In this class, you will learn how to harness the power of the Linux command line by writing scripts that automate tasks, process data, and manage system operations efficiently. We will begin with fundamental concepts such as shell syntax, variables, and control structures, then progress to more advanced topics like loops, functions, and script debugging. Along the way, you will gain practical, hands-on experience working in a real Linux environment, developing skills that are essential for system administration, DevOps, and software development. By the end of this course, you will be able to create robust, reusable scripts that save time, reduce errors, and enhance productivity in any Linux-based workflow.
You can find the official MCCCD course competencies by going to Class Schedule, entering the course number such as CIS105 and clicking on the course number in the listing.
Course: CIS239DL LINUX Shell Scripting
Section: 24893
Term: Fall 2025
Credits: 3
Course Requisite(s): none
Prerequisites: CIS238DL or CIS238RH
Location: NA
Days: NA
Time: NA
Start Date: 25 August 2025
End Date: 16 October 2025
Instruction Mode: Online Course
Withdrawal with Refund: 29 August 2025
Withdrawal without Instructor Permission (no refund): 15 September 2025
This is a three (3) credit-hour course has no schedule class periods.
Plan to spend at least 3 hours on homework weekly. Accelerated courses will require additional time per week.
The textbook for this course is Steve Parker's The Shell Scripting Tutorial which is available online for free.
You will need a Bash shell to complete the assignments in this course. Any Linux distribution will work fine. While Bash is not the current shell on macOS zsh is compatible with bash scripts and can execute them without any modifications. You may want to use this Shebang line in place of the standard one.
#!/urs/bin/env bash
In fact, this is a better choice especially if Bash is not in a standard location on your operating system.
All of your course work will be completed online. You are expected to have regular access to a computer with a stable internet connection.
You should have both a functional webcam and microphone. Most modern computers come equipped with these; however, external devices can also be used or purchased if necessary.
While I'm available on campus during Office Hours you are welcome to request a Zoom meeting.
I'm passionate about helping students build the skills they need for today's tech careers.
As a Red Hat Academy instructor, I teach using Red Hats official curriculum designed to prepare you for the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) exam.
Outside the classroom, I'm a Quality Matters Peer Reviewer, a certified AWS Instructor, and hold credentials from MIT's Sloan School of Management and the University at Buffalo. I also hold a Certificate of Completion in Generative AI from Purdue University, reflecting my commitment to staying current with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
If you're ready to gain real-world Linux skills, this is the class for you.
Instructor: Dennis Kibbe
Email: dennis.kibbe@mesacc.edu
Teleconferencing: Request a Zoom meeting.
Office Location: BA 40 Room: BA 025
Office Hours: My office hours are posted on my contact page
Office Phone: (480) 461-7246
In response to the US Department of Education's requirement for regular and substantive interaction (RSI) for online courses, you can expect the following interactions in Canvas. Your instructor will:
Your final letter grade will be determined by the point value of work completed. Module quizzes and end-of-course assignment are graded.
| Grade | Percent |
|---|---|
| A | 90-100% |
| B | 80-89% |
| C | 70-79% |
| D | 60-69% |
| F | 0-59% |
The final project is due on or before the last day of class. There can be no exception to this.
While this class does not have scheduled sessions please log into Canvas at least once a week and check for any announcements.
⚠️ If you fail to turn in two consecutive assignments you are in danger of being dropped from the class.
MCC's policies excuse absences due to college sanctioned events, death of an immediate family member, jury duty, subpoenas, short-term military service, or religious holidays. Signed absence verification forms or accommodation forms are required prior to absence. District Attendance Policy
AI will impact you in any career you are seeking. We have the power to shape how AI develops when we engage with it thoughtfully. In this course, I encourage you to creatively experiment with AI keeping a couple of things in mind.
AI is a powerful tool that can be used to assist you in the learning process. It can provide initial answers to questions, help clarify concepts, and provide resources and suggestions for further study.
However, AI is not a substitute for human interaction or critical thinking. As a student in my course, you must use generative AI tools with caution and be mindful of their limitations. It is expected that you use AI as a tool to support your learning, actively engage with course material, and use AI as a tool to supplement, not replace, their own efforts.
Misuse of AI includes copying answers without understanding the material or relying on it too heavily. This is the definition of academic dishonesty and may result in loss of credit and other sanctions. Any evidence of cheating, plagiarism, misuse of AI or other academic dishonesty will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action.
By continuing in this course, you agree to abide by this policy and to use generative AI in a manner that supports your learning and academic success but does not replace your learning, critical thinking, or the requirement that you demonstrate to me your learning.
Learning requires honesty, responsibility, and professional behavior. It is college policy to respond to academic misconduct and dishonesty whether it was committed intentionally or not.
Please see the Course Details section of this syllabus for the refund dates of this course:
If students need support with academic or basic needs at MCC, such as tutoring and transportation issues, there are resources available. MCC has compiled a list of them, which can be found in the Student Resource Referral Guide.
Mesa Community College is committed to providing a personal education for each of our students. When faculty or staff members are concerned about the physical, emotional, academic or personal health of a college student, the support staff can assess the situation, and may contact students to offer support and provide referrals to access the breadth of resources on-campus. Your Care Team
It is the student's responsibility to understand the policies listed in this syllabus as these are the guidelines that the instructor will follow for grading, attendance, etc. It is also every student’s responsibility to read and understand the college policies included in the college catalog and/or student handbook as they may apply in the case of an incomplete grade or withdrawal. In addition to this syllabus, all students should be aware of the district Administrative Regulations that articulate student rights and responsibilities.
Syllabus policies and course schedule are subject to change to accommodate the needs of the course, by agreement between instructor and all students, or as needed by administration. Students will be notified of any changes in schedule, requirements or policies. Students are responsible for knowing and complying with syllabus information and all college catalog and student handbook policies. Continued enrollment is acceptance of this responsibility.
The Maricopa Community Colleges are EEO/AA Institutions.