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Why Should I Take Computer Science Courses at Edmonds College?

Because you have a driving need to create excellent computer programs. Good programmers can also make very good money. Edmonds College Computer Science courses are designed to teach both theoretical programming concepts and practical programming skills, along with the methods of programming development required by software companies. Transfer universities  and employers know that Edmonds College Computer Science courses teach what they want their employees and students to know.

Where Do I Start?

Decide on Your Goals. Do You Want To:

  • Transfer to a four-year college or university?
  • Get employed as soon as possible?
  • Get an AA, AS or ACS-DTA degree for transfer?
  • Pursue a certificate?
  • Update your skills?

Once you've decided, we can help you get into the right classes. If you are not clear on what your goals are, or need more information, feel free to talk with any Computer Science faculty member.

Which Class Should I Start With?

Programming Courses:

Please keep in mind that strong math skills are needed in most programming courses. If you have the prerequisite background skills (beginning college algebra or equivalent) and are interested in learning about computer programming or interested in satisfying the AA or AS Degree Transfer Math/Science requirements, we recommend: CS 115 - Introduction to Programming (using Visual Basic.Net).

Non-Programming Courses:

  • If you want to learn more about computer animation concepts, we recommend: CS 102 - Introduction to Computer Animation.
  • If you want to learn to install and use Linux, we recommend: CS 125 - Introduction to Linux and Unix.

What Degrees Are Offered?

Edmonds College offers multiple transfer degrees appropriate for Computer Science and Computer Engineering majors:

Speak with a Computer Science faculty member as early as possible to determine which is right for you.

What Certificates Are Offered?

The college offers three full certificates and five short, work-ready certificates of completion. See the college catalog for details on these programs.

Can I Get Free Software?

Yes! Students registered in Computer Science courses at Edmonds College are eligible to use certain software packages under the department's license agreement with Microsoft™. Please check with the department for details.

How Easy Is it to Transfer?

If a transferring student has a good GPA, especially in Computer Science and Mathematics, most Computer Science departments at universities and colleges in Washington state and beyond are very eager to accept Edmonds College graduates.

It is important to note that students need to be accepted both by the college and by the department. It is also important to speak to an advisor and to contact the transfer university and department as early as possible to find out specific university and departmental requirements. It never hurts to contact more than one university.

See University Transfer Information.

What Languages Are Offered?

The Computer Science department offers courses in C, C++, C#, Java, Android, Visual Basic and other languages as needed.

Should I Take the C++ or Java Sequence of Courses?

A series of Computer Science courses are required for transfer to a university. Which courses depand upon departmental requirements at the individual university.

Edmonds College offers a 3-quarter sequence in either Java or C++. Which sequence any particular student should take depends on the transferring institution. Most universities will accept either sequence, but it is important to check before making plans. See University Transfer Information.

If you are looking to quickly get a job programming, rather then transferring to a university, which language depends on the language your possible employer uses most.

Many students find great advantage in learning both languages. In any case, it is best to talk to a Computer Science faculty member before deciding.

Can I Take CS& 131(C/C++) and CS& 141(Java) at the Same Time?

Although it is possible, it is not recommended to take both courses at the same time, although many students eventually take both C++ and Java classes.

If you cannot decide which language to learn first, please speak with a Computer Science faculty member for advice.

What Is UNIX?

UNIX is a widely used multiplatform, multitasking, multiuser operating system. LINUX is a free, open-source version of UNIX. Many businesses, universities and individuals use UNIX as an alternative to, or sometimes in conjunction with, Microsoft Windows. Most people going into the industry find it is necessary to have knowledge of UNIX/Linux, which is why Edmonds offers multiple courses and certificates in the subject.

What Do I Do if I Still Have More Questions?

If you have general questions about registration or careers in Computer Science, contact the college advising office at 425.640.1458.

If you have specific questions about computer science courses or degree/certificate programs, contact any computer science instructor or our program assistant at cs@edmonds.edu.
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