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Computer Science Student Resources

Welcome

Welcome to the Computer Science program at Santiago Canyon College! Whether you
are exploring Computer Science for the first time or are already pursuing a degree, this
page is designed to help you get started, plan your coursework, prepare for transfer,
and answer some of the most common questions about the program.

Getting Started

Computer Science is a STEM discipline that combines programming, mathematics, and
problem solving. Students are encouraged to meet with a counselor to develop an
educational plan and work with Computer Science faculty to determine the best course
sequence based on their academic goals.

If you are planning to transfer to a four-year university, begin planning early. Many
universities have specific lower-division course and mathematics requirements for
Computer Science majors.

Common Questions

Absolutely! Many students begin their Computer Science journey at Santiago Canyon College immediately after high school, while others take courses through Dual Enrollment while still in high school. Whether you're an experienced programmer or have never written a line of code, SCC offers an affordable, supportive environment to build a strong foundation in Computer Science and prepare for transfer to a four-year university.

SCC uses C++ because it provides students with a strong foundation in programming, problem solving, algorithms, and memory management. Once students understand these core concepts, learning additional programming languages such as Python, Java, or C# becomes much easier.

Many CSU and UC Computer Science programs also include C++ in their lower-division coursework, making it excellent preparation for transfer.

No. Many students begin the Computer Science program with no prior programming experience. Our introductory courses are designed to teach programming concepts from the ground up.

Yes! If you're majoring in another field, consider working toward a Computer Science minor through our CS+X pathway. Adding technical and programming skills to your primary field can help bridge the gap between your discipline and technology, making you more competitive in today's workforce and expanding your career opportunities.

Students who complete four Computer Science courses at SCC typically need only two additional Computer Science courses to complete a minor at many CSU campuses, or three additional courses at many UC campuses. This makes it possible to earn a Computer Science minor while pursuing a bachelor's degree in another field.

Mathematics is an essential part of every Computer Science program. Depending on your educational goals and placement, your course sequence may include Calculus and other mathematics courses that support upper-division Computer Science study. Meet with a counselor and Computer Science faculty to determine the best pathway for your goals.

Yes. SCC's Computer Science curriculum is designed to prepare students for transfer to many CSU and UC Computer Science programs. Students should work with a counselor, review university requirements, and use ASSIST to verify transfer requirements for their intended university.

 

SCC Student Resources

Computer Science students also have access to many campus resources that support their academic success, including tutoring, counseling, library services, student technology support, and academic support programs.

Questions?

If you have questions about the Computer Science program, course selection, transfer preparation, or getting started, please contact the Computer Science Department. We are happy to help you plan your pathway toward a degree and a successful career in computing.