete a capstone project. The project itself will be dictated by the individual needs of the placement and the strengths of the team. The Instructor of C INF 465 will act as a mentor to the student teams and help to guide them through their projects. May be repeated for credit up to a total of 6 credits with permission of department. Prerequisite(s): Informatics seniors only and permission of instructor.

C INF 466 Independent Research (3)
Student-initiated research project under faculty guidance. Students will present their research as appropriate. May be repeated for credit up to a total of 6 credits with permission of department. Prerequisite(s): Informatics juniors and seniors only.

C INF 467 Technology-Based Community Support (3)
Students work on-site with a non-profit to provide technology support. Possible projects could include website creation and development, computer lab support, or networking. At least 120 hours/semester are required. Students will also meet with a faculty supervisor throughout the semester and complete a final presentation of their work. May be repeated for credit up to a total of 6 credits with permission of department. Prerequisite(s): Informatics juniors and seniors only.

C INF 468 (formerly I IST 468) Undergraduate Internship (3)
The internship has two components: (1) work experience in position related to students interests in computing and information. Interns are expected to spend 8 hours per week during the semester at their internship location; (2) academic seminar where students and faculty mentor meet together monthly to discuss their experiences and general career preparation topics. Assignments may include preparing a resume and cover letter, career development, assessing skills for and barriers to career development, and planning for graduate or professional school. Students are expected to research, identify, and find their own possible internship opportunities. This activity will help students to identify their own career goals and manner in which they may best be achieved, and it will also help students to learn career preparation skills that will be useful after graduation. All internship opportunities must be reviewed and approved by appropriate faculty prior to course registration. May be repeated for up to 6 credits. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor, junior or senior status and a minimum GPA of 2.50.

C INF 469 Internship for Fully Online Students (9)
The internship has two components: (1) work experience in position related to the Information technology track. Interns are expected to spend at least 24 hours per week during the semester at their internship location; (2) online academic seminar where students and faculty mentor discuss their experiences and general career preparation topics. Assignments may include preparing a resume and cover letter, career development, assessing skills for and barriers to career development, and planning for graduate or professional school. Students are expected to research, identify, and find their own internship opportunities. This activity will help students to identify their own career goals and manner in which they may best be achieved, and it will also help students to learn career preparation skills that will be useful after graduation. All internship opportunities must be reviewed and approved by appropriate faculty prior to course registration. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor, Informatics juniors and seniors only, IT online track only, fully online students.

C INF 470 Physical Computing (3)
This course introduces programmable microcontrollers, digital chips that are used to control electronics and robotics projects. In this course students will simultaneously develop the electronic circuits and associated software for controlling hardware components including sensors and mechanical parts. Topics include electronics fundamentals, analog/digital (A/D) devices, pulse-width modulation (PWM) and embedded programming. Course has hands-on lab setting with a final group project. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior status.

C INF 495 (= C EHC 495) Special Topics in Research, Applied and Experiential Learning (3)
This course is designed to discuss selected topics related to research, application, and experiential learning in the fields of emergency preparedness, homeland security, cybersecurity, and informatics. Through the lectures, readings and class discussions students will develop a broad understanding of the different fields and their specific topics. The topics will be selected and announced by the instructor when offered. May be repeated for credit if content varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor and junior or senior standing.

C INF 496 Intermediate Special Topics in Informatics (3)
The contents of this course will vary from semester to semester. Each offering will cover an advanced topic in Informatics. May be repeated for credit when content varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor, and junior or senior standing.

C INF 497 Intermediate Mini Special Topics in Informatics (1)
The contents of this course will vary from semester to semester. Each offering will cover an advanced topic in Informatics. May be repeated for credit when content varies. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor, and junior or senior standing.

C INF 499W Senior Seminar in Informatics (3)
This course helps students develop integral professional skills, including presentation of ideas through written and verbal communication, within an Informatics framework. Students will focus on a particular technology company or issue as a mechanism for developing critical thinking and teamwork skills. Prerequisite(s): Informatics seniors only.