INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AAS

Chandler-Gilbert can help you stay current with the ever changing IT industry demands and earn a degree at the same time with our "design your own IT degree" program. Just complete one of CGCC's Information Technology certifications of completion and choose the remainder of your course electives from a varied list of Information Technology courses. Students may even be able to transfer Information Technology courses from other colleges when designing their program of study. Maximum flexibility and it transfers to ASU Polytechnic and other institutions of higher leaning! To find out more, contact Advisement.

What is the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Information Technology?

The Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology program is designed to provide students with skills to meet the changing employment needs of the information technology (IT) industry. With the flexibility of elective course offerings in this degree, students are able to custom design a program that prepares them for depth of understanding in distinct IT areas or prepares them for a breadth of understanding across an IT field. A variety of opportunities also exist to complete course work that will prepare students for industry-recognized examinations and certifications. Students are encouraged to work closely with the division chair to plan their programs of study.

What makes CGCC's AAS in Information Technology unique?

Flexibility. Flexibility. Flexibility. The student, with the help of an adviser, designs their own program of study! Pick from one of our certificates for your required courses, and then choose from a list of over 70 IT courses for your electives. You may even be able to use IT courses credits from other institutions, if applicable. View checksheet.

What Certificates of Completion can be used in the AAS in Information Technology?

Students can choose from over six different certificates to complete the required area of the degree. There are certificates in the areas of database administration, software application development, computer hardware and support, and networking. For specific certifications please see the individual checksheets. As new certificates are adopted by the college, those may be added to the AAS in IT (view checksheet).

Are there any General Studies courses required for this degree?

There are 22 credits of General Studies core and distribution courses required. Students choose courses in Mathematics, English Composition, Communication, Humanities and Fine Arts, Social and Behavioral Science and Natural Science to meet the General Studies component. View checksheet.

Are there any other required courses for this degree?

Yes.  Students will also need to complete CIS224 - Project Management (3 credits).  Based on strong recommendations from our industry advisors, all IT AAS candidates will have an introduction to Project Management.

How long will it take me to finish the courses need for a AAS in Information Technology?

You will need 60 credits to complete the AAS in Information Technology. The majority of classes meet for approximately 3- 4 hours per week for 16 weeks, the length of our usual semester. Some classes may be offered in a 6 - 8 week format or a distance learning format but require students to complete more or all work outside of class. At the rate of three classes per semester (10 credits), the entire sequence would take 6 semesters to complete.

What are the prerequisites and what other courses should I take to be successful?

There is only one prerequisite to start this program, and that is to take CRE101 (Critical and Evaluative Reading 1) or take a reading assessment test to place out of CRE101. For students who are new to computers and the field of information technology, it is recommended they complete CIS105 (Survey of Computer Information Systems) first in their program. CIS105 can be applied as an elective. Taking this course will greatly increase the chances of success. Other courses in their program of study will be required to take in a sequence, as they build on one another. An advisor can help the student plan their course path with input from the student and with consideration given to many factors. We want our students to be successful and get the most out of all of our courses.

What is the cost for the program?

The cost of each class is based on the usual tuition cost for the student. There may be additional course fees for these classes in the range of $25 - $35 . The cost for books is separate and can range from approximately $50 - $150 per class. Books may be purchased at the campus book store.Students may want to pursue financial aid and scholarship opportunities at the college.

Can I become industry certified with these classes?

YES! Each of the certificates of completion in the AAS corresponds to an industry (Microsoft, Oracle, Cisco, A+, RedHat) certification. To be certified, you must successfully pass the industry certification exams. Each of the exams has a cost, usually over $100 per attempt and must be taken at an authorized testing center. The classes we offer at CGCC prepare students for exams, but industry certification depends on successful completion of the industry certification exams, not on completion of the courses at CGCC.

Will this degree transfer to a 4 year institution?

Yes. The AAS in Information Technology currently transfers to Arizona State University Polytechnic into the Bachelor of Applied Science. There are other institutions that accept this AAS also. Please discuss with an advisor to determine which BAS is right for you!

How do I sign up for classes and get started on my AAS in Information Technology?

We recommend that you speak with an advisor before registering for these classes. New student enrollment information can be found at here. A student new to Chandler-Gilbert Community College will need to fill out a Student Information Form  at www.my.maricopa.edu  or in person.   CGCC Advisors welcome the opportunity to speak with you and help you find the appropriate course  and program to fit your needs. If you would like more information please call Advisement at 480- 732- 7317.

What if I have more questions?

Contact Advisement for any questions you have concerning registration, signing up for classes, degrees, and general questions.