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CIS 101 ? Thriving in our Digital World

What is CIS 101?

CIS 101 introduces you to data analysis, computer coding and the impact of technology on society.  Group projects allow you to work with others to develop small computer programs and to identify trends or relationships in large datasets.  

The course fulfills the general education mathematical sciences category with student learning outcomes of quantitative literacy and collaboration.

Why You Should Take CIS 101:

CIS 101 is intended for students with no programming experience but a desire to use technology to be more productive in their own field of study and in everyday life. Technology is everywhere, in every job, in every aspect of our life. learning how not only to use technology but thrive while doing so, will set a student apart from all the others. 

Coding and data analysis are important skills for individuals in the 21st century workplace. Applications of computing span across all areas including but not limited to art, music, healthcare and business. Computational thinking allows you to break up a problem step-by-step, helping identify actions that lead to designing effective solutions. When a student can learn these concepts and how they apply to their individual majors, they set themselves up for success.

Course Topics:

  1. Introduction to computer coding
  2. Data analysis
  3. Online security and privacy
  4. Digital information and the Internet

Course Objectives:

  1. Use computing tools and techniques for creative expression.
  2. Interpret data appearing in different forms and draw valid conclusions based on data analysis. 
  3. Work effectively with others to create an original computational artifact.
  4. Create a computer program to solve a specified problem.
  5. Demonstrate an awareness of the impact of computing on society.

For more information on the course and how it can help you in your academic career, contact the course coordinator:

Cheryl Kautz
Affiliate Faculty
School of Computing
D-2-232 MAK Hall
[email protected]

Page last modified September 23, 2025