Computer Sciences and Technology

What is the computer science and technology program?

Computer Science and Technology includes Cyber Defense and Operations educational programs, Computer and Network Support, Network and Cloud Computing, and Software Applications Development. Programs in this area support in-demand employment opportunities with continued local and national job growth—salaries for qualified computer personnel range from $35,000 to $80,000 per year.

Students interested in installing or maintaining computer hardware, software, or computer networking should pursue the Computer and Network Support program.

Students interested in installing, connecting, or maintaining computer networking or cloud computing infrastructure should pursue the Network and Cloud Computing program.

Students interested in digital forensics, vulnerability management, intrusion detection, incident response and handling, and ethical hacking and penetration testing should pursue the Cyber Defense and Operations program.

Students interested in learning desktop programming, mobile, and applications programming should pursue the Software Applications Development program.

Students interested in working with computer hardware or software should consider pursuing a Computer and Network Support Associate of Applied Science degree. Students will be prepared to earn the CompTIA A+, Network+, Certified Cisco Network Associate (CCNA),

Students interested in connecting or repairing computer networks should consider the Networking and Computer Information System program. Students will be prepared to earn the CompTIA A+, Network+, Certified Cisco Network Associate (CCNA), and basic cloud practitioner-industry certifications.

Students interested in transferring coursework in Computer Programming to a 4-year institution for a Computer Science degree should select the Associate of Science degree and, as part of the 18 additional hours of the 60-hour degree, should take any of the following: COSC 1336, COSC 1436, COSC 1337, COSC 1437, COSC 2336, COSC 2436, and COSC 2325. In addition, we offer Python, Java, and C++ desktop programming courses.

Computer Science and Technology Program Highlights Transferrable courses Courses offered online or face-to-face Internship opportunities Hands-on experience Faculty with decades experience in the industry The only program in Texas with two specialized courses in ethical hacking and penetration testing Transfer Advising Guides for all Associate of Applied Science Programs that include transfer to Texas A & M San Antonio, Our Lady of the Lake University, and Western Governor’s University Palo Alto College ranked 48 nationally in National Cyber League Power Rankings for experienced division Palo Alto College is one of 13 official Microsoft Datacenter Academies in North America, helping students secure internships and employment at Microsoft.         National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

Computer Science and Technology Career Areas & Employment Positions Digital or Cyber Forensic Analysts Cybersecurity specialists Penetration Testers Network Administrators Computer Network Specialists Desktop Programmer Mobile Programmer Web Programmer Software Applications Developer Computer Technician Computer Support Specialist IT Specialist