Computer Science

The Degree

Associate in Science (A.S.)

The Outlook

The Occupational Outlook Handbook cites that employment of computer system analysts is projected to grow 25 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Faster than average growth is also expected for computer database administrators and software developers from 2012 to 2022. Computerworld's annual Hot Skills list identifies programming and application development (especially mobile applications and health care), project management, and business intelligence as areas that are in demand. The A.S. Computer Science degree program at Finger Lakes Community College is designed to meet the needs of a technical field that is continuously evolving and changing.

The Program

The A.S. Computer Science degree is a technical degree that offers a solid core of required computing science courses. The degree requires a core of mathematics (including Calculus I and II) and science courses, in addition to required liberal arts courses necessary for transferring with full junior status into a baccalaureate degree program. The curriculum in the program is continually updated to reflect new changes in technology such as:

• Mobile Application Development
• Object-Oriented Programming and Design
• Multimedia Development
• Current Computing Platforms
• Networking Technologies

Online Learning

FLCC's online learning offers you a flexible and convenient way to reach your educational goals. With this option, you can pursue your A.S. in Computer Science at least 50 percent online. Learn more about FLCC online learning.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this degree program, students will be able to:

• Apply computational concepts and analytical thinking in the development of computer algorithms and solutions.
• Develop and implement software solutions using multi-level programming languages.
• Discuss and reflect upon key ethical issues and global concerns in relation to the field of computer science, as well as the impact of technology upon individuals, organizations, and a global society.
• Work collaboratively and effectively within a team environment in order to create a computer solution or final project within a required time frame.

The Experience

Resources and Technology: Computer resources for student learning are extensive and diverse at FLCC. Classrooms and computer labs are equipped with state-of-the-art personal workstations, which are connected to a local area network (LAN). If you carry a laptop or tablet with you to campus, you will have access to FLCC's wireless network. Full access to the Internet is available throughout the campus. Courses on campus are taught utilizing multiple platforms such as Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.

Facilities: Computer labs are open evenings and weekends, and are also available at the FLCC Geneva, Newark, and Victor Campus Centers. FLCC offers Computer Certification Testing at the Victor Campus Center, where the opportunity for you to take exams for Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA, and other technologies is available.

Resources: A wide variety of software packages and peripherals are available to support classroom instruction. Through FLCC's library, you will have on-line access to respected research databases such as LexisNexis, Expanded Academic Index, Medline, and others. In addition to classroom and lab experience, you may:

• Attend panel discussions with FLCC alumni that work in computer areas.
• Participate in field trips to computer sites.
• Appear at seminars with transfer colleges.
• Attend a "career day breakfast."

The Graduates

Graduates of the program have transferred to various four-year private and public institutions to pursue baccalaureate degrees. Some of these institutions include:

• Rochester Institute of Technology
• St. John Fisher College
• Nazareth College
• SUNY Colleges at Brockport, Geneseo and Utica/Rome

Graduates have gone on to work at companies in the Finger Lakes region such as ExxonMobil, Thompson Health, Garlock, Sutherland Group, and Canandaigua National Bank and Trust Company. Positions that have been obtained include:

• Systems Analysts
• Programmers
• Consultants
• Network Administrators

The Scholarships

As a Computer Science major, if you meet specific award criteria, you will be eligible for the Brenda S. (Brockman) Beck Memorial Scholarship. For information on this scholarship, contact the FLCC Foundation.

The Faculty

The faculty in the computing sciences department brings to FLCC a wide range of talent and experience in academia and within the industry. Each faculty member specializes in a particular area of the discipline, and continually strives to stay current in that area. FLCC is committed to providing you with the most up-to-date programs and courses. In addition, it also provides you with an excellent education at the certificate and associate degree levels.