Computer Programming Degree

The computer programming degree program at Santa Monica College prepares students to learn software installation, maintenance, and methods and procedures of software design and programming by focusing on the general writing and implementation of computerized programs of operating systems. Students who graduate from the computer programming degree program may pursue careers in IT technology, web development, database design, and more. Courses in the program include software design, program customization and linking, prototype testing, and troubleshooting. Get more details below including other California colleges that offer computer programming degrees.

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Santa Monica College

500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA

Santa Monica College (SMC) is a leading two-year community college located in Santa Monica, California.  SMC has an award-winning faculty and ranks number one in California for community colleges that successfully transfer students to the University of California, University of Southern California or other four-year institutions. SMC also has a large international student population as compared to other community colleges.

SMC ranks high in its career preparation and certification programs in nursing, solar technology, new media, computer technology, early childhood education, business, graphic design and many other occupations.

The 38-acre main campus of SMC has state-of-the-art facilities and several highlights such as the John Drescher Planetarium, the Broad Stage for performing arts, and the Academy of Entertainment & Technology.  The award-winning public radio station, KCRW (89.9 FM) is also part of SMC's main campus.

History

Santa Monica College was established in 1929 with just over 150 students.

Academics

Santa Monica College offers the Associate in Arts Degree, as well as Certificates of Achievement in several departments, which can be completed online.  There are also "pre-professional" courses at SMC that students may take for certain careers that may require further specialized study. The Pre-Professional programs include such careers as Pre-Chiropractic, Pre-Dental/Dental Hygiene, Pre-Law, Pre-Medical, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Veterinary and Teacher Preparation.

Students hoping to transfer to a four-year institution can follow the Transfer programs offered at SMC.

SMCOnline offers education in many disciplines on the Internet for students who are working or otherwise cannot study on campus.  There is 24/7 technical support available for online students.

Colleges and Schools

Santa Monica College offers degree and certificate programs in many of its different departments, which are:

• Art
• Business
• Chemistry 
• Communication
• Computer Science and Information Systems
• Cosmetology
• Counseling
• Dance
• Design Technology
• AET
• Graphic Design
• Interior Architectural Design
• Earth Science
• Education/ECE
• Engineering
• ESL
• English
• Fashion Design and Merchandising
• Health Sciences
• Nursing
• Respiratory Therapy 
• History
• Kinesiology and Athletics
• Life Sciences
• Mathematics
• Modern Languages
• Music
• Photography
• Physical Sciences
• Physics
• Psychology
• Philosophy and Social Sciences
• Theatre Arts

Student Life

There are many cultural and recreational activities offered at Santa Monica College including athletics, concerts, plays, art exhibits and lectures.

Student activities and clubs are offered through the Associated Students.  There are many student resources on campus including computer labs, counseling, the Health Services Center, Child Care Services, Student Employment, and many others.

Athletics

The Santa Monica "Corsairs" teams compete in 16 different sports throughout the year.  The sports that Santa Monica teams compete in are:

Men's Sports:

• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Football
• Swimming
• Track & Field
• Volleyball
• Water Polo

Women's Sports:

• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Soccer
• Softball
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Volleyball
• Water Polo

Satellite Campuses

Santa Monica College has several satellite campuses near its main campus, including classes offered in community facilities in downtown Santa Monica.

Community Life

Santa Monica College offers its Emeritus College classes to seniors and Continuing and Community Education Programs to all community members.

The Corsair is a student-run newspaper that is supervised by faculty and open to all registered students.

Students Enrolled in the Computer Programming Program

Get more details below regarding enrollment, academics, and school demographics. Santa Monica College has offered the following program levels for students:

• Less Than One Year Certificate
• Less Than Two-Year Award
• Associate's Degree

Students by Academic Level (2019)

Students by Gender (2019)

Students by Race (2019)

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

Career Options for Graduates

Computer Programmers

Description

Create, modify, and test the code, forms, and script that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software developers or other individuals. May assist software developers by analyzing user needs and designing software solutions. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.

Software Developers, Applications

Description

Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions. Design software or customize software for client use with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency. May analyze and design databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. May supervise computer programmers.

Software Developers, Systems Software

Description

Research, design, develop, and test operating systems-level software, compilers, and network distribution software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific, and general computing applications. Set operational specifications and formulate and analyze software requirements. May design embedded systems software. Apply principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis.

Web Developers

Description

Design, create, and modify Web sites. Analyze user needs to implement Web site content, graphics, performance, and capacity. May integrate Web sites with other computer applications. May convert written, graphic, audio, and video components to compatible Web formats by using software designed to facilitate the creation of Web and multimedia content.

Source: Job descriptions, estimated salary and wages, and projected job growth are taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).