Computer Science, AS

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No. of Credits: 60-62
Contact: Lakisha Ferebee, Chair, Technology
Dr. Eugen Leontie, Program Coordinator

CSM’s computer science program is open to all students, regardless of background and experience. The program is designed for students with prior computer programming and information technology studies while also accommodating students new to computing.

This program provides a solid theoretical and mathematical foundation for those students planning to transfer to four-year institutions to earn bachelor’s degrees in computer science. Students develop analytical and problem-solving skills as applied to technical systems and gain experience in computer programming and the development of data structures and algorithms. Graduates who complete the bachelor’s degree will be prepared for careers in computer science/computer engineering in government, business and industry or for advanced study and research. This may include emerging areas such as machine learning, software analytics, cybersecurity, and gaming, as well as computer systems, networks, databases and financial & scientific applications.

Students are advised to consult an advisor regarding their transfer plans during their first semester at CSM. Some transfer institutions require additional mathematics courses beyond Calculus II.

Students new to computing are advised to select ITS 1010 as their Elective course and to take it in their first semester. Secondly, newer students should take ITS 1055 as their Technical Elective selection. Students coming into the program with prior computing knowledge may select from more advanced courses to complete their degree or to better prepare for transfer.

The maximum number of credits accepted in transfer from other institutions to this program is 45.

View Program Website

Career Opportunities:

Software developer, software engineer, computer systems engineer, systems programmer, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, computer scientist

Student Learning Outcomes:

Students will…

Apply logic and mathematical concepts to design, analyze, and solve computer algorithms and programs.
Design and develop computer programs using industry standard programming languages.
Demonstrate understanding of computer architecture and design.

Transfer Options

A complete list of all transfer opportunities can be found on the Transfer Services page.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Pathway

Learn more about the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Pathway.

Visit Career Coach for more information on this program, related programs, and job opportunities in Southern Maryland and the Washington D.C. Metropolitan region.

Required Courses and Recommended Sequence:

The following is a recommended sequence of courses for completing this program. College Prep and prerequisite course requirements, credit load, and/or course availability may affect a student’s individual progress. Course availability within the program sequences is specifically intended for full-time students who begin their course work with the fall semester. Students should always consult their online program evaluation or an academic advisor to better understand typical course availability and individual program planning.

First Semester

ENG-1010 - Composition and Rhetoric* (E) (3)
ENG-1010 completed with a minimum grade of “C”
CSC-1100 - Practical Programming with Python* (3)
MTH-1200 - Calculus I and Analytic Geometry* (M) (4)
ITS-1055 - Introduction to Computing (3)

Second Semester

Biological/physical sciences (4 credits)

Acceptable (lecture and matching lab):

See Gen Ed Listing

Social/behavioral sciences (3 credits)

Acceptable:

See Gen Ed Listing

Third Semester

Elective (2-3) credits)

Acceptable:

See Gen Ed Listing,
MTH-1010 or higher,
Technical Elective options (below):

Communications (3 credits)

Acceptable:

See Gen Ed Listing and select any Communication course within the Humanities course list.

Fourth Semester

CSC-2740 - Data Structures and Algorithms* (4)

Technical Elective (3-4 credits)

Acceptable:

Social/behavioral sciences (3 credits)

Completion of this course meets the Social/behavioral and Cultural and Global Awareness requirements.

Acceptable:

See Gen Ed Listing and select any Social Behavioral Science course from within the Cultural and Global Awareness course list.

Biological/physical sciences (3 credits)

Acceptable:

See Gen Ed Listing

Notes:

*Courses requiring a prerequisite or co-requisite

****Pending MHEC approval

Course Indicators: English Composition (E), Arts (A), Cultural and Global Awareness (C), Humanities (H), Biological/Physical Sciences (S), Social/Behavioral Sciences (B), Mathematics (M)