Computer Science
Turning Tech Savvy into a Percolating Profession…
Opportunities for computer science professionals are growing fast…so fast, that coffee technology may not be able to keep up.
We can probably thank this high-octane, high-performance industry for such caffeinnovations as chocolate-covered espresso beans and caffeine-bomb energy drinks with names like “Zip Drive Cola.” It’s a calling that takes a certain level of focus and precision – after all, missing a line of code isn’t like making a typo.
And with computer scientists, analysts, engineers, and developers all tracking well above the national average in job outlook and salary growth, there’s never been a more opportune time to turn high-tech skills into a high-paying career.
Computer Science students at Golden West College learn to use computer equipment to analyze and transform information. Graduates prepare for entry-level careers and transfer programs by learning to direct computer operations by writing detailed instructions in computer languages to solve a variety of problems. Related career pathways include programming, systems analysis, data processing, cybersecurity, and more.
The program also leads to creative careers in entertainment media, such as video game design, 3D modeling, and special effects. Recent graduates of GWC’s Video Game Development certificate program report a 79% employment rate in an industry-relevant career.
Program Details
Computer Science Degrees & Certificates
Career training in the computer science field opens doors to growing opportunities in tech-reliant sectors like business, healthcare, government, education, and more. Golden West College is proud to offer a versatile array of degree and certificate options in this expanding field:
Computer Science – Associate in Science (AS) Degree:
Computer Science majors are introduced to computing history and evolution, software development, structures and procedures for data manipulation, object-oriented methodology, symbolic logic tools for computational algorithms, and computing solutions at the machine language level of implementation. Critical thinking and problem solving skills are acquired through individual and group project assignments. Students are encouraged to develop academic and programming skills, enabling them to be successful in further study or employment.
Software Development – Associate in Arts (AA) Degree & Certificate of Achievement:
For aspiring software engineers, this program is designed to provide formal training for individuals who seek entry into the rapidly growing fields of computer software engineering, systems analysis, application development, and systems software. Students utilize the latest tools to learn programming languages, algorithms, operating system environments, and web-based multi-user application architectures.
For additional program details, see the Computer Science Program Main Page or the Golden West College Catalog.
Why Golden West College?
79% of Video Game Development certificate graduates find field-relevant employment, according to the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
GWC’s knowledgeable and accessible faculty are chosen for their real-world industry experience. This ensures that Computer Science students learn the latest in software, technology, and industry philosophy.
Golden West cares! GWC is an energetic and welcoming community of learning, committed to supporting your higher education aspirations. Learn more about Golden West College’s student services and support resources by clicking here.
Golden Opportunities in Computer Science
With applications in virtually every industry, it’s no surprise that computer science is one of Orange County’s fastest-expanding career sectors. This field encompasses careers like software developers, systems managers and support specialists – all considered “Bright Outlook” occupations by O-NET Online for their projected growth.
Golden West College Computer Science grads are earning great salaries in these positions and more!
- Computer Hardware Engineer
- Computer and Information Scientist
- Computer Operator
- Computer Programmer
- Database Administrator
- Data Processing Manager
- Information Security Analyst
- IT Director
- IT Manager
- Network Architect
- Project Manager
- Software Developer
- Systems Administrator
- Systems Analyst
- Systems Manager
- User Support Specialist
- Web Developer
Affording the Opportunity
Golden West College is proud to provide excellent-quality Career Education at a low cost. Our goal is to remain accessible to ALL community members seeking to enrich their future. Tuition: $46 per unit for California residents. Information on College Service Charge and additional fees available at: http://www.goldenwestcollege.edu/register/.
For Financial Aid information or to find out if you are eligible for Free Tuition through our
Golden Promise Program, visit http://www.goldenwestcollege.edu/goldenpromise/.
Future BUILT Support
Golden West College is committed to providing students with affordable, accessible Career Education pathways, along with responsive staff to assist and guide you on your way!
Career and Employment Center:
GWC’s Career Center is a hub for services related to the career development needs of students and the general public. Our friendly staff can assist you in exploring career fields with a comprehensive library of up-to-date, computerized and published resources.
Learning Resource Center:
Featuring facilities and materials for general assistance in math, reading, writing, and more, GWC’s Learning Resource Center is a one-stop destination for student support. Take advantage of tutoring services, computer lab access, library resources, and more!
Special Programs:
Golden West hosts a variety of career-oriented programs and services, including CalWORKS, Cooperative Work Experience (CWE), and many others.
Advising and Counseling:
Make sure you’re in the right classes… and on the right course! GWC’s Planning and Guidance Services cover a broad range of student needs, including degree advising, career counseling, and transfer assistance.
Special Programs:
Golden West College is committed to assisting our underserved and challenged students in any way possible. GWC offers specific resources for DACA students, Former Foster Youth, students requiring Basic Needs Assistance, and more.
Gainful Employment Information
For more information regarding the Computer Science program costs and employment outcome averages, click here.
Program Learning Outcomes
Computer Science – Associate in Science:
- Design software components and specifications to satisfy small business and scientific problem requirements.
- Design and implement algorithms that include basic computation techniques, simple I/O, conditional and iterative structures, and definitions of functions.
- Utilize object-oriented principles for class hierarchies and inheritance.
Software Development – Associate in Arts:
- Understand computer programming using Microsoft programming languages and operating systems environments.
- Design and build single-user applications.
- Design and build multi-user web-based applications.
- Design and build single-user database environments.
- Design and build multi-user database environments.
Software Development – Certificate of Achievement:
- Understand computer programming using Microsoft programming languages and operating systems environments.
- Design and build single-user applications.
- Design and build multi-user web-based applications.
- Design and build single-user database environments.
- Design and build multi-user database environments.
Video Game Development – Associate in Arts:
- Describe the hardware and software components of a video game system.
- Design and build a single-user 2D and 3D video game.
- Design and build a multi-user PC or mobile game.
- Evaluate existing game engines, script games in those engines, and build and deploy characters and models.
Video Game Development – Certificate of Achievement:
- Describe the hardware and software components of a video game system.
- Design and build a single-user 2D and 3D video game.
- Design and build a multi-user PC or mobile game.
- Evaluate existing game engines, script games in those engines, and build and deploy characters and models.
Average Salary in this Field
$47,234 –
$59,748
Careers in this Field
Computer Programmer
Network Architect
Systems Administrator
Ready to Get Started?
Orange County industry depends on Future BUILT professionals with the next-level knowledge and skills learned in Golden West College’s Career Education programs.
Apply today and start building your bolder future!
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Have Questions or Want More Information? Contact Us
Golden West Career Education Benefits
67%
Find Employment Within Six Months Of Attending GWC
36%
Increase In Average Income After Graduating
91%
Satisfaction Rate Among GWC Career Education Students
