This is an archived copy of the 2018-2019 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://ecatalog.socc.edu.

The Career Pathway Certificate of Completion: Programming Basics offers the fundamental core courses in Computer Science. The core courses give the student a well-rounded basic understanding of computer application development. Students completing this certification will be prepared to seek entry-level employment in occupations such as network administration support, entry software developer, and software testing.

Click here to learn how this Career Pathway Certificate can lead to an AAS in CIS Software Development. 

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 16 credit hours with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better. All courses must be completed with a grade of ‘C’ or better. One course must be completed at Southwestern before the Career Pathway Certificate of Completion: Programming Basics is awarded.

Complete the graduation application process one term prior to the term of completion (e.g., spring term graduates must apply during winter term).

Pre-Program Courses

Students are required to take the following courses prior to the program courses, depending on students' college placement information. See advisor for details:

CIS90Computer Basics (or demonstrate proficiency)2
MTH60Algebra I (or placement in higher math course)4
WR90RAcademic Literacy (or placement in higher writing course)4

Program Guide

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallCredits
CS160 Computer Science Orientation 4
MTH86 Computer Technology Mathematics 4
 Credits8
Winter
CS161 Introduction to Computer Science I 4
 Credits4
Spring
CS162 Introduction to Computer Science II 4
 Credits4
 Total Credits16

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • Plan, write and debug software applications within multiple programming environments.
  • Apply project life cycle concepts to assist in finding solutions to business needs.
  • Research, interpret, and communicate technical information in written, graphic, diagrammatic, electronic and oral forms.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work independently or in a group environment with sensitivity to needs of customers and coworkers.