Academic Programs and Services
Computer Science
The Computer Science curriculum leads to an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Computer Science. The primary goal of the program is to prepare students for transfer to a baccalaureate program in Computer Science. The curricular focus is a set of courses concentrating on the skills necessary for the analysis of mathematically-oriented problems and the development of algorithms and data structures to solve those problems using computers.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this program graduates will be able to:
- Use technology effectively to communicate and analyze information related to computer programming, algorithm development and software engineering.
- Work as a part of a professional team to design, code, test and debug mathematically-based, object-oriented computer software.
- Demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of information transfer and control in modern computer systems, including knowledge of assembly languages, computer architecture and computer organization.
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of mathematical concepts important in computer science and software engineering, including differential and integral calculus, linear algebra and discrete mathematics.
- Develop object-oriented algorithms and data structures using the structured sequential logic of computer programming languages in an object-oriented environment and implement those solutions as Java applications and Java applets.
- Analyze the temporal and spatial efficiency of algorithms and data structures and redesign them for increased efficiency where possible.
Program Entry Requirements:
This program is open to interested students. However, new students are normally required to take the College's placement test at their time of entry. Students' test results must show readiness for English 101 and at least a grade of "C" in Math 161 or its equivalent for admission to the program. Those students whose test results identify them as needing developmental course work must complete satisfactorily the appropriate English and mathematics courses as a part of their degree program.
Program of Study and Graduation Requirements:
Two sets of physics courses are permitted within the program. This is because some transfer institutions require calculus-based physics, while others have a more lenient requirement. Students who do well in their first-year math courses should be able to handle the 10 credits of calculus-based physics, while those less mathematically inclined may opt for eight credits of algebra-based physics.
To qualify for the A.S. degree in Computer Science, students must complete a minimum of 61 credit hours as prescribed and attain a grade point average of 2.0 ("C" average).
Download a printable degree description (PDF File) that includes a recommended course sequence grid.