Computer Science, A.S.

Program Design

The Computer Science associate degree program provides students with a broad background in the underlying disciplines of computer science including: the fundamentals of computer programming; the fundamentals of algorithm design and analysis of data structures; the basics of computer organization, architecture and assembly language; digital electronics; and an understanding of computer networking concepts.

Students will also acquire a comprehensive educational background in mathematics, physics and general education, designed to develop and enhance their critical thinking, problem analysis and resolution skills.

The Computer Science A.S. degree is a rigorous calculus-based program which prepares students for transfer to institutions with bachelor’s degree programs in computer science or other related computer science/technology programs. Students planning to transfer to baccalaureate institutions should consult with an advisor regarding the requirements of these institutions and transferability of courses.

Students who wish to enter the workforce immediately after completing their associate degree should consider the Computer Programming Technology degree.

Curriculum

Students may enroll in this program full- or part-time. Courses are offered during daytime and/or evening hours. Some courses are not offered every semester. For students who don’t meet the math prerequisite requirements for either the math or computer programming/networking courses in the program, MCC offers a wide range of preparatory courses.

When planning their schedule, students should note that some courses are offered only once a year, in either the Fall or Spring semester, but not both.

EET*252 Digital Electronics Fall Only

CSC*287 Organization & Architecture Fall Only

MAT*274 Linear Algebra Fall Only

CSC*241 Data Struct & Algorithms Spring Only

CSC*286 Micro Assem Language Spring Only

Students should consult with a computer science faculty advisor to plan their program and schedule of classes, and to discuss required course prerequisites.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all requirements of the Computer Science A.S. degree program, graduates will

Demonstrate the ability to understand a problem and develop logically structured solutions through the use of a modern programming language such as C++.
Identify and apply the major concepts and language requirements to design, code, execute and debug programs in the required programming languages.
Demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between efficient algorithms and data structures and how efficiencies can be measured.
Use knowledge of algorithm design and data structures for the solution of problems, including efficient sorting, searching and graph manipulation.
Describe basic computer organization and the relationship between hardware components and the operating system.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of the internal structure of the digital computer.
Differentiate and understand the role and function of various current and emerging technologies, including, but not limited to programming, Internet technologies and computer networking.

In addition, the graduate will complete the comprehensive learning outcomes identified with the General Education Core.

Computer Science Requirements

CSC* 125:&nbsp;Programming Logic and Design with C++ 3 Credits
MAT* 254:&nbsp;Calculus I 4 Credits (Gen Ed - Mathematics ) (formerly MAT* 250)^‡
ENG* 101:&nbsp;Composition 3 Credits (Gen Ed - English )
COM* 173:&nbsp;Public Speaking 3 Credits (Gen Ed - Humanities )
Choose one course from Gen Ed - The Arts 3 Credits
Subtotal: 16
CSC* 215:&nbsp;Object-Oriented Programming with C++ 4 Credits
MAT* 256:&nbsp;Calculus II 4 Credits
CST* 131:&nbsp;Networking Theory & Application 4 Credits
ENG* 110:&nbsp;Introduction to Literature 3 Credits (Gen Ed - Humanities )
Subtotal: 15
CSC* 287:&nbsp;Organization and Architecture 3 Credits
PHY* 221:&nbsp;Calculus-Based Physics I 4 Credits (Gen Ed - Physical and Natural Sciences )
EET* 252:&nbsp;Digital Electronics 4 Credits
MAT* 274:&nbsp;Linear Algebra 4 Credits or
MAT* 286:&nbsp;Differential Equations 4 Credits or
MAT* 268:&nbsp;Calculus III: Multivariable 4 Credits
Subtotal: 15
CSC* 241:&nbsp;Data Structures and Algorithms 4 Credits
PHY* 222:&nbsp;Calculus-Based Physics II 4 Credits
CSC* 286:&nbsp;Microprocessor Assembly language 4 Credits
Choose one course from Gen Ed - Social Sciences 3 Credits
Subtotal: 15

Total Minimum Credits Required: 61

Note:

^‡ Students who receive credit for MAT* 250 have fulfilled the MAT* 254 requirement.