Computer Science A.S.-T

The curriculum in Computer Science is designed to provide the transfer student the opportunity to earn an Associate in Science in Computer Science for Transfer degree. Computer Science is the study of computers, their design, and their uses for computation, data processing, and systems control, including design and development of computer hardware and software, and programming. Computer Science provides a foundation of knowledge for students with career objectives in a wide range of computing and computer-related professions.

AST.CIS.CS.CG

Design Your Future!

Begin by exploring MSJC program maps to find career or transfer opportunities.  Program maps show the recommended course sequence that leads to graduation or transfer. The maps were developed by program experts to give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Transfer degrees require a minimum of 60 semester CSU or UC transferable units with a minimum 2.0 overall GPA. Additionally, transfer degrees also require the completion of Cal-GETC general education. Please note that some courses are only transferable to a CSU, and this is noted in the program map. To transfer to a UC, students must complete at least 60 UC transferable units.

  • Starting in Spring? Choose Fall Semester 1 courses.   
  • Are you a part-time student?  Start Fall Semester 1 courses and follow the course sequence.

Cal-GETC

Plan of Study Grid
Fall Semester 1Units
CSIS-113A C++ Programming - Level 1 3
COMM-C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking 3
ENGL-C1000 Academic Reading and Writing 3
POLS-C1000 American Government and Politics 3
CSCR-100 College Success and Career Readiness 3
 Units15
Spring Semester 1
CSIS-211 Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithms 3
ENGL-C1001 Critical Thinking and Writing 3
BIOL-100
Human Biology 1
or Introductory Topics in Biology: Cells to Ecosystems (formerly Topics in Biology)
or General Biology I
4
MATH-211 Analytic Geometry and Calculus I 4
Optional: 0-3
C++ Programming - Level 2 2
 Units14-17
Fall Semester 2
CSIS-118B Computer Organization & Assembly Language 3
PS/ETHS-103
Ethnic Politics in America
or Black History in the American Context
or American Indian Literature (formerly ENGL-240)
or Latinx/Chicanx Literature
or Multiethnic Literature (formerly ENGL-280)
or Introduction to Chicana/o/x Studies
3
PHY-201 Mechanics and Wave Motion 4
MATH-212 Analytic Geometry and Calculus II 4
PHIL-101 Introduction to Philosophy I 3
 Units17
Spring Semester 2
CSIS-213 Discrete Structures 3
SPAN-101
Elementary Spanish I
or Elementary French I
or American Sign Language I
4
HIST-111
U.S. History to 1877
or U.S. History Since 1865
3
ART-100 Art Appreciation 3
PHY-202 Electricity and Magnetism 4
 Units17
 Total Units63-66
1

Meet with your Counselor to discuss which option is best for your transfer goals.

2

This course is optional and not required for the degree, but it may be necessary for transfer depending on your intended university and major. We’ve included it here for your consideration. Be sure to meet with a counselor to determine what’s needed for your specific transfer goals. 

Language Other Than English (LOTE):
This is a graduation requirement for UC campuses but not for admission. You can fulfill LOTE by completing two years of the same foreign language in high school with a grade of C or better in the final semester; by completing one semester of a foreign language at a college, or by demonstrating proficiency with a grade of C or better in ASL-100, FREN-101, or SPAN-101. Languages other than English for Native Speakers are also acceptable for this requirement. Review individual campus information and requirements here: https://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/counselors/uc-graduation-requirements/ 
Some CSU campuses may also require language proficiency for graduation, and more than one semester may be necessary. 
At MSJC, LOTE courses count as electives. For personalized guidance, please consult your MSJC Counselor.

CSU - U.S. History, Constitution, and American Ideals:
This is a graduation requirement for CSU campuses but not for admission. Although not a Cal-GETC requirement, MSJC may certify completion of the CSU graduation requirement in U.S. History, Constitution and American Ideals with POLS-1000/1000H and HIST-111/111H or HIST-112/112H. Courses used to meet this requirement may also be used to satisfy Cal-GETC Subject Area 4 requirements.

High School Students:
Students are encouraged to take courses during the summer before the Fall semester begins, specifically for students majoring in STEM. 

Work Based Learning:
Sign up for a special project or internship opportunity to gain valuable work experience and earn credits. For more information, email AWBL@msjc.edu or call 951-639-5352.

Course Title Credits
Required Core Courses
CSIS-113AC++ Programming - Level 13
or CSIS-113B Java Programming - Level 1
CSIS-118BComputer Organization & Assembly Language3
CSIS-211Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithms3
CSIS-213Discrete Structures3
MATH-211Analytic Geometry and Calculus I4
MATH-212Analytic Geometry and Calculus II4
or MATH-212H Honors Analytic Geometry and Calculus II
PHY-201Mechanics and Wave Motion4
Select one of the following:4
Electricity and Magnetism
Honors Electricity and Magnetism
General Biology I
Honors General Biology I
Total Units28
Course Title Credits
Units for Major28
Cal-GETC Pattern34
Possible double counting: 6-9 units
Transferable Electives (as needed to reach 60 transferable units)

Total Units for A.S.-T Degree: 60 units

The overall requirements for this Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) can be met by:

  • Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer.
  • Completion of Cal-GETC requirements.
  • Completion of a minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
  • Completion of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

ADTs also require that students earn a C or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A “P” (Pass) grade is acceptable if pass is defined as a grade of C or better. ADTs are intended for students who plan to complete a bachelor’s degree in a similar major at a CSU campus. A student completing an ADT is guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not a particular campus or major. Students should meet with a Counselor to develop a comprehensive educational plan to further understand university and transfer requirements.

Discover information about careers that interest you!

  1. Take a Career Quiz to learn about yourself and receive career suggestions based on your interests. 
  2. Search available in-demand jobs in your career areas of interest and find up-to-date salaries and education requirements. 
  3. Find the MSJC Program that connects your interests to a career.

Note: There are no guaranteed positions for students completing these programs. Education and work experience required will vary by employer. The salary and benefits for specific occupations will be dependent on work experience, education, background, and employer.