Computer Science

Program Description

The Computer Science program at Penn Highlands is designed to prepare students with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of computing. Both tracks share a core emphasis on programming, software engineering, and mathematical reasoning, ensuring that all graduates develop the analytical thinking and technical fluency essential to the field. The ongoing collaboration with regional industry partners helps align the curriculum with the evolving needs of the technology sector.

Computer Science (Standard Track)

The Associate of Science in Computer Science provides students with the theoretical foundation necessary for transfer to a four year degree program. This two year curriculum covers programming, software engineering, and mathematics, focused on object-oriented development, data structures, algorithms, and computer organization and architecture. Students explore multiple programming languages and operating system concepts in preparation for advanced coursework at a transfer institution. This degree meets the computer science statewide articulation agreement for transfer to the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education institutions and additional partner universities, enabling graduates to continue their studies as juniors with full credit.

Computer Science Applied Technologies Track

The Associate of Science in Computer Science Applied Technologies Track is designed to equip students with the practical skills and current industry knowledge needed to enter the workforce or transfer with a modern, application oriented foundation. This two year program builds on the same core of programming and software engineering, then emphasizes areas of immediate professional relevance including data analysis and visualization, collaborative development workflows, application connectivity and deployment, and a semester long capstone project. Students gain hands-on experience with the tools and practices used in today's software development environments. The degree prepares graduates for entry level positions in software development, data analysis, and application support, while also providing a strong basis for transfer to four year programs in computer science, software engineering, or related fields.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program will be prepared for transfer to a four-year program.

Program Objectives

Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to:

1. Understand and be proficient in the use of software development processes to design and develop software and solve problems in computer science.
2. Understand and be able to apply the underlying principles of computer science and computer architecture to a variety of problem domains.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in computing and mathematical theoretical concepts at the calculus level and apply these concepts to computing problems.

Obtaining the Degree

To earn the Associate of Science degree, students must:

• Be admitted to the program as a matriculated student. Matriculation is restricted to those students who are suitably prepared in the areas of English, mathematics, and reading as measured by placement exemption or examination. A strong background in high school mathematics (at least pre-calculus) and sciences is preferred.
• Satisfactorily complete all degree requirements, including General Education Requirements and Major Requirements.