CTS 080 - Computing Fundamentals
This course covers fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include identification of components and basic computer operations including introduction to operating systems, the Internet, web browsers, and communication using World Wide Web. Upon completion, students should be able to operate computers, access files, print documents and perform basic applications operations. This course is designed to prepare students for college level work and will not satisfy credit hours for any degree, diploma or certificate program. This course will not transfer to a four-year institution but will transfer to any of the community colleges within the N.C. Community College System; however, it will not satisfy any degree, diploma or certificate requirements at the receiving institution. Credit earned for this course will only satisfy the prerequisites for entry into a curriculum level course.

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CTS 120 - Harware/Software Support
This course covers the basic hardware of a personal computer, including installation, operations and interactions with software. Topics include component identification, memory-system, peripheral installation and configuration, preventive maintenance, hardware diagnostics/repair, installation and optimization of system software, commercial programs, system configuration, and device-drivers. Upon completion, students should be able to select appropriate computer equipment and software, upgrade/maintain existing equipment and software, and troubleshoot/repair non-functioning personal computers.

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CTS 125 - Presentation Graphics
This course provides hands-on experience with a graphics presentation package. Topics include terminology, effective chart usage, design and layout, integrating hardware components, and enhancing presentations with text, graphics, audio and video. Upon completion, students should be able to design and demonstrate an effective presentation.

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CTS 130 - Spreadsheet
This course introduces basic spreadsheet design and development. Topics include writing formulas, using functions, enhancing spreadsheets, creating charts, and printing. Upon completion, students should be able to design and print basic spreadsheets and charts. Students will use the Excel software package in this course.

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CTS 135 - Integrated Software Introduction
This course instructs students in the Windows or Linux based program suites for word processing, spreadsheet, database, personal information manager, and presentation software. This course prepares students for introductory level skills in database, spreadsheet, personal information manager, word processing, and presentation applications to utilize data sharing. Upon completion, students should be able to design and integrate data at an introductory level to produce documents using multiple technologies.

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CTS 155 - Technical Support Functions  
This course introduces a variety of diagnostic and instructional tools that are used to evaluate the performance of technical support technologies.  Emphasis is placed on technical support management techniques and support technologies.  Upon completion, students should be able to determine the best technologies to support and solve actual technical support problems.

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CTS 210 - Computer Ethics
This course introduces the student to current legal and ethical issues in the computer/ engineering field. Topics include moral reasoning, ethical standards, intellectual property, social issues, encryption, software piracy, constitutional issues, and public policy in related matters. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the moral and social responsibilities and public policy issues facing an industry.

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CTS 220 - Adv. Hardware/Software Support
This course provides advanced knowledge and competencies in hardware and operating system technologies for computer technicians to support personal computers. Emphasis is placed on: configuring and upgrading; diagnosis and troubleshooting; as well as preventive maintenance of hardware and system software. Upon completion, students should be able to install, configure, diagnose, perform preventive maintenance, and maintain basic networking on personal computers.

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CTS 230 - Advanced Spreadsheet
This course covers advanced spreadsheet design and development. Topics include advanced functions and statistics, charting, macros, databases, and linking. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in designing complex spreadsheets. Students will use the Excel software package in this course.

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CTS 240 - Project Management
This course introduces computerized project management software. Topics include identifying critical paths, cost management, and problem solving. Upon completion, students should be able to plan a complete project and project time and costs accurately.

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CTS 285 - Systems Analysis & Design
This course introduces established and evolving methodologies for the analysis, design, and development of an information system. Emphasis is placed on system characteristics, managing projects, prototyping, CASE/OOM tools, and systems development life cycle phases. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze a problem and design an appropriate solution using a combination of tools and techniques.

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CTS 289 - System Support Project
This course provides an opportunity to complete a significant support project with minimal instructor assistance. Emphasis is placed on written and oral communication skills, project definition, documentation, installation, testing, presentation, and user training. Upon completion, students should be able to complete a project from the definition phase through implementation.

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