Are you interested in creating phone apps, video games, websites, artificial intelligence, or self-driving cars? Individuals with computer science skills truly are key drivers of global technological advancements. Studying computer science provides the skills needed to be able to use technology to provide innovative solutions to practical problems.
Allan Hancock College’s computer science program teaches the introductory concepts of computer programming, computer architecture, and mathematics. Students learn the theory and methods of processing information in digital computers, the design of computer software and hardware, and the applications of computers.
Careers for graduates in computer science are plentiful, pay well, and are in high demand. According to a CNBC article published in 2020, the top 20 jobs in America were ranked according to salary, job satisfaction, and demand. The top three jobs on that list (front end engineer, java developer, and data scientist) all rely on computer science skills.
Hancock’s computer science program prepares students to transfer to a four-year university for further study.
This program will help you to:
- read, write, and debug computer and assembly programs
- write programs that manipulate large data sets
- understand the fundamentals of object-oriented programming
- read binary, hexadecimal, and octal code
- design basic circuits and processors
- understand computer architecture
- understand the mathematics related to computer programming
Suggested Course Sequence
The “Suggested Course Sequence” is an example of how to complete the requirements plus any additional general education that may be needed. If you would like to create a personalized Student Education Plan (SEP), schedule a meeting with a counselor.
This suggested plan assumes a student is eligible for MATH 181.
Fall Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Basic principles of algorithmic problem solving and programming using methods of top-down design, stepwise refinement and procedural abstraction. Basic control structures, data types, and input/output. Introduction to the software development process: design, implementation, testing and documentation. The syntax and semantics of a modern programming language.
The first in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include functions, limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric and transcendental functions, applications of differentiation, the definite integral, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
Intended for students pursuing majors in a STEM discipline. Introduces students to related career choices, academic planning, and college resources. Develops appropriate skills necessary for academic success in a STEM major.
Prerequisite: Placement based upon Allan Hancock College's placement policy.
Designed to help students enhance their analytical reading and writing skills using a wide variety of texts. Emphasizes college-level expository essay construction, communication, and research methods leading to the preparation and writing of a research paper.
Total Units:
13
Spring Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
Design, implementation, and testing of object-oriented software. Introduction to classes, objects, encapsulation, interfaces, inheritance, polymorphism, algorithms (sort, search, recursion), abstract data types (list, stacks, queues, trees), data structures, pointers, dynamic allocation, traversal using iterators, file I/O, and exceptions. Students will develop applications using class hierarchies and abstract data types.
Designed to help students assess their health status and use those assessments to change the behaviors that contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle. Students are provided with a broad foundation of knowledge dealing with mental health, stress management, fitness, diet and weight control, prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, drugs and alcohol, first aid, cancer prevention and control, and the scope of community health services.
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
Choose one of the following courses:
- ES 1231, African American History
- HIST 107, U S History to 1877
- HIST 108, US History from 1877 to the Present
- HIST 118, U S History to 1877
- HIST 119, History of California
- POLS 101, Introduction to Political Science
- POLS 103, American Government
Total Units:
13+
Summer Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Select one course from this list.
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
Total Units:
4+
Fall Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
Introduction to computer architecture and assembly language programming. Topics include data representation and conversion, assembly language programming, digital design, and basic processor architecture.
If you take any of the following courses, you will also satisfy the Multicultural/Gender Studies requirement:
ART 101, 105, 109, 170; DANC 101p; DRMA 103; ENGL 130, 131, 139, 140, 148; ECS 116; ES 105, 120; FASH 104; FILM 101, 102, 103, 108, 109; HIST 101, 102, 103, 120; HUM 101, 102, 103; MUS 104, 106; PHIL 121; SPAN 102, 103, 104, 105, 112
Select one course from this list.
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
Total Units:
14+
Spring Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
An introduction to the discrete structures of computing, including propositional and predicate logic, methods of proof, functions, computer arithmetic, algorithm complexity, recursion, graphs, trees, sets and relations, networks, induction, and combinatorics.
Select one course from this list.
If you take any of the following courses, you will also satisfy the Multicultural/Gender Studies requirement:
ANTH 102, 103, 105; BUS 141; ECON 141; ENGL 105; GBST 141; GEOG 102, 103; LGBT 101, 102; POLS 104, 105; SOC 101, 102, 120, 122; SPCH 110
Or select one course from this list.
If you take any of the following courses, you will also satisfy the Multicultural/Gender Studies requirement:
ANTH 102, 103, 105; BUS 141; ECON 141; ENGL 105; GBST 141; GEOG 102, 103; LGBT 101, 102; POLS 104, 105; SOC 101, 102, 120, 122; SPCH 110
Or select one course from this list.
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
Total Units:
14+
Program Requirements:
"Program Requirements" specify the courses required for this program. See suggested course sequence for additional information.
A major of 18 units is required for the degree. Required core courses (12 units):
Course Number | Course Title | Units |
---|---|---|
CS 111 | Fundamentals of Programming 1 | 4 |
CS 112 | Fundamentals of Programming 2 | 4 |
MATH 181 | Calculus 1 | 4 |
Plus a minimum of 6 units selected from the following:
Course Number | Course Title | Units |
---|---|---|
CS 102 | Introduction to Computing with HTML | 3 |
CS 131 | Computer Organization | 3 |
CS 161 | Discrete Structures | 3 |
Suggested Course Sequence
The "Suggested Course Sequence" is an example of how to complete the requirements plus any additional general education that may be needed. If you would like to create a personalized Student Education Plan (SEP), schedule a meeting with a counselor.
This suggested plan assumes a student is eligible for MATH 181 and PHYS 161.
Fall Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: Placement based upon Allan Hancock College's placement policy.
Designed to help students enhance their analytical reading and writing skills using a wide variety of texts. Emphasizes college-level expository essay construction, communication, and research methods leading to the preparation and writing of a research paper.
Basic principles of algorithmic problem solving and programming using methods of top-down design, stepwise refinement and procedural abstraction. Basic control structures, data types, and input/output. Introduction to the software development process: design, implementation, testing and documentation. The syntax and semantics of a modern programming language.
The first in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include functions, limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric and transcendental functions, applications of differentiation, the definite integral, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
Intended for students pursuing majors in a STEM discipline. Introduces students to related career choices, academic planning, and college resources. Develops appropriate skills necessary for academic success in a STEM major.
Total Units:
13
Spring Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
Design, implementation, and testing of object-oriented software. Introduction to classes, objects, encapsulation, interfaces, inheritance, polymorphism, algorithms (sort, search, recursion), abstract data types (list, stacks, queues, trees), data structures, pointers, dynamic allocation, traversal using iterators, file I/O, and exceptions. Students will develop applications using class hierarchies and abstract data types.
Prerequisite: MATH 181
The second in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include methods and applications of integration, sequences and series, Taylor series, an introduction to differential equations, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
The initial semester of a three-semester course in calculus-based physics which emphasizes the origin, nature and application of fundamental concepts and principles. Required for most baccalaureate majors in the physical sciences, engineering and mathematics. Emphasizes mechanics, including measurement, linear and planar motion, statics and dynamics of particles and systems of particles, rigid, elastic and fluid systems.
Choose one of the following courses:
- ENGL 103, Critical Thinking and Composition
- PHIL 112, Logic
- PHIL 114, Critical Thinking
- SPCH 106, Argumentation and Debate
Total Units:
15
Summer Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Recommended one from this list:
- ES 121, African American History
- HIST 107, US History to 1877
- HIST 108, US History from 1877 to the Present
- HIST 118, U S History American Institutions Requirement
Or choose a course from this list.
Note: Recommended courses also fulfill CSU US History and American Institutions Graduation Requirement
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
6
Fall Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
Introduction to computer architecture and assembly language programming. Topics include data representation and conversion, assembly language programming, digital design, and basic processor architecture.
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses electrostatic forces, fields and potentials, steady electric currents and circuits, magnetic forces and fields, induced electric and magnetic fields, electric and magnetic properties of continuous media, reactive circuits, and electromagnetic waves.
Choose one of the following courses:
- SPCH 101, Public Speaking,
- SPCH 102, Small Group Communication,
- SPCH 106, Argumentation and Debate,
Select one course from this list.
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
16
Spring Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
An introduction to the discrete structures of computing, including propositional and predicate logic, methods of proof, functions, computer arithmetic, algorithm complexity, recursion, graphs, trees, sets and relations, networks, induction, and combinatorics.
Select one course from area C1: Arts or from area C2: Humanities
Recommended one from this list:
- POLS 101, Introduction to Political Science
- POLS 103, American Government
Or choose a course from this list.
Note: Recommended courses also fulfill CSU US History and American Institutions Graduation Requirement
Select one course from this list.
If you did not satisfy this requirement with high school coursework or an external exam, complete one of the courses from this list. If you are unsure if you have met this requirement, see a counselor.
- ES 120: Chicano History
- ES 121: African American History
- HIST 120: Chicano History
- HIST 121: African American History
NOTE: Students who started at Allan Hancock College (or any CCC or CSU) prior to Summer 2021 and have maintained continuous enrollment are not required to complete Area F for CSU GE Certification. See a counselor for further information.
Total Units:
15+
A major of 30 units is required for the degree.
Course Number | Course Title | Units |
---|---|---|
CS 111 | Fundamentals of Programming 1 | 4 |
CS 112 | Fundamentals of Programming 2 | 4 |
CS 131 | Computer Organization | 3 |
CS 161 | Discrete Structures | 3 |
MATH 181 | Calculus 1 | 4 |
MATH 182 | Calculus 2 | 4 |
PHYS 161 | Engineering Physics 1 | 4 |
PHYS 163 | Engineering Physics 3 | 4 |
General Education
Suggested Course Sequence
The "Suggested Course Sequence" is an example of how to complete the requirements plus any additional general education that may be needed. If you would like to create a personalized Student Education Plan (SEP), schedule a meeting with a counselor.
This suggested plan assumes a student is eligible for MATH 181 and PHYS 161.
Fall Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: Placement based upon Allan Hancock College's placement policy.
Designed to help students enhance their analytical reading and writing skills using a wide variety of texts. Emphasizes college-level expository essay construction, communication, and research methods leading to the preparation and writing of a research paper.
Basic principles of algorithmic problem solving and programming using methods of top-down design, stepwise refinement and procedural abstraction. Basic control structures, data types, and input/output. Introduction to the software development process: design, implementation, testing and documentation. The syntax and semantics of a modern programming language.
The first in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include functions, limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric and transcendental functions, applications of differentiation, the definite integral, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
Intended for students pursuing majors in a STEM discipline. Introduces students to related career choices, academic planning, and college resources. Develops appropriate skills necessary for academic success in a STEM major.
Total Units:
13
Spring Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
Design, implementation, and testing of object-oriented software. Introduction to classes, objects, encapsulation, interfaces, inheritance, polymorphism, algorithms (sort, search, recursion), abstract data types (list, stacks, queues, trees), data structures, pointers, dynamic allocation, traversal using iterators, file I/O, and exceptions. Students will develop applications using class hierarchies and abstract data types.
Prerequisite: MATH 181
The second in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include methods and applications of integration, sequences and series, Taylor series, an introduction to differential equations, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
The initial semester of a three-semester course in calculus-based physics which emphasizes the origin, nature and application of fundamental concepts and principles. Required for most baccalaureate majors in the physical sciences, engineering and mathematics. Emphasizes mechanics, including measurement, linear and planar motion, statics and dynamics of particles and systems of particles, rigid, elastic and fluid systems.
Choose one of the following courses:
- ENGL 103, Critical Thinking and Composition
- PHIL 114, Critical Thinking
Total Units:
15
Summer Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
If you are planning to transfer to a CSU campus, it is recommended that you take one U.S. History course (HIST 107, 108 or 118) AND one American Institutions (POLS 101 or 103) course. If not, select one course from this list.
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
6
Fall Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
Introduction to computer architecture and assembly language programming. Topics include data representation and conversion, assembly language programming, digital design, and basic processor architecture.
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses electrostatic forces, fields and potentials, steady electric currents and circuits, magnetic forces and fields, induced electric and magnetic fields, electric and magnetic properties of continuous media, reactive circuits, and electromagnetic waves.
Choose one of the following courses:
- SPCH 101, Public Speaking
- SPCH 102, Small Group Communication
- SPCH 106, Argumentation and Debate
Select one course from this list.
If you did not satisfy this requirement with high school coursework or an external exam, complete one of the courses from this list. If you are unsure if you have met this requirement, see a counselor.
- ES 120: Chicano History
- ES 121: African American History
- HIST 120: Chicano History
- HIST 121: African American History
Total Units:
16
Spring Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite: CS 111
An introduction to the discrete structures of computing, including propositional and predicate logic, methods of proof, functions, computer arithmetic, algorithm complexity, recursion, graphs, trees, sets and relations, networks, induction, and combinatorics.
Select one course from area Area 3A: Arts or from area Area 3B: Humanities
If you are planning to transfer to a CSU campus, it is recommended that you take one U.S. History course (HIST 107, 108 or 118) AND one American Institutions (POLS 101 or 103) course. If not, select one course from this list.
Select one course from this list.
STEM Pathway Elective: Students who are planning to transfer to UC and have not satisfied the IGETC Area 6 requirement should take a course to fulfill this requirement. Students who are planning to transfer to UC and have satisfied the IGETC Area 6 requirement should take any UC transferrable course as an elective. Students who are planning to transfer to CSU should take a course to fulfill the CSUGE Area F (Ethnic Studies) requirement. Make sure you will complete 60 units total to meet graduation requirements.
Total Units:
15+
A major of 30 units is required for the degree.
Course Number | Course Title | Units |
---|---|---|
CS 111 | Fundamentals of Programming 1 | 4 |
CS 112 | Fundamentals of Programming 2 | 4 |
CS 131 | Computer Organization | 3 |
CS 161 | Discrete Structures | 3 |
MATH 181 | Calculus 1 | 4 |
MATH 182 | Calculus 2 | 4 |
PHYS 161 | Engineering Physics 1 | 4 |
PHYS 163 | Engineering Physics 3 | 4 |
General Education
Programs you may also be interested in exploring:
Contact Information
Department Chair
Dom Dal Bello
805-922-6966 ext. 3498
ddalbello@hancockcollege.edu
Administrative Assistant
Lori Coulter
805-922-6966 ext. 3498
lcoulter@hancockcollege.edu
Dean, Academic Affairs
Sean Abel
805-922-6966 ext. 3537
sean.abel@hancockcollege.edu
LOCATION
Santa Maria Campus
Bldg. M 309
805-922-6966 ext. 3201