Informatics
Program Description
Informatics is defined by a variety of colleges and universities, each with similar themes that bring the human aspect into computing. It is referred to as: Transforming data and information into knowledge, combining the science of information and the engineering of information systems, integrating human interactions with machines and data, digital technology to help people interact with data and information, the science of the collection, evaluation, organization, and dissemination of information, often employing computers.
Informatics focuses on how people and technology connect. You will be involved with hands-on learning to prepare you to work to solve problems, and to design, develop, evaluate, and apply technology solutions to meet today's needs. You'll examine computer systems that store, process, and communicate information. If you are searching for a career that emphasizes how people and organizations use data, information and knowledege, and prepares you for high-demand jobs, Informatics is where you need to be. In addition to our rigorous curriculum, students have 4 Focus from which to choose to continue through to a BAS degree from UArizona. Your degree in Informatics from AWC will prepare you for a completion of a BAS in Applied Computing from the University of Arizona (UArizona).
This Informatics AAS degree at AWC has four focus areas: System Admisnistration, Cyber Operations, Software Development and Digital Design. Each emphasis will transfer into Applied Computing Bachelor’s Degree program at UArizona.
There are high expectations for a rapid increase in the demand for qualified candidates in all areas of technology. The interdisciplinary approach to technology offered by an Informatics degree creates a marketable candidate with skills and knowledge to compete for IT/IS positions. For example, your BAS degree will qualify you to pursue careers in several fields such as: Application Developers, Database Developer/ Admnistrator, IT Support Specialist, Digital Media Specialist, Network Security Administrator, Web Developer/ Designer, Cyber Security, and Human-Computer Interaction.
Student Support
The Informatics program includes numerous student support systems that enable students to be successful throughout their course of study. Our Informatics program provides instructional support for class work and lab projects. At the San Luis Technology Institute, Technology Assistants, and Peer Mentors are available to assist students with whatever they need during both daytime and evening hours. Informatics professors are available and are always willing and eager to assist students with the support they need to succeed in the Informatics Program.
The Student Success Center at the San Luis Learning Center offers: Lab Technicians available in the computer lab to assist with technology issues, a referral process for access to a tutor when needed, as well as an Academic Advisor to assist with following the pathway to completion.
The University of Arizona
The University of Arizona (UArizona) offers the final three semesters needed to complete the BAS degree in Applied Computing in this seamless pathway. A professor of Applied Computing from the University of Arizona is assigned to work full time in South Yuma County (SYC) to provide courses for the completion of the Bachelor's degree. Courses will be offered in a variety of modalities, from face-to-face, hybrid, ZOOM, and online. Some classes are also available at the Yuma campus.
An advisor from UArizona is available at the SYC location to help with the transition process to enroll students at UArizona to complete their course of study. Additionally, the Yuma area UArizona Regional Academic Program Coordinator is available to answer questions pertaining to UArizona programs, processes and procedures.
The Informatics degree /Applied Computing degree pathway from AAS degree at Arizona Western College to a BAS in Applied Computing from UArizona has been developed at Arizona Western College due to the INSTINCT2 Federal Department of Education HSI STEM grant award. Follow the link to find more information about the grants.
Check the above for any necessary program documents.
Degree(s) / Certificates(s)
Career Outlook
Successful completion of this program may lead to a variety of employment opportunities, most of which require continued higher education at the university level. Below are examples of related occupations and annual mean wages in Arizona according to a May 2019 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- System Administrator - $56,086
- Software Developer - $52,000
- Cyber Security Specialist - $60,000
- Digital Designer - $46,821
Potential fields of employment: Yuma County Government, privately owned businesses, agriculture, medical field, education.