Program: Computer Science-Technical Emphasis, A.A. - Prairie State College

Apr 01, 2025

2023-2024 Catalog

The Computer Science-Technical Emphasis curriculum focuses on algorithms, theoretical foundations of computer science, and development of software. A strong foundation in mathematics and science is needed for this emphasis. Graduates of this emphasis will be prepared to work for a variety of companies including those that have a software, engineering, scientific or mathematical focus. Universities may have multiple computer degree programs, often located in different departments, which build on the recommendations for the Computer Science-Technical Emphasis. This major is typically found in a department named Computer Science or Mathematics and Computer Science or within a College of Engineering. Some schools may not require all of the courses listed below.

Suggested Curriculum

I. General Education Core (37-38)

Area A: Communication (9 credits)

ENG 101 Composition I 3 hrs transfer credit - with a grade of C or better
ENG 102 Composition II 3 hrs transfer credit - with a grade of C or better
COMM 101 Principles of Communication 3 hrs transfer credit

Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (9 credits)

Select three courses from the list for Area B with at least one course selected from humanities and one from fine arts.

Area C: Mathematics (3 credits)

MATH 171 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I 5 hrs transfer credit
MATH 157 Calculus for Business and Social Science 4 hrs transfer credit
MATH 155 Finite Mathematics 4 hrs transfer credit
MATH 210 Discrete Mathematics 3 hrs transfer credit
Consult the universities you are considering, since different schools have different requirements.

Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)

PHYSI 210 University Physics I 4 hrs transfer credit
Select one Life Science from the list for Area D .

Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 credits)

Select three courses in at least two different disciplines from the list for Area E including:

ECON 201 Macroeconomic Principles 3 hrs transfer credit
ECON 202 Microeconomic Principles 3 hrs transfer credit

II. Area of Concentration/Major Field (6)

Select one programming language sequence from the following: *

* It is strongly recommended (and may be required at some senior institutions) that both programming courses are in the same language and be taken at the same school before transfer. Consult the senior institution that you are considering, since different schools have different requirements. Students will need to demonstrate mastery of the language used by that institution.

ITPRG 144 C++ Programming I 3 hrs transfer credit and
ITPRG 244 C++ Programming II 3 hrs transfer credit
or
ITPRG 147 Java Programming I 3 hrs transfer credit and
ITPRG 247 Java Programming II 3 hrs transfer credit

III. Electives (18-19)

Select additional courses from the list of Courses Approved for Transfer or contact the universities you are considering.

Required A.A. Degree Program Total: 62 credits

Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.