computer science montgomery college

Prepare for or advance your computer science career with a degree or certificate from Montgomery College. Our degree programs are designed so you can enter the workforce immediately upon earning your associate’s degree. Or you can transfer and complete a bachelor’s degree.

Our computer science curriculum constantly evolves to meet the needs of the field. Courses focus on programming, gaming and simulation, and networking. You’ll learn in state-of-the-art facilities with significant virtual computing and networking capabilities. Our Cyber Lab is used for academic competitions and research activities. It can host virtual servers, virtual desktops, isolated networks, and wireless and forensic technologies.

The following information is taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbooknew window:

Employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 12 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. These occupations are projected to add about 546,200 new jobs. Demand for these workers will stem from greater emphasis on cloud computing, the collection and storage of big data, and information security.

The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $86,320 in May 2018, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $38,640. (Sourcenew window, retrieved October 2019)

See complete, up-to-date details on specialized careers within the broader field of computer science, including job summaries, education requirements, and median salaries, in the Occupational Outlook Handbook’s Computer and Information Technology sectionnew window. 

Professional Organizations

IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

ASEE (American Society for Engineering Education)

Founded in 1893, the American Society for Engineering Education is a nonprofit organization of individuals and institutions committed to furthering education in engineering and engineering technology. It accomplishes this mission by:

• promoting excellence in instruction, research, public service, and practice;
• exercising worldwide leadership;
• fostering the technological education of society; and
• providing quality products and services to members.

In pursuit of academic excellence, ASEE develops policies and programs that enhance professional opportunities for engineering faculty members, and promotes activities that support increased student enrollments in engineering and engineering technology colleges and universities. Strong communication and collaboration with national and international organizations further advances ASEE’s mission.

ASEE also fulfills its mission by providing a valuable communication link among corporations, government agencies, and educational institutions. ASEE’s 12,000+ members include deans, department heads, faculty members, students, and government and industry representatives who hail from all disciplines of engineering and engineering technology. ASEE’s organizational membership is composed of 400 engineering and engineering technology colleges and affiliates, more than 50 corporations, and numerous government agencies and professional associations. ASEE directs many of its efforts at providing for open and ongoing dialogues among these groups.

Why join ASEE?

The ever-increasing influence and rapid advance of technology demands a skilled, highly educated technical workforce. From defense to infrastructure to telecommunications to consumer gadgetry, the quality of our engineers affects the quality of our lives.

Computer Science and Technologies Degrees and Certificates

Learn more about program outcomes, required courses, transfer opportunities, and career information.

Associate of Arts

• Computer Science and Technologies AA Degree, Computer Science Area of Concentration
• Computer Science and Technologies AA Degree, Information Systems Area of Concentration

Certificates

• Computer Programming Certificate
• Java Developer Certificate

Is Montgomery College Public or Private?

Montgomery County Community College is a public institution. This means that it is funded primarily by taxpayer dollars and aims to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to residents of the county and beyond. As a public college, MCCC is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and inclusiveness, making it an ideal choice for those seeking quality education in the field of computer science.

Montgomery College Computer Science Degree Requirements

Earning a degree in Computer Science from Montgomery County Community College is a significant step towards building a rewarding career in the world of technology. The degree requirements for the Computer Science program may vary slightly from year to year, but they typically include the following:

1. General Education Courses: As with any degree program, students are required to complete a set of general education courses. These courses cover areas like mathematics, English, natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities. These foundational courses provide students with a well-rounded education.
2. Core Computer Science Courses: The heart of the Computer Science program lies in the core courses. These are classes specific to computer science and include subjects like programming languages, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, and software engineering.
3. Elective Courses: To allow students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals, MCCC typically offers a variety of elective courses. These may include web development, database management, artificial intelligence, or other specialized areas of computer science.
4. Internship or Capstone Project: Hands-on experience is crucial in computer science. Many programs, including those at MCCC, require students to complete an internship or capstone project. This provides students with real-world exposure to the industry, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in practical settings.
5. Transfer Options: MCCC also has transfer agreements with four-year institutions, making it easier for students to continue their education after completing their associate degree. This is a great pathway for those aiming for a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.

Montgomery College Computer Science Courses

Montgomery County Community College offers a range of courses in the Computer Science program, designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in this dynamic field. Here are some of the courses you can expect to find:

1. Introduction to Computer Science: This course is often the starting point for students new to computer science. It covers the basics of programming, problem-solving, and the fundamentals of computer science.
2. Data Structures and Algorithms: Students learn about organizing and manipulating data efficiently, a critical skill for computer scientists.
3. Computer Organization and Architecture: This course delves into the inner workings of computers, including CPU design and memory management.
4. Web Development: Learn the essentials of web programming, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and create dynamic and interactive websites.
5. Software Engineering: This course covers the software development process, from design and coding to testing and maintenance.
6. Databases: Understand database management, including SQL and NoSQL databases, which are crucial for data-driven applications.
7. Cybersecurity: Explore the world of cybersecurity, learn how to protect information systems, and counteract cyber threats.
8. Mobile App Development: Develop skills in creating applications for mobile devices, an ever-expanding area of computer science.

What’s in a Computer Science Degree?

A computer science degree from Montgomery County Community College, like any reputable program, equips students with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of computer science. Graduates of MCCC’s program will have developed the following skills and knowledge:

1. Programming Proficiency: Graduates can program in multiple languages, understanding the principles that underlie coding and development.
2. Problem-Solving Skills: Computer scientists are trained to approach complex problems methodically and find efficient solutions.
3. Algorithms and Data Structures: Graduates can design and implement efficient data structures and algorithms.
4. System Architecture: Understanding how computers work at the hardware level, including CPU, memory, and I/O systems.
5. Web and Mobile Development: Skills in creating websites and mobile applications.
6. Database Management: Proficiency in working with and designing databases.
7. Software Engineering: The ability to design, build, test, and maintain software systems.
8. Cybersecurity: Knowledge of securing data and networks from cyber threats.
9. Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze problems, evaluate solutions, and adapt to emerging technologies.

Conclusion

Montgomery County Community College offers a valuable Computer Science program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the technology industry. As a public institution, it is committed to providing accessible and affordable education to its community, making it a great choice for those pursuing their computer science dreams.

The program’s comprehensive curriculum, which includes general education, core computer science courses, and specialized electives, ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the ever-evolving tech landscape. Furthermore, the potential for internships and transfer opportunities solidify MCCC’s commitment to giving its students a well-rounded education that sets them up for success.

In the world of computer science, the possibilities are endless. Montgomery County Community College’s Computer Science program is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to embark on a rewarding and dynamic career in this field.