2023-2024 Catalog

Business Systems (A.S.)

Associate in Science

Program Advisor: Gregory Panczner,

413-236-4574 • gpanczner@berkshirecc.edu

The Business Systems option in the Computer Information Systems degree program provides students with the skills and knowledge to transfer to a baccalaureate institution for further study, or to pursue a career in a business environment, usually as an applications programmer. A solid background in structured programming in two high-level computer languages, systems application, analysis and design are emphasized, and course work in business is required.

To complete most computer assignments, students will need to use either BCC’s computer lab or an off-campus computer.

Related majors at the baccalaureate level include computer information systems and management information.

Degree: Associate in Science, Computer Information Systems. Concentration/Option/Track: Business Systems

Expected Outcomes

Graduates of this program should be able to:

  • Apply fundamental concepts of programming languages and software development to solve a diverse array of problems and recognize these concepts in different languages;
  • Apply fundamental concepts of business such as accounting and economics to real world situations;
  • Analyze business problems through data analysis and create viable solutions through the use of technology;
  • Apply business ethics and procedures; and
  • Communicate clearly, accurately and succinctly through written and verbal means.

Graduation Requirements

To earn a degree in this program, a student must complete all program and general education credits, plus the following Additional Requirements.

Program Courses

BUS-111Principles of Accounting I

3

BUS-112Principles of Accounting II

3

CIS-102Fundamental Computer Literacy

4

CIS-124C++ Programming I

4

CIS-125C++ Programming II

4

CIS-155Web Development

3

CIS-203Systems Design

3

CIS-225Spreadsheets & Databases for Professionals

4

CIS-231Computer Science I with Java

4

CIS-232Computer Science II With Java

4

ECO-211Principles of Microeconomics

3

MAT-Mathematics

3

-Free Elective

2

Total Credit Hours:44

MAT Mathematics: See footnote 1

General Education Courses

COM-Communication

3

ECO-212Principles of Macroeconomics

3

ENG-English Composition/Writing

6

MAT-123Elementary Statistics

3

-Behavioral & Social Science

3

-Humanities & Fine Arts

3

Total Credit Hours:21

Additional Requirements

Core Competencies Portfolio 4 items
FORUM 4 units
Health/Fitness 30 hours

Minimum Cumulative Average

Overall 2.000
All Required CIS Courses 2.000

Suggested Pathway to Graduation

The following is a suggestion for completing this program in two years. The actual time needed to complete the program will vary according to each student’s individual needs.

First Semester

CIS-102Fundamental Computer Literacy

4

BUS-111Principles of Accounting I

3

ENG-English Composition/Writing

3

MAT-Mathematics

3

-Behavioral & Social Science

3

Total Credit Hours:16

MAT Mathematics: See footnote 1

Second Semester

CIS-124C++ Programming I

4

BUS-112Principles of Accounting II

3

ENG-English Composition/Writing

3

CIS-225Spreadsheets & Databases for Professionals

4

-Humanities & Fine Arts

3

Total Credit Hours:17

Third Semester

CIS-231Computer Science I with Java

4

ECO-212Principles of Macroeconomics

3

CIS-125C++ Programming II

4

MAT-123Elementary Statistics

3

-Free Elective

2

Total Credit Hours:16

Fourth Semester

CIS-203Systems Design

3

CIS-155Web Development

3

CIS-232Computer Science II With Java

4

ECO-211Principles of Microeconomics

3

COM-Communication

3

Total Credit Hours:16

Footnote

MAT requires MAT-102 or higher to meet program requirements.

Note

A minimum of three CIS courses must be taken in the five years prior to graduation.