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Computer information systems students working on a computer at Aims Community College

Computer Information SystemsCertificates

Earn a Computer Information Systems Certificate

Build expertise in a computer information systems subject area in two or more semesters with certificates from Aims Community College. Learn from subject matter experts in a state-of-the-art computer lab with hardware systems that major organizations currently use. Career Services can help you to develop a plan to earn the certificates that can make the greatest impact on your career.

In the tech world, information systems certificates and certifications are important hiring qualifications. Because certifications demonstrate competence in a certain skill, employers often look for certified candidates when hiring for that role. As a result, certificates are a great way to start or move up in your career, because they teach you essential skills and prepare you to take certification exams.

Basic Web Design Certificate

This certificate is geared toward high school students in concurrent enrollment at Aims who want to learn the basics of web design. Learn design principles in page layout, navigation, typography for the web, style sheets and editing for web browsers. This is a Graphic Design and Rich Media certificate with a focus on computer information systems.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

Explores the complete set of web authoring skills using HTML and/or other languages. The course covers links, backgrounds, controlling text and graphic placement, tables, image maps and forms. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Concentrates on the high-end capabilities of Adobe Photoshop as an illustration, design and photo retouching tool. Students explore a wide range of selection and manipulation techniques that can be applied to photos, graphics and videos. Course competencies and outline follow those set out by the Adobe Certified Associate exam in Visual Communication Using Adobe Photoshop. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Concentrates on the high-end capabilities of Adobe Illustrator as an illustration, design and vector drawing tool. Students learn how to use the tools to create digital artwork that can be used in web design, print media, and digital screen design. Course competencies and outline follow those set by the Adobe certified Associate exam in Visual Communication using Adobe Illustrator. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Introduces web site planning, design and creation utilizing HTML through industry-standard development tools [may list specific software]. Emphasis is placed on applying stylistic decisions using cascading style sheets. Web-based considerations regarding color, typography, aesthetics, user interface design, and process integration with visual-based design tools will be explored. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

CWB 1010 with a grade of "C' or better, may be taken concurrently

3
Total Credits for Certificate 12

CIS Information Technology Certificate

Develop the general technology skills needed to work as a help desk specialist. Learn a broad set of skills to support computer systems, hardware and software.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

This course introduces basic computer terminology, file management, and PC system components. Provides an overview of office application software including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation graphics. Includes the use of a web browser to access the Internet. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Prepares students for the CompTIA A+ certification examination. PC hardware and operating system installation, configuration and troubleshooting are practiced and reviewed using A+ techniques. Course is not repeatable for credit.

4
required

Explores an array of database skills. Includes table, query, form, and report creation and modification. Also includes application integration. Course is not repeatable for credit..

Course Prerequisites

CIS 1018 or CIS 1055 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
required

Introduces the concepts and techniques of managing computer-based information resources. Includes hardware, software, personnel, control techniques, and the placement and integration of information systems resources within the organization. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Provides students with the knowledge necessary to understand, identify and perform necessary tasks involved in supporting a network. Covers the vendor-independent networking skills and concepts that affect all aspects of networking, such as installing and configuring the TCP/IP. This course also prepares students for the Networking II: Network + course. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

3
required

Introduces the C# programming language. This course covers all syntactical components of the language including arrays, structures, methods and classes. Content will focus on writing clear, properly structured, and well-documented programs using object-oriented methodology, .NET Framework, and the Visual Studio environment. Course is not repeatable for credit.

4
required

Introduces students to the discipline of computer science and programming. Algorithm development, data representation, logical expressions, sub-programs and input/output operations using a high-level programming language are covered. Intensive lab work outside of class time is required. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1019 or CSC 2036 with a grade of "C" or better

(C++)
4
required

Explores the complete set of web authoring skills using HTML and/or other languages. The course covers links, backgrounds, controlling text and graphic placement, tables, image maps and forms. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
Total Credits for Certificate 30

Computer: C# Programming Certificate

Learn the general-purpose, object-oriented programming language C#. Build the skills to develop modern front-end or back-end applications and prepare for A+ certification.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

This course introduces basic computer terminology, file management, and PC system components. Provides an overview of office application software including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation graphics. Includes the use of a web browser to access the Internet. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
3
required

Prepares students for the CompTIA A+ certification examination. PC hardware and operating system installation, configuration and troubleshooting are practiced and reviewed using A+ techniques. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
4
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

*
3
required

Introduces the C# programming language. This course covers all syntactical components of the language including arrays, structures, methods and classes. Content will focus on writing clear, properly structured, and well-documented programs using object-oriented methodology, .NET Framework, and the Visual Studio environment. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
4
required

Focuses on advanced features of the C# programming language and .NET Framework by having students write complex Windows Applications. The relationships between C# and the .NET Platform and Framework are explored. Students will develop clear, properly structured, and well-documented C# programs that emphasize writing and utilize classes as abstract data types, collections, inheritance, and generics. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 2036 with a grade of "C" or better.

4
Total Credits for C# Programming Certificate 18
Row Groupings *Required courses for the Computer Information Systems A.A.S. Degree.

Cyber Security Specialist Certificate

Learn the fundamentals of cyber security, cyber law, vulnerability assessment and digital forensics. Learn to implement a multi-layered approach to the latest threats and vulnerabilities to secure information.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

Explores the structure and fundamentals of the Unix operating system including the file system and file processing, various utility programs, shell, multi-user operation, text processing, and communications. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Delivers a comprehensive overview of network security, including general security concepts. Communication Security is studied, including remote access, e-mail, the Web, directory and file transfer, and wireless data. Common network attacks are introduced. Cryptography basics are incorporated, and operational/organizational security is discussed as it relates to physical security, disaster recovery, and business continuity. Computer forensics is introduced. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Introduces fundamental content on cloud computing including system analysis, requirements, configuration, deployment, and testing. This course includes information on management, business continuity, security, maintenance, updating, and troubleshooting as related to cloud computing. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Introduces concepts of cloud architecture, cloud security, and the law as it pertains to cloud deployment. Focuses on the mechanics of security in the cloud service models: Infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS). Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Introduces students to the design and implementation of firewalls. Covers such topics as firewalls using CISCO Routers, Microsoft server platform and UNIX platform. Focuses on how firewalls function in these environments and the basic steps to plan and implement firewalls. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Presents students with an introduction to vulnerability assessment. Vulnerability assessment skills are necessary to understand how companies address vulnerabilities in the business environment. Students gain a better understanding of how information technology security integrates into the corporate world and how a balance must be achieved between security and functionality. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Exposes the student to the field of digital computer forensics and investigation. This class provides the student with methods to properly conduct a digital forensics investigation including a discussion of ethics. Topics covered include fundamental concepts, history of computer forensics, file structures, data recovery techniques, computer forensic tools and analyses. Course is not repeatable for credit.

4
required

Provides an opportunity to gain experience in applying their skills and/or to develop specific skills in a practical work setting. Department approval is required. Department approval is required. This course has admission requirements.  Please call or email the Computer Information Systems department for more information. See the department web page at  for contact information. Course is repeatable with a maximum of 12 credit hours.https://www.aims.edu/degrees-certificates/computer-information-systems_blankhttps://www.aims.edu/degrees-certificates/computer-information-systems

0 to 12
Total Credits for Cyber Security Specialist Certificate 25

Data Analytics Certificate

Details and course list coming soon to the Summer 2024 Catalog!
Data analytics is the science of analyzing raw data to make conclusions about that information. Learn the skills to prepare for work in data analytics, including the fundamentals of business and information systems as well as a defined skill set of spreadsheets, database design, SQL, programming, and data visualization. You can also apply the coursework from this certificate toward earning an Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS).

Database Administration Certificate

Learn to manage and administer enterprise-level databases. Develop basic and advanced database and SQL skills while preparing for A+ certification.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

This course introduces basic computer terminology, file management, and PC system components. Provides an overview of office application software including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation graphics. Includes the use of a web browser to access the Internet. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
3
required

Explores an array of database skills. Includes table, query, form, and report creation and modification. Also includes application integration. Course is not repeatable for credit..

Course Prerequisites

CIS 1018 or CIS 1055 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
required

Introduces the basic concepts of relational databases, data storage, and retrieval. Covers database design, data modeling, transaction processing, and introduces the Structured Query Language (SQL) for databases. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
3
required

Introduces Structured Query Language (SQL) including creation of database structures and how to store, retrieve, and manipulate data in a relational database. This course also covers creating tables and views, using indexes, and developing stored procedures and triggers. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Expands knowledge of Structured Query Language (SQL). Covers advanced techniques for complex queries and manipulation of data in a relational database. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

CIS 2043 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
required

Prepares students for the CompTIA A+ certification examination. PC hardware and operating system installation, configuration and troubleshooting are practiced and reviewed using A+ techniques. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
4
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

*
3
Total Credits for Certificate 22
row *Required courses in the Computer Information Systems A.A.S. Degree.

Full Stack Web Developer Certificate

Learn to develop and design websites and web content. Build your skills in programming, web presentation, client-side and server-side scripting and web content management systems.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

This course introduces basic computer terminology, file management, and PC system components. Provides an overview of office application software including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation graphics. Includes the use of a web browser to access the Internet. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Prepares students for the CompTIA A+ certification examination. PC hardware and operating system installation, configuration and troubleshooting are practiced and reviewed using A+ techniques. Course is not repeatable for credit.

4
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

3
required

Explores the complete set of web authoring skills using HTML and/or other languages. The course covers links, backgrounds, controlling text and graphic placement, tables, image maps and forms. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Covers control of presentational elements of documents by effectively separating page structure from the presentation or design of that page using a style language, controlling page formatting, image inclusion, page layout, and hyperlinks. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CWB 1010 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
required

Explores the client-side programming skills necessary to create dynamic web content using a markup embeddable and procedural scripting language executed on the client web browser. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1019 and CWB 1010 with grades of "C" or better.

3
required

Explores the creation of dynamic web pages and applications using server-side scripting with database interactivity, server-based scripting languages, and database manipulation languages. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1019 and CWB 1010 with grades of "C" or better.

3
required

Explores the use of open source Content Management Systems (CMS) to simplify the creation and maintenance of web sites. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

CWB 2004 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
Total Credits for Certificate 25
Row Groupings Note: The * identifies courses that apply to the A.A.S. degree.

Network Analyst Certificate

Develop the ability to install, lay out and maintain network components. Learn to identify problems on both the business and technical side of a business and prepare for A+ certification.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

This course introduces basic computer terminology, file management, and PC system components. Provides an overview of office application software including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation graphics. Includes the use of a web browser to access the Internet. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
3
required

Introduces the concepts and techniques of managing computer-based information resources. Includes hardware, software, personnel, control techniques, and the placement and integration of information systems resources within the organization. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Prepares students for the CompTIA A+ certification examination. PC hardware and operating system installation, configuration and troubleshooting are practiced and reviewed using A+ techniques. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
4
required

Provides students with the knowledge necessary to understand, identify and perform necessary tasks involved in supporting a network. Covers the vendor-independent networking skills and concepts that affect all aspects of networking, such as installing and configuring the TCP/IP. This course also prepares students for the Networking II: Network + course. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
3
required

Continues to provide students with the knowledge necessary to implement and support a network. Focuses on the vendor-independent networking skills and concepts that affect all aspects of networking. The Networking I and II: Network + courses prepare students for the Network + certification. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

CNG 1024 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
required

Delivers a comprehensive overview of network security, including general security concepts. Communication Security is studied, including remote access, e-mail, the Web, directory and file transfer, and wireless data. Common network attacks are introduced. Cryptography basics are incorporated, and operational/organizational security is discussed as it relates to physical security, disaster recovery, and business continuity. Computer forensics is introduced. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Provides an opportunity to gain experience in applying their skills and/or to develop specific skills in a practical work setting. Course is repeatable with a maximum of 12 credits.

Course Prerequisites

CNG 1025 with a grade of "C" or better

0 to 12
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

*
3
Total Credits for Certificate 25
Row Groupings *These classes all apply to the AAS degree.

Object Oriented Programming: Mobile Applications Certificate

Learn how to program mobile applications in C# or Java, depending on your preference. Develop the fundamentals of computer science and computer programming within the context of mobile digital ecosystems.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

*
3
required

Introduces the C# programming language. This course covers all syntactical components of the language including arrays, structures, methods and classes. Content will focus on writing clear, properly structured, and well-documented programs using object-oriented methodology, .NET Framework, and the Visual Studio environment. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
4
Blank Space
required

Introduces students to the discipline of computer science and programming. Algorithm development, data representation, logical expressions, sub-programs and input/output operations using a high-level programming language are covered. Intensive lab work outside of class time is required. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1019 or CSC 2036 with a grade of "C" or better

*
4
Note C++ or JAVA
required

Continues algorithm development and problem solving techniques not covered in Computer Science I using a high-level programming language. Students are able to gain experience in the use of data structures and the design and implementation of larger software projects. Intensive computer laboratory experience is required for this course. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1060 with a grade of "C" or better.

4
required

Learn how to develop mobile apps using key features and frameworks. Students will learn application design and development using a mobile development platform software development kit (SDK) and corresponding programming language. Main features include: handling UI triggered and touch events, data management, simple and complex UI views, drawing, location and application settings. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1060 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
Note Android/Kotlin andCSC 2046 - Mobile App Development: (platform) Credits: 3iOS
Total Credits for Certificate 17 or 18
row * These classes all apply to the AAS degree

UNIX Certificate

Learn to provide support for all UNIX/Linux-based software. Develop versatile skills to work with computer analysts and engineers to create, test and debug common software.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

This course introduces basic computer terminology, file management, and PC system components. Provides an overview of office application software including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation graphics. Includes the use of a web browser to access the Internet. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
3
required

Explores the structure and fundamentals of the Unix operating system including the file system and file processing, various utility programs, shell, multi-user operation, text processing, and communications. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Prepares students for the CompTIA A+ certification examination. PC hardware and operating system installation, configuration and troubleshooting are practiced and reviewed using A+ techniques. Course is not repeatable for credit.

*
4
required

Delivers a comprehensive overview of network security, including general security concepts. Communication Security is studied, including remote access, e-mail, the Web, directory and file transfer, and wireless data. Common network attacks are introduced. Cryptography basics are incorporated, and operational/organizational security is discussed as it relates to physical security, disaster recovery, and business continuity. Computer forensics is introduced. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Provides an opportunity to gain experience in applying their skills and/or to develop specific skills in a practical work setting. Course is repeatable with a maximum of 12 credits.

Course Prerequisites

CNG 1025 with a grade of "C" or better

0 to 12
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

*
3
Total Credits for Certificate 19
Row Groupings *These classes all apply to the AAS degree.

Web Design Certificate

Learn the basic skills you’ll need to design and build websites. Study basic coding practices, style sheets and HTML markup and learn how color, typography, layout and design principles combine to create websites. This is a Graphic Design and Rich Media certificate with a focus on computer information systems.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

Focuses on a general introduction to computer programming. This course emphasizes the design and implementation of structured and logically correct programs with good documentation. It is centered on basic programming concepts, including control structures, modularization, and data processing. A structured programming language is used to implement program designs. It emphasizes the writing of multiple programs following the software development process, from start to finish, including design, implementation, and testing. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

3
required

Explores the complete set of web authoring skills using HTML and/or other languages. The course covers links, backgrounds, controlling text and graphic placement, tables, image maps and forms. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Covers control of presentational elements of documents by effectively separating page structure from the presentation or design of that page using a style language, controlling page formatting, image inclusion, page layout, and hyperlinks. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CWB 1010 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
required

Covers the creation and production of graphic projects, emphasizing the layout creative design process, problem solving, and research. Provides experience producing thumbnails, roughs and digital layouts emphasizing refined creative typography. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

MGD 1012 with a grade of "C"or better

3
required

Concentrates on the high-end capabilities of Adobe Photoshop as an illustration, design and photo retouching tool. Students explore a wide range of selection and manipulation techniques that can be applied to photos, graphics and videos. Course competencies and outline follow those set out by the Adobe Certified Associate exam in Visual Communication Using Adobe Photoshop. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Concentrates on the high-end capabilities of Adobe Illustrator as an illustration, design and vector drawing tool. Students learn how to use the tools to create digital artwork that can be used in web design, print media, and digital screen design. Course competencies and outline follow those set by the Adobe certified Associate exam in Visual Communication using Adobe Illustrator. Course is not repeatable for credit.

3
required

Introduces web site planning, design and creation utilizing HTML through industry-standard development tools [may list specific software]. Emphasis is placed on applying stylistic decisions using cascading style sheets. Web-based considerations regarding color, typography, aesthetics, user interface design, and process integration with visual-based design tools will be explored. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

CWB 1010 with a grade of "C' or better, may be taken concurrently

3
Total Credits for Certificate 21

Web Design Specialist Certificate

Build on skills gained while earning the web design certificate. Learn advanced techniques using style sheets, work with different content management systems and create content for mobile devices. This is a Graphic Design and Rich Media certificate with a focus on computer information systems.

Row Groupings Certificate Requirements: Credits
required

Explores the client-side programming skills necessary to create dynamic web content using a markup embeddable and procedural scripting language executed on the client web browser. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1019 and CWB 1010 with grades of "C" or better.

3
required

Explores the creation of dynamic web pages and applications using server-side scripting with database interactivity, server-based scripting languages, and database manipulation languages. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

Course Prerequisites

CSC 1019 and CWB 1010 with grades of "C" or better.

3
required

Explores the use of open source Content Management Systems (CMS) to simplify the creation and maintenance of web sites. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

CWB 2004 with a grade of "C" or better.

3
required

Explores the creation of animation and dynamic media for web and multimedia applications, conforming to professional standards. Emphasizes the manipulation of time-based media using key-frames, tweens and other technologies related to the specific software being utilized. Also examines the use of scripts to trigger timeline events and create basic interactive behavior. Course is repeatable for credit under different titles.

3
required

Develops and reinforces image composition techniques learned in Adobe Photoshop I, MGD 111. Fundamentals are continuously reinforced as new design techniques are introduced. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

MGD 1011 with a grade of "C" or better

3
required

Expands on previously learned fundamentals of HTML introducing cascading style sheets, DHTML, Java Scripts and CGI forms. Color usage and interface design principles are emphasized in this course. In this course we'll examine Web sites that employ more complex structures, optimal site architecture and navigation necessary for larger and more complex sites. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

MGD 1041 with a grade of "C" or better, may be taken concurrently

3
required

Stresses the complex creation of 2D animated motion graphics concentrating on the prior skills learned and the use of scripting and behaviors. Students will create motion graphics using these skills and apply them to web sites. Web site justification of motion graphics will be stressed, appraised and weighed. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

MGD 1043 with a grade of "C" or better, may be taken concurrently

3
required

Provides a project-based introduction of the design process of user experience and user interface. This course emphasizes practical methods and approaches based on user need for solving design problems. Other focuses of the course include user testing and research methods, design prototyping, and design validation. Permission of instructor is required. Course is not repeatable for credit.

Course Prerequisites

MGD 1041 with a grade of "C" or better, may be taken concurrently

3
Total Credits for Certificate 24