Systems Analyst

Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Technology

What is a Systems Analyst?

Students-serversA Systems Analyst is a problem solver. He or she figures out how to use computers or systems to get things done. First, systems analysts begin by determining what people need to accomplish. Then they plan a system that can perform the tasks efficiently and effectively. Their plan may include many devices, different types of systems and tools all working together. Once a plan is developed, it is broken down into small steps. They experiment to optimize the solution. Analysts decide on the best computers, software and tools to purchase. They instruct and sometimes assist computer programmers to create custom software as needed. Analysts make sure that systems work the way they were intended.

Why pursue a career as a Systems Analyst?

System Analysts work on individual projects, but more often work on a team. They work to plan, procure and implement systems to work according to an organization's needs and strategies. 

Demand for Systems Analysts

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts much faster than average job growth for this field through 2018. The number of computer systems analysts is expected to grow much faster than average through the year 2018. New jobs are expected to develop as Internet and wireless technologies employers are also expected to hire more employees. Careers as a Systems Analyst are one of the Top 10 Fastest Growing Jobs for which a bachelor's degree is required.

The Computer Technology Systems Analyst program prepares students for occupations as Computer Systems Analysts and related careers. Find related occupational information on the U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET website.

SOC Codes (Standard Occupational Classification) related to Systems Analyst careers: 15-1051.00

Overview

The Bachelor’s Program in Applied Science in Computer Technology with a concentration in System Analyst is a comprehensive, baccalaureate degree program. It provides 62 semester credit hours of instruction, which compliments an accredited computer-centric associate’s degree in information technology. Prospective students that have a non-computer-centric associate’s degree or higher must demonstrate a proficiency in computer and network technologies through certifications, by special exam or at the discretion of the College. Day and evening students receive 20 hours of instruction per week for 4 semesters (60 weeks or 16-months), assuming the entrance criteria have been met.

Degree Award

Graduates who successfully complete the academic requirements and fulfill financial obligations will be awarded the Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Technology with a concentration in System Analyst degree.

Outline

Typical Course Outline

Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Technology: System Analyst 
E103 English Composition 4
H103 US History I 4
M103 College Mathematics 4
P101 Psychology 4
Total Semester Hours 16
E104 Public Speaking 4
M102 Personal Financial Planning 4
P102 Cultural Studies 4
H104 US History II 4
Total Semester Hours 16
COM401 Programming & Problem Solving 4
COM402 Ethics in Information Technology 3
COM403 Project Management & Planning 4
COM404 Technical Writing & Proposals 4
Total Semester Hours 15
SYA401 Systems Analysis & Design 4
SYA402 IP Quality of Service (QoS) 3
SYA403 Operating Systems 4
SYA404 Risk Assessment 4
Total Semester Hours 15
Totals: 

Technical Training: 90 Semester Credit Hours

General Education: 32 Semester Credit Hours

Needed to Graduate: 122 Semester Credit Hours

Semesters may be offered out of the sequence shown.

Objectives

The System Analyst program concentration provides students a strong comprehension and appreciation of computer systems analysis and systems development. This program trains students to help organizations solve computer problems, integrate new technologies and realize maximum benefit from their investments in business processes, personnel and equipment. Systems analysts need a strong knowledge and appreciation of computer systems analysis and systems development.

Courses include Programming & Problem Solving, Operating Systems, IP Quality of Service (QoS), Systems Analysis & Design, and Systems Risk Assessment. The National Security Agency's CNSS standard 4016 Information Assurance for Risk Analysts is also taught, offering students information system protection and risk mitigation. Also emphasized in this program concentration are effective communication, project management, interpersonal and critical thinking skills, problem solving and an understanding of systems analysis and how it influences business operations.

Placement & Tuition

COSTS:

Q.  How much will this program cost me?

A.
  • Average Semester Tuition*: $7,517.50
  • Textbooks**: $2,000
  • Laptop & Equipment**:$2,000
  • Typical Cost of Books, Equipment & Supplies: $4,000
  • Enrollment Fee: $100
  • Tuition and fees: $30,570
  • Total Tuition and Supplies: $34,570 (over 16 months)
* See below

 

FINANCING:

Q.  What are my financing options to pay for this program?

A. In addition to any grant and scholarship aid for which they are eligible:

  • The median loan debt incurred by students who completed the Systems Analyst Program: $0
  • Title IV median loan debt: $0
  • Private education median loan debt: $0
  • Institutional financing median loan debt: $0

 

PROGRAM SUCCESS:

Q. How long will it take me to complete this program?

A. This program is designed to take 16 months to complete.
The on-time graduation rate for students completing the program has not yet been determined.

Q. What are the chances of getting a job when I graduate?

A. Job placement rates for graduates of Fountainhead College's Systems Analyst program for 2009-2010 have not yet been determined.

Fountainhead College actively pursues 100% placement of its graduates, however, employment is not guaranteed.

 

* Based on average of 4 semesters
** Estimated Supply Cost

Complete pdfCost & Expenditures Chart.

  • Changes to an Enrollment Agreement may require a $100 fee.
  • Student receives a receipt for all funds paid to the college.
  • Student receives invoices for all supply, textbook and fee charges.
  • Student must purchase all required equipment and supplies from the College.
  • Preexisting credit may be transferred which would change the total tuition.
  • Online programs require the student to visit the campus at the end of each semester.
  • Online students are not required to purchase a laptop from the College.
  • Other than the laptop, online students pay the same tuition and fees as residential students.

Faculty

Get to know your Systems Analyst Instructors.

Christopher Nicholson
Department Head & Instructor: Computer Programming

Chris-NicholsonChristopher NicholsonChris Nicholson worked at ClientLogic in Oak Ridge as a Technical Support Representative where he managed client database records using the Oracle DBMS and diagnosed and remedied problems in computer networking.

Courses Taught
  • CC2 WS201: Web Site Design
  • CC2 PD203: Professional Development
  • CC2 PM205: Introduction to Programming
  • CC2 DB201: SQL Database Management
  • CC2 PJ202: Project Management
  • CP3 CP305: Java
  • CP3 CP301: Visual C#.NET I
  • CP3 CP302: Visual C#.NET II
  • CP3 CP303: Visual Basic.NET I
  • CP3 CP304: Visual Basic.NET II
Education
  • Bachelor of Science, Computer Science, University of Tennessee 
  • Bachelor of Arts, French, University of Tennessee
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