Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
Degree Overview
Train to be an IT professional at Stratford University....seek the knowledge that employers are looking for.
The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSE) program prepares students for careers as a technical person in a software development environment. Graduates are able to take a concept from a user and propose the appropriate development project life-cycle model, gather the necessary requirements, generate a component design, develop software modules and code, perform appropriate levels of testing, work effectively with management and the development support staff (Configuration Management, Quality Assurance, Data Management, etc.), perform accurate software cost estimates, function as the lead in organization process improvements initiatives, and generate professional quality documentation.
Program Requirements and Online Options
Students can complete the program through classroom instruction, online instruction, or a combination of both. It typically takes 120 weeks (2.5 years) to complete the entire bachelor’s program without breaks.
Credits Required
Number of Classes
Core Component
117
26
Electives
9
2
Arts and Sciences
54
12
Total Required for Graduation
180
40
Core Courses
Elective Pool
Arts and Sciences
Introduction to Business - BUS100
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides a background on business and management. Students will discuss human relations, organizational structure, communications, technology in business, and strategic planning.
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Business Communications - BUS220
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course prepares the student for communication in the workplace. The student will prepare memorandums, letters, proposals, presentations, newsletters, and flyers. Discussions will focus on information exchange in and outside of the organization. Students presentations will be critiqued on message intended and message received.
Fundamentals of Information Systems - CIS103
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
Students learn to analyze systems and quality concepts and learn how information technology can be used to design, facilitate, and communicate organization goals and objectives. An overview of hardware and software with its relation to information technology is also presented.
Hardware and OS Architecture - CIS140
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides knowledge in preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of expansion buses, multimedia, video, modems, SCSI controllers, laptops, and printers. In addition, this course provides a brief introduction to networking technology, including the components necessary to attach a client to a local area network LAN).
Introduction to Programming Logic - CIS142
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides an introduction to programming concepts, such as flow charting, writing, compiling and debugging. The students learn the software development process from problem definition to final product; understand and use the basic components of a programming language; package code into functions to enable reuse; identify and correct different types of programming errors; evaluate the performance of programs; and produce clear, easy-to-maintain code. No previous programming experience is required. Both procedural and object-oriented languages are discussed.
Data Communications - CIS143
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS140
This course covers the basic concepts of networking technology within Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) environments. Topics include the dominant network topologies (Ethernet, Token Ring, FDDI), network protocols (TCP/IP, SPX/IPX and NetBIOS), cabling systems (coaxial, twisted pair, fiber optic), as well as wireless communication. The course introduces the primary features of internetworking devices (bridges, routers, repeaters, hubs, gateways, and switches) and the OSI software model for computer communication. All topics are related to the historical development of the field.
C++ Programming - CIS157
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS142
In this course, the student will be exposed to object oriented programming using Microsoft Visual C++. Students learn how to: utilize the object-oriented capability of C++; build C++ classes using polymorphism and inheritance; safely manage memory within C++ classes; define C++ functions using default arguments and cast operators. This course will include both theory and hands-on practical exercises.
Risk Management - CIS175
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides students with a firm understanding of the theories and principles of software risk management. Topics include identifying large and small risks, analyzing risks, planning around risks, tracking risks, and resolving risks. Students learn to use the Spiral Model of software development with very risky projects and are shown how to develop a risk management plan.
Configuration Management - CIS180
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides students with a firm understanding of the theories and principles of software configuration management. Topics include the role that configuration management plays in the software life cycle, software and documentation baseline identification and control, configuration control, auditing and accounting. Students learn what information is critical to include in a configuration management plan and practice creating and implementing a usage model based on a simulated software development project. Students are shown how to develop a configuration management plan and are introduced to the source code control system.
Fundamentals of IT Security - CIS201
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course will prepare students to pass the current CompTIA Security+ 2008 certification exam. After taking this course, students will understand the field of network security and how it relates to other areas of information technology. This course also provides the broad-based knowledge necessary to prepare for further study in specialized security fields, or it can serve as a capstone course that gives a general introduction to the field.
Fundamentals of Web Design - CIS202
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course applies effective graphic design techniques and methods to the web. Students learn to write HTML code directly and are to use HTML code generators such as Macromedia Dreamweaver. The course emphasizes the creation of web pages that are displayed properly in multiple browsers. Special attention is being paid to well-designed web pages that meet site requirements.
Concepts of Database Management - CIS204
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents the overall descriptions of databases and how to manage them. Topics include hierarchical and network databases, relational databases, database design, database security, data independence, and data administration.
Introduction to Relational Database Management Systems - CIS206
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course is designed for students with limited or no previous database experience. Course outcomes include a solid understanding of fundamental database terms and concepts such as tables, queries, forms and reports, and their application using a popular database. This course also introduces database analysis, database design, and N-tiered client-server database systems. A problem-based approach using SQL is used in this course.
Java Programming - CIS207
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
In this course, the student will gain an understanding of object-oriented programming concepts with specific emphasis on Java. This hands-on training class focuses on applet and application development. Basic constructs are explained with greater detail than in regular programming courses. Students will learn how to create Java applets and applications; enhance a Web site with Java applets; write multithreaded Java applets and applications; develop platform-independent graphical user interfaces. Lab exercises reinforce ideas and concepts learned with Java.
Concepts of Database Management - CIS209
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents the various ways to represent data to the student. It provides an overview of the concepts involved in the five structure models of database management: (1) simple; (2) hierarchical; (3) network; (4) relational; and (5) object-oriented databases. Discussed topics also include abstract data types, recursion, mathematical induction, estimating, algorithm analysis, lists, stacks, queues, sorting and searching, indexing, file processing, constructing and transversing graphs and trees, and hard or impossible problems.
Internet Applications I - CIS212
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course is designed to allow students to build and test interactive Internet applications. Working in a graphical user interface (GUI) environment, students learn to customize forms with user input items such as check boxes, list items, and radio groups. Students also learn to modify data access by creating event-related triggers.
System & Software Requirements - CIS214
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents requirements development as it is performed in industry. Students will begin with a project description and learn how to manage the requirements process, how to work with users to elicit their needs, what requirements methods and techniques are suitable for the project, the various requirements types, how requirements can be scheduled, how to handle risky requirements, how to write an effective requirements document, and how to test requirements.
System Design - CIS215
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS214
This course presents approaches used to develop systems, including both hardware and software components, and the various supporting activities needed to understand system interactions. Methods to separate functions into specific components are presented, including the general architecture development of each. Specific component design (hardware/software) is not part of this course.
Software Design - CIS216
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS214
This course presents software design approaches used to develop systems that satisfy user requirements. Architectural and detailed designs are shown for batch, client/server, and real-time systems. The different methodologies used to design structured, object-oriented, and Web-based systems, and designs for databases, user interfaces, forms, and reports are included. Design issues such as error handling, performance, and inter-process communication, are also shown.
Software Verification & Validation - CIS217
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS214
This course presents approaches to ensure that software was developed properly and meets user requirements. Students will understand the various levels of testing, techniques for creating test data, how to manage test cases and scenarios, testing strategies and methods, testing batch, client/server, real-time, and Internet systems, and the development of an effective test plan.
IT Security Policies & Standards - CIS231
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides the student with the knowledge of FISMA, NIST, DISA security standards and requirements. It is a new course concentrating on policies to enforce access security, hardening of network devices and servers. This topic is a national requirement for secure networks. It is a new course that we are developing in lights of the experience of implementing a vast range of security measures as mandated by OMB.
Database Programming I - CIS232
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
Data Modeling and Relational Database Design (DMRDD), including the use of Entity Relationship (ER) modeling is discussed in detail using practical business examples. Normalized, stable, maintainable and well-defined relational databases are analyzed. Rules and constructs of Structured Query Language (SQL) and SQL*Plus, including various elements of the SELECT statement will be used to create, store, retrieve, and manipulate data in an Oracle database.
Web Programming Design - CIS234
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course involves extensive work in the solution of problems on a digital computer and covers structured programming concepts, proper documentation techniques, coding, debugging, and running programs using I/O files, subroutines, arrays, searching, and sorting.
Forensics Tools and Technology - CIS244
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides the student with an understanding of what industry tools and technologies are available for analyzing computer problems. Topics include incident response tools, NFR security, analysis of both Windows and UNIX operating systems, network analysis (including wireless), embedded systems analysis, and computer intrusions.
Server Side Programming ASP.NET - CIS248
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides the student with advanced skills to build a professional web application using .NET technology. It builds upon the knowledge and skills gained from Internet Applications II. Students will learn how to develop administrative Web pages that can add/delete/update records in a remote database table. Students will refresh their knowledge of SQL JOINs, and use it to create more complicated web pages. Students will extend their final project in Internet Applications II to allow customers to register and create their own accounts, and to accept customer orders and implement a full check-out sequence. Students learn more advanced ASP.NET techniques including session state and two different kinds of authentication.
Information Technology Senior Project - CIS490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
Students will work under the supervision of a faculty advisor to further refine and develop their skills and knowledge through a student-created independent project. Project proposals must be submitted to the faculty advisor of the student's choosing and approved by the advisor and the dean before the student may register for this course. Faculty committee will determine the student's final grade for the project.
Project Management - BUS380
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course will allow students to manage a project within their major field of study. Students prepare a project plan that includes details of their project, deliverables, dates when they will be completed, and the associated learning that will be exhibited. Students implement their plan and record weekly status on their progress, issues, decisions, and learning. At the conclusion of the course, students complete their projects and summarize their results in a final report.
Fundamentals of IT Networking - CIS116
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents the essential elements of IT networking to the student. Topics include planning a network, understanding TCP/IP, setting up a server, understanding wireless concepts, running a mail server, managing user accounts and network storage, solving network problems, and protecting the network.
Quality Management - CIS185
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides students with theoretical knowledge about concepts of software quality, about the quality - models, - standards and – methodologies used in software industry. By completion of the course, students will be able to understand software quality in its complexity, to see the differences and interconnections among the most popular software quality models, standards, approaches. They will have a solid basis that enables them to make the right selection among software quality models, based on a software company’s own characteristics.
Fundamentals of Server Technology - CIS219
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents the essentials of server technology. Topics include Web servers and Web clients, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), FTP, Gopher, WAIS, constructing Web scripts, architecture of Web servers, configuration of Web servers, performance of Web servers, secure Web servers, and digital commerce.
Database Programming II - CIS237
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS232
This course includes an introduction to the Forms module of Developer 2000 and the underlying PL/SQL language. PL/SQL language topics include: retrieval and manipulation of data, creation of conditional control and looping constructs, application of cursors, as well as, sharing code blocks by multiple forms. Students will build and test forms using Oracle Forms and will utilize check boxes, list items, radio buttons and event-related triggers.
Web Design Using Databases - CIS242
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
In this course, the student will design and develop Web pages that are database driven. These web pages will be linked to an ODBC database, like Access, or an SQL database, like Oracle or Microsoft SQL. The linking language will be VBScript for Active Server Pages (ASP) or Perl for Scripted HTML (shtml). Students will learn how to hand-code these pages, as well as, use code generators, like Visual Interdev or Macromedia UltraDev.
Database Design and Optimization - CIS370
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS209
This course presents specific approach and methods to design a new database or to improve an existing one. Topics include data modeling, architectural decisions, normalization, securing data integrity, table structures and indexing, concurrency, and database interoperability.
Database Security Administration - CIS373
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents approaches and methods to help ensure that your database integrity is not violated. Technical security algorithms are not part of this course, with the focus on the management of overall database security. Topics include hardening various database environments, installing audit checklists, tracking security issues, recognizing intrusion possibilities, eliminating unnecessary software and data, firewall concepts, authentication and password security, and regulation and compliance requirements.
Data Centers Design & Administration - CIS375
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
infrastructure details, as well as data center management and operations. The student will learn how to keep the data center cool, clean, scalable, and secure, including the five principles of effective data center design. The course points on how to avoid the natural and man-made hazards that can jeopardize a data center site. The student will also learn how to lay out key infrastructure objects within the data center for greatest efficiency, from buffer zones to server rows, apply proven installation methods by studying sample illustrations of both overhead and under-floor systems. The course also covers the best practices and design strategies for both in-room and standby electrical infrastructure, avoidance of accidental downtime, improve productivity, and ensure user safety. At the end of this course, the student will learn how to safeguard and streamline your network infrastructure with a well-organized physical hierarchy; understand the special challenges of retrofitting overburdened server environments, etc.
Database Administration I - CIS378
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course introduces concepts and methods to manage databases. Topics include differences between system administration and database administration, the types of tasks expected in database administration, database design (including logical and physical models), choosing and installing a database, database updates and releases, monitoring database performance, participating in application software design reviews for database issues, establishing an effective database change management process, insuring the integrity and security of the database, database backup and recovery, database warehousing, and how to handle disasters.
IP-Based Communications Technologies - CIS380
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents capabilities and considerations engineers find when using IP-based communications technologies. Topics include wireless networking, IEEE 802.11 and 802.15 standards, MMAC, Bluetooth, IP address space, security considerations, and the use of IP with TCP.
Database Administration II - CIS480
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS378
This course provides student with a firm experience on how to reduce downtime, increase security and improve the performance of Oracle Database. This class equips you with the expertise to efficiently administer the database and move data from one database to another. The included hands-on practices and workshops reinforce the in-class training and ensure competency in this field.
Database Programming III - CIS485
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS237
This course teaches students how to create effective SQL queries to extract and update the data in an Oracle database. It also covers how to design and implement a database, giving the students insight into performance and security issues. The student will learn how to use PL/SQL to take advantage of powerful features like stored procedures, functions, and triggers.
Curricular Practical Training I - CIS493
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides a three-way partnership among student, employer, and Stratford University to allow students to enrich their learning in a chosen career area through a part-time supervised work experience. The work experience description must be consistent with the student’s education at Stratford and the student’s career goals. Prerequisite: Completion of all Core requirements and permission of the Dean
Curricular Practical Training II - CIS494
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides a three-way partnership among student, employer, and Stratford University to allow students to enrich their learning in a chosen career area through a part-time supervised work experience. The work experience description must be consistent with the student’s education at Stratford and the student’s career goals, and must include experiences beyond those received in CIS493. Prerequisite: CIS493 and permission of the Dean
College Composition - ENG111
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course focuses on reviewing grammar, sentence structure, punctuation skills, and style points required for effective written communication. Students use a standard handbook and apply proofreading skills to all types of written communications. The student is guided in learning writing as a process: understanding audience and purpose, exploring ideas and information, composing, revising, and editing.
Current Topics in English - ENG290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in English including, but not limited to, introductory topics in understanding and creating various genres of English communication such as narrative prose, technical communication, poetry, and cinematic forms.
Oral Communications - ENG310
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents the principles and functions of spoken communications. The student learns how to prepare to deliver various types of oral presentations. Emphasis is on planning and on how to orient content to a particular audience. Students present short talks and plan and present longer, more formal speeches on assigned topics and/or on topics of choice.
Advanced Composition and Research - ENG320
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: ENG111 or equivalent
This course emphasizes advanced writing and research including understanding the documentation process, presenting material in academic form, and academic research techniques. Materials may Include MLA and APA styles effective use of internet research tools, critical reading processes, and research writing techniques.
Special Topics in English - ENG490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: ENG111 or equivalent.
This course concentrates on special topics in English. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics such as English philology and etymology, as well as advanced topics in rhetoric and critical interpretation of texts.
Principles of Ethics - HUM110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course focuses on the application of ethics to personal and professional life. Positive and negative sides of behavior and how this affects self-image and self-respect will be discussed.
Spanish I - HUM210
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course uses vocabulary and structure through a series of activities designed for realistic communication which allow students to achieve both written and spoken Spanish language skills. Through reading, dialogue, and associated study, students develop an understanding of the language and cultural distinctions of Spanish speakers worldwide.
Special Topics in the Humanities - HUM290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, introductory topics in philosophy, religion, culture, and/or language arts.
World Literature - HUM320
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course emphasizes an understanding and appreciation of world literature. Materials covered Include Western and non-Western literary endeavors. Focus will be on similarities among the various literatures, analysis of literary genre, and appreciation of voice.
The American Experience - HUM330
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course emphasizes the development of American values and Institutions through analysis of social, political, and economic materials. The course examines the Influence of political, economic, social, and environmental factors as it explores Ideas of Individualism, success, and national character. Materials may include historical documents, literature, and social, political, and artistic works.
Understanding World Cultures - HUM410
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course discusses civilizations and cultures as they evolved from Eastern, Western, African and South American influences. The student is enabled to relate diverse cultures to their impact on contemporary society, politics, and world events.
Spanish II - HUM420
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: HUM310
This course reviews the fundamentals of the Spanish language and provides special attention to the continuing development of students' conversational and reading skills. Students build upon their understanding of the language in both written and oral forms.
Special Topics in the Humanities - HUM490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on special topics in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in ethics, philosophy, religious and cultural studies, and/or language arts.
Special Topics in Humanities II - HUM491
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on special topics in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in ethics, philosophy, religious and cultural studies, and/or language arts.
Special Topics in Humanities III - HUM492
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on special topics in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in ethics, philosophy, religious and cultural studies, and/or language arts.
Fundamentals of Mathematics - MAT110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides an introduction to the basic techniques of mathematics and applies them to problem solving in different areas of business and industry. This course does not count towards the Bachelor's program.
College Algebra - MAT210
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course explores a series of algebraic concepts including rational expressions, radicals and exponents, quadratic equations, systems of equations, and applications.
Current Topics in Mathematics - MAT290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on current issues in mathematics. Topics may include, but are not limited to, set theory, algebraic concepts, geometry, and probability.
Statistics - MAT310
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents material essential in an increasing number of professional fields by providing a new type of competence, quantitative literacy. Topics include descriptive statistics; collecting and interpreting data; inferential statistics; probability; consumer mathematics; management mathematics; and growth and scaling.
Calculus - MAT410
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: MAT210 or equivalent
This course focuses on techniques of differential and integral calculus likely encountered in professional activities and real-world situations. Students will gain a sound, intuitive understanding of the basic concepts of calculus through a problem-solving approach. Topics include functions, graphs, and limits; differentiation; derivatives; exponential and logarithmic functions; integration; and variables.
Special Topics in Mathematics - MAT490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: Permission of the Instructor
This course concentrates on special topics in mathematics. Topics may include, but are not limited to, mathematical history and philosophy, Euclidian and non-Euclidian geometries, linear algebra, polar coordinates, vectors, partial derivatives, line integrals, and multiple integrals, as well as applications for these topics.
Social Psychology - PSY110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides an application of the Psychological principles to the development of a stable social framework within business and personal environments.
Current Topics in Psychology - PSY290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in psychology. Topics may include, but are not limited to, introductory topics in learning, memory, motivation, emotion, states of consciousness, psychological assessment, mental health, psychology of personality, and creativity.
Human Growth & Development - PSY320
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course emphasizes the psychological, cognitive, emotional, and social development of the human organism. Materials include those related to the various stages of the life span, and the developmental Influence of social class, the family, the school, and the group. A focus is placed on the abilities, needs, problems, and concerns of humans to change throughout life, and how people are shaped by their experiences throughout their development.
Critical Thinking and Reasoning - PSY340
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course is designed to help students develop thinking skills and make good judgments. Participants are exposed to both logical and illogical thinking processes as a means to develop their skills in reasoning, analysis and the use of logical arguments. Various kinds of arguments are presented and analyzed, and logical fallacies are explored with the goal of reaching sound conclusions. Deductive and inductive reasoning are examined as are the criteria for sound reasoning and common reasoning mistakes people make. Students debate issues from different sides with both logical and illogical arguments.
Special Topics in Psychology - PSY490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: PSY110 or equivalent.
This course concentrates on special topics in psychology. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in deviant behavior, psychological testing and assessment, religious behavior, neurophysiology, and psychology and the law.
General Science - SCI110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course examines scientific concepts and principles in an integrated manner to provide an overview of the sciences. Topics include physics, astronomy, chemistry, earth science, and biology as a means to address areas such as growing global population, limited resources and the fragile environment.
Current Topics in Science - SCI290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in science. Topics may include, but are not limited to, introductory topics in meteorology, geology, ecology, evolutionary biology, and the space sciences.
Impact of Science and Technology - SCI410
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of science and future thinking. The content demonstrates how scientific and technological advances have significantly impacted all aspects of contemporary life.
Special Topics in Science - SCI490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on special topics in science. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in interdisciplinary topics such as the history of science and technology, cross-cultural studies of science, cosmology, biotechnology, the use of science and technology to enhance human abilities and quality of life, and techniques for assessment and remediation of science and technology hazards.












