CIS260 - Software Engineering Project

Curriculum changes noted for Fall 2025

3 Credit hours - 2 Lecture, 2 Lab

Prerequisite(s): Grade of “C” or better in CIS250 and Grade of “C” or better in either CIS171 or CIS151 or CIS161

Course Rationale:

Program Capstone Course

To provide an authentic capstone experience in a simulated real-world environment where they can apply and develop the knowledge they have gained through other programming courses. To solidify the student's education into practical competence in readiness for employment.

Catalog Description:

This course is intended to develop the student’s programming knowledge and skills in an applied environment. Students will work as individuals and in teams to implement a real-world equivalent system, perhaps converting legacy code to current technology standards or designing a new product from scratch. Students will develop designs, generate test procedures, and build a multi-tiered, client-server application capable of being utilized from a variety of platforms. Students will also learn project management and scheduling skills and that will be used to manage project phases and keep teams on task. Students must earn a grade of C or better in this course to meet graduation requirements

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Analyze customer requirements and recommend, design and implement effective solutions using available technologies.

2. Evaluate and critique an existing product or specifications.

3. Study and perform project management and project team responsibilities, including planning, scheduling and carrying out project phase tasks.

4. Build an application system that includes a user interface, database interface, and multiple programs, and work to ensure the final product has the quality expected by the industry.

5. Test the design and the programs that have been developed in the class.

6. Evaluate problems and issues involved in team efforts, project management and with client communication

7. Learn the use of proper software development methodologies.

All course assignments and exams are closely aligned to, and assess the student's mastery of these core objectives.

Core Outcomes

1. Solution Design and Implementation

   • Outcome: Students will be able to analyze client requirements and utilize appropriate technologies to design and implement robust software solutions that meet business needs.

2. Critical Evaluation of Technical Products

   • Outcome: Students will possess the ability to critically assess and provide constructive feedback on software products and project specifications, identifying areas for improvement and suggesting viable enhancements.

3. Project Management Skills

   • Outcome: Students will develop proficiency in project management, including effective planning, scheduling, and execution of project tasks within a team setting.

4. Software Development and Integration

   • Outcome: Students will demonstrate the capability to construct comprehensive application systems that integrate user interfaces, databases, and multiple programming components to meet industry standards of quality and functionality.

5. Testing and Quality Assurance

   • Outcome: Students will gain skills in systematic testing of software designs and programming modules developed in the course, ensuring that the software is functional, reliable, and user-friendly.

6. Teamwork and Communication

   • Outcome: Students will evaluate and address common challenges in team-based project settings and client communications, enhancing their ability to work effectively in diverse team environments and manage client expectations.

7. Methodological Proficiency

   • Outcome: Students will learn and apply various software development methodologies, adapting their approach based on project requirements and industry best practices.

8. Real-world Application and Adaptability

   • Outcome: Students will be able to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios during their guided internship experiences, adapting to real-time feedback and changing project dynamics.

9. Ethical and Professional Standards

   • Outcome: Students will understand and adhere to ethical standards in software development, maintaining professionalism in their conduct and communications with peers, clients, and stakeholders.

10. Lifelong Learning and Improvement

    • Outcome: Students will develop a mindset of continuous improvement and lifelong learning, seeking out new technologies and methodologies to enhance their professional skills and understanding of the software development field.

Test Out Requirements

There is no test out available for Capstone courses.