Computer Science

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Program Spotlight

The Computer Science offerings at Skyline College are intended to give students a solid foundation in computer programming, as well as an opportunity to investigate personal computer use with a micro computer, and the societal implications of our growing use and dependence on computerized technology.

Our computer programming courses include a three semester sequence of C (Comp 190), Advanced C (Comp 250), and C++ (Comp 684) for students wanting a more sophisticated foundation in computer programming.

Check out the current class schedule

Employment Statistics

Average Salary in California

National Ranking in Employment*

Computer Programmers

Computer Systems Analyst

* California employs the highest percentage of professionals in this role.

Sources: U.S. Department of Labor

Many job paths are available with a degree in computer science: these are just two of many, many roles you could achieve!

The Field

Computer Science is the study of computers and computational systems. Unlike electrical and computer engineers, computer scientists deal mostly with software and software systems; this includes their theory, design, development, and application. In order to succeed in Computer Science, students should possess a passion for technology and will need to develop strong analytical, critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Skyline College currently offers an Associate Degree for Transfer in Computer Science which allows students to easy transfer to the California State University.

Career Outlook

Jobs in Computer Science are growing at an increasingly fast pace as the tech industry expands. Some jobs include Information Security Analysts, Computer Systems Analysts, Computer and Information Research Scientists, Computer Network Support Specialists, Computer User Support Specialists, Database Architects, Database Administrators, Computer Network Architects, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, Web and Digital Interface Designers, Web Developers, Computer Programmers, Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers, Software Developers, Data Scientists and more.

Salaries in computer-related jobs vary greatly depending on education level and industry sector. Computer Programmers in California make an average of $114,740 per year according to the U.S. Department of Labor. You can view the employment data for a variety of jobs attainable with a path in computer science on the Computer and Mathematical Occupations page from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Program Type Total Units
Computer Science for Transfer AS-T 60 Units
Junior Developer CC 9 - 10 Units

The Skyline College STEM Center brings together academic and student support services for students taking science, technology, engineering and math courses.

The center supports student success by ensuring students have access to resources such as academic tutoring, counseling services, a resource depository for STEM pathways and transfer, a hub for internships and work based learning opportunities, as well as a place where students and staff can collaborate and build a community and supportive connection.

Check out the STEM Center

Upon completion of the program students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to use sound ethical reasoning when discussing biological science and the use of biotechnological techniques.
  • Apply the knowledge of biological science to distinguish between observations, inferences, relationships, and testimonials under investigation.
  • Employ the appropriate techniques effectively and safely, including the appropriate use of equipment and tools to produce an acceptable outcome when performing a technical laboratory task.
Office Information
Location: Building 7
Email: swartoutb@smccd.edu
Phone: (650) 738-7939
Summer 2024 Courses  |  Fall 2024 Courses

Type Status Title Days Time Instructor
OPEN COMP 250 - 55238 - Intro Object-Oriented Prog:C++
COMP 250 Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming: C++

Introduction to programming and software engineering for computer science and engineering majors and computer professionals. A systematic approach to the design, implementation, and management of robust C++ computer programs. Course emphasizes Object-Oriented programming design, programming documentation, testing and debugging techniques. This course conforms to the ACM CS1 standards.

Units: 3
Degree Credit
Letter Grade Only
  • Lecture hours/semester: 48-54
  • Homework hours/semester: 96-108
Prerequisites: MATH 222 or equivalent.
Corequisites: None
Transfer Credit: CSU, UC
C-ID: COMP 122, ENGR 120
M W 6:30pm-9:45pm Tiwari, D
Day Class   OPEN COMP 284 - 56122 - Intro-Object-Oriented Pgm:JAVA
COMP 284 Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming: Java

Introduction to object-oriented computer programming for computer science majors and computer professionals. Emphasizes object-oriented design, good software engineering principles and developing fundamental programming skills in Java. This course conforms to the ACM CS1 standards.

Units: 3
Degree Credit
Letter Grade Only
  • Lecture hours/semester: 48-54
  • Homework hours/semester: 96-108
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None
Transfer Credit: CSU, UC
C-ID: COMP 122
M T W Th 9:15am-11:00am Hoffman, J
Day Class   OPEN COMP 284 - 56122 - Intro-Object-Oriented Pgm:JAVA
COMP 284 Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming: Java

Introduction to object-oriented computer programming for computer science majors and computer professionals. Emphasizes object-oriented design, good software engineering principles and developing fundamental programming skills in Java. This course conforms to the ACM CS1 standards.

Units: 3
Degree Credit
Letter Grade Only
  • Lecture hours/semester: 48-54
  • Homework hours/semester: 96-108
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None
Transfer Credit: CSU, UC
C-ID: COMP 122
M W 12:30pm-4:00pm Hoffman, J

The college catalog contains lists of all courses that we may offer in the current academic year.

View the Full Course Catalog

Primary Contact

Benjamin Lam
Benjamin Lam (Program Services Coordinator)
Science|Math|Technology-STEM Division
lamb@smccd.edu More details »

Department Faculty

Michael Kane
Michael Kane (Dean of Business, Education and Professional Programs)
Business, Education and Professional Programs-Division Office
kanem@smccd.edu More details »
Nick Langhoff
Nick Langhoff (Professor)
Science|Math|Technology-Engineering (ENGR)
langhoffn@smccd.edu More details »
Ali Karahroudy
Ali Karahroudy (Assistant Professor)
Science|Math|Technology-Engineering (ENGR)
karahroudya@smccd.edu More details »
James Hoffman
James Hoffman (Adjunct Instructor)
Science and Technology-Engineering
hoffmanj@smccd.edu More details »
Thomas Brooks McCall
Thomas Brooks McCall (Assistant Professor)
Science|Math|Technology-Engineering (ENGR)
mccallt@smccd.edu More details »