Associate transfer preparation
Program overview
Study programming, web development, data analytics, and systems thinking through hands-on projects. Students work with advisors to confirm placement, course sequence, and whether the pathway supports transfer, certificate completion, or direct career preparation.
Who this pathway serves
This pathway fits students who enjoy structured problem solving, technology, mathematics, building projects, and learning how software and data systems work.
Students may enter with a defined goal or use introductory courses to test their interest. Prior experience is helpful in some subjects but is not assumed unless a prerequisite is listed.
What students learn
- Write structured programs
- Use databases and version control
- Explain computing systems and security basics
Learning outcomes are developed through class discussion, applied assignments, projects, presentations, and instructor feedback. Students should expect to revise work and explain how they reached a conclusion.
Sample courses in this pathway
The courses below illustrate a possible sequence rather than a guaranteed schedule. Availability, prerequisites, and recommended preparation should be confirmed before registration.
| Course | Title | Units | Prerequisite | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS 110 | Programming Fundamentals | 4 | MATH 115 recommended | Introduces logic, variables, control flow, functions, debugging, and project-based software development. |
| CS 120 | Object-Oriented Programming | 4 | CS 110 | Develops object-oriented design, data structures, testing, and collaborative coding practices. |
| DATA 150 | Introduction to Data Analytics | 3 | CIS 105 or equivalent | Covers data cleaning, spreadsheets, visualization, descriptive statistics, and practical reporting. |
| MATH 140 | Precalculus for STEM | 4 | Placement | Prepares STEM students for calculus through functions, trigonometry, modeling, and analytic reasoning. |
| WEB 130 | Web Design Fundamentals | 3 | CIS 105 recommended | Introduces HTML, CSS, accessibility basics, responsive layout, and web publishing workflows. |
Program and schedule planning
Programming courses should be taken in sequence. Students preparing for transfer should coordinate mathematics and general education early so prerequisites do not delay advanced coursework.
Full-time and part-time plans are available. Completion time depends on placement, course availability, previous credit, prerequisite readiness, and the number of units a student can manage successfully each term.
Career and transfer direction
- Junior developer
- IT support specialist
- Data technician
Career titles vary by employer, experience, and additional credentials. Transfer-focused students should meet with an advisor each term to confirm requirements.
Support for program students
Program students may use academic advising, tutoring, writing and math support, library research help, career coaching, transfer planning, and technology assistance.
Students who are struggling with attendance, workload, language demands, or personal circumstances should contact an instructor or advisor early enough to review available options.