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Computer Science Pathway
This pathway assumes:
- You will be a full-time student.
- You will start in the fall.
- You are ready to take 100- and 200-level classes.
If not, you can still complete the pathway! You will just need to make adjustments. Talk with your advisor to customize your plan.
Choose the chemistry or physics option if you intend to pursue Whatcom's bachelor of science in computer science degree (pending accreditation approval by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities).
COMPUTER SCIENCE, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS & SCIENCES (AAS/DTA), CHEMISTRY OPTION (90 CREDITS)
Follow this recommended pathway to earn the Associate in Arts & Sciences (AAS/DTA) degree and prepare for a major in computer science. Most CS programs require a sequence of courses in a science, and this pathway is for a chemistry option. You can customize your plan even more. Talk with your advisor about adapting it for your individual goals.
Click here to download a fillable, printable planning worksheet.
Please note: The selection of humanities and social science courses is left up to you, but you must have at least two humanities disciplines and two social science disciplines, and among them they must include courses that meet each of the following requirements:
- Writing-intensive.
- Diversity studies.
- Global studies.
- Sustainability.
Some courses meet more than one of these requirements at the same time.
Quarter 1
EDPL 100 College Success (2 credits)
| Description | Designed for students new to the college environment. Introduction to college services; study skills and time management; educational planning and career exploration; and skills necessary to become a successful student. Lectures, small group discussion, and experiential exercises. (UE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
ENGL& 101 English Composition I (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students become more effective writers in academic and professional settings. Students learn to enter ongoing academic conversations, analyze and use secondary sources to formulate, develop, revise, and communicate ideas in writing, and shape their message to different purposes, audiences, and media. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL 95 or placement in ENGL& 101. |
| Course Attributes |
|
PHIL& 115 Critical Thinking (5 credits)
| Description | Critical thinking ability is highly valued among employers. This course introduces you to sound reasoning principles used in daily life. Covers informal, non-symbolic introduction to logic with emphasis on real-life examples. Students learn how to critically evaluate their own reasoning and how to construct arguments. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or another HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15-17
Course note: EDPL 100 is optional, but it can be very helpful if you don't have much college experience.
Career exploration: Find your people! Attend area-of-study activities and connect with clubs related to your career goals.
Action item: Meet with your advisor to build your degree plan.
Action item: Have your transfer-in credits officially evaluated.
Quarter 2
MATH& 141 Precalculus I (5 credits)
| Description | The basic properties and graphs of functions and inverses of functions, operations on functions, compositions; various specific functions and their properties including polynomial, absolute value, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions; applications of various functions; conics. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 or MATH 132 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CS& 141 Computer Science I Java (5 credits)
| Description | This course provides an introduction to computer programming with Java. It covers computer architecture, machine instruction processing, basic data types, program control structures, functional decomposition, classes, and fundamental data structures. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. CS 101 recommended. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 |
| Course Attributes |
|
CMST& 101 Introduction to Communication (5 credits)
| Description | This course surveys theories and research from the field of Communication Studies. Students will explore a variety of areas of specialization within the field of Communication Studies, such as: Interpersonal, Intercultural, Small Group, Organizational and Public Address. This course will inform both those students interested in improving communication skills in general, as well as a beginning Communication Studies student. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Designed to introduce students to basic interpersonal communication theory. Emphasis on topics such as functions of communication, self-concept, perception, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, self-disclosure, listening, and conflict management strategies. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL&101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or CMST 245 Introduction to Organizational Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Formerly CMST 145. This course surveys theories and research from the field of organizational communication. A variety of topics are explored (e.g., leadership, communication ethics, interviewing, professional presentations, managing difficult conversations) with a focus on assessing and demonstrating communication competency within the organizational/workplace setting. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Compare the different computer science majors at universities you're interested in.
Quarter 3
MATH& 142 Precalculus II (5 credits)
| Description | Second in a two-course sequence designed to prepare students for the study of Calculus. Intended for students planning to major in math and/or science. Course to include right triangle trigonometry; trigonometric functions and their graphs; trigonometric identities and formulae;applications of trigonometry; parametric equations; and polar coordinates. A graphing calculator is required. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CS 145 Computer Science II (5 credits)
| Description | This course is a continuation of CS&141. Teaches the fundamentals of computer programming. Covers searching and sorting, object oriented design, error handling, file input and output, event based programming, bitwise operators, multithreaded and network programming. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Look for a summer job or internship related to your career goals.
Action item: Check the GPA and other entry requirements for your future major. Are you on track?
Quarter 4
MATH& 151 Calculus I (5 credits)
| Description | This course looks at the study of functions, limits, continuity, limits at infinity, differentiation of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their inverses, and applications. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 133 or MATH& 142 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
ENGL& 235 Technical Writing (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students develop effective methods of research, organization and presentation of findings typical of professional, technical, and scientific writing. Students develop problem-solving and researching skills, including data collection, the critical analysis of sources, documentation, and document design. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL& 101 with a minimum grade of C-. |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Action item: Meet with your advisor about applying to universities. Start your transfer applications.
Action item: Apply for next year's financial aid.
Quarter 5
MATH& 152 Calculus II (5 credits)
| Description | The study of Riemann Sums, methods of integration, numerical methods, polar and rectangular forms, fundamental theorem of Calculus, areas of regions, volumes of solids, centroids, length of curves, surface area, and an introduction to differential equations. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 151 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CHEM& 161 General Chemistry With Lab I (5 credits)
| Description | First of a three-course sequence designed for science, engineering, and other majors needing a full year general chemistry sequence. Covers basic principles of modern chemistry, structure of atoms, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, bonding, and molecular geometry. Lab work included. Recommended preparation CHEM& 121 or one year of High School Chemistry. (MSl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 141 with minimum grade of C |
| Course Attributes |
|
HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Action item: Apply to graduate by week 3 of this quarter.
Action item: Attend the winter quarter tech job fair.
Quarter 6
CS 240 Data Structure and Algorithm Fundamentals (5 credits)
| Description | Teaches software development skills that emphasize the study of abstract data types using object oriented programming techniques, Big O algorithm analysis, fundamental data structures such as lists, stacks, queues, and trees; and searching and sorting. Prerequisite: CS 145. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS 145 |
| Course Attributes |
|
CHEM& 162 General Chemistry With Lab II (5 credits)
| Description | Second of a three-course sequence designed for science, engineering, and other majors needing a full year general chemistry sequence. Covers gases, thermochemistry, states of matter, solution chemistry, kinetics, and chemical equilibrium. Lab work included. (MSl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CHEM& 161 with minimum grade of C |
| Course Attributes |
|
COMPUTER SCIENCE, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS & SCIENCES (AAS/DTA), PHYSICS OPTION (90 CREDITS)
Follow this recommended pathway to earn the Associate in Arts & Sciences (AAS/DTA) degree and prepare for a major in computer science. Most CS programs require a sequence of courses in a science, and this pathway is for a physics option. You can customize your plan even more. Talk with your advisor about adapting it for your individual goals.
Click here to download a fillable, printable planning worksheet.
Please note: The selection of humanities and social science courses is left up to you, but you must have at least two humanities disciplines and two social science disciplines, and among them they must include courses that meet each of the following requirements:
- Writing-intensive.
- Diversity studies.
- Global studies.
- Sustainability.
Some courses meet more than one of these requirements at the same time.
Quarter 1
EDPL 100 College Success (2 credits)
| Description | Designed for students new to the college environment. Introduction to college services; study skills and time management; educational planning and career exploration; and skills necessary to become a successful student. Lectures, small group discussion, and experiential exercises. (UE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
ENGL& 101 English Composition I (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students become more effective writers in academic and professional settings. Students learn to enter ongoing academic conversations, analyze and use secondary sources to formulate, develop, revise, and communicate ideas in writing, and shape their message to different purposes, audiences, and media. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL 95 or placement in ENGL& 101. |
| Course Attributes |
|
PHIL& 115 Critical Thinking (5 credits)
| Description | Critical thinking ability is highly valued among employers. This course introduces you to sound reasoning principles used in daily life. Covers informal, non-symbolic introduction to logic with emphasis on real-life examples. Students learn how to critically evaluate their own reasoning and how to construct arguments. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or another HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15-17
Course note: EDPL 100 is optional, but it can be very helpful if you don't have much college experience.
Career exploration: Find your people! Attend area-of-study activities and connect with clubs related to your career goals.
Action item: Meet with your advisor to build your degree plan.
Action item: Have your transfer-in credits officially evaluated.
Quarter 2
MATH& 141 Precalculus I (5 credits)
| Description | The basic properties and graphs of functions and inverses of functions, operations on functions, compositions; various specific functions and their properties including polynomial, absolute value, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions; applications of various functions; conics. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 or MATH 132 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CS& 141 Computer Science I Java (5 credits)
| Description | This course provides an introduction to computer programming with Java. It covers computer architecture, machine instruction processing, basic data types, program control structures, functional decomposition, classes, and fundamental data structures. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. CS 101 recommended. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 |
| Course Attributes |
|
CMST& 101 Introduction to Communication (5 credits)
| Description | This course surveys theories and research from the field of Communication Studies. Students will explore a variety of areas of specialization within the field of Communication Studies, such as: Interpersonal, Intercultural, Small Group, Organizational and Public Address. This course will inform both those students interested in improving communication skills in general, as well as a beginning Communication Studies student. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Designed to introduce students to basic interpersonal communication theory. Emphasis on topics such as functions of communication, self-concept, perception, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, self-disclosure, listening, and conflict management strategies. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL&101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or CMST 245 Introduction to Organizational Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Formerly CMST 145. This course surveys theories and research from the field of organizational communication. A variety of topics are explored (e.g., leadership, communication ethics, interviewing, professional presentations, managing difficult conversations) with a focus on assessing and demonstrating communication competency within the organizational/workplace setting. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Compare the different computer science majors at universities you're interested in.
Quarter 3
MATH& 142 Precalculus II (5 credits)
| Description | Second in a two-course sequence designed to prepare students for the study of Calculus. Intended for students planning to major in math and/or science. Course to include right triangle trigonometry; trigonometric functions and their graphs; trigonometric identities and formulae;applications of trigonometry; parametric equations; and polar coordinates. A graphing calculator is required. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CS 145 Computer Science II (5 credits)
| Description | This course is a continuation of CS&141. Teaches the fundamentals of computer programming. Covers searching and sorting, object oriented design, error handling, file input and output, event based programming, bitwise operators, multithreaded and network programming. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Look for a summer job or internship related to your career goals.
Action item: Check the GPA and other entry requirements for your future major. Are you on track?
Quarter 4
MATH& 151 Calculus I (5 credits)
| Description | This course looks at the study of functions, limits, continuity, limits at infinity, differentiation of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their inverses, and applications. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 133 or MATH& 142 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
ENGL& 235 Technical Writing (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students develop effective methods of research, organization and presentation of findings typical of professional, technical, and scientific writing. Students develop problem-solving and researching skills, including data collection, the critical analysis of sources, documentation, and document design. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL& 101 with a minimum grade of C-. |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Action item: Meet with your advisor about applying to universities. Start your transfer applications.
Action item: Apply for next year's financial aid.
Quarter 5
MATH& 152 Calculus II (5 credits)
| Description | The study of Riemann Sums, methods of integration, numerical methods, polar and rectangular forms, fundamental theorem of Calculus, areas of regions, volumes of solids, centroids, length of curves, surface area, and an introduction to differential equations. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 151 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
PHYS& 114 General Physics I (5 credits)
| Description | Introduction to mechanics and physical reasoning strategies and investigation methods for students majoring in technically oriented fields not requiring a calculus based physics course. Newton's laws, work andenergy, kinematics conservation principles. Computer interfaced laboratory investigations, technical writing, problem solving, mathematical reasoning and scientific method of inquiry skills will be emphasized. (MSl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 142 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Course note: If you took a year of physics in high school, or if you took MATH 133 at Whatcom, PHYS& 114 isn't required. You can substitute another physical or biological science.
Action item: Apply to graduate by week 3 of this quarter.
Action item: Attend the winter quarter tech job fair.
Quarter 6
CS 240 Data Structure and Algorithm Fundamentals (5 credits)
| Description | Teaches software development skills that emphasize the study of abstract data types using object oriented programming techniques, Big O algorithm analysis, fundamental data structures such as lists, stacks, queues, and trees; and searching and sorting. Prerequisite: CS 145. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS 145 |
| Course Attributes |
|
PHYS& 221 Engineering Physics I (5 credits)
| Description | Basic principles of mechanics. Emphasis on critical analysis, interpretation, and problem-solving, forces, energy and momentum conservation, static equilibrium, with an introduction to thermodynamics. (MSl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 151 with a minimum grade of C and placement in ENGL& 101; and one college level physics course or a high school physics course. |
| Course Attributes |
|
COMPUTER SCIENCE, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS & SCIENCES (AAS/DTA), BIOLOGY OPTION (90 CREDITS)
Follow this recommended pathway to earn the Associate in Arts & Sciences (AAS/DTA) degree and prepare for a major in computer science. Most CS programs require a sequence of courses in a science, and this pathway is for a biology option. You can customize your plan even more. Talk with your advisor about adapting it for your individual goals.
Click here to download a fillable, printable planning worksheet.
Please note: The selection of humanities and social science courses is left up to you, but you must have at least two humanities disciplines and two social science disciplines, and among them they must include courses that meet each of the following requirements:
- Diversity studies.
- Global studies.
- Sustainability.
Some courses meet more than one of these requirements at the same time.
Quarter 1
EDPL 100 College Success (2 credits)
| Description | Designed for students new to the college environment. Introduction to college services; study skills and time management; educational planning and career exploration; and skills necessary to become a successful student. Lectures, small group discussion, and experiential exercises. (UE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
ENGL& 101 English Composition I (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students become more effective writers in academic and professional settings. Students learn to enter ongoing academic conversations, analyze and use secondary sources to formulate, develop, revise, and communicate ideas in writing, and shape their message to different purposes, audiences, and media. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL 95 or placement in ENGL& 101. |
| Course Attributes |
|
PHIL& 115 Critical Thinking (5 credits)
| Description | Critical thinking ability is highly valued among employers. This course introduces you to sound reasoning principles used in daily life. Covers informal, non-symbolic introduction to logic with emphasis on real-life examples. Students learn how to critically evaluate their own reasoning and how to construct arguments. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or another HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)Total credits this quarter: 15-17
Course note: EDPL 100 is optional, but it can be very helpful if you don't have much college experience.
Career exploration: Find your people! Attend area-of-study activities and connect with clubs related to your career goals.
Action item: Meet with your advisor to build your degree plan.
Action item: Have your transfer-in credits officially evaluated.
Quarter 2
MATH& 141 Precalculus I (5 credits)
| Description | The basic properties and graphs of functions and inverses of functions, operations on functions, compositions; various specific functions and their properties including polynomial, absolute value, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions; applications of various functions; conics. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 or MATH 132 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CS& 141 Computer Science I Java (5 credits)
| Description | This course provides an introduction to computer programming with Java. It covers computer architecture, machine instruction processing, basic data types, program control structures, functional decomposition, classes, and fundamental data structures. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. CS 101 recommended. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 |
| Course Attributes |
|
CMST& 101 Introduction to Communication (5 credits)
| Description | This course surveys theories and research from the field of Communication Studies. Students will explore a variety of areas of specialization within the field of Communication Studies, such as: Interpersonal, Intercultural, Small Group, Organizational and Public Address. This course will inform both those students interested in improving communication skills in general, as well as a beginning Communication Studies student. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Designed to introduce students to basic interpersonal communication theory. Emphasis on topics such as functions of communication, self-concept, perception, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, self-disclosure, listening, and conflict management strategies. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL&101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or CMST 245 Introduction to Organizational Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Formerly CMST 145. This course surveys theories and research from the field of organizational communication. A variety of topics are explored (e.g., leadership, communication ethics, interviewing, professional presentations, managing difficult conversations) with a focus on assessing and demonstrating communication competency within the organizational/workplace setting. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: compare the different computer science majors at universities you're interested in.
Quarter 3
MATH& 142 Precalculus II (5 credits)
| Description | Second in a two-course sequence designed to prepare students for the study of Calculus. Intended for students planning to major in math and/or science. Course to include right triangle trigonometry; trigonometric functions and their graphs; trigonometric identities and formulae;applications of trigonometry; parametric equations; and polar coordinates. A graphing calculator is required. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CS 145 Computer Science II (5 credits)
| Description | This course is a continuation of CS&141. Teaches the fundamentals of computer programming. Covers searching and sorting, object oriented design, error handling, file input and output, event based programming, bitwise operators, multithreaded and network programming. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Look for a summer job or internship related to your career goals.
Action item: Check the GPA and other entry requirements for your future major. Are you on track?
Quarter 4
MATH& 151 Calculus I (5 credits)
| Description | This course looks at the study of functions, limits, continuity, limits at infinity, differentiation of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their inverses, and applications. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 133 or MATH& 142 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CHEM& 161 General Chemistry With Lab I (5 credits)
| Description | First of a three-course sequence designed for science, engineering, and other majors needing a full year general chemistry sequence. Covers basic principles of modern chemistry, structure of atoms, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, bonding, and molecular geometry. Lab work included. Recommended preparation CHEM& 121 or one year of High School Chemistry. (MSl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 141 with minimum grade of C |
| Course Attributes |
|
ENGL& 235 Technical Writing (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students develop effective methods of research, organization and presentation of findings typical of professional, technical, and scientific writing. Students develop problem-solving and researching skills, including data collection, the critical analysis of sources, documentation, and document design. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL& 101 with a minimum grade of C-. |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 15
Action item: Meet with your advisor about applying to universities. Start your transfer applications.
Action item: Apply for next year's financial aid.
Quarter 5
MATH& 152 Calculus II (5 credits)
| Description | The study of Riemann Sums, methods of integration, numerical methods, polar and rectangular forms, fundamental theorem of Calculus, areas of regions, volumes of solids, centroids, length of curves, surface area, and an introduction to differential equations. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 151 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
BIOL& 221 Majors Ecology/Evolution (5 credits)
| Description | This course is designed to prepare the student for further studies inthe field of biology or related fields. Basic information about evolution, genetics, biodiversity of life forms, and ecology will be taught and assessed. This is the first in a three-quarter sequence for biology majors. (MSwl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Prior or concurrent enrollment in CHEM& 161 and placement in ENGL& 101 |
| Course Attributes |
|
HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Action item: Apply to graduate by week 3 of this quarter.
Action item: Attend the winter quarter tech job fair.
Quarter 6
CS 240 Data Structure and Algorithm Fundamentals (5 credits)
| Description | Teaches software development skills that emphasize the study of abstract data types using object oriented programming techniques, Big O algorithm analysis, fundamental data structures such as lists, stacks, queues, and trees; and searching and sorting. Prerequisite: CS 145. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS 145 |
| Course Attributes |
|
HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
COMPUTER SCIENCE, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS & SCIENCES (AAS/DTA), GEOLOGY OPTION (90 CREDITS)
Follow this recommended pathway to earn the Associate in Arts & Sciences (AAS/DTA) degree and prepare for a major in computer science. Most CS programs require a sequence of courses in a science, and this pathway is for a geology option. You can customize your plan even more. Talk with your advisor about adapting it for your individual goals.
Click here to download a fillable, printable planning worksheet.
Please note: The selection of humanities and social science courses is left up to you, but you must have at least two humanities disciplines and two social science disciplines, and among them they must include courses that meet each of the following requirements:
- Diversity studies.
- Global studies.
- Sustainability.
Some courses meet more than one of these requirements at the same time.
Quarter 1
EDPL 100 College Success (2 credits)
| Description | Designed for students new to the college environment. Introduction to college services; study skills and time management; educational planning and career exploration; and skills necessary to become a successful student. Lectures, small group discussion, and experiential exercises. (UE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
ENGL& 101 English Composition I (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students become more effective writers in academic and professional settings. Students learn to enter ongoing academic conversations, analyze and use secondary sources to formulate, develop, revise, and communicate ideas in writing, and shape their message to different purposes, audiences, and media. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL 95 or placement in ENGL& 101. |
| Course Attributes |
|
PHIL& 115 Critical Thinking (5 credits)
| Description | Critical thinking ability is highly valued among employers. This course introduces you to sound reasoning principles used in daily life. Covers informal, non-symbolic introduction to logic with emphasis on real-life examples. Students learn how to critically evaluate their own reasoning and how to construct arguments. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or another HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)Total credits this quarter: 15-17
Course note: EDPL 100 is optional, but it can be very helpful if you don't have much college experience.
Career exploration: Find your people! Attend area-of-study activities and connect with clubs related to your career goals.
Action item: Meet with your advisor to build your degree plan.
Action item: Have your transfer-in credits officially evaluated.
Quarter 2
MATH& 141 Precalculus I (5 credits)
| Description | The basic properties and graphs of functions and inverses of functions, operations on functions, compositions; various specific functions and their properties including polynomial, absolute value, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions; applications of various functions; conics. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 or MATH 132 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
CS& 141 Computer Science I Java (5 credits)
| Description | This course provides an introduction to computer programming with Java. It covers computer architecture, machine instruction processing, basic data types, program control structures, functional decomposition, classes, and fundamental data structures. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. CS 101 recommended. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 099 |
| Course Attributes |
|
CMST& 101 Introduction to Communication (5 credits)
| Description | This course surveys theories and research from the field of Communication Studies. Students will explore a variety of areas of specialization within the field of Communication Studies, such as: Interpersonal, Intercultural, Small Group, Organizational and Public Address. This course will inform both those students interested in improving communication skills in general, as well as a beginning Communication Studies student. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
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or CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Designed to introduce students to basic interpersonal communication theory. Emphasis on topics such as functions of communication, self-concept, perception, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, self-disclosure, listening, and conflict management strategies. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL&101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
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or CMST 245 Introduction to Organizational Communication (5 credits )
| Description | Formerly CMST 145. This course surveys theories and research from the field of organizational communication. A variety of topics are explored (e.g., leadership, communication ethics, interviewing, professional presentations, managing difficult conversations) with a focus on assessing and demonstrating communication competency within the organizational/workplace setting. Recommended preparation: placement in ENGL& 101. (OC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
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Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Compare the different computer science majors at universities you're interested in.
Quarter 3
MATH& 142 Precalculus II (5 credits)
| Description | Second in a two-course sequence designed to prepare students for the study of Calculus. Intended for students planning to major in math and/or science. Course to include right triangle trigonometry; trigonometric functions and their graphs; trigonometric identities and formulae;applications of trigonometry; parametric equations; and polar coordinates. A graphing calculator is required. A graphing calculator is required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
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CS 145 Computer Science II (5 credits)
| Description | This course is a continuation of CS&141. Teaches the fundamentals of computer programming. Covers searching and sorting, object oriented design, error handling, file input and output, event based programming, bitwise operators, multithreaded and network programming. Recommended for math, science, engineering, computer science, and software development majors. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS& 141 with a minimum grade of C. |
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GEOL 211 Physical Geology (5 credits)
| Description | Intended for science majors. Composition and structure of earth, identification of common rocks and minerals, formation of surface features of continents and ocean floor, and interpretation of land forms frommaps. Lab work and field trips included. (MSl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
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or GEOL 212 Historical Geology (5 credits )
| Description | History of the earth and of the plants and animals that have left their records in the rocks. Application of physical geologic principles to unravel the sequence of dynamic events that have shaped the earth as we know it today. Lab work and field trips included. (MSwl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of GEOL& 101 or GEOL 211; and placement in ENGL& 101 |
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Total credits this quarter: 15
Course note: GEOL 212 is offered every two years in the spring. If it's available now, take it.
Career exploration: Look for a summer job or internship related to your career goals.
Action item: Check the GPA and other entry requirements for your future major. Are you on track?
Quarter 4
MATH& 151 Calculus I (5 credits)
| Description | This course looks at the study of functions, limits, continuity, limits at infinity, differentiation of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their inverses, and applications. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 133 or MATH& 142 with a minimum grade of C. |
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ENGL& 235 Technical Writing (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students develop effective methods of research, organization and presentation of findings typical of professional, technical, and scientific writing. Students develop problem-solving and researching skills, including data collection, the critical analysis of sources, documentation, and document design. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL& 101 with a minimum grade of C-. |
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SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Action item: Meet with your advisor about applying to universities. Start your transfer applications.
Action item: Apply for next year's financial aid.
Quarter 5
MATH& 152 Calculus II (5 credits)
| Description | The study of Riemann Sums, methods of integration, numerical methods, polar and rectangular forms, fundamental theorem of Calculus, areas of regions, volumes of solids, centroids, length of curves, surface area, and an introduction to differential equations. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH& 151 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
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SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Action item: Apply to graduate by week 3 of this quarter.
Action item: Attend the winter quarter tech job fair.
Quarter 6
CS 240 Data Structure and Algorithm Fundamentals (5 credits)
| Description | Teaches software development skills that emphasize the study of abstract data types using object oriented programming techniques, Big O algorithm analysis, fundamental data structures such as lists, stacks, queues, and trees; and searching and sorting. Prerequisite: CS 145. (MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of CS 145 |
| Course Attributes |
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GEOL 211 Physical Geology (5 credits)
| Description | Intended for science majors. Composition and structure of earth, identification of common rocks and minerals, formation of surface features of continents and ocean floor, and interpretation of land forms frommaps. Lab work and field trips included. (MSl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
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or GEOL 212 Historical Geology (5 credits )
| Description | History of the earth and of the plants and animals that have left their records in the rocks. Application of physical geologic principles to unravel the sequence of dynamic events that have shaped the earth as we know it today. Lab work and field trips included. (MSwl) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of GEOL& 101 or GEOL 211; and placement in ENGL& 101 |
| Course Attributes |
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