Associate of Science in Information and Computer Sciences

This degree program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in computer science, information technology, and related disciplines. Hands-on assignments will emphasize computer science principles, programming, and problem-solving skills. Major topics include programming language concepts, data structures, algorithms, and secure design. This comprehensive program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to excel in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of information and computer sciences.

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The degree program goal is Career Technical Education (CTE) with emphasis on careers in the field of computer science. The program is not selective and does not have any mandatory fees.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate proficiency in various programming languages, software development methodologies, and technology tools commonly used in the field of computer science.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of information systems concepts, including the design and management of information systems to support organizational goals and decision-making processes.
3. Design and implement secure software and systems, identify vulnerabilities, and implement countermeasures.
4. Design, develop, and test software applications and systems that adhere to industry standards and best practices.

The associated occupations related to the program include Web Developer Web and Digital Interface Designer, Database Administrator, Computer Programmer, and Blockchain Engineer. All the annual openings for these computer programming related occupations have entry-level wages above the California Family Needs Calculator hourly wage (living wage) for one adult ($20.63/hour in Orange County). Typical entry-level hourly wages are in a range between $23.61 and $34.95. (Center of Excellence, Program Endorsement Brief, October 2023).

Program completers are anticipated to acquire competencies in the areas of various programming languages, software development methodologies, technology tools, design and management of information systems, design and implementation of secure software and systems, and to develop software applications and systems that adhere to industry standards and best practices.

There are eight (8) required courses and one (1) elective required for a total of nine (9) classes. Students may choose one elective from the two in the program. The suggested course sequence will be available to students in the online catalog on the Coastline website under the tab called "Program Map" next to the Program Details for this degree.

Course	Title	Units	Year/Semester (Y1 or S1)
ICS C120	Introduction to Programming	3	S1
ICS C123	Fundamental Data Structures	3	S1
ICS C141	Concepts of Programming Languages	3	S2
CYBR C101	Introduction to Cybersecurity	3	S2
ICS C230	Secure Coding and Design	3	S3
ICS C240	Computer Organization and Assembly Language	3	S3
ICS C250 or  CIS C157	Object-Oriented Programming or Introduction to Python Programming	3	S4
ICS C265	Introduction to Artificial Intelligence	3	S4
CIS C285 or  CIS C290	Data Governance, Privacy, and Policies or Data Science and Machine Learning	3	S4

This program will be under the ICS program which is part of the Technology Department.

Golden West College and Orange Coast College have similar programs.

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