Welcome
Just the facts
Entry: Fall or Spring
Length: 4 Semesters
Award: Associate of Arts
Admission Requirements
Admission to the college is granted to all individuals who are high school graduates or the equivalent; however some programs may require additional information for acceptance. We encourage you to review our Getting Started Checklist for specific requirements for admission.
Additional Requirements
The Computer Programmer's Aptitude Test (CPAT) indicates a student's probability of success in a computer related field. It is a timed test which includes pattern and sequence recognition, and basic math skills. This test is required for entrance into any of the Computer Studies department's two year programs at Iowa Western Community College. Total test time is one hour and the test is free to students.
For more information, visit the testing website.
Description
If you are logical and detail-oriented, you might enjoy a career as a Software Programmer. You may want to consider majoring in Iowa Western’s Computer Science - Software Programming program. The Computer Science program of study with software programming emphasis prepares students for transfer to four-year colleges and universities to complete undergraduate degrees in computer science, management information systems, and related fields. Students acquire credit in a broad base of general education courses and have the opportunity to obtain knowledge in web development and programming languages.
Graduates of this program are awarded an Associate of Arts degree. Associate of Arts degree requirements may be found in the IWCC catalog.
Program Highlights
As a Software Programmer student you will learn:
- Computer Operation Systems
- Computer Networking
- Database Applications
- Network Administration
Iowa Western Community College offers an environment which promotes hands-on learning with small class sizes. An open computer laboratory is available and furnished with current computing equipment.
Internships, which help improve your educational experience and knowledge, are available for qualified students.
Course Sequence
For recommended course sequence, please refer to the program guide.
Career Information
This degree is intended to prepare students to transfer to a four-year, degree-granting institution. Programming and Web design skills obtained will aid in job placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of degree will I earn at Iowa Western if I enroll in this program?
Graduates of this program earn an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree.
What is the job outlook for Computer Science Software Programming graduates?
The demand for qualified workers is above average. Although this degree gives the students the option of continuing their studies at a four-year institution.
Do I need any special equipment for the program?
Computer labs are available at IWCC. In some instances, it may be more convenient for students to have their own computer but it is not required.
The Facility
Classrooms at Iowa Western have the latest technologies for faculty to deliver quality instruction. Iowa Western's spacious classroom and laboratory facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
Our wireless network also allows students to access the internet from virtually anywhere on campus.
Scholarships
Iowa Western Community College has many scholarship opportunities available for new and continuing students. We encourage you to take a moment to explore these options by visiting our Scholarship Page - the few minutes it takes to fill out the application may literally pay off.
There are four scholarships offered by Computer Studies department:
Name |
High School GPA |
$ Award per Semester |
|---|---|---|
Dennis E. Kirlin Gold |
3.00 |
$1,000 |
William R. Fleming Silver |
2.75 |
$750 |
Lowell E. Socolofsky Bronze |
2.50 |
$500 |
Computer Studies Scholarship |
2.00 |
$250 |
Applicants may apply using the IWCC scholarship application.
The scholarships will be awarded to students who will be full time for four semesters in one of the Computer Studies department's two year programs at IWCC.
Come See for Yourself
It is important to research the program you would like to study and school you would like to attend, but it is equally important that you experience both before making your selection. So, we encourage you to come experience the our program at Iowa Western yourself by scheduling a visit or attending a program day. You will see for yourself what the students, the faculty, and the program are all about.
Testimonials
"The great part of Iowa Western's College is the great amount of interactivity that the students get from the teachers because it is a smaller college. Extra help is always available and it really helps bring out the experience some more and make the students learning at the college an easy one. One of Iowa Western's strong points is its technical programs offering state-of-the-art facilities and technology, as well as offering hands-on experience." Christopher Pike, 2005
"I just want to thank each and everyone of you for helping me to achieve my dreams. Where I am at currently, is using every part of my education in some way, and looking back at all of the classes the Computer Studies department, and Iowa Western Community College, without the knowledge, and experience of all of you, I can honestly say, I don't think I would be as well off today as I am.
Thanks a Million!!" Tim Milan, 2005
Return to the Iowa Western Community College / Academic Program Page
Program Chair
William Barrett
800-432-5852, ext. 3271
Admissions Office
800-432-5852, ext. 3277