The Computer Science Associate Degree Program offers students technical and professional preparation for careers in computer science as well as aligning students to transfer to a four-year degree program. Computer Science (CS) spans the range from theory through programming to development of computing solutions. It offers a foundation that permits graduates to adapt to new technologies and new ideas. Computer Science majors are in high demand and were ranked fourth on the list college majors with the highest starting salaries — averaging $64,700 for 2013 college graduates.
The work of computer scientists falls into three categories:
- Designing and building software;
- Developing effective ways to solve computing problems, such as storing information in databases, sending data over networks or providing new approaches to security problems; and
- Devising new and better ways of using computers in areas such as robotics, computer vision, or digital forensics.
The Associate in Science degree program provides students with the analytical skills and scientific knowledge to expand and apply critical thinking to all facets of learning. The expected program outcome is to provide a comprehensive lower division education for students who plan to transfer to a baccalaureate degree program.
Upon completion the graduate will be prepared to:
- Demonstrate both procedural and conceptual understanding of mathematics and the relation of these tenets to problem solving in the area of computer science.
- Apply both procedural and conceptual knowledge of mathematics and computer science to critical thinking, logical reasoning, computer programming, modeling, and quantitative analysis.
- Apply both procedural and conceptual knowledge in the areas of calculus and discrete mathematics to upper level courses and a career in Computer Science.
- Successfully transfer to a baccalaureate degree program in Computer Science that aligns with Engineering and Mathematics.