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 Computer Information Systems
Mobile Device Application Developer
Business Division |
Mobile device application developers create software for mobile devices. The latest mobile devices are changing the way we communicate, do business, and access news and entertainment. Businesses and consumers have embraced this newfound ability to access information anytime, anywhere, making mobile application developer an in-demand and fast growing career area.
Mobile application developers write computer programs that run on a particular mobile platform as well as web applications that are optimized for the smaller mobile device screens. A mobile developer chooses the operating system (mobile platform) they will develop on, such as Apple's iOS or Google's Android, and then learn the programming languages for that platform.
Mobile application developers must be fluent in modern object-oriented programming languages such as Objective-C, Java and C#. Mobile application developers code, test, debug, monitor, and document changes for mobile applications. Developers are proficient in the programming environments for one or more mobile platforms, and most developers implement application programming interfaces (APIs) to provide enhanced functionality for their applications. People who work in this field must know the terminology, concepts, and best practices for coding mobile applications and be able to migrate and adapt existing web applications to the leading mobile platforms.
Most employers seek mobile application developers with a college degree in software engineering, mobile application development, mobile computing, computer science, or a similar programming-centric field of study. Hiring managers for mobile development positions may also want to see a portfolio with samples of completed mobile applications and best programming projects.
Marketable skills to look for in a mobile development educational program include iOS application development (iPhone & iPad), Android application development, and object-oriented programming (OOP). Development languages should include Objective-C, Java, C#, JavaScript and HTML. Students should also learn usability and user-interface (UI) design, mobile application distribution scenarios, database and OS fundamentals, and mobile media marketing and deployment.
- For detailed career information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook: www.bls.gov/oco.
Educational Opportunities in Computer Information Systems
The following programs may be completed in two years, if taken on a full-time basis. Students in the associate of applied business in the computer information systems program complete courses in computer information systems, communications, English, math, business administration, accounting, physical science, psychology or sociology, computer diagnostics and repair and Cisco certification.
Associate of Applied Business in Computer Information Systems - Mobile Device Application Development
The Mobile Device Application Devlopment major prepares students to design and develop applications for the mobile device market. Students learn to write applications for modern mobile platforms including the iPhone/iPad and Android (phone and tablet) devices. Students also learn to write web-based applications specifically targeted at mobile devices. Addiontal topics including database design, computer networking, and systems design complement the focus on mobile computing to provide the student with a well-rounded information technology education.
Associate of Applied Business in Computer Information Systems –Web Development
The Web Development program prepares students for development, administration and support positions in the emerging digital economy. Students learn to design and develop Internet applications in a client/server environment. Additional topics covered include integrating Internet and enterprise-wide databases, middleware issues, building robust Internet applications and designing dynamic Web portals. A variety of elective courses are available to augment the program.
Associate of Applied Business in Computer Information Systems - Network Communications Technology
The Network Communications Technology major prepares students for network and microcomputer support positions in business and industry. You will learn to design, install, test, and manage local and wide area networks. Additional topics covered include software installation, multimedia development fundamentals, and web page design. A variety of elective courses are available to augment the program.
Associate of Applied Business in Computer Information Systems –Software Development
This program prepares students for programming on computer platforms from personal computers to mainframes. Students learn to design and develop software using the procedural and object-oriented languages most commonly used in business. Additional topics covered in this program are database design and development and an introduction to networking.
Cisco Certification
The computer information systems department is an authorized Cisco Regional Academy. Therefore, you can enroll in Cisco certification classes that will prepare you for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) examination. This cluster of four classes can be completed either as credit or non-credit classes. If you are interested in taking the classes and receiving college credit, you must check the credit-course schedule under the computer information systems course heading.
Technical Certificates
Earn a certificate in one year or less. Credit earned from these programs transfer to related associate degree programs.
One-Year Technical Certificates
Short-Term Technical Certificates