2013 www.ocwib.org Orange County Workforce Investment Board Workforce Innovation Fund Information Technology Education Scan Prepared for the Orange County Workforce Investment Board by Orange County Business Council This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the grantee and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Table of Contents Orange County Education Scan... 3 Importance of Business Skills... 3 Addressing IT Industry Trends... 4 Outdated Programs... 4 Additional Information... 4 Community Colleges... 6 Rancho Santiago Community College District... 6 South Orange County Community College District... 13 North Orange County Community College District... 22 Coast Community College District... 33 Universities... 45 California State University Fullerton... 45 Chapman University... 47 University of California Irvine (UCI)/ UCI Extension Program... 49 Brandman University... 57 Business IT Programs in Orange County Universities... 61 Private Education Institutions & Organizations... 66 Appendix Orange County s Prominent IT Companies Internship Programs... 82 Alumni Networks and Internship Resources in Orange County... 88 Case Studies... 91 Orange County Education Scan Page 2
Orange County Education Scan Based on the education scan, the following findings are of paramount interest: Business skills are not adequately addressed in IT and IT-related programs Curricula and programs offered are not in-line with IT industry trends Several outdated or irrelevant programs do not fit current business needs Acquiring a solid understanding of the current Information Technology programs offered throughout Orange County s post-secondary education institutions is a necessary preliminary step towards understanding the gaps that exist between skills taught and skills demanded by the County s businesses. The education scan serves as the first step in ensuring that outdated or irrelevant education programs and curricula are amended to fit the needs of the rapidly evolving IT sector. This report provides a thorough and comprehensive overview that examines all IT and IT-related programs within Orange County s community colleges, four-year universities, and other private institutions in order to identify current strengths and weaknesses within the education system that must be addressed to ensure future relevancy of the County s educational programs. The conclusion of this report will present a thorough analysis of the findings, followed by additional information on IT and IT-related programs at each of Orange County s prominent education institutions. Importance of Business Skills As the IT industry evolves, business-oriented soft skills for IT are one of the most sought after qualities in prospective technical employees. However, there are few business programs within Orange County s education institutions that incorporate IT and IT-related courses into their collections of coursework. Similarly, IT and IT-related education programs fail to adequately intertwine business strategy and communication skills into technical curricula. This is a significant deficiency within the education system in light of how business stakeholders have identified business-related skills such as project management, business process, communication, and problem solving as a top priority when scanning for potential hires. As the IT sector continues to become a part of almost every major industry within the County, ranging from culinary to energy sectors, it is becoming increasingly important for IT employees to be able to communicate effectively with non-technical colleagues, think strategically as an operative unit within a larger organization, and develop a sound business skillset for more effective implementation of technical practices. Education institutions need to address this deficiency by providing business programs built around IT concentrations in addition to IT programs that draw heavily from business skills. Orange County Education Scan Page 3
Addressing IT Industry Trends Business stakeholders have identified IT skill areas including IT Security, Business and Web Intelligence, Data Mining and Predictive Analytics, Healthcare IT, and Mobile Applications and Development as growing and indemand skills within the IT industry. Currently, there are several programs and curricula within education institutions that are not aligned with current IT industry trends. Business stakeholders have identified many up-and-coming IT skill areas with growing demand, including (but not limited to) IT Security, Business and Web Intelligence, Data Mining and Predictive Analytics, Healthcare IT, and Mobile Applications and Development. Currently many education institutions have not shifted focus to emphasize these areas in terms of courses and degrees offered. Select institutions that offer specialized vendor certifications have adapted well to offering coursework for in-demand IT skills. However, it should be noted that many community colleges and four-year universities face significant hurdles relative to private institutions when it comes to amending programs and curricula. It is important for Orange County s education institutions to implement mechanisms that allow more flexibility in amending curricula in a timely fashion. Doing so enables Orange County to more fluidly adjust to emerging labor market trends and prepare students for cutting-edge job opportunities. Outdated Programs There are several programs identified as far less demanded or irrelevant by the business community, such as web design and graphic design that still remain an often-highlighted degree option by post-secondary institutions. The demand for graduates in these programs is not adequately reflected in the labor market, and it is misleading to students expecting specialized career preparation. Education institutions need to ensure that these programs are made more marketable and attractive to prospective employers through improved relevancy. This can be achieved by making the programs more comprehensive to include generalized business and other useful skill sets, or by offering it as a concentration within a degree program. Due to the fast-paced nature of the IT industry, obsolete programs should be quickly addressed or removed when employer interests do not align with these job-specific program outcomes. Additional Information Despite the existing drawbacks within the education system addressed above, there are several noteworthy positives that should be highlighted. Several Orange County educational institutions are making exceptional efforts to remain relevant and valuable from the perspective of the County s IT businesses. These institutions are able to achieve this by forming solid partnerships with local corporations and ensuring that the latest materials direct from vendors, typically in the form of a certificate program, is available for students to stay competitive as expectations evolve. There are several programs within these organizations where top-level business executives teach courses and/or guest lecture, so that students are able to attain an insider perspective of applying business sensibilities to technological expertise. This valuable opportunity allows students to preview potential companies and meet active executives from IT companies offering career guidance and insight into the field s day-to-day expectations. Orange County Education Scan Page 4
Overall, Orange County s education institutions first must overcome existing barriers preventing students from gaining job-relevant skills, then address gaps and institutional barriers within the education system to ensure proper program creation and adjustment in the future. Addressing these gaps now will ensure sustainable relevance of programs and curricula in the future. The remaining sections of this report provide overviews of the various IT programs available in Orange County s education institutions, including program descriptions and key courses required. Each institution s section is organized within community colleges, universities or private education institutions, highlighting current programs offered. More detailed, comprehensive information on each is described in the IT Environmental Scan report. Orange County Education Scan Page 5
Community Colleges Rancho Santiago Community College District Fast Facts: Rancho Santiago Community College District There are two community colleges within the district: Santa Ana College and Santiago Canyon College Thirty-Five IT and IT-related programs are offered between the two colleges 11 percent of IT programs offered are business-oriented Santa Ana College offers one healthcare IT-oriented program, while Santiago College offers none Community Colleges Page 6
Santa Ana College Accounting Computerized Accounting/Bookkeeping QuickBooks Option (Certificate) Program enables students to maintain accounting records, develop financial reports and make effective use of financial information for analysis and decision-making. Entry-level employment opportunities include positions in accounts receivable/payable, payroll, income tax preparation, cost accounting, and a number of trainee positions. (14.5 Units) Key Courses: Accounting Quickbooks, Financial Accounting, Introduction to Information Systems and Applications, Business Communications, Business Applications Microsoft Excel, Computerized Accounting/Bookkeeping MAS Option (Certificate) Program enables students to maintain accounting records, develop financial reports and make effective use of financial information for analysis and decision-making. Entry-level employment opportunities include positions in accounts receivable/payable, payroll, income tax preparation, cost accounting, and a number of trainee positions. (15.5 Units) Key Courses: Computerized Accounting with MAS 1 & 2, Financial Accounting, Introduction to Information Systems and Applications, Business Communications, Business Applications Microsoft Excel Microsoft Dynamics for Financial Accounting (Certificate) Program enables students to maintain accounting records, develop financial reports and make effective use of financial information for analysis and decision-making. (15 Units) Key Courses: Financial Accounting, Microsoft Dynamics for Financial Accounting, Introduction to Information Systems and Applications Microsoft Dynamics for Project Management and Business Planning (Certificate) Program enables students to maintain accounting records, develop financial reports and make effective use of financial information for analysis and decision-making. (15 Units) Key Courses: Managerial Accounting, Microsoft Dynamics for Managerial Accounting, Microsoft Dynamics for Business Planning Art Art-Graphics Design (Associate) Program prepares students for entry into the broad field of visual communication, with an emphasis on the development of problem solving in the practical application of graphic design. Applications include design for print media, advertising, architectural and environmental graphics, packaging, logs, corporate identity, etc. (33 Units) Key Courses: Two-Dimensional Design, Three-Dimensional Design, Fundamentals of Typography, Advanced Typography, Graphic Design I, Digital Media: Portfolio and Business Strategies 3-D Modeling and Animation (Certificate) Santa Ana College Page 7
Program prepares students for entry-level positions in film, broadcast television, publishing and video game companies, as well as product, industrial and architectural design. (31 Units) Key Courses: Two-Dimensional Design, Digital Design with Photoshop, 3-D Commercial Applications, 3-D Modeling, Introduction to Digital Media Arts 3-D Animation Television/Video Communications; Video Game & Interactive Media Art; Previsualization Emphasis (Certificate) Program prepares students for entry-level positions in film, broadcast television, publishing and video game companies, as well as product, industrial and architectural design. (25.5-31 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Digital Media Arts, Web Design with Flash, 3-D Commercial Applications, 3-D Animation Business Administration Business Applications and Technology (Associate/Certificate) Program prepares students for employment as administrative assistants, secretaries and office support staff in a variety of business offices, including legal and international. (17 Units) Key Courses: Business Writing Skills, Office Procedures, Computer Fundamentals, Introduction to Microsoft Office Microsoft Office Professional (Certificate) Program prepares students for employment as administrative assistants, secretaries and office support staff in a variety of business offices, including legal and international. (19 Units) Key Courses: Advanced Windows, Advanced Microsoft Office, Real World Microsoft Projects, PowerPoint/Excel/Word/Access, Microsoft Outlook, Computer Keyboarding Computer Science Computer Information Systems (Associate/Certificate) Program provides students with fundamental skills such as the ability to write programs in Visual BASIC C++ or Java, experience with microcomputer data processing applications such as Excel or Access, and abilities needed to structure data for the computer. (27 Units) Key Courses: Visual BASIC Programming, Introduction to Networking Technology, Advanced Visual BASIC, The Computer and Society, Windows Visa Operating System Database (Certificate, 15 Units) Key Courses: Visual BASIC Programming, Microsoft Access, Structured Query Language Enterprise Systems (Certificate, 12 Units) Key Courses: Microsoft Exchange Server, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Internet Information Server Santa Ana College Page 8
Help Desk (Certificate, 14.5 17.5 Units) Key Courses: The Computer & Society, Cooperative Work Experience Education, MCDST Preparation, Help Desk Skills Networking (Certificate, 12 Units) Key Courses: Building a Small Office/ Home Office Network, Configuration and Application of LAN, Intro to Networking Technology Maintenance and Troubleshooting (Certificate, 16.5 Units) Key Courses: Software Deployment Mechanisms, Personal Computer Troubleshooting, Intro to Networking Technology UNIX (Certificate, 12 Units) Key Courses: Perl Programming & CGI, Unix Operating System, Advanced UNIC, UNIX System Programming Web Programming (Certificate, 15 Units) Key Courses: Visual BASIC Programming, Advanced Visual BASIC, Visual BASIC for Web Development, Java Programming, XML Programming Computer Science (Associate) Program prepares student for entry-level employment in computer science, engineering and other areas where high aptitude in computer programming is recognized. (25 Units) Key Courses: Data Structures Concepts, Programming Concepts, Introduction to Computer Organization, C# Programming Programming (Certificate, 12 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Programming, Programming Concepts, Data Structures Concepts, Java Programming Engineering Engineering Civil Technology (Associate/Certificate) Program provides a background for employment in a civil engineering office, or for field work support, under the direction of a professional engineer or licensed surveyor. (29-30 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Architecture, Plane Surveying, Civil CAD Concepts, Auto CAD I/II, Engineering Drawing Engineering Computer Aided Drafting and Design (Associate/Certificate) Program aimed to be comprehensive in computer aided parametric 2D and 3D drafting and design. Class applications include mechanical, electronic, civil, surveying, architecture, and other major engineering disciplines. (24.5 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Windows, AutoCAD I/II/III, Engineering Drawing, AutoCAD 3-D Drawing, Introduction to Architecture/ Civil Engineering/ Construction Santa Ana College Page 9
Engineering Industrial Technology (Associate/Certificate) Program designed to train students for employment as mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing technicians/supervisors. Opportunities are primarily in private manufacturing industries in areas such as production planning, quality control, inspection and testing, and production supervision. (27 Units) Key Courses: CATIA Solid Modeling I, ProEngineer Solid Modeling I, Introduction to Robotics, Machine Technology Survey, Basic Metals Technology Mechanical 3D Solid Modeling CAD (Associate/Certificate) Program focuses on developing competency in parametric solid modeling CAD software that is used in mechanical, aerospace, industrial, and biomedical engineering fields. (18 Units) Key Courses: Solidworks Basic Solid Modeling, Solidworks Intermediate Solid Modeling, Solidworks Drawings, CATIA Solid Modeling Manufacturing Technology (Associate/Certificate) Program has the following specializations and options: Conventional Machining, CNC Programmer A, CNC Machine Set Up and Operation, and CAD/CAM. (15 Units) Key Courses: Basic Blueprint Reading, Technical Mathematics, Basic Machining Concepts, CNC Program Writing, Geometric Dimensioning Music Digital Music Production (Certificate) Program intended for students with an interest in creating musical products with the aid of computer technology. (17 Units) Key Courses: Creating Music with MIDI, Intermediate Techniques of MIDI Sequencing, Projects in Electronic Music, Business of Music Healthcare Pharmacy Technology (Associate/Certificate) Program designed to prepare students for employment as pharmacy technicians, assisting pharmacists by performing the technical tasks related to the packaging and distribution of medication including prescriptions. (26 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Pharmacy Technology, Body Systems I/II, Pharmacy Technology Skills Lab, Pharmacy Technology Externship Santa Ana College Page 10
Santiago Canyon College Accounting Computerized Accounting (Certificate) Program prepares students for entry-level positions and promotional opportunities in accounting and administrative departments of businesses in public and private sectors. (12 Units) Key Courses: QuickBooks, Financial Accounting, Computer Information Systems Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access Art Graphic Design (Associate) Program prepares students for entry into the broad field of visual communication, with an emphasis on the development of problem solving in the practical application of graphic design. (33 Units) Key Courses: Two-Dimensional Design, Three-Dimensional Design, Fundamentals of Typography, Graphic Design I, Illustration for Graphic Design Digital Media (Certificate) Program offers two certificates: Web Design and Graphic Design. Program designed to develop skills and creativity in the areas of digital imaging, electronic page layout, graphic principles of web design, and interactive design for multimedia. (21 Units) Key Courses: Two-Dimensional Design, Fundamentals of Typography, Graphic Design I, Introduction to Digital Media Arts Computer Science/Computer Information Systems Computer Information Systems (Associate/Certificate) Program designed for students interested in the application of computer hardware and software to business. CIS courses prepare students for entry-level positions in programming, networking, or computer support. (22-23 Units) Key Courses: Financial Accounting, Introduction to Information Systems and Applications, Computer Information Systems Microsoft Excel, Computer Science JAVA, Programming, Visual BASIC Web Page Designer (Certificate, 12 Units) Key Courses: Adobe Photoshop, Web Site Development, HTML, JavaScript Computer Science, (Associate/Certificate) Program s courses provide instruction in low-level and high-level languages, intermediate and advanced techniques in programming, and hardware organization. (25-26 Units) Santiago Canyon College Page 11
Key Courses: The Computer and Society, Introduction to Computer Organization, Introduction to Programming, Data Structures Concepts, Programming Concepts Applied Robotics and Embedded Programming (Certificate) The program prepares students for careers as robotics technicians, engineering technicians, and junior programmers. (15 Units) Key Courses: Java Programming, Introduction to Robotics Programming, Advanced Visual Basic, C# Programming Survey/Mapping Sciences Land Surveying (Associate/Certificate) Program provides students with a background in land surveying and mapping in addition to an introduction to collection, manipulation, formatting and mapping of geospatial data. (26 Units) Key Courses: Plane Surveying, Computer Aided Drafting Fundamentals, Principles of Project Management Santiago Canyon College Page 12
South Orange County Community College District Fast Facts: South Orange County Community College District District is comprised of three Community Colleges and organizations: Saddleback College, Irvine Valley, and Advanced Technology Education Park (ATEP) There are 41 IT and IT-related programs offered between Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College 32 percent of courses offered are in the Web Design and Animation fields areas in low demand among employers South Orange County CCD Page 13
Saddleback College Accounting Computerized Accounting Specialist Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program designed for students planning to enter the accounting field with knowledge of accounting principles and practices using the double-entry accounting system, current commercial software, and the ability to analyze financial statements. (19.5 Units) Key Courses: Spreadsheets: Excel, Computerized Accounting: QuickBooks Advanced, Individual Income Tax, Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting Administration Administrative Assistant Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program designed to prepare individuals for employment in office staff positions or to enhance existing skills of office administration. (24 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computer Information Systems, Microsoft Office, Computer Operating Systems: Windows, Spreadsheets: Excel Architecture Architectural Drafting Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Two-year occupational program designed for students who wish to train for employment in architecture or field related to the construction industry. (49-52 Units) Key Courses: Computer Aided Drafting (CAD), Advanced Computer Aided Design, 3D Parametric Modeling, Introduction to Rapid-Prototyping Technology, Advanced CAD Model Making and Tooling Business Project Management Occupational Skills Award (Award) Program designed to provide students the opportunity to master necessary management concepts to successfully complete projects. Program trains students for both entry-level employment as well as advancements in current careers. (9 Units) Key Courses: Managing Projects with Microsoft Office, Business Management, Human Relations in Business Computer & Information Management Applications Developer Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to help students find entry-level employment as an application developer. (22-23.5 Units) Saddleback College Page 14
Key Courses: Business Programming Java, Web Development and DB: Intro SQL and MYSQL, Microsoft ASP.NET, Web Development - XHTML E-commerce Specialist Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to provide the skills necessary for conducting business on the web, preparing an electronic approach, and managing an e-commerce web presence. (21 Units) Key Courses: Database: Access, Web Development: XHTML, Creating Web Pages: Dreamweaver, Web 2.0 Design: Cascading Style Sheets, Web Design: Capstone Portfolio Project Network Administrator Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to prepare students for an entry-level position as an information systems network administrator. (21 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computer Information Systems, Introduction to Information Systems, Microsoft Office, Computer Operating Systems: Unix/Linux, Computer Operating Systems: Windows Software Specialist Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions as knowledge workers in the technical work environment using industry-standard software packages. (21 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computer Information Systems, Microsoft Office, Computer Operating Systems: Windows, Database: Access, Spreadsheets: Excel, Managing Projects with Microsoft Project Web Designer Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program prepares students to develop a web presence for businesses, organizations, and individuals in communication, marketing, and data management through the development of a website. (18 Units) Key Courses: Web Animation: Flash, Web Development: XHTML, Web Digital Imagery: Photoshop, Creating Web Pages: Dreamweaver, Web Design: Capstone Portfolio Project Webmaster Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to prepare students to build and administer a website, as well as set up and maintain its web server. (24.5 Units) Key Courses: Business Programming: Java, Computer Operating Systems: Unix/Linux, Networking Essentials and Technologies, Web Design: Capstone Portfolio Project, Web Development: XHTML, Microsoft ASP.NET Information Security: Security (Award) Award prepares students to acquire necessary computer information security concepts to implement various InfoSec strategies. (15 Units) Key Courses: Information Security Fundamentals, Network Defense and Countermeasures, Information Security Management, Security+, Cyber Law Saddleback College Page 15
Office & Computer Skills Occupational Skills (Award) Award introduces students to office procedures and basic skills needed for employment in today s office environment. Areas of study include: office environment, organizational structure, computer skills, business math, filing, and records management. (6 Units) Key Courses: Office Skills: Database (Access), Office Skills: Desktop Publishing (Publisher), Office Skills: Spreadsheets (Excel) Computer Maintenance Technology Certificate Program (Certificate) Program designed to help students prepare for entry-level employment as a computer technologist or computer technician in companies involved in the manufacture, installation, repair, maintenance, upgrading, or sales of personal computers and related hardware. (21-22 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computer Information Systems, Electronics for Computer Technologists, Survey of Electronics, Applied Network Technology, Computer Maintenance and Repair I Computer Science (Associate) Program is designed for transfer students who wish to achieve an Associate degree in Computer Science. (31-32 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Programming, Advanced Programming, Data Structures, Computer Organization and Assembly Language, Computer Organization and Machine Language Drafting Technology Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to provide a general background and specialized skills in public and private organizations requiring drafting skills. (36 Units) Key Courses: Engineering Graphics, Computer-Aided Drafting, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, Green and Sustainable Manufacturing Design, Mechanical Design Electronic Technology Analog and Digital Circuit Electronic Technology Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program prepares students for entry-level employment as an electronic technician in companies involved in manufacturing, testing, troubleshooting, and the repair of analog and integrated hardware. (20 Units) Key Courses: Digital Electronic Circuits, Electronic Communication Systems, D.C. and A.C. Fundamentals, Semiconductor Devices and Circuits, Digital Signal Processing and Microcontrollers Digital Electronic Technology Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program prepares students for entry-level employment as electronic technicians in companies involved in the manufacture, testing, installation, and repair of computers and related digital equipment. (22 Units) Key Courses: Computer Maintenance and Repair I/II, Digital Electronic Circuits, D.C. and A.C. Fundamentals, Semiconductor Devices and Circuits, Digital Signal Processing and Microcontrollers Saddleback College Page 16
Basic Analog and Digital Electronics Occupational Skills Award (Award) Award is designed to confirm the successful completion of the basics of analog and digital electronics, both in theory and in laboratory testing/troubleshooting. (12 Units) Key Courses: Digital Electronic Circuits, DC and AC Fundamentals, Semiconductor Devices and Circuits Graphics Computer Graphics Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to prepare students for employment in the computer graphics field. Program relies heavily on a basic understanding of graphic design and/or graphic communications principles as they relate to industry standards. (21 Units) Key Courses: Typography, Introduction to Computer Graphics, Digital Graphic Design, Digital Illustration, Digital Animation, Digital Layout and Design Illustration/ Animation Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program is designed to prepare students for careers in animation and in editorial illustration such as magazine, book illustration, medial illustration, and marine illustration of in advertising illustration. (24 Units) Key Courses: Drawing I, Graphic Rendering Techniques, Typography, Graphic Illustration, Introduction to Computer Graphics, Motion Graphics Others Health Information Technology Certificate Program (Associate & Certificate) Two-year Associate and Certificate program that prepares students for employment as a health information professional with the knowledge and skills to accurately code diagnoses and procedures for healthcare services, and to collect, maintain, and analyze clinical data in electronic health records that healthcare staff rely on to deliver quality service. (56 Units) Key Courses: Human Anatomy and Physiology, Microsoft Office, Fundamentals of Composition, Health Information Science, Information Technology/ EHR in healthcare, Quality Performance Improvement in Healthcare, Management of Resources Rapid Digital Manufacturing Certificate Program (Associate/Certificate) Program designed to address the skill-set required by technical, engineering, and management professionals working in industries where products are designed and developed, with specific emphasis on mechanical/manufacturing, art/animation, medical imagery, geographic information systems, and architecture. (27 Units) Key Courses: Computer-Aided Drafting, Introduction to Rapid-Prototyping Technology, Advanced CAD Model Making and Tooling, 3D Computer-aided Design- Solid works, Managing Projects with Microsoft Projects Saddleback College Page 17
Irvine Valley College Accounting Computerized Accounting (Certificate of Proficiency) Program designed to help students find employment positions in the accounting department of a business using QuickBooks accounting software and spreadsheet software. (6.5 Units) Key Courses: Accounting Applications: QuickBooks, Spreadsheets I, Spreadsheets II Computer Information Management Administrative Assistant (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Program designed to develop office occupation skills that can be applied in a variety of business settings. (19 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computers, Keyboarding and Word I/II/III, Spreadsheets I/II, Business Communication, Business English Computer Applications (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Program designed to develop expertise in a variety of computer applications that may be required in all business settings. (18 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Personal Computer Applications, Database, Word Processing I, Photoshop I, InDesign I Desktop Publishing (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Program designed to develop expertise in applications used in the design and layout print publications. (22.5 Units) Key Courses: Creative Suite, InDesign I/II, Graphic Design I, Typography, Publication Design and Digital Process, Business English Digital Media Technologies (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Program prepares students for entry-level positions as media specialists in advertising, website production, prepress publication, and various areas of the entertainment industry. (26 Units) Key Courses: Photoshop I/II, Illustrator I, After Effects I, Flash I, Dreamweaver I/II, Digital 2D Design and Color Theory Local Area Networks: Cisco (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Cisco Certified Network Associate is one of the most highly-demanded certifications in networking. Cisco has designed a four-semester program which leads to this certification. (23 Units) Key Courses: A+ Hardware Concepts, Networking I/II, Internetworking Technologies I IV Web Authoring (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Irvine Valley College Page 18
Program is designed to prepare students for employment in California s rapidly expanding web authoring industry. (21 Units) Key Courses: Creative Suite, Creating a Web Page I Using XHTML, Dreamweaver I/II, Cascading Style Sheets, Graphic Design I 2D Animation (Certificate of Proficiency) Program intended to prepare students for entry-level positions dealing with 2D animation. Certificate focuses on fundamental 2D animation software and basic action-scripting skills. (10.5 Units) Key Courses: Flash I, Flash II, Flash III Digital Graphic Applications (Certificate of Proficiency) Program introduces various industry standard digital graphics software with the essential creative suite of applications: Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. (11.5 Units) Key Courses: Photoshop I/II, Illustrator I, Creative Suite, InDesign I Digital Publishing (Certificate of Proficiency) Program is intended to prepare students for entry-level positions in digital publishing. (11.5 Units) Key Course: Creative Suite, InDesign I, Graphic Design I, Typography Multimedia Design (Certificate of Proficiency) Program is designed to prepare students for the fundamentals of multimedia design, including video production and animation. (16 Units) Key Courses: After Effects I, Digital Sound and Video, Digital Video Production, Motion Graphics Animation, 3D Animation Spreadsheets (Certificate of Proficiency) Program designed to develop spreadsheet and accounting skills that can be applied in a variety of business settings. (9-10 Units) Key Courses: Spreadsheets I/II/III, Financial Accounting, Accounting Applications: QuickBooks, General Accounting Web Page Authoring (Certificate of Proficiency) Program designed to prepare students for entry-level web authoring positions. Certificate focuses on fundamental web development software and effective web layout skills. (11 Units) Key Courses: Creative Suite, Creating a Web Page I Using XHTML, Dreamweaver I/II, Visual Design for the Web Computer Science Computer Languages (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Irvine Valley College Page 19
Program designed to develop computer programming skills in preparation for professional careers and/or transfer to a four-year college. (21 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computer Systems, Computer Discrete Mathematics I/II, Introduction to Programming Using Python Design Design Model Making and Rapid Prototyping (Certificate of Achievement) Program is designed to prepare students with the skills necessary for product design with both traditional and emerging technologies. (24.5 Units) Key Courses: Rapid Visualization, Basic Model Making, Advanced Model Making I/II, 3D Computer Design, 3D Rapid Model Making and Prototype Development I/II, Modeling and Prototypic Methods and Materials Drafting Technology & Engineering Computer-Aided Design (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Program introduces students to mechanical, civil, electrical and architectural modeling techniques that conform to U.S. and international industry standards. (22 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computer-Aided Drafting, Engineering Drawing and Design, Introduction to Architectural Drafting, Introduction to Engineering and Technology, Engineering Graphics and Descriptive Geometry Civil Computer-Aided Design (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Program designed to provide students with a basic understanding of the terminology, methods, and analytical techniques required to accurately model the terrain, civil structures, and site plans used in land development. (11 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Engineering and Technology, Engineering Graphics and Descriptive Geometry, Physical Geography Electronic Technology (Associate/Certificate of Achievement) Program equips students for entry into the electronics industry in areas such as testing, quality assurance, customer support, production support, equipment maintenance and technical sales. (26 Units) Key Courses: Digital Electronic Circuits, Basic Electrical Circuits I/II, Industrial Electronics, Introduction to Microprocessors, Electronic Devices and Circuits I/II Electrician Trainee (Certificate of Proficiency) Program designed to enable students to obtain necessary entry-level skills to become employable in the electrician profession. (17 Units) Key Courses: Basic Electric Circuits I/II, OSHA 10, Residential Wiring, Commercial and Industrial Wiring Irvine Valley College Page 20
Advanced Technology and Education Park (ATEP) ATEP offers technology education, manufacturing training, organizational development and consulting services that contribute to continuous workforce development, technology deployment and business development. ATEP can custom design training programs to address specific organizational needs. ATEP Technology Training Courses Include: CNC Machining Digital Manufacturing Tooling and Manufacturing Methods Subtractive Prototype E-leaning Modules Electronics Electro-pneumatics Air Logic Systems Design and Troubleshooting PLC Control Systems PLC Programming and Troubleshooting Air/Fluid Control Systems Electro-optical Systems and LabVIEW LabVIEW Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Applications Solid Works, Product Design, Engineering Theory, Practical Applications, and Rapid Prototyping AutoCAD, Architectural Design, Engineering Theory and Rapid Prototyping Illustrator Master CAM, Product Design, Engineering Theory, Practical Applications, Machine Technology and Rapid Prototyping Catia, Product Design, Product Development/Improvement and Engineering Theory. Optics, Refraction of Light, Lens Design, Lens Quality, and Related Products and Applications. Photonics, Technical Applications of Light (Includes the generation, emission, transmission, modulation, signal processing, switching, amplification, detections and sensing of light) Fiber Optics Lasers Quality Systems, Six Sigma, ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 Theory and Implementation. SPC Data Collection Methods. Inspection Methods and Techniques, Beginning to Advanced Levels Relating to Manufactured Parts, Electronic Devices, Optics, Photonics and Lasers. Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance (GDT), ASME Y14.5 Standards (Facilitated in Spanish as well as English) Lean Manufacturing, Identifying and Eliminating the Common Forms of Waste. Kan Ban Design and Implementation. Measuring Success by Performance Matrix. ATEP Page 21
North Orange County Community College District Fast Facts: North Orange County Community College District There are two community colleges within the district: Fullerton College and Cypress College 52 IT and IT-related courses are available between the two colleges There is one business-oriented course offered, and several programs available for developing business and office skills North Orange County CCD Page 22
Business and Computer Information Systems Business & Technology Skills (Certificate) Fullerton College Program prepares students with key business skills alongside introductory technical skills in either personal computers OR information systems. (38-41 units) Key Courses: Introduction to Personal Computers, Introduction to Information Systems, Keyboarding Computer Information Systems (A.S. Certificate) Program prepares students for employment with organizations that use computers to process, manage, and communicate information. The curriculum is customized to meet community information systems needs and give the student a comprehensive introduction to all specialty areas included in the CIS field. (28-33 core units) Key Courses: Introduction to Operating Systems, Introduction to Networking Concepts, Visual Basic Programming I, Spreadsheet I or II, Database I or II, Web Page Design II or III, Programming in C++, Java Programming I or II Computer Software Applications Specialist (Certificate) Program provides students with an introduction to basic computer software including spreadsheet, word processing, database and internet applications. Additional emphasis is placed on applications for online marketing, graphic design and spreadsheet programming. (36-37 units) Key Courses: Web Page Design I and II, Spreadsheet I, Personal Computer Security, Word Processing I and II, Database I and II, Dreamweaver I, Macro Programming Database Applications (Certificate) Program prepares students for a career using database application software. This brief program includes courses in database applications and visual programming. (8 units) Key Courses: Database I and II, Visual Basic Programming, Office Certification Preparation E-Commerce Programming (Certificate) Program provides students with core web design and networking concept skills. Students will also obtain skills in operating systems and visual, web, PHP and MySQL programming. (15-16 units) Key Courses: Web Page Design II, Introduction to Networking Concepts, JavaScript programming, Web Server Programming, PHP and MySQL Programming Enterprise Database (Certificate) Prepares students for a career using enterprise database software. Upon completion, students will have the skills to develop databases, implement the design in various databases, and manage a corporate database. (10 units) Key Courses: Database I and II, SQL Server Administration, Introduction to Oracle: SQL and PL/SQL Fullerton College Page 23
Internet (Certificate) Certificate provides students with basic internet skills including web page design, internet marketing and internet research skills. (15 units) Key Courses: Web Page Design I and II, Introduction to Operating Systems, Internet Entertainment, Business Web Graphics Networking (Certificate) Prepares student for a career using computer networks in business. Student will obtain skills in installing and managing windows networks. (15 units) Key Courses: Introduction to Networking Concepts, Network Security Fundamentals, Windows Server, Enterprise Networking PC Applications (Certificate) Provides students with an introduction into PC database, spreadsheet, and graphic presentation applications, with an overview of operating systems. Additional emphasis is placed on internet use and design, PC communication, security and programming. (16 units) Key Courses: Presentation Graphics, Spreadsheet I, Introduction to Operating Systems, Database I and II, Macro Programming, Personal Computer Security Programming (Certificate) Certificate provides students with business-applicable skills in Visual Basic programming and additional programming skills in C++, Java. Students also have the opportunity to learn CGI/Perl, robotic, XML and PHP and MySQL programming skills. (15 units) Key Courses: Basic Programming for Business, Visual Basic Programming I and III, Java Programming I, Programming in C++, XML Programming Spreadsheet Applications (Certificate) Certificate prepares students for a career using spreadsheet application software, with additional skills in macro programming. (7 units) Key Courses: Spreadsheet I and II, Macro Programming, Office Certification Preparation Web Design (Certificate) Certificate provides students with core skills in web page and graphic design, with additional skills in networking, scripting and programming. Core emphasis is also placed on project management skills. (15 units) Key Courses: Project Management, Web Page Design I and II, Dreamweaver II or III, JavaScript Webmaster, CGI/Perl Scripting Web Scripting (Certificate) Fullerton College Page 24
Prepares students for a career using various web scripting tools to create and manage databases. Students will obtain typical web scripting tools to create web pages and websites. (11 units) Key Courses: Web Page Design II or III, JavaScript Programming I or II, PHP and MySQL Programming Office Technology Administrative Office Assistant (Certificate) In addition to general office skills, students gain introductory skills in presentation graphics, spreadsheet and database software. Additional IT skill options include internet, keyboarding and Microsoft office skills. (26-27 units) Key Courses: Spreadsheet I, Word Processing I and II, Personal Computer Security, Database I, Presentation Graphics, Financial Accounting, Project Management Legal Office Administration (A.S. Certificate) In addition to basic legal knowledge and skills, students learn basic word processing, spreadsheet, internet, and database skills. (32 units) Key Courses: Word Processing I, Keyboarding, Spreadsheet I, Personal Computer Security, Civil Litigation, Business Communication Word Processing (A.S. Certificate) Provides students with skills in word processing, presentation graphics, database, web page design, and spreadsheet software. Additional emphasis is in business communication, financial and managerial skills. (35 units) Key Courses: Word Processing I or II, Database I, Keyboarding, Introduction to Operating Systems, Spreadsheet I, Webpage Design Art Computer Graphics (Certificate) Provides students with the skills necessary to create digital drawings, paintings and illustrations, assisting students with building a portfolio representative of the students artistic talents and technical proficiency. (30 units) Key Courses: Introduction: Computer Graphics/Mac, Electronic Illustration, Electronic Paint for Macintosh, Basic Drawing, Survey of Graphics Software, Desktop Publishing I or II for Mac Computer Animation/Multimedia (Certificate) Provides students with the skills necessary to create animated and/or interactive projects for distribution on a variety of media, including DVD, web pages, videotape, CD-ROM, etc. (32 units) Key Courses: Introduction: Computer Graphics/Mac, Introduction: Web Graphics/Mac, Introduction to 3D Graphics/Mac, Introduction: Dimensional Design/Mac, Survey Computer Applications, Desktop Publishing I or II for Mac Desktop Publishing (Certificate) Fullerton College Page 25
Provides students with the skills needed for digital publication design, building a portfolio representative of the students artistic talents and technical proficiency. (27 units) Key Courses: Electronic Illustration, Electronic Paint for Macintosh, Desktop Publishing I and II for Mac, Intro to Advertising and Graphic Design, Publication Design 3D Animation Certificate Level II (Certificate) Program helps prepare students for entry-level employment in the 3-D animation and modeling industry. Students will obtain basic computer graphics skills with emphasis in 3-D animation software. (15 units) Key Courses: Introduction to 3D Graphics/Mac, 3D Modeling, 3D Computer Animation for Mac Mathematics and Computer Science Computer Science (Associate) Provides students with skills in C++ programming and data structures. Students also learn advanced math and computer and programming language skills. (24 units) Key Courses: Intro to Programming Concepts in C++, Data Structures in C++, Calculus II, Discrete Mathematics, Graphic Theory and Linear Algebra, Computer Org. and Assembly Lang. Program Fullerton College Page 26
Cypress College Cisco Networking (Certificate) Provides students with the skills need to design, build and maintain small to medium-size networks. (12 Units) Key Courses: Cisco Networking 1-4 Computer Applications (A.S. Certificate) Provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge in the area of computer applications, focusing on recent developments and current discoveries in computer applications from academia and business related industries. The certificate aims to teach students to apply an understanding of computer applications to an on-the-job learning environment. (28-30 Core units) Key Courses: Introduction to Windows, Linux Operating System, Computer Information Systems, Spreadsheet (Excel), Database (Access), Information Systems Management, Data Communications, Introduction to Programming Computer Information Systems (A.S. Certificate) Provides students with a working knowledge of what is required to be successful in business computer information systems. (27 Core Units) Key Courses: Financial Accounting, Computer Information Systems, Microsoft Office Applications, Word Processing, Information System Management, Spreadsheet (Excel), Database (Access) Computer Programming (A.S. Certificate) Provides students with the skills necessary to apply problem analysis methods through digital design-oriented solutions. Student will learn to be able to code, debug, implement and maintain programs. (A.S. 18 units, Certificate 12 units) Key Courses: Introduction to Programming, Visual Basic Programming, Visual C++ Programming, Java Programming, Visual C# programming Computer Software and Application (Certificate) Provides students with the skills needed to use introductory business software applications in order to manage and format information through word processing, spreadsheets, databases, desktop publishing, or web pages. Upon completion, students can apply their software application knowledge to on-the-job learning situations. (20 units) Key Courses: Intro-Comp and Windows Concepts, Microsoft Office Applications, Business Skills Development, Word Processing, Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, MS Access and Expression Web Game Programming (Certificate) Provides students with essential programming skills required to create gaming environments and scenarios. (18 units) Key Courses: Game Concepts Development, Game Programming, Mobile Game Programming, Windows Game Programming, Game Programming in Flash, 3D Game Programming Cypress College Page 27
Computer Forensics (Certificate) Provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge required to collect digital artifacts and present them to related parties as digital evidence. Students will learn how to process cases from start to finish in addition to software toolkit usage. (18 units) Key Courses: Computer Forensics I and II, Cyber Crime, Comp Forensics Legal Aspects, Analysis or Digital Media, Computer Forensics Capstone Internet and Data Communications (Certificate) Provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge in the areas of personal computer networking, internet, and web publishing. Program focuses on recent developments and current discoveries in data communications and web technologies. (17 units) Key Courses: E-Business Applications, Microsoft Expression Web Applications, Dreamweaver Business Apps, Intro to Web Page Design, Data communications Management, Web Page Programming, Java Script Programming and AJAX PC/Networking Hardware Support (Certificate) Provides students with hands-on practice to develop competency in core hardware related to PC and network technologies. Upon completion, students will be able to recognize major personal computer components and configure the most common technical problems associated with a personal computer on both stand-alone and networking platforms. Special emphasis is focused on hands-on skills with PC hardware, software instillation and troubleshooting in a network environment. Key Courses: PC Operating System, PC Hardware Configurations, Intro to Network Hardware, Computer Desktop Support, Data Communications Management, Windows Server Administration Microsoft Networking (Certificate) Provides students with skills needed in planning, designing, implementing and managing a Microsoft network. Upon completion, students will be able to manage day-to-day general network administration, configuration and support task in Microsoft network environment. (18 units) Key Courses: Windows Client Administration, Windows Server Administration, MS Windows Active Directory, Network Infrastructure Admin., Internet Security (ISA) Server Network Virtualization (Certificate) Provides students with information on key virtualization techniques and the practical application of virtualization technology in the design, implementation, management, and evaluation of virtualized enterprise infrastructure, including the computational cloud. Program focuses on recent trends in virtualization including the current wave of virtualization technology from VMware and Microsoft. (15 units) Key Courses: Windows Server Administration, MS Windows Active Directory, Intro to Network Hardware, MS Virtualization Network, VMware Virtualization Network Web Networking Technology (Certificate) Cypress College Page 28
Prepares students with the focused knowledge and understanding of collaborative web technologies. Program focuses on use of the internet to enhance interconnectivity and interactivity of web-delivered content including the development of interactive and collaborative websites. (18 units) Key Courses: Advanced Internet Applications, Adobe PDF Document Management, Microsoft Expression Web Apps, Dreamweaver Business Apps, Intro to Web Page Design, Web Networking Technology, New Technology Web Page Design (Certificate) The program focuses on current developments in web page technologies used in academia and businesses. Upon completion, students will have the skills to design and modify web pages using current software programs or programming languages and apply their knowledge to on-the-job learning situations. (17 units) Key Courses: E-Business Applications, Adobe PDF Document Management, Microsoft Expression Web Apps, Dreamweaver Business Apps, Intro to Web Page Design, Intro to Programming, Web Page Programming, Java Script Programming and AJAX Advanced Web Page Design (Certificate) Provides students with the skills needed to implement a full-featured web site within corporate intranet, including deploying dynamic content using related tools. Program offers advanced programming technologies in the area of web publishing and web site management with e-commerce capabilities. The program is designed for occupations such as Web Programmers, Web Masters, Web Page Designers, Marketing and Advertising Coordinator and Web Technical Support. Key Courses: Intro to Webpage Design, Web Page Programming, Perl Programming, Python Programming, PHP Programming Advanced Networking (Certificate) Provides students with hands-on skills utilizing advanced networking equipment. Program focuses on advanced networking concepts such as network security, voice over IP, wireless LAN and Microsoft networking services. Key Courses: Data Communications Management, CCNA Boot camp, Cisco Wireless Networking, MS Windows Exchange Server, Internet Security (ISA) Server, Network Security, Anti-Hacking Network Security, CCNA Security Computer and Office Applications (A.A. Certificate) Provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge for computer applications used in the office setting. The program focuses on recent computer applications used in a variety of government, academia, and business-related settings. (27-30 Core units) Key Courses: Advanced MS Word Business Apps, MS Access and Expression Web, Word Processing, Information Systems Management, Computer Information Systems Office Assistant (Certificate) Prepares students for a variety of occupational office positions with a basic understanding of frequently-used computer applications. (16 units) Cypress College Page 29
Key Courses: Comp and Windows Concepts, Intro MS word/doc Formatting, Microsoft Office Applications Computer Science Computer Science Transfer Program This program targets students looking to transfer to a UC or CSU Computer Science program. Students work with advisors to take the courses needed to meet lower division major requirements for most public universities in California. Specialized courses include C++ programming, data structures and Fortran programming. Key Courses: Intro to Programming Concepts in C++, Data Structures in C++, Fortran Programming Engineering Technology Drafting Engineering Technology (A.S.) Provides students with an engineering foundation and the skills necessary to create advanced technical engineering graphics using Computer Aided Design (CAD). Key Courses: Physics, Advanced Engineering AutoCAD, Computer Aided Design, Engineering Graphics Health Information Technology (A.S. Certificate) Certificate prepares students to become health information managers, teaching how to process health information using computers and computer applications. Students also learn the legal aspects inherent in the delivery of patient care and managerial skills working as supervisors and directors of health information. (56-57 core units) Key Courses: Computer Information Systems, Health Information Science, Beginning Coding, CPT/Ambulatory Care Coding, Advanced Coding, Information Technology, Coding Skills Lab Health Information Coding (A.S. Certificate) Prepares students to assign numerical codes to diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures using the current diagnostic coding and procedure classification systems, which include ICD 9-CM, ICD-10-CM, ICD 10-PCS and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT). (52 units) Key Courses: Computer Information Systems, Health Information Science, Beginning Coding, CPT/Ambulatory Care Coding, Advanced Coding, Information Technology Media Arts Design Animation 2D Computer Graphics (Certificate) Provides student with the skills necessary for publishing animation on websites. Students learn to create digital drawings, paintings and illustrations for the purpose of creating two-dimensional animated cartoons and interactive games suitable for the internet and CD-ROMs. (15 units) Key Courses: Two-dimensional Design, Intro to Web Graphics, Digital Imaging, Adobe Flash Design Animation 3D Computer Graphics (Certificate) Cypress College Page 30
Provides students with the skills needed to create three-dimensional models and animated short films appropriate for use in movies, television, electronic gaming, and internet distribution. (21 units) Key Courses: Intro to Mac 3D Graphics, Intro to Win 3D Graphics, 3D Modeling, Intermediate Animation, Advanced Animation, Digital Video Computer Graphics (Certificate) Provides students with the skills to create material based digital drawings, paintings and illustrations. (30 units) Key Courses: Two-Dimensional Design, Intro to Computer Graphics, Intro to WEB Graphics, Electronic Illustration, Digital Imaging Digital Cinema Arts and Industry (Certificate) Provides students with a foundation in the field of time-based media creation, which includes video and audio recording for multiple-platform exhibition and distribution. Students learn operation and application of software and hardware specific to motion pictures, television, multimedia, internet and wireless media. (18 units) Key Courses: Motion Graphic I, Digital Video Production I, Animation History/Technology, Digital Video Mac, Digital Cinematography Digital Cinema Production (Certificate) Provides students with production knowledge and skills used by digital artist to perform a variety of production duties in the live-action and animation areas of motion pictures and time-based media creation. (18 units) Key Courses: Motion Graphics II, Video Production II, Introduction to 2D Animation, Preproduction for Filmmakers Digital Cinema Techniques and Technologies (Certificate) Provides students with both historical and technical knowledge of cinema skills and practices. Program focuses on development of lighting, filming, recording, editing, and directing. (14 units) Key Courses: Digital Video Production I, Music in Film, Directing Actors for Film/TV Post Production Basics for Cinema and Video (Certificate) Prepares students to use computer hardware and software to add sound and music to an existing video recording or digital film. Students will also learn to edit video and combine live action and animated content with visual effects. (12 units) Key Courses: Digital Video/Mac, Audio Production for Film I, Audio Production for Film I, Science Fiction Film Genre Electronic Publishing Design (Certificate) Provides student with the skills to create ad-design art and to generate digital camera ready page layouts. (30 units) Key Courses: Advertising/Graphics Design 1 or 2, Intro to computer Graphics, Intro to WEB Graphics, Electronic Illustration, Desktop Publishing 1-3, Digital Imaging Cypress College Page 31
Vector Illustration (Certificate) Provides students with the skills necessary to create vector-based digital drawings, paintings and illustrations. (30 units) Key Courses: Intro to computer Graphics, Illustration, Electronic Illustration, Digital Imaging, Intro to WEB Graphics Multimedia Production Basics (Certificate) Provides students with a foundation in multimedia content creation skills necessary to be a competent multimedia author for social media, business communications and entertainment industry media. (12 units) Key Courses: Multimedia Mobile Design, Digital Video Explorations, Intro to Music Technology, Music in Film Cypress College Page 32
Coast Community College District Fast Facts: Coast Community College District There are three Community Colleges in the district: Coastline College, Golden West College and Orange Coast College Orange Coast College offers the highest number of IT and IT-related courses (35) relative to all other community colleges in Orange County Orange Coast College offers 6 Healthcare IT courses the highest among all Community Colleges in Orange County There are 65 total IT and IT-related courses offered in the district Coast CCD Page 33
Coastline Community College Computer Networking Cisco Certified Network Administrator - CCNA (Certificate of Accomplishment) This is the first in a series of Cisco certifications. Program help prepare students for the CCNA Certification Exam. (12 Units) Key Courses: Cisco Fundamentals/CCNA 1, Cisco Router Configuration/CCNA 2, Cisco Switching/CCNA 3, Cisco WAN Configuration/CCNA 4 Cisco Certified Networking Professional CCNP (Certificate of Specialization) Program provides a three-semester sequence of courses that leads to an advanced Cisco certification (CCNP) that is highly regarded into the computer industry. (9 Units) Key Courses: CCNP: Implementing Cisco IP Routing, CCNP: Implementing IP Switching, CCNP: Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco IP Networks CompTIA (Certificate of Accomplishment) Program provides students with basic skills needed to provide entry level computer support. Topics provide skills necessary to prepare for CompTIA certifications. (15 Units) Key Courses: A+ Essentials Hardware, A+ Essentials Software, Network+ Introduction to Networking, CompTIA Linux, Introduction to Security Computer Networking with Concentrations in: Cisco, Microsoft, Security (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program consists of three concentrations that prepare students to become Computer Networking Specialists in Cisco, Microsoft, or Security. Courses are designed to provide students with the knowledge and experience required by Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), and Security Administrator or Consultant Certificates. (27 units) Key Courses: Cisco Router Configuration/ CCNA2, Cisco Switching/ CCNA 3, Cisco WAN Configuration/ CCNA 4, MS SQL Server, MS Server 2008 Network Infrastructure, Linux Networking and Security. Ethical Hacking Network Security (Certificate of Accomplishment) Program designed to provide students with the basic skills needed to set up a secure computer network. The courses provide an overview of the entire field of Network Security. (13.5 Units) Key Courses: Ethical Hacking, MS Server 2008: Network Infrastructure, Cisco ASA and Network Security, Intrusion Detection Systems, Firewall and Access Control Lists, Computer Forensics, Wireless Networking, Linux Networking and Security, Cisco IPS/CCSP Windows Server 2008 (Certificate of Accomplishment) Coastline Community College Page 34
MCTS Certificate of Specialization for Windows Server 2008 is designed to give students the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the functions and features of the Windows Server 2008 networking platform. (12 Units) Key Courses: Microsoft Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration, Microsoft Server 2008 Network Infrastructure, Configuring Microsoft Windows 7 Digital Media Foundation Animation and Gaming Foundations (Certificate of Accomplishment) Program consists of the foundational courses that help prepare students to become entry level animators. Program runs in partnership with ACME Animation and the Orange County Animation Project (12 Units) Key Courses: Color and Design: Two Dimensional, Intro to Information Systems, Programming with Visual Basic.Net, 3D Simulation and Multimedia Motion Graphic (Certificate of Achievement) Program prepares students for entry-level employment in print, graphic design, multimedia animation/gaming, web design, and/or other related occupations. Program emphasizes the production process, creativity, problem solving, design skills, project management, and teamwork. (30 Units) Key Courses: Color and Design: 2D, Web Design/XHTML, Adobe Photoshop 1, Introduction to Adobe Illustrator, Dreamweaver Basics, Flash Basics, After Effects, Adobe Premiere Print Design (Certificate of Achievement) Program designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in print, graphic design, multimedia, animation/gaming, wed design, and/or other related occupations. (30 Units) Key Courses: Color and Design: 2D, InDesign, Dreamweaver Basics, Flash Basics, Adobe Photoshop 1/2, Web Design/XHTML Web Design (Certificate of Achievement) Program designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in print, graphic design, multimedia, animation/gaming, wed design, and/or other related occupations. (30 Units) Key Courses: Cascading Style Sheets, Web Design/XHTM, Web Accessibility, Adobe Photoshop 1/2, Introduction to Adobe Illustrator, Dreamweaver Basics, Flash Basics Web Technologies (Certificate of Achievement) Program emphasizes creativity and a systematic approach to problem solving, project management and teamwork. Students will lean client-side analysis of what factors make up a reliable and efficient web site. (30 Units) Key Courses: Cascading Style Sheets, Web Design/XHTML, JavaScript for Non-programmers, JavaScript 2, Web Accessibility, Cold Fusion, Using SQL, PHP and MYSQL Electronics and Electric Technology Coastline Community College Page 35
Electronics (Certificate of Achievement) Program designed to provide students a solid foundation in electronics using applied theory to solve practical application problems, utilizing materials and the forces of nature for the benefit of society. (14 Units) Key Courses: D/C Circuits, A/C Circuits, Digital Circuits, Semiconductor Devices and Circuits, Analog Electric Circuit Analysis Information Technology Informatics (Certificate of Achievement/Associate) Program provides students with knowledge and skills necessary to design and implement software and information systems to help users work more effectively. Students will learn how to design, build, and analyze actual data systems that are used in numerous industries. (39 Units) Key Courses: Concepts in Programming Languages II, Informatics Core I/II/III, Fundamental Data Structures, Concepts in Programming Languages I, Software Methods and Tools, Human-Computer Interaction Mobile Applications Mobile Applications (Certificate of Accomplishment) Program emphasizes the basics of mobile application design and development using operating systems such as Apple s ios and Android OS. Program also focuses on an understanding of entrepreneurship and business operations. (12 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Mobile Applications, Mobile Application Development, WEB Design/XHTML, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Organization Process Technology Process Technology (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program designed to provide students with the basic skills needed to obtain a position as a processing technician within a variety of industrial fields. (25.5 Units) Key Courses: Safety, Health and Environment, Quality Management, Process Control I: Equipment, Process Control II: Systems, Process Control III: Operations, Instrumentation I/II, Introduction to Information Systems Process Technician Fundamentals (Certificate of Accomplishment) Program designed to provide students with the basic skills needed to obtain a position as a processing technician within a variety of industrial fields. (12 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Process Technology, Process Control I: Equipment, Process Control II: Systems, Process Control III: Operations Coastline Community College Page 36
Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Golden West College Computer Aided Design and Drafting (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs in technical drafting, mechanical drafting, or 3D design sectors. (20 Units) Key Courses: Basic Computer Aided Drafting, Basic Engineering Drafting I, Elementary Algebra, CAD Drafting Laboratory, Basic Engineering Drafting II, Advanced 3D CAD Technical Option (Certificate of Specialization) Program concentrates on basic drafting and computer practice, while providing experiences in applying technical skills to practical problems. (11.5 Units) Key Courses: Basic Computer Aided Drafting, Basic Engineering Drafting I, Elementary Algebra, CAD Drafting Technology Computer Business Applications Computer Business Applications (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program provides an introduction to computers and computer literacy as well as a working knowledge of the most frequently used computer applications used in today s businesses. (21.5-29.5 Units) Key Courses: QuickBooks Pro, Acrobat, Introduction, Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint Microsoft Office (Certificate of Specialization) Program designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite. Specialized skills include composing messages, creating spreadsheets, managing databases, and creating presentations. (14.5-22.5 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computers, Windows, Office- Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint Computer Science Software Development (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program designed to provide formal training for individuals who seek entry into the rapidly growing fields of computer software engineering, systems analysis, application development, and systems software. (20 Units) Key Courses: C++ Programming, Survey and Software Development Tools, Advanced C++ Visual Basic.NET, Visual C#.NET, Programming the Web Video Game Development (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program prepares students for challenging careers in game development, 3D graphics programming, computer animation, and other fields. (20 Units) Golden West College Page 37
Key Courses: C++ Programming, Visual C#.NET, Game Programming Introduction, Game Programming Advanced, Creating Game Artwork Digital Arts & Design Graphic Design and Production (Certificate of Achievement) Program prepares students for employment in the field of graphic design illustration. Program consists of experiences in lettering, applied design, photography, and reproduction processes. (31 Units) Key Courses: The Business of Art, Digital 2D Design, Introduction to Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Rendering I, Digital Imaging, Graphic Design Principles on the Computer Graphic Design Advanced Production (Certificate of Specialization, 17 Units) Key Courses: Graphic Design Principles, Desktop Publishing, Introduction to Page Layout & Design Adobe InDesign, Intermediate Photoshop Graphic Design Foundation (Certificate of Specialization, 17 Units) Key Courses: The Business of Art, Digital 2D Design, Introduction to Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Typography, Digital Imaging Graphic Design Web Site Design (Certificate of Specialization, 17 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Web Page Design, Web Animation/Flash, Photoshop, Advanced Web Design, Digital Imaging Digital Media Digital Media (Certificate of Achievement) Program provides formal training for individuals who seek entry into the rapidly growing field of digital media, encompassing digital video production, audio recording, and digital arts. (24 Units) Key Courses: Digital Media/Audio Introduction, Media Production, Photoshop, Audio Post Production, Video Editing and Motion Graphics Audio Recording (Certificate of Specialization) Program prepares students for a career in audio engineering. (10 Units) Key Courses: Sequencing and Production, Sound Recording I, Sound Recording II, Digital Audio Production Video Production (Certificate of Specialization) Program designed for students seeking careers as a working professional in the digital media industry, including corporate, education, internet, cable and broadcast video production. (9 Units) Key Courses: Documentary Video Production, Non-Linear Editing II, Intro to Motion Graphics Golden West College Page 38
Orange Coast College Architectural Technology Architectural Design 1 (Certificate of Achievement/Associate) Program prepares students for entry-level professional positions at architectural or related design offices. (19 Units) Key Courses: Arch Drawing/Design Visual 1, Intro to Architecture, BIM 1 for Architecture, Architectural Technology Architectural Design 2 (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program requires the successful completion of the Architectural Design 1 Certificate of Achievement. (40 Units) Key Courses: CAD 2D for Architecture, BIM 1 for Architecture, BIM 2 for Architecture, 3-D Modeling: Sketch Up 1, 3-D Modeling: Rhino or 3D Studio Max 1 Integrated Project Design (Certificate of Achievement) Program prepares students to design, develop, virtually construct and administrate multi-disciplinary projects using BIM technology. (17 Units) Key Courses: BIM 1 for Architecture, BIM 2 for Architecture, BIM Structural/MEP, BIM Project Management Computer Information Systems Business Application Development (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program designed to provide students with a good foundation in developing computer applications. Program aims to prepare students for entry-level positions in the computer and information systems industries. (33 Units) Key Courses: Intro to Computer Info Systems, Intro to C#.NET Programming, Java Programming 1, Calculus Computer Programming (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program designed to provide students with comprehensive grounding in the theory and practice of modern computer programming. (41-46 Units) Key Courses: Computer Architecture, C++ Programming 1, Java Programming I, Data Structures, Software Engineering, Theories of Computation C++ Programming (Certificate of Specialization) Program provides students with knowledge and skills necessary to write programs in C++ using classes, flow-of-control and fundamental data structure. (12 Units) Key Courses: C++ Programming 1, Data Structures, C++ Programming 2 Database Administration Professional (Oracle) (Certificate of Specialization) Orange Coast College Page 39
Program provides students with knowledge and skills necessary to design and develop a data model; create, manage, backup and recover an Oracle database; and monitor database performance using Oracle supplied administration tools and SQL. (15 Units) Key Courses: Intro to Database Concepts, Oracle Database Admin I, Oracle Database Admin II Database Developer Professional (Oracle) (Certificate of Specialization) Program enable students to acquire the skills needed to pursue a career in PL/SQL Oracle database environment. (15 Units) Key Courses: Intro to Database Concepts, Oracle SQL Programming, Oracle PL/SQL Programming Computer Information Systems (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program designed to meet major requirements for the Associate in Science degree but has not been articulated with any particular four-year institution. Program aims to prepare students for employment in entry-level positions in the computer information systems industries. (32 units) Key Courses: PASCAL Programming, Java Programming 1, Intro to VB.NET Programming, Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Business Law, Macro/Micro Economics Enterprise Routing (Certificate of Specialization, 10 Units) Key Courses: Networking Essentials (Cisco 1), Routing and Router Configurations (Cisco 2), Enterprise Router Configurations 1 Network Administration Linux (Certificate of Specialization) Students will be skilled to deploy, build, optimize, and operate a Linux environment and they will be able to make the design and technology decisions necessary to ensure successful technology implementation projects. (9 Units) Key Courses: Windows Desktop Administration, Introduction to Linux, PC Concepts: Linux/Certification Preparation Network Administration Windows (Certificate of Specialization) Program enable students to acquire the skills needed in the areas of technical operations and network management. (15 Units) Key Courses: Windows Desktop Administration, Network Directory Structure Administration, Network Infrastructure Administration Network Professional (Certificate of Specialization) Students are required to have the Information and Communications Technologies: Network Technician Certificate of Specialization to receive this certificate. (9 Units) Key Courses: Small Office/ Home Office Case Study 1, Applied Management for Public and Private Organizations, Interpersonal Communication Orange Coast College Page 40
Network Security (Certificate of Specialization, 6 Units) Key Courses: Fundamentals of Information Security, Ethical Hacking and Network Defense Network Services & Applications (Certificate of Specialization, 9 Units) Key Courses: Fundamentals of Wireless Networking, Fundamentals of Voice over IP, Home Technology Integration Network Technician (Certificate of Specialization, 8 Units) Key Courses: PC Concepts: A+ Certification Preparation, Fundamentals of Networking Virtualization & Cloud Computing (Certificate of Specialization, 12 Units) Key Courses: Information and Storage Management, Cloud Infrastructure and Services, Virtual Desktop: Installation, Configuration and Management, Virtual Infrastructure: Installation, Configuration and Management Office Applications (Certificate of Specialization) Program prepares students to apply for office personnel positions using Microsoft Office applications. (8 Units) Key Courses: Beginning Computer Keyboarding 1/2, Introduction to Computer Applications, Excel Web Design (Certificate of Specialization) Program enables students to apply for entry-level positions in web page design for commercial or personal use. (10-11 Units) Key Courses: Intro to Web Page Design, Cascading Style Sheets/Web Pages, Flash Programming, JavaScript 1/2, Business Multimedia/ Graphics Digital Media Arts and Design Digital Graphics Production (Certificate of Achievement/Associate) Program demonstrates skills in design utilizing industry standard graphics software. (19 Units) Key Courses: Introduction to Computer Graphics, Graphic Design, Illustration & Computer Graphics, Color & Design 2-D, Lettering/Digital Typography Graphics Design (Certificate of Achievement/Associate, 46 Units) Key Courses: Color & Design 2-D, Freehand Drawing, Intro to Computer Graphics, Graphic Design, Illus & Computer Graphics 1, 2-D Animation Multimedia (Certificate of Achievement/Associate) Program exposes students to a broad range of media, including art, photography, video, animation, music, text, and the techniques required to incorporate them into digital media. (44-45 Units) Orange Coast College Page 41
Key Courses: Intro to Computer Graphics, Web Design/ Artists Graph Design, 3-D Computer Graphics Animation, Motion Graphics/Video Composting, Illus & Computer Graphics Electronics Technology Electro-Mechanical Technician (Certificate of Specialization) Program aims to develop fundamental skills for electro-mechanical production technicians: mechanics, electronic assembly, and computer skills. Additionally, program prepares students to take the CompTIA A+ Computer Technician certification exam. (11 Units) Key Courses: Intro to Robotics, Intro to Computer Installation, Electronics Laboratory, Elec. Problem Solving Electronics Engineering Technician (Certificate of Achievement/ Associate) Program aims to prepare students for any electronics engineering-related field and take the CET (Certified Electronics Technician) exam. (33.5 Units) Key Courses: Electronics Laboratory, Logic, Alternating Current Circuits, Automation II Semiconductors, Motor Control Electronic Reliability Technician (Certificate of Achievement) Program prepares students for entry-level employment by developing essential skills for technicians operating in electronics, computer hardware, mechanics, robotics, or test instruments. (22 Units) Key Courses: Direct Current Circuits, Electronics Laboratory, Robotics 2, Computer Installation & Repair Manufacturing Technology CNC Machine Operator (Certificate of Achievement/Associate) Program designed to enhance the skills of students who have earned a machinist certificate by providing students with CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operating skills and manual programming skills. (32 Units) Key Courses: CNC Mach Operation 1, CNC Mach Operation 2, CNC Programming Mastercam CNC Machine Programmer (Certificate of Achievement/Associate, 35.5 Units) Key Courses: CNC Mach Operation 1, CNC Mach Operation 2, Mastercam Solids, Mastercam Lathe CNC Operator (Certificate of Specialization) Program is a Professional Upgrade Certificate designed for students who are already machinists. (9 Units) Key Courses: CNC Mach Operation 1, Intro to Numerical Control & Manual Programming, CNC Mach Operation 2 CNC Programmer (Certificate of Specialization) Program is a Professional Upgrade Certificate designed to upgrade the skills and knowledge of the machinist or the CNC machine operator to the level of the CNC machine programmer. (11.5 Units) Orange Coast College Page 42
Key Courses: CNC Prog - Mastercam 1, CNC Prog - Mastercam 2, Mastercam Lathe, Mastercam Solids Neurodiagnostic Technology Neurodiagnostic Technology (Associate) Program aims to meet the needs of the local health care community by preparing students for entry level employment as a professional in neurodiagnostic technology. (55.5 Units) Key Courses: Patient Care, Applied Pharmacology, Basic EEG, Microcomputer Applications, Polysomnography Basics, Technical Electronics NDT Upgrade (Certificate of Specialization) Program intended for advanced neurodiagnostic students or for technologists working in the field of electroneurodiagnostic technology. (6-8 Units) Key Courses: Intro to Intraoperative Monitoring, Microcomputer Applications, Polysomnography Basics, Statistics for Behavioral Sciences Polysomnographic Technology Polysomnographic Technology (Associate) Program aims to meet the needs of the local health care community by preparing students for entry level employment as professionals in polysomnograph technology. (52.5 Units) Key Courses: Medical Terminology, Applied Pharmacology, Cardiac Rhythm Analysis, Polysomnography Testing, Polysomnography Clinical 1/ Practice Neurodiagnostic Technology Option (Associate) Program option available for graduates interested in cross-training as polysomnographic technologists. (81.5 Units) Key Courses: Cardiac Rhythm Analysis, Polysomnography Testing 1, Polysomnography Practice, Pulmonary Pathology Respiratory Care Option (Associate) Program option recommended for respiratory care graduates interested in cross-training as polysomnographic technologists. (62.5 Units) Key Courses: Polysomnographic Testing 1, Polysomnographic Practice, Child Growth and Development, Advanced EEG Radiologic Technology Radiologic Technology (Diagnostic) (Associate) Program aims to provide students with necessary knowledge needed to provide ethical patient care, comfort, and safety while demonstrating the communication skills necessary to participate in the health care environment. (65 Units) Orange Coast College Page 43
Key Courses: Rad Physics and Protection, Beg Radiologic Practice, Rad Positioning/Critique 1, Clinical Lab 2, Radiographic Imaging Orange Coast College Page 44
Universities California State University Fullerton Fast Facts: California State University Fullerton CSUF offers eight IT-oriented degrees 75 percent of the programs have a graduate studies option available Three of the eight programs are exclusively available online One IT programs is in Business Administration with an emphasis in Information Systems Cal State Fullerton Page 45
Programs at California State University Fullerton Business Administration with Emphasis in Information Systems (B.A.) Program provides graduates with the managerial skills and the knowledge of the essentials of information systems to strategically manage, maintain, and analyze data and systems. Students will acquire the knowledge necessary to manage systems such as Accounting Information Systems, Marketing Information Systems, or Financial Information Systems. Computer Engineering (B.S.) Program provides students with a strong theoretical and practical background in both the hardware and the software aspects of computer-based systems, along with the engineering analysis, design, and implementation skills necessary to work between the two. Computer Science (B.S./M.S.) Program provides students with a strong knowledge of computer science fundamentals and computer systems technology; practical problem-solving skills for creating computer systems applications; and the ability and motivation to adapt as technology advances. Electrical Engineering (B.S./M.S.) Program designed to prepare students for technical careers in electricity and its application through commercial and local infrastructure. Information Systems (M.S.) Program provides the conceptual understanding and technical competence needed for careers in information systems. Students in the program can opt for concentrations in business intelligence or decision sciences Information Technology (Online Only) (M.S.) This online-exclusive program is designed to meet nine goals: the accounting and managerial aspects of managing an information technology organization, the telecommunications requirements necessary to support an organization s information technology needs, the systems development process, the data needs of an organization, programming concepts, electronic commerce and its role in business, critical thinking, research, and written communications skills. Instructional Design and Technology (Online Only) (M.S.) This online-exclusive program is designed for professionals working in the field of technology as applied to teaching in K- 12, higher education, military, or corporate settings. Software Engineering (Online Only) (M.S.) This online-exclusive program prepares students for careers as software engineers and software process managers in industry and government agencies. The program emphasizes a comprehensive process-oriented approach to software development and its curriculum is fundamentally grounded in software engineering research, theory, principles, and practice (e.g. CMMI, RUP, UML and design patterns). Students will also gain valuable experience with software engineering tools from Rational, Parasoft and open source software organizations. Cal State Fullerton Page 46
Chapman University Fast Facts: Chapman University Chapman offers six IT-oriented degrees Two out of the six programs have a graduate studies option available Two of the degrees offered are in design and animation Chapman University Page 47
Programs at Chapman University Digital Arts (B.A.) Program offers students the opportunity to develop the artistic and technical skills needed to create or enhance a story using the tools of the digital world, emphasize changing trends in increased use of computer animated characters, digital effects and compositing techniques combining motion capture, live action and animation. Graphic Design (B.A.) Program designed for students wishing to pursue graphic design in the larger context of professional applications and practices. Design studio classes are combined with courses that explore the history and theory of the discipline, as well as necessary techniques and software relevant to the field. Computer Science (B.S.) Program strives to provide a degree that teaches undergraduates to push the frontier of advancement in computer hardware and software, and apply this power of computing to other branches of scientific study. Computer Information Systems (B.S.) Program helps students develop the ability to design and manage the digital infrastructure of a business, while introducing students to the world of cloud computing, analytics, and mobile apps, thereby giving them a technical advantage in the financial sector. Computational Sciences (M.S./Ph.D.) Program adopts an interdisciplinary approach to solving critically important problems, using mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, statistics and computing. Through the modeling, simulation, data mining, and study of specific phenomena via computer analysis and engineering, students learn to apply technology and processes to answer complex questions as part of the degree. Economic Systems Design (M.S.) Program enables students to study the design, development, testing, and implementation of economic institutions and how they operate. This master s degree prepares students to undertake the scientific process of understanding and developing systems of exchange and incentives. Chapman University Page 48
University of California Irvine (UCI)/ UCI Extension Program Fast Facts: University of California Irvine UCI offers the highest number of business-oriented IT programs out of the three compared universities in Orange County 12 IT and IT-related courses are offered at UCI 50 percent of IT and IT-related courses have a graduate studies option available 15 IT programs and certificates are offered through UCI Extension System UCI Page 49
Programs at University of California Irvine Business Administration with Emphasis in Information Systems (B.A./M.B.A.) Program provides a broad learning experience in a multi-disciplinary and global context and focuses on the development of essential managerial skills, especially critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and effective communication skills. Business Administration with Emphasis in Operations and Decisions Technologies (B.A.) Program provides a broad learning experience in a multi-disciplinary and global context and focuses on the development of essential managerial skills, especially critical thinking, quantitative/qualitative analysis, and effective communication skills. Business Information Management (B.S.) Program seeks to educate students to understand and apply the concepts of a broad, integrated curriculum covering computing, informatics, business fundamentals, and analytical decision-making. Computer Game Science (B.S.) Program provides the fundamentals of information and computer science, along with course work in mathematics, statistics, physics, and film and media studies, to provide students with the concepts and tools necessary to study computer game technologies. Computer Science (B.S./M.S./Ph.D.) Program emphasizes the principles of computing that underlie the modern world, and provides a strong foundational education to prepare students for the broad spectrum of careers in computing. Computer Engineering (B.S.) Program addresses the design and analysis of digital computers, including both software and hardware. Computer Science and Engineering (B.S./M.S./Ph.D.) Program designed to provide students with the fundamentals of computer science, both hardware and software, and the application of engineering concepts, techniques and methods for both computer systems engineering and software systems design. Electrical Engineering (B.S.) Program designed to provide the fundamentals of synthesis and design that will enable graduates to begin careers in careers in electricity and pursue graduate studies. Informatics (B.S.) Program addresses the broad set of issues surrounding design, ranging from initial requirements gathering to estimating and measuring the impact of alternative solutions. UCI Page 50
Information and Computer Science (B.S./M.S./Ph.D.) Program is an individually designed degree where students must submit a proposal for a four-year plan of study along with rationale for why the proposed plan does not fit into any of the existing ICS majors. Networked Systems (M.S./Ph.D.) Program provides education and research opportunities for graduate students in the areas of computer and telecommunication networks. Software Engineering (B.S./M.S./Ph.D.) Program combines a solid foundation in computer science with knowledge of how to engineer modern software systems, and how to function within teams. UCI Page 51
Programs at UCI Extension DSP Systems Engineering Specialized Studies Program Program designed for individuals involved in the evaluation, design, or development of systems employing digital signal processing, or as an introduction to DSP technology. Key Courses: C Programming for Embedded Systems, MATLAB for Engineers, DSP Fundamentals, Modeling and Analysis, Digital Signal Processing with FPGA s, Motor Control Algorithms and Applications Linux Certificate Program Program provides detailed instructions on the installation, maintenance, and usage of Red Hat Linux. Program prepares students to set up users and user accounts, manage databases, host websites on a Linux platform, and configure a network of Linux computers and peripheral devices. Key Courses: Red Hat Linux Fundamentals, Red Hat Linux System Administration, Red Hat Linux Networking Services, Red Hat Linux Troubleshooting Embedded System Engineering Program provides students with essential knowledge of embedded systems design and programming while exploring the latest developments in embedded technologies. Key Courses: Fundamentals of Embedded Systems Design and Programming, Embedded Systems Architecture, Real- Time Embedded Systems Programming Device Software Engineering Program addresses best practices in managing the embedded software engineering process, design engineering, and hardware and software co-development. Key Courses: C Programming for Embedded Systems, Writing Portable Device Drivers, Designing Embedded Software Using Real-time Operating Systems, Fundamentals of Embedded Linux Microsoft.NET Technologies This program is designed for individuals with previous programming experience in a Microsoft language such as C# Visual Basic who are interested in applying their knowledge to the.net environment. Key Courses: Introduction to.net Architecture, Developing.NET Solutions with C#, Introduction to C# Programming using Visual Studio 2010, Data Structures and Algorithms Information Systems Security Certificate Program designed to benefit people who work on software development and information technology infrastructure teams, security technicians working with Internet service providers, application service providers, systems integrators, and security auditors. Key Courses: Introduction to Information Systems Security, Secure Systems, Security Architecture and Design UCI Extension Page 52
Web Intelligence Certificate Program designed for individuals who wish to enter the field of digital analytics, including those whose job functions include marketing, website design, corporate branding, product positioning, or other aspects of a database-driven marketing. Key Courses: Introduction to Web Analytics, Web Analytics for Site Optimization, Creating and Managing the Analytical Business Culture, Measuring Marketing Campaigns Online, Business Intelligence/Data Warehouse Mobile Application Development Certificate Program intended for students interested in design, development, or use of mobile device applications, games, or utilities. Key Courses: Introduction to Mobile Application Design and Development, Advanced Mobile Application Design and Development, Specialized Tracks: IOS, Android, Windows Phone Business Intel/Data Warehousing Program introduces students to the main components of a data warehouse for business intelligence applications. Students will learn how a data warehouse fits into the overall strategy of a complex enterprise, how to develop data models useful for business intelligence, and how to combine data from disparate sources into a single database. Key Courses: Business Intelligence/Data Warehouse, Designing Dimensional Models, Designing ETL Processes for Data Warehouses Java Programming Program designed for people who already have introductory Java programming experience. Key Courses: Introduction to Computer Programming using C++, Advanced C++ Programming and STL, Data Structures and Algorithms Oracle Applications Development Program is best suited for individuals who are looking to pursue database management technologies as they pertain to the Oracle suite of services. Key Courses: Introduction to SQL, Program with PL/SQL, SQL Turning Workshop, Designing Relational Databases Oracle Database Administration Program provides students with skills such as basic database functionality, backup, recovery, tuning and network administration. Key Courses: Program with PL/SQL, Performance Tuning, Data Warehouse Fundamentals Project Management UCI Extension Page 53
Program provides students with project management tools and techniques that are effective in initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing a project. Key Courses: Project Procurement Management, Project Risk Management, Project Monitoring and Control with Earned Value, Project Management Practicum and Project Simulation Web Design and Development Certificate Program designed to provide students with the knowledge needed to design and implement effective and dynamic websites. Key Courses: Web Development with HTML, JavaScript Programming, Internet Systems, Architecture, Website Project Management, Web Design and Development Predictive Analytics Certificate Program designed for professionals who are using or wish to use predictive analytics to optimize business performance at a variety of levels in a wide range of industries. Key Courses: Defining Business Goals for Predictive Analytics, Effective Data Preparation, Deploying and Refining Predictive Models, Business Intelligence/ Data Warehouse UCI Extension Page 54
University of California Irvine Intel Science & Technology Center for Social Computing (ISTC) Launched in June 2012, ISTC conducts research to explore the relationship between information technology and society. In the 21 st Century, with technology being defined by social media and community engagement, it is becoming increasingly important for technological advances to incorporate social and cultural attributes of the time, to individual user experience. ISTC aims to accomplish this by bringing together a group of researchers from leading universities and enabling them to identify and develop theories that will drive new scholarly research, new technology prototypes, new policy interventions, and new areas of innovation. The center, with its hub based at UC Irvine, facilitates research and collaboration at the front line of an era defined by networking, and mobile and cloud computing, while incorporating and building on the history of earlier systems of technological and social interaction. Current research themes of ISTC include: Materialities of Information: Re-thinking the nature of information as grounded in materials and physical objects Algorithmic Living: Implications of algorithms moving into social systems and daily life, invited or not Information Ecosystems: How people, values, and systems interact and conflict at different scales Subjectivities of Information: Moving beyond the user as the center of user experience and user-centered design Creativity and Collectivity: How group production and patterns of making are changing what it is to be creative UCI Extension Page 55
UC Irvine Center for Computer Games and Virtual Worlds UC Irvine s Center for Computer Games and Virtual Worlds aims to draw upon UCI s strengths spanning the social and technological aspects of the gaming and virtual worlds, by bringing together over thirty-five faculty from different fields of study, ranging across computer science, arts, humanities, social science, law, medicine and education. Launched in 2001, the Game Culture and Technology Lab has attracted over $5 million in external funding, and has enabled the launch of a new undergraduate degree in Computer Game Science. Additionally, the center provides several seminars throughout the year on gaming and external social factors that impact the gaming world. Current seminar topics include: Robotics, Computer Gaming, and Sensory Motor Restoration Owning e-sports: Proprietary Rights in Professional Computer Gaming Creating Opportunities for Computer Game R&D Projects Ethnography in Virtual Worlds By Any Media Necessary: Politics and Participation in the Transmedia Generation UCI Extension Page 56
Brandman University Fast Facts: Brandman University Brandman hosts four schools of academic programs Arts & Sciences, Business & Professional Studies, Nursing & Health, and Education 21 Brandman campus locations within California; Brandman s Irvine campus is the primary location serving Orange County Over 60 IT certificate programs offered through online and inperson study models Other related areas of study include Healthcare IT, Instructional Design, and M.A. Education Instructional Technology Brandman University Page 57
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification Certificate Programs The MOS certification program provides computer program literacy, measures proficiency, and identified opportunities for enhancement of skills. Successful candidates receive a Microsoft Office Specialist certification credential that sets them apart from their peers in the competitive job market. Business Skills concentration also offered. Key Courses: Microsoft Windows 7 Levels 1-2, Microsoft Word 2010 Levels 1-3, Microsoft Excel 2010 Levels 1-3, Microsoft Outlook 2010 Levels 1-3, Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 Levels 1-2, Microsoft Access 2010 Levels 1-3, Advanced Interpersonal Communication, Email Etiquette Microsoft Office Suite Comprehensive Training Course Versions 2003, 2007, or 2010 (Certificate Only Option) This comprehensive course provides online, self-paced one year access to introductory through advanced learning modules for Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Choose from 2003, 2007, or 2010 versions. Individual certifications for each Microsoft Office software also offered. Key Courses: Microsoft Word 2010 Levels 1-3, Microsoft Excel 2010 Levels 1-3, Microsoft Outlook 2010 Levels 1-3, Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 Levels 1-2, Microsoft Access 2010 Levels 1-3 QuickBooks 2010 or 2011 (Certificate Only Option) In QuickBooks, students will use the basic features of QuickBooks to record and track your business transactions. Students will examine how to use the advanced features in QuickBooks to create estimates, convert estimates into invoices, process sales tax and payroll, generate reports, review client data, and work with other applications. Key Courses: QuickBooks 2011 Levels 1-2 Computer Programming (Certificate Only Option) Students will learn the fundamental concepts and terminology of software application development and develop skills in designing and writing simple computer programs. The course assumes no programming background. Key Courses: 2667 Introduction to Programming JavaScript Programming (Certificate Only Option) Students will create and execute advanced scripts using JavaScript. This course series is intended for students who are familiar with developing web pages; students should be proficient in writing XHTML code and using Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox. Key Courses: JavaScript Programming, JavaScript Advanced Programming Oracle Database 11g (Certificate Only Option) Brandman University Page 58
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of SQL using Oracle Database 11g database technology. This course provides the essential SQL skills that allow developers to write queries against single and multiple tables, manipulate data in tables, and create database objects. Key Courses: Oracle Database 11g SQL Fundamentals Crystal Reports 2008 or XI (Certificate Only Option) Learn basic to advanced techniques to take full advantage of Crystal Reports powerful features, including formatting report objects, sorting records, and creating groups and summaries. Students learn how to create more sophisticated reports including sub-reports and cross-tabs, and how to increase the speed and efficiency of reports by using SQL queries. Key Courses: Crystal Reports XI Level 1-2, Crystal Reports 2008 Level 1-2 VMWare Sphere (Certificate Only Option) Explore the installation, configuration, and management of VMware vsphere, consisting of VMware vsphere ESXi and VMware vcenter Server. Key Courses: VMware VSphere 5; Install, Configure, Manage. VMware VSphere 5; What s New? Cisco Certifications Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification demonstrates knowledge to deploy, maintain, secure and operate a medium-sized network using Cisco technologies. The Cisco CCNA is a prerequisite for specialist certifications such as special topics in network security. Paths Offered: CCNA, CCNP, CCENT with CompTIA Network+ Microsoft Service Certifications Various Microsoft-branded certifications range from troubleshooting and service credentials through SharePoint, Exchange Server, and SQL Server. Paths Offered: MCTS/MCITP Windows 7, MCSA Windows/SQL Server 2012, MCSE Infrastructure (in Server/Desktop/SharePoint/Exchange/Private Cloud/SQL/Communication Lync) CompTIA Certifications Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification demonstrates knowledge to deploy, maintain, secure and operate a medium-sized network using Cisco technologies. The Cisco CCNA is a prerequisite for specialist certifications. Paths Offered: CCNA, CCNP, CCENT with CompTIA Network+ Network Security Certifications Certification training is ideal for anyone interested in learning more about IT security risks and how to protect IT infrastructure and information. CHFI certified candidates may investigate invasion or theft of intellectual property, Brandman University Page 59
misuse of IT systems and violations of corporate IT usage policies. The CEH training immerses students in an interactive environment where they will learn how to scan, test, hack, and secure their own systems. Paths Offered: CompTIA Security+, CHFI Forensics Program, CompTIA CASP, CEH Program, CISSP Project Management Certifications Students exchange project plan data with other applications, update project plans, create visual reports, and reuse project plan information. Six Sigma uses a set of quality management methods and creates an infrastructure of people within the organization who are experts in these quality process methods. Each Six Sigma project carried out within an organization follows a defined sequence of steps and has quantified financial targets (cost reduction and/or profit increase). Paths Offered: CompTIA Project+, Six Sigma Lean Green/Black/Master Belt, PMP Digital Media and Web Design Certifications Certificates include the Adobe suite, Dreamweaver, and Microsoft visual programming. Paths Offered: Adobe Illustrator CS5, Adobe InDesign CS5, Adobe Photoshop CS5 (with Web Production), Microsoft MCSD for Web Apps/Windows Store using C#/HTML5 Brandman University Page 60
Business IT Programs in Orange County Universities Highlighted below are programs provided by Orange County s public universities that stand the greatest chance of bringing together business and IT combined programs that seamlessly mix both areas of study. Cal State University Fullerton B.A. in Business Administration (IS Emphasis, Joint Emphases) At Cal State Fullerton s Mihaylo College of Business and Economics, the B.A. in Business Administration is a 75-unit program combining principles in accounting, economics, management, and statistics as a core background while offering a specialization that comprises roughly a third of the coursework. Relevant concentrations to Information Technology are offered in Information Systems (IS), joint Accounting & Information Systems, and joint Marketing & Information Systems. Within the core upper division, students are required to take two courses in statistics in the IS cluster regardless of concentration. The Information Systems concentration currently has about 200 students per year enrolled at the undergraduate level (including joint IS programs). The concentration requires seven total courses supplementing the 18 Business Administration common courses. The core content of the concentration covers the creation and maintenance of databases, while the electives allow students freedom to focus even deeper into specific functions of applying IT to business. Enterprise systems courses are valuable for small business operation. Introductory applied programming is useful for informing decisions on software and solutions in a future business setting. Data-mining and decision-making via statistics are also a viable option to explore within electives, pairing well with the core database coursework. Two concentrations offered by CSUF for the Business Administration degree are dual by design, pulling coursework from two subjects into a unique concentration. The first of these combines Information Systems with Accounting. The emphasis pulls five courses each from IS and Accounting. Notably, the IS cluster covers electives in integrated systems and IT security as primary coursework for the joint degree. The joint emphasis in Marketing and Information Systems is the newest addition to the CSUF Business Administration lineup so new that its coursework has not been specified on the Mihaylo College s page. Based on currently-offered Marketing courses, some of the possible requirements included in the concentration are: Marketing Information Technology, Marketing Research Methods, Marketing Analytics Decision-Making in the Information Age, and Retail and Marketing Channel Strategies. Interested students are encouraged to contact the faculty career path advisors for further information on requirements. M.B.A. in Information Systems On the Master s Degree end of the spectrum, the CSUF M.B.A. program also offers a concentration designed for advanced business students to gain an area of expertise in Information Systems. About 20 students per year enroll into this subsection of the M.B.A. program. The Mihaylo M.B.A. program consists of 11-15 courses designed to deliver broad, strategic managerial perspectives, while balancing theory with practical application and strengthening leadership skills. Core requirements include Decision Making for Business and Economics regardless of concentration. Business-IT Programs in OC Universities Page 61
Chapman University Chapman is home to several specialized programs that integrate unique applications of business technology. Chapman s IT-related degree programs are offered through both the School of Computational Sciences and the Argyros School of Business and Economics, including courses and instructors from both professions that provide students with a wellrounded technical education. Chapman addresses the need for business-oriented technical experiences through its new B.S. in Computer Information Systems, and also offers two specific programs that prepare students in two key emerging areas of study business intelligence and mobile application development. B.S. in Computer Information Systems This hybrid computer science degree is nicknamed the high-tech business degree by faculty, and is a solid example of how to balance a comprehensive data-intensive education with a clear grasp of business process fundamentals. The Computer Information Systems degree s learning outcomes include mastering the foundational concepts of computing and problem solving, utilizing design and implementation practices in technology settings, and demonstrating comprehension of business and economic concepts. The program helps prepares students for careers in systems analysis, systems design, network security, database design, programming, and systems management. 60 credits are required of the major in Computer Information Systems, and are almost evenly split between computer science and management coursework. Required technical courses include visual programming, software engineering, data structures and algorithms, data communications, and database management. Elective options range from user experience coursework such as human-computer interaction to high-performance computing topics such as computational economics, advanced web-based database systems, and algorithm analysis. The core business foundations include financial management, operations management, business ethics, and economics. M.S. Economic System Design Created as an alternative to typical economics programs, the Master of Science in Economic Systems Design (MSESD) encourages students to develop computer experiments and statistical analysis to study the functions of economic institutions. This degree prepares students to design, develop, test and implement efficient exchange systems in fields such as stock trading, online auctions, scheduling, insurance and public utilities. The strengths of the MSESD degree are easily applicable to careers in business/web intelligence, as the MSESD assists students in discovering how to organize data, manage research, and approach data-based problems in inventive ways. The MSESD provides two pathways to completion as a two-year, 31 credit Master s program, or as an integrated fiveyear undergraduate/graduate blend program. Prerequisites are satisfied through advanced topics in computer science and economics. Courses begin with a foundation in how experiments can be constructed and implemented through computational economics and game theory. The courses afterward require students to synthesize their knowledge of system design and experimental economics by applying their skills to real-world problems. The final set of design lab courses prepares students for a capstone project. Minor Game Development Programming Though not an independent degree program, Chapman s minor in game development represents the possibilities in software development and equips students with the technical and artistic tools they need to succeed in the video game industry. The Game Development Programming minor is specifically structured to be paired with four different major degrees each option represents a career pathway in one of several different aspects of game development: Business-IT Programs in OC Universities Page 62
Game Art & Animation: Combine a major in art or digital arts with the minor in game development Game Design: Combine a major in digital arts with the minor in game development Game Production: Combine a major in computer information systems with the minor in game development Game Programming: Combine a major in computer science with the minor in game development The minor constitutes 25 credits of study, much of which dual-count for the aforementioned majors in computer-related degrees. The core requirements include level design, game development, collaboration in development, and an introduction to the game industry. Electives cover topics in physics, computer graphics, storytelling, social issues in programming, and artificial intelligence. The curriculum is designed through consultation with industry professionals from Blizzard, Sony, Obsidian and others, helping students to graduate as productive contributors to game companies without requiring extensive retraining. University of California Irvine University of California Irvine s Merage School of Business hosts several business degrees constructed to give students healthy exposure to IT coursework. The Business Administration degree is a 23-course program with 10 classes of elective content. For four of the 10 elective courses, seven elective concentrations are available to choose from; two of the newest concentrations are in Information Systems (IS) and Operations & Decision Technologies. Additionally, UC Irvine s School of Business strongly encourages students to strive towards an education program that encompasses their individual career interests students are encouraged to enroll in courses offered within the other schools at UC Irvine. B.S. Business Information Management A special interdisciplinary degree recently introduced by UCI, the B.S. in Business Information Management combines business fundamentals with computing topics such as informatics, programming, and network management. With approximately 160 students enrolled, the program s curriculum is presented across three general academic areas: Computing (computer science, informatics, and software); Business Foundations (accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, and operations); and Analytical Methods (mathematics, statistics, economics, management science, and decision analysis). While sharing many of the core requirements of the B.A. in Business Administration, the B.S. in BIM includes unique courses in the following concentrations: ICS Introduction to Programming (4) Programming with Software Libraries (4) Intermediate Programming (4) Programming in Java as a Second Language (4) Informatics Informatics Core Course I (6) Informatics Core Course II (6) Business-IT Programs in OC Universities Page 63
Patterns of Software Construction (4) Requirements Analysis and Engineering (4) Information Visualization (4) Management Business Intelligence (BI) for Analytical Decisions (4) Database Management and Applications (4) Information Technology (IT) and Strategy (4) Management of Information Technology (4) Supplemental Java programming coursework is strongly recommended as a prerequisite, as many of the classes use Javascript as the programming language of choice. M.B.A. Emphasis in Information Science The Full-Time M.B.A. program requires a minimum of 92 units (24 courses), nearly half of which are elective content. There are an estimated 400 Full-Time MBA students, with many more completing part-time programs. Class requirements are structured differently for Executive MBA and Fully Employed MBA programs. Relevant common courses for all MBA students include Statistics for Management, Information Technology for Management, and Business Strategy. For the Emphasis in Information Science, a wealth of topics are available that give students background and insight into the practical business application of information. Brandman University Brandman University is a career-focused adult education center, founded in 1958 and currently under the jurisdiction of the Chapman University System. Known for its online programs, the majority of Brandman s IT-related programs fall within Brandman s business school a promising sign for students looking to merge technical prowess with competent soft skills. Brandman s existing IT program directly addresses new suggested areas of study through its multitude of elective topics. B.S. in Computing Technology The Bachelor of Science in Computing Technology is designed for students that want to begin their careers with a solid foundation in the principles and the application of IT in a support role for business in careers such as network systems administration, information security analysis, and project management. The core program offers three choices of emphases: Information Technology Learn to analyze, design and implement IT-based solutions to meet business needs. Business Systems Administration Learn to install, test and administrate networking systems with data security features. Business-IT Programs in OC Universities Page 64
Project Management Learn to plan, structure and manage projects by applying project management and quality assurance skills. Of the 120 credits required for degree completion, 48 credits pertain to the Computing Technology major s requirements, covering a broad range of IT subject matter including IT security, quality assurance procedures, and object-oriented programming. Keeping in line with Brandman s values emphasizing professional integrity and quality teamwork, the Computing Technology degree also includes required coursework in organizational communication, strategic team building, and professional ethics. Furthermore, students with existing professional certifications can demonstrate their credentials to use as transfer credit covering several courses. 12 of the 48 major-required credits are specific to each emphasis. The Information Technology emphasis is geared toward data-inclined students, equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle the future of Big Data. Courses include database management, structured systems analysis and design, data communication and computer networks, and network implementation. Business System Administration coursework covers specialized topics useful to students exploring IT security, including data encryption and advanced web-based database applications. The Project Management emphasis grounds students in a sound understanding of business process and managerial acumen, featuring courses in project work structure, resource management, and risk management. Through the B.S. in Computing Technology, Brandman is helping to anticipate the needs of Orange County businesses with regards to IT security, business process, and business intelligence/data analysis. Brandman also offers a response to the need for improved integration of business and IT coursework through online programs offering specializations. B.B.A. Bachelor s in Business Administration, Information Systems Management Brandman s signature online business degree offers great flexibility to help both remote and local business students lay the foundation for a career using technology to support business decision-making. 72 of the degree s 120 credits encompass the major s requirements, of which 21 pertain specifically to the Information Systems Management emphasis. The core business requirements emphasize diversity and leadership, calling on students to study management of multicultural organizations and the global environment of business in addition to the broader studies of business finance, marketing, and communication common to all comprehensive degrees in business administration. The Information Systems specialization is unique in that it allows students to freely shape the content of the emphasis to reflect a preferred area of IT study. The five primary courses in the emphasis include an introduction to programming, computer systems organization, information systems security, organizational information systems, and project management. From there, students can elect to attend two of the five advanced courses offered for the major data communications, database management, structured system analysis, quality assurance, and network implementation. Through this program, students can effectively reflect the emphases offered to Computing Technology majors, but with a more pronounced business perspective. In summary, Brandman brings three significant advantages to IT education in Orange County affordability, business acumen, and organization-wide values emphasizing interpersonal team-building and ethical conduct in the workforce. Business-IT Programs in OC Universities Page 65
Private Education Institutions & Organizations Fast Facts: Private Education Institutions Information is provided on 18 notable IT-oriented private education institutions Private education institutions are the number one choice by employers in terms of retraining and certifying employees Relative to universities and community colleges, private institutions offer the most flexibility for students in terms of scheduling, mode of teaching and material delivery Programs within these institutions are largely able to keep pace with industry trends due to solid business partnerships and a high level of communication with businesses Private education institutions are able to introduce new programs as the IT industry changes due to less government regulation Private Education Institutions Page 66
Microsoft Certification New Horizon Computer Learning Centers of Southern California Program has multiple career paths designed for both experienced professionals and those new to the field. Certification is available for a diverse set of job roles and responsibilities. Available Paths: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP), Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD), Microsoft Certified Solutions Administrator (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA), Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST), Microsoft Certified Applications Specialist, Microsoft Certified Applications Specialist with Business Skills, Microsoft SQL Database Administrator with Business Intelligence MCTS Entry VMware Certification Program delivers authorized VMware certification training designed to validate and recognize IT professionals with the technical capabilities and real-world experience needed to effectively install, manage, deploy and support VMware products and solutions. Available Paths: VMware Certified Professional on vsphere 5 Cisco Certification Certification designed to demonstrate an individual s unique ability to manage, secure and administer networks run on Cisco equipment. Available Paths: CCNA - Network Associate Certification, CCNA - Voice Certification, CCNA - Security Certification, CCNA - Wireless Certification, Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician, CCNA with CompTIA Network+ CompTIA Certification As a member of the CompTIA, New Horizons offer courses that follow the exam objectives of CompTIA s certification programs developed in conjunction with its member organizations. Available Paths: A+, Network+, Security+, Storage+, CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP), IT Project+, Linux+ Security Certification Program designed to provide knowledge of security theories and practices covered in the information systems security Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Available Paths: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Citrix Program designed to put IT professionals at the forefront of virtualization, networking, and cloud innovation. Available Paths: Citrix Certified Integration Architect (CCIA), Citrix Certified Administrator (CCA, CCAA), Citrix Certified Enterprise Engineer (CCEE) Private Education Institutions Page 67
Linux Certification Program designed to prepare course takers for popular Linux certifications. Available Paths: Novell s Certified Linux Professional, CompTIA s Linux+ Novell Certification Unique program designed to integrate multi-vendor environments and products. Available Paths: Certified Novell Administrator (CNA), Certified Novell Engineer (CNE), Master Certified Novell Engineer (Master CNE), Certified Directory Engineer (CDE) Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Program focuses on key activities that bring optimal service quality, with a reasonable and justifiable cost, and is supported by accredited training organizations. Available Paths: Services in IT Service Management are available at the Foundation, Practitioner, and Manager level. Healthcare Information Management Program designed to provide skills and knowledge necessary to acquire top-quality positions in the medical billing and coding industry. Available Paths: Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS), Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Medical Front Office Assistant, Medical Coding Specialist, Medical Billing Specialist, Medical Claims Processor, Medical Claims Reimbursement Collector Project Management/ITIL/Six Sigma Program designed to teach course takers how to keep projects within budget and delivered on time. Program is valuable for individuals seeking to learn basics of project management, become certified in project management, or learn project management software. Available Paths: Certified Project Manager (CPM), Six Sigma Lean Black Belt, Six Sigma Lean Black Belt with Project Management, Six Sigma Lean Black Belt/ITIL Foundations/CompTIA- Project +, Project Certifications Program, Project Certifications Program Path with AutoCAD, Project Management Professional (PMI) Program, Project Management Professional/Six Sigma Lean Black Belt Training Program, Solar Photovoltaic Installer Program with Project Management, Solar Photovoltaic Installer Program with Project Management and Auto Desk Revit Adobe Certifications New Horizon offers a full range of Adobe training programs, providing students with skills necessary to become graphic designers, web designers, animators, web publishers, etc. Available Paths: Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) Web Specialist, Adobe Microsoft Certified Application Program, Adobe Web Design with Microsoft Backend Development Private Education Institutions Page 68
NR Computer Learning Centers Microsoft Office 2010 Program designed to provide users with knowledge and skills necessary to effectively use all functions available in Microsoft Office 2010 Software - Project, Visio, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook and OneNote. QuickBooks Program designed to offer students with the knowledge and skills required to use QuickBooks to track the finances of a small business. Students will learn how to set up a new company, manage bank account transactions, maintain customer and vendor information, generate reports, and write and print checks. Programming Courses are offered in the following programming languages: Java, Visual Basic, PHP & MySQL, Ajax, ASP.NET, C++, Perl, Python 2.5, Ruby, CSS JavaScript, and HTML 5.0. Project Management Training Three-day program designed to enable students to understand the fundamentals of project management using Microsoft Project 2010. Program covers basic concepts through functions required for managing small to medium sized projects, leveling resources, and capturing cost and schedule progress. Website Development Program includes courses such as: HTML 5.0, CSS JavaScript, Java Programming, Creating WordPress Websites, Microsoft Expression Web, DreamWeaver, InDesign, Flash, Photoshop, XHTML, Windows Vista, and Business Marketing on the Web. CompTIA A+ Program designed to help students prepare for the CompTIA Certification exam. This five-day training program includes both essential and practical skills necessary to successfully achieve the CompTIA Certification. Database Design and Development Program offers the following courses, either online or in instructor-led format, to train students for successful database design and development: Microsoft Access 2010, MySQL, Oracle, Database Development, Crystal Reports 10, and PHP. Website SEO and Web Analytics Program prepares students to use internet marketing to promote online business and drive traffic to websites. Microsoft Office Key Courses: Microsoft Office 2007, Microsoft Office 2010, Windows 7 and Sharepoint 2010 Project Management Private Education Institutions Page 69
Key Courses: Microsoft Project 2007, Microsoft Project 2010, Managing Project Teams, Strategic Planning Skills, ITIL Orientation V3, ITIL Foundation, Quality Management, Risk Management, Schedule and Cost Control, Scope and Requirements Development, PMP Exam Prep, CBAP Exam Prep, Project Management Skills for Non-Project Managers Adobe Key Courses: Adobe Acrobat Pro, ColdFusion MX 7, Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Flash, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, HTML, Cascading Style Sheets CompTIA Key Courses: Network+, CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA A+ Certification, CompTIA A+ Essentials, CompTIA A+ Practical Application VMware Key Courses: VMware ESX Server 3.5 Deploy, Secure and Analyze, VMware ESX Server 3.5 Install and Configure, VI3 to vsphere 4.0 Upgrade and New Technology, Advanced VMware Security Information Technology ITT Technical Institute Data Communication Systems Technology (Bachelor of Science) Program prepares students to design, deploy and manage data communication systems and infrastructures. Courses are designed to address challenges in understanding and applying various solutions to help user organizations achieve their business goals with effective use of chosen data communication technologies. (180 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Data and Network Communications, Modern Wireless Communications, Networking Security I/II/III, Advanced Routing and Switching, Business Database Administration, Systems Analysis, Web Technology, Voice and Data Integration Information Systems and Cyber security (Bachelor of Science) Program exposes students to fundamental knowledge and skills used in entry-level information systems and cyber security. (180 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Risk Management in Information Technology Security, Network Communications Infrastructure, Information Technology Infrastructure Security, Cybercrime Forensics, Security Auditing for Compliance Network Systems Administration (Associate of Science) Program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in network administration, information technology, LAN and WAN work. (90 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Computer Structure and Logic, Client Server Networking, Physical Networking, Linux Networking, Introduction to Information Security, IP Networking, Database Concepts, Introduction to Programming Electronic Technology Private Education Institutions Page 70
Electrical Engineering and Communications Technology (Bachelor of Science) Program prepares students for entry-level positions in electrical engineering and communications technology. (180 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Networking and Communications, Automatic Industrial Control, Mobile Wireless Technology, Electrical Machines and Energy Conversion, Fiber Optic Communications, C++ Programming, Green Energy Technology Electrical Engineering Technology (Associate of Science) Program designed to prepare students for a variety of entry-level electrical and electronics engineering technology positions, such as electronics technician, service technician, telecommunications technician and engineering technician. (90 Credit Hours) Key Courses: DC-AC Electronics, Digital Fundamentals, Solid State Devices, Integrated Circuits, Electronic Communications, Microprocessors and Microcontrollers Drafting and Design Drafting and Design Technology (Associate of Science) Program exposes students to a variety of fundamental skills used in entry-level computer aided drafting (CAD) and design positions. Students are exposed to CAD technologies and conventional drafting methods to produce various designs, working drawing, charts, forms and records. (90 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Rapid Visualization Techniques, CAD Methods, Building Information Modeling, Sustainability in Design, Materials Processes in Design, Parametric Modeling, 3D Civil Drafting, 3D Modeling and Visualization Business Project Management and Administration Information Technology Option (Bachelor of Science) Information Technology option for Project Management and Administration program helps students understand how to apply principles of information technology, computer systems management and business operations. (180 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Introduction to Project Management, Systems Analysis, Project Communication and Documentation, Project Management Tools and Techniques, Project Cost and Budget Management, Project Quality Management, Management of Global Projects Criminal Justice Criminology and Forensic Technology (Associate of Science) Program designed to provide students with fundamental knowledge and skills used in the field of criminology and forensics. (90 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Criminology, Criminalistics, Forensic Technology, Computer Forensics Health Sciences Private Education Institutions Page 71
Health Information Technology (Associate of Science) Program teaches students how to collect, analyze, maintain and report health data in accordance with established data quality principles, legal and information security standards and professional best practice guidelines. (90 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Anatomy and Physiology I/II, Database Design and Applications, ICD-9-CM Coding, Healthcare Data Sets and Specialized Registries Business & Management Technical Management (Bachelor of Science) Devry University Anaheim Program designed for students who have already attained qualifying prior college credits in areas such as criminal justice, or health information technology. Program enhances business and computing skills to transition students into management positions. (122 Credit Hours, 8 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: Business Information Systems, Health Information Management, Project Management, Security Management, Technical Communication Accounting (Bachelor of Science) Program designed to provide students with knowledge of financial tools, tax codes and U.S. laws needed to navigate a wide range of business environments. (125 Semester Credit Hours) Available Specializations: Accounting Information Systems Information Systems Management (Graduate Masters) Program designed to equip students with a broad range of competencies to meet the business, management and technical demands of this expanding field. In addition, program enables students to determine and implement a company s goals in computer-related technologies. (45 Credits) Available Specializations: Information Security, Wireless, Data Administration and Management, Global Outsourcing Management, Health Information Systems Management, Project Management, Electronic Commerce, Information Systems Tools, Information Systems Applications Network & Communications Management (Graduate Masters) Program designed to enhance careers in the growing field of network and communications management. Program prepares students for employment positions in areas such as network security, developing e-commerce systems, and technological strategy. (45 Credit Hours) Available Specializations: Wireless, Information Security, Network Applications, Electronic Commerce, Technology Applications, Project Management Engineering & Information Sciences Network Systems Administration (Associate) Private Education Institutions Page 72
Program prepares students to use tools and techniques embraced by leaders such as Cisco Systems while learning about how to maintain existing network systems and launch new ones. (67 Credit Hours, 5 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: Cisco Networking Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals Biomedical Engineering Technology (Bachelor of Science) Program enables students to work with physicians, therapists, and other technicians in the design, construction, implementation, and maintenance of sophisticated healthcare equipment and lifesaving devices. (139 Credit Hours, 9 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: No specializations available Computer Engineering Technology (Bachelor of Science) Program designed to provide students with knowledge and skills necessary to create advanced electronics like ipod, cell phones, and defense-related equipment, and work in research, manufacturing, medical, communications, security, and consumer products markets. (139 Credit Hours, 9 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: No specializations available Computer Information Systems (Bachelor of Science) Program designed to provide students with knowledge and skills necessary design, build, and implement software solutions that are the driving force in every business, not-for-profit, and government agency. (124 Credit Hours, 8 Full- Time Semesters) Available Specializations: Computer Forensics, Database Management, Enterprise Computing, Health Information Systems, Information Systems Security, Systems Analysis and Integration, Web Development and Administration, Web Game Programming Electronics Engineering Technology (Bachelor of Science) Program enables students attain skills needed to build electronic circuits that drive in-demand technological devices such as cell phones and ipods. (139 Credit Hours, 9 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: Renewable Energy Game and Simulation Programming (Bachelor of Science) Program enables students to master the coding languages, visual design principles, and software methods used in the development of video games, crime scene reconstruction, corporate training software, and more. (127 Credit Hours, 8 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: No specializations available Network and Communications Management (Bachelor of Science) Program enables students become skills in topics such as Ethernet-enabled voice-operated IP systems, security firewalls, and next-generation network administration. (124 Credit Hours, 8 Full-Time Semesters) Private Education Institutions Page 73
Available Specializations: Cisco Networking Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals Health Sciences Health Information Technology (Associate of Applied Science) Program prepares students for employment positions as medical records specialist and health information technicians. (67 Credit Hours, 4 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: No specializations available Neurodiagnostic Technology (Associate of Applied Science) Program designed to provide the technical training needed to run and monitor typical diagnostic tests as well as the communication skills to interact effectively, ethically and compassionately with patients, family members and staff. (65 Credit Hours, 5 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: No specializations available Healthcare Administration (Bachelor of Science) Program enables students to graduate with a knowledge of healthcare policy and the technological landscape, as well as business skills that can be applied in the complex health services sector. (126 Credit Hours, 8 Full-Time Hours) Available Specializations: Healthcare Informatics Media Arts & Technology Web Graphic Design (Associate of Applied Science) Program designed to help students acquire knowledge and skills necessary to produce high-quality, web-enables graphics and develop all types of graphic media including web pages, marketing collateral, advertising, instructional material, and multimedia projects. (67 Credit Hours, 5 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: No specializations available Multimedia Design and Development (Bachelor of Science) Program allows students to learn how to design, illustrate, manage, and produce visual communications by mastering key software applications, fundamental design principles, web content management, and graphics animation. (124 Credit Hours, 8 Full-Time Semesters) Available Specializations: Graphic and Multimedia Design, Graphics and Multimedia Management, Web Design and Development, Web Game Programming, E-Commerce Management (Graduate Certificate) Program designed to enable students to gain a marketable understanding of the e-commerce technical strategies necessary to develop impactful websites, strong marketing objectives and responsive target audiences. (24 Credit Hours) Private Education Institutions Page 74
Available Specializations: No specializations available Information Security (Graduate Certificate) Program enables students to learn information security competencies in basic cryptography, intrusion detection and the legal issues surrounding data protections, designed to be the foundation for a successful career in information security. (18 Credit Hours) Available Specializations: No specialization available Information Systems Management (Graduate Certificate) Program provides a foundational background in databases, networking and information security to assist students in advancing a career within the field. (21 Credit Hours) Available Specializations: No specializations available Network & Communications Management (Graduate Certificate) Program prepares students for positions in networking, operations, systems, regulations and information security. (21 Credit Hours) Available Specializations: No specializations available Wireless Communication (Graduate Certificate) Program emphasizes the fundamentals of the wireless field, including methods of developing telecommunications strategies, approving network designs, maintaining new technologies, and implementing network security. (18 Credit Hours) Available Specializations: No specializations available University of Phoenix/ University of Phoenix South Coast Learning Center Criminal Justice and Security Criminal Justice Administration with a Concentration in Cybercrimes (Bachelor of Science) Program concentration provides students with the basic skills needed to recognize relevant sources of electronic evidence and determine how electronic evidence can be used in court proceedings and as part of an organizational security plan. (120 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Information Systems Fundamentals, Contemporary Issues and Futures in Criminal Justice, Juvenile Justice Systems and Processes, Criminal Procedure Nursing and Health Care Health Administration with a Concentration in Health Information Systems (Bachelor of Science) Private Education Institutions Page 75
Program designed to help students gain the skills to design, manage and secure health information systems and electronic records. Concentration focuses on database concepts as well as information network and system design. (120 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Health Care Delivery in the U.S., Introduction to Health and Disease, Health Care Information Systems, Health Care Consumer Trends and Marketing, Systems Analysis & Design, Database Concepts, Network and Telecommunications Concepts Technology Information Technology with a Concentration in Cisco Networking (Associate of Arts) Program, designed in conjunction with Cisco Systems, Inc., ensures that students are acquiring latest knowledge and skills related to Cisco networking. Further, program ensures that students are prepared for CCNA certificate exam. (60 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Information Systems Fundamentals, Wide Area Network Environment, IS Security Concepts, Local Area Network Fundamentals, Routing and Switching Implementations, Routing and Switching Management Information Technology with a Concentration in Web Administration (Associate of Arts) Program focuses on tasks involved in various web technology job roles, and the skills and technologies to perform those tasks. The concentration includes information system fundamentals, image editing and formatting, information systems security, web site development, internet business concepts and network technology. (60 Credit Hours) Key Courses: IS Security Concepts, Introduction to Image Editing and Formatting, Information Systems Fundamentals Information Technology with Concentrations in: Database Development, Information Technology Support, Networking, Web Design, Programming (Associate of Arts) Program designed to provide students with a basic understanding of information technology concepts. Students can choose a concentration of their liking based on their career aspirations. (60 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Information Systems Fundamentals, Office Software Support, Computer Systems Maintenance, Personal Computer OS Support, Personal Computer Customer Support, Personal Computer Hardware Support Information Technology with Concentration in: Networking and Telecommunications, Advanced Networking, Business Systems Analysis, Information Management, Information Systems Security, Software Engineering, Web Development (Bachelor of Science) Program is focused on the acquisition of theory and application of technical competencies associated with the information technology profession. Courses prepare students with fundamental knowledge in core technologies, such as systems analysis and design, programming, database design, network architecture and administration, web technologies and application development, implementation and maintenance. (120 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Information Systems Fundamentals, Algorithms and Logic for Computer Programming, Web Design Fundamentals, Introduction to Operating Systems, Fundamentals of Business Systems Development, Business Systems, Project Planning and Implementation, Fundamentals of Networking Private Education Institutions Page 76
Master of Information Systems (Graduate Masters) Program provides students with the knowledge to successfully apply information systems theory and principles to address real world business opportunities and challenges to meet the needs of today s information economy. (42 Credit Hours) Key Courses: Programming Concepts, Information Systems Concepts, Business Systems I, Business Systems II, IT Infrastructure, Emerging Technologies and Issues, Systems Analysis and Development, CIS Project Management, A+ Fundamentals (Certificate) Program provides students with skills necessary to better understand how to repair and troubleshoot computers. Topics covered include networking, configuration, repair, file management, maintenance, recovery and security. Key Courses: Personal Computer Hardware Support, Personal Computer OS Support Cisco Networking Fundamentals (Certificate) Program offers coursework designed to help students acquire the knowledge needed to install, configure and operate local area networks, wide area networks, routing and switching implementations and management. Key Courses: Local Area Networking Fundamentals, Wide Area Network Environment, Routing and Switching Implementations, Routing and Switching Management Information Systems Security (Certificate) Program designed to provide students with skills and knowledge necessary to proficiently protect data systems used in everything from government and corporations to small businesses. Key Courses: Computer and Information Processing, Introduction to UNIX, Windows Server Networking, Introduction to Cryptography, Introduction to Information Systems Security Network Technologies (Certificate) Program provides students with the opportunity to understand how computer networks are built, used, protected and maintained. Key Courses: Foundations of Local Area Networks, Wireless Networking Concepts, Wide Area Networking Concepts Visual Communications (Certificate) Program teaches students graphic design and technology tools to create visual communications that are relevant to organizations. Students will develop a diverse portfolio of rick media that can be used in Web sites, advertising, corporate reports, business presentation, instructional materials, animated movies and electronic publications. Key Courses: Computers and Information Processing, Image Editing, Web Design, Electronic Publishing, Instructional Design, Multimedia Development Private Education Institutions Page 77
Dale Carnegie Training Dale Carnegie Training emphasizes practical principles and processes by designing programs that offer people the knowledge, skills and practices they need to add value to the business. Center offers several events, seminars, and courses aimed to fill employee skill gaps in areas such as communication, business presentation, leadership training, sales, critical thinking, customer service, business strategy, business professionalism, and more. This unique institute can be advantageous to IT businesses that seek to develop employee skills beyond the necessary technical knowledge. List of Courses, Seminars, and Events: Effective Communications & Human Relations/Skills for Success Leadership Training for Managers Sales Advantage High School Leadership and Communication Course How to Sell Like a Pro Sales Success The Leadership Advantage Confident, Assertive, In Charge: Developing Attitudes of Leadership High Impact Presentations How to Communicate with Diplomacy and Tact Critical Thinking How to Handle Competing Priorities and Tight Deadlines Interpersonal Skills for Technical Professionals Business Professionalism 101 Customer Service Phone Skills Customer Service: Cross Selling and Up Selling Goal Setting and Accountability Time Management American Career College Health Information Technology (Associate of Occupational Science) Program designed to teach students how to use technology to collect, analyze, monitor, maintain and report health data. These functions include processing requests for the release of personal health information, the coding of clinical information, and processing/using health data for clinical quality management. Key Courses: Healthcare Delivery Systems, Electronic Health Records, Pharmacology Principles, Health Care Data Sets, Compliance and Reimbursement Methodologies, Health Information Systems General Electrician (Diploma) Southern California Institute of Technology Program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to install and maintain residential, commercial and industrial electrical systems based on the National Electrical Code (NEC). Information Technology (Diploma) Private Education Institutions Page 78
Program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure and administer industry simulating computer networks using Cisco equipment and Microsoft Software. Courses are structured around IT industry certifications such as Cisco s CCNA and Microsoft s MCITP certifications. Biomedical Technology (Diploma) Program prepares students on how to troubleshoot and repair electronic-based medical devices. Program prepares students for entry-level employment as biomedical technicians or other professions involving medical device repair. Accounting Specialist (Diploma) Program enables students to study both manual and computerized accounting principles based on GAAP to provide a comprehensive overview of the accounting cycle and how accounting is practiced in business. Electrical Engineering (B.S.) Program emphasizes utility and industrial aspects of the electrical field such as electrical energy generation and transmission, factory automation systems and robotics. Courses offer a balanced mix of engineering principles and practice involving hands-on labs. Electronic Engineering (B.S.) Program introduces students to applications of electronic systems used in various industries such as healthcare, telecommunications, and consumer products. Computer Science (B.S.) Program emphasizes the challenges and practical issues of building and maintaining computer data systems. Students apply concepts learned in courses to projects based on IT scenarios found in practice. Biomedical Engineering (B.S.) Program introduces students to various medical applications of electronic based devices by bridging topics between electronics engineering and the physiological sciences. Computer Technician (Diploma) United Education Institute (UEI College) Program designed to make students career-ready by covering a wide range of topics such as networking technology, computer support, computer maintenance, computer sales and marketing, and quality assurance. Computer Electronic Technician (Certificate) Program prepares students to sit for the CompTIA A+ Exam. Phlebotomy Technician Training (Certificate) QBICS Career College Private Education Institutions Page 79
Program prepares students to apply for State License from the California Department of Public Health. Nurse Technician Aide (Certificate) Program prepares students for a combination of various state and national certifications including: Nurse Assistant, Home Health Aide, Restorative Nurse Assistant, Mental Health Worker Technician and Electronic Health Medical Recorder. CAD/CAM Technician (Certificate) QPE Technical Institute Program prepares students for opportunities in areas of manufacturing such as mills, lathes, grinding, punches, high pressure water, and laser technology. CNC Machinist (Certificate) Program prepares students for a career as a CNC machinist. CleanTech Institute, Inc. Certified Nanotech and CleanTech Pro (Training Program) Program designed for engineers, scientists, technical and business managers to prepare for senior level of responsibilities in technology and business development in the emerging field of nanotechnology and applications in clean energy. Healthstaff Training Institute Computerized Office and Accounting (Certificate) Program prepares students for entry-level employment in administrative positions and office environments. These skills can be used in general office settings. List of available Certificates: Integrated Digital Technologies Corp Software Development/Programmer (Certificate) Hardware Specialist (A+ Certification) (Certificate) Internet Specialist/Web Master (Certificate) Database Technology Specialist (Certificate) Database Admin Enterprise Professional (Certificate) Dot-Net Web Application Developer (Certificate) IT Security Administrator (Certificate) IT Security Professional (Certificate) Network Specialist (Certificate) Project Server Manager (Certificate) Private Education Institutions Page 80
Telecommunication Specialist (Certificate) Computerized Office Specialist (Certificate) Information Technology (Diploma) Stanbridge College Program designed to provide knowledge and skills necessary to transition to associate s degree programs. Ethnocardiography (Certificate) Adcon Technical Institute Program is a specialized concentration within the field of diagnostic medical ultrasound. Program coordinates academic study with clinical laboratory experience at a hospital or clinic. Ultrasound Technology (Certificate) Program provides students with the knowledge, technical skills, and work habits required for an entry-level position in the medical field utilizing ultrasound. Medical Assisting/Billing (Certificate) No description available. Communications Technician (Certificate) RWM Fiber Optics Program is designed for the individual who wants to work in the home audio/video and automation installation industry. Fiber Optics Broadband Technician (Certificate) Program consists of theory and extensive hands on lab to cement course work together to prepare the student for certification exams and job market. Successful graduates will qualify as entry level fiber optic cable installers, splicing technicians, data cable technicians, network cable installers, cable assembly manufacturing, and repair, test and inspection of network cabling systems. College of Instrument Technology Word Processing/ Computer Graphics (Certificate) Program combines basic skills with hands-on experience offering students training in word processing, computer graphics, desktop publishing, and DV digital nonlinear video editing. Private Education Institutions Page 81
Appendix Orange County s Prominent IT Companies Internship Programs Blizzard Entertainment Inc. Headquarters Location Irvine, CA Parent Company Activision/Blizzard Local Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 1,700 (N/A) Companywide Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 4,100 (N/A) Company Website http://us.blizzard.com/en-us/ A unit of Activision Blizzard, the company is the leading video game maker in the massively multiplayer online roleplaying games (MMORPG) niche. It develops and publishes software titles such as the genre-dominating World of Warcraft (about 10 million subscribers), Starcraft, and Diablo series available for play on PCs. Blizzard offers its Battle.net online gaming service that enables the worldwide social gaming experience for its titles. The games are sold through retailers and online download. The company has also leveraged its popular games into related products such as action figures, board games, graphic novels, and comic books. Hoovers.com Blizzard Entertainment is one of Orange County s greatest examples of IT companies that are in-tune with fostering a lasting university relationship and supporting a steady pipeline of student talent. As one of the most highly-regarded high-end American game developers, Blizzard is already poised as an attractive work destination for many young IT graduates and professionals. Blizzard recognizes this, and offers several pathways for students to follow as demonstrated on their university relations page. Blizzard s internship offerings range across three categories: game development, business operations, and other development. The beauty of the Blizzard internship program is in its established, structured implementation and learning outcomes for students. Internships are offered every summer in each category, and Blizzard is active in promoting its opportunities, such as through online Q&A sessions hosted by Blizzard hiring managers. Additionally, Blizzard uses multiple outreach events to promote opportunities that lead to full-time hires. Their most famous example is the annual Blizzard Student Art Contest, established in 2011 as a device to challenge graphics design students to create professional-quality character and environment art. Contests are a teaching tool for students and an excellent talent-farming preview process for Blizzard. Appendix Page 82
Quest Software Inc. Headquarters Location Aliso Viejo, CA Parent Company Dell Corporation Local Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 600 (0%) Companywide Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 3,900 (N/A) Company Website quest.com Quest s software is designed to improve application performance, manage transitions to new software platforms, and monitor the delivery of data over corporate networks and the Internet. Its applications, which are compatible with Oracle, Microsoft, and IBM database systems, are used for diagnostics, network monitoring, application deployment, and data replication in the event of system failures. Quest also offers virtualization software and provides a range of application, database, and other IT services. Customers come from the telecom, manufacturing, energy, and public sectors. Quest was acquired by Dell for $2.4 billion in 2012. Hoovers.com As Quest Software has transitioned into a Dell Corporation acquisition, many of the recruitment tools utilized by Quest have adapted to match Dell s existing programs namely, the university relations program. Found within this program are on-campus recruitment events, INROADS internships for underprivileged students, and rotational programs designed to allow semi-annual or annual projects in defined segments of the company. Rotational programs include the Human Resources Rotational Program (HRRP) through Dell, where students occupy three positions over the course of two years in Human Resources HR field work, business management, and assorted duties at the Dell Center of Excellence. Dell s Finance Development Program (FDP) operates similarly, with four rotating positions for recent graduates pursuing advanced degrees. These programs incorporate finance and business coursework, seminar series, and career development planning into normal job duties. INROADS for underserved business student populations is a staple of Dell/Quest s internship offerings, targeted at current undergraduates studying computer science, finance, marketing, or many other fields. While Quest itself is a software-oriented tool-building company, many of its recruitment programs center on business management, finance, and other non-technical offerings. As a driver for Orange County IT recruitment, Quest is recognized as a leader in data management solutions and a standout in the field for the region. Improvements to Dell s outreach program can help channel talent into the Quest division of Dell, leading to a stronger, more visible IT employer in the space for talent outside of the County. Appendix Page 83
Kofax Inc. Headquarters Location Irvine, CA Local Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 281 (-19%) Companywide Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 1,177 (N/A) Company Website kofax.com Kofax is the leading provider of capture enabled business process management (BPM) solutions. Kofax automates information-intensive processes to help enterprises streamline operations, increase productivity & better engage with their customers for a competitive advantage & growth. Kofax solutions make information processing more productive and consistent than stand-alone Capture or BPM products. Users can engage constituents more effectively, gain competitive advantage and grow their organizations while reducing costs and improving regulatory compliance. Kofax is listed on the London Stock Exchange Kofax company information page Kofax s most notable contribution to university relations is in its education reimbursement program for its existing employees. For employees with over three months of employment, Kofax can provide funding for retraining or career advancement in courses taken for academic credit. Communicating benefits such as these to prospective hires are essential for Orange County as a growing tech center students will work where the options for upward mobility are made achievable. Western Digital Corp. Headquarters Location Irvine, CA Local Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 1,600 (14%) Companywide Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 68,000 (N/A) Company Website http://www.wdc.com/en/ Appendix Page 84
Western Digital is one of the largest independent makers of hard-disk drives, which record, store, and recall volumes of data. Drives for PCs account for most of Western Digital's sales, although the company also makes devices used in servers, cloud computing data centers, and home entertainment products such as set-top boxes and video game consoles. The company sells to manufacturers and through retailers and distributors. More than 60 percent of its sales are to OEMs such as Hewlett-Packard, which is Western Digital's largest customer. The company gets more than half of its sales from the Asia/Pacific region. Hoovers.com Western Digital is an engineering-focused organization, and its campus recruitment program is designed to target software designers, validation engineers, and application compatibility engineers. Catering to entry-level engineers is the FIT-U internal education program, a 9-12 month course in software engineering topics and skill development available exclusively to employees at Western Digital s Irvine, CA headquarters. There are also multiple summer internship programs available for students in both technical and non-technical disciplines. These internships can grow into part-time positions in many circumstances based on project types. While Western Digital is geared primarily toward engineering majors, there are MBA and undergraduate internships in areas such as: Engineering Multiple Disciplines Advanced Manufacturing Branded Products Finance/Accounting Business Human Resources Qlogic Corp. Headquarters Location Aliso Viejo, CA Local Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 499 (9%) Companywide Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 1,110 (N/A) Company Website http://qlogic.com QLogic designs server and storage system networking products, including switches, adapters, and storage routers. It outsources manufacturing. QLogic's products are primarily Fiber Channel and Ethernet-based, but can also operate as iscsi products or as a combination of these technologies. The company also provides controllers for embedded applications. QLogic sells its products directly to server and workstation manufacturers and through distributors. Appendix Page 85
Customers include Hewlett-Packard (more than a quarter of sales), IBM (nearly 20 percent), and Dell (more than 10 percent). The company gets more than half of its sales from internationally-based customers. Hoovers.com QLogic s own university relations efforts include a New Graduate program and summer internship, focused heavily on software engineering solutions. Giving students the opportunity to expand their knowledge outside of the classroom and gain on-the-job experience working in a focused technology company, the internship program includes mentor partnership as well as extracurricular activities such as field trips and corporate seminars. One such example is the program manager internship, which supports technical product management. This position helps to develop, track, and update the status of new products developed by QLogic, ensuring their compliance with risk management through the product testing process. Project management tools and insight into computer component manufacturing are essential for the 12-week program. Broadcom Corp. Headquarters Location Irvine, CA Local Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 2,400 (4.3%) Companywide Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 11,200 (15.6%) Company Website http://www.broadcom.com As a semiconductor supplier for the global wired and wireless communications industry, Broadcom's reach is far and wide. With sales and marketing offices and R&D centers around the globe, Broadcom manufactures about two billion chips annually and is one of the top 10 semiconductor companies by revenue. Its System-on-a-Chip (SoC) technologies and software products deliver voice, video, data, and multimedia in several major market segments: home and office (cable modems, DSL, and set-top boxes), mobile (Bluetooth and GPS), and infrastructure (controllers, embedded processors, and security). Broadcom's customer roster includes such elite technology names as Apple, Cisco, Dell, Samsung, and ZTE. Hoovers.com Broadcom as a large-scale international company is filled with technical internships designed for university students at the undergraduate or graduate level. Broadcom s co-op programs are designed to be worked during the academic year, as an extension to apply classroom knowledge through the course of degree attainment. One unique standout program hosted by Broadcom is the Broadcom MASTERS middle school STEM competition. Broadcom provides scholarship funding and school supplies to participants and winners for projects nationwide. This is enacted through nonprofit The Broadcom Foundation s partnership with the Society for Science and the Public. The Broadcom Foundation also provides funding for prominent STEM-focused teaching programs for K-12 students through a grant application process. Appendix Page 86
Kingston Technology Co. Headquarters Location Fountain Valley, CA Local Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 825 (0%) Companywide Employees, 2012, (YoY Change) 4,400 (N/A) Company Website kingston.com Kingston Technology is one of the top makers of memory modules printed circuit boards loaded with DRAM or other memory chips that increase the capacity and speed of printers and computers. Kingston also makes flash memory cards used in portable electronic devices, such as digital cameras, MP3 players, and wireless phones. Kingston takes on some manufacturing chores for customers through sister company Payton Technology, which runs a specialized factory in China that tests and packages memory chips before assembling them into customized memory modules. Hoovers.com Kingston is a dedicated manufacturer that, while not managing a full-service university relations effort, offers various internships in software development for ongoing computer science students. These internships give students an opportunity to write code, assist with product testing, manage SQL databases, maintain documentation, and participating in the Scrum project management process all essential skills for software developers operating within large-scale corporations. The position allows students to work part-time for three months and develop transferrable skills from a prominent hardware manufacturer. Overall, the quality of IT-tailored pipeline support efforts by companies in Orange County significantly outweigh their quantity, as evidenced by the major undertaking performed by Blizzard, Broadcom, Quest, and Western Digital. Many of the smaller IT firms that are significant contributors to the field are underrepresented at university recruiting events, as well as in their outreach in support of education programs and community partnerships. By improving this interaction between smaller IT firms and a centralized career destination for internship programs, these connections between educators and recruiters can be refined to produce student opportunities that will improve learning outcomes in a universal format compatible with all participating universities. Appendix Page 87
Alumni Networks and Internship Resources in Orange County Academic programs look to maintain ongoing support for recent graduates in all disciplines through alumni relations. Many of these groups feature student representatives working in conjunction with university administrators to produce chapters organized by region and area of study. Alumni networks are designed to get former students reconnected with classmates, obtain career counseling, and take advantage of ongoing education resources. Alumni associations are a unique opportunity for businesses to connect with students in IT-related professions, and find local talent pools that represent active individuals engaged in their distinctive field. While the three most prominent Orange County universities support healthy alumni networks, opportunities abound for improved representation of IT alumni in available events and career advancement programs. Should a centralized online compendium of Orange County s IT employment and internship resources emerge, alumni networks are extremely valuable to include for their contributions to localized community-building in the IT space. Robust internship programs are one of the most powerful bridges between education and employment, and education institutions support alumni with career resources designed to help create the right connections for the dual benefits of internships. Some institutions are more proactive than others in terms of providing IT-related opportunities, and all players can stand to gain from expansions in IT internship availability and streamlined services that help both students to discover opportunities and employers to advertise them. The following overviews summarize the IT-related events and employment services offered by each institution s alumni network, and in what ways an expanded IT-oriented component could take shape to fortify currently offered services. Internships UC Irvine For students looking to integrate work-based learning, UCI offers both their general career center and their M.B.A. specific career centers. In addition to career fairs, company information sessions and networking events, one of the greatest resources available to students looking for internships is via official associations. Significant associations for IT offered at UCI include Women in Information and Computer Sciences, the Undergraduate Business Association, and IS resources from Beta-Alpha-Phi s UCI Chapter, all opportunities for finding internships in IT-related areas. Featured recruiters in partnership with UCI that may interest IT students include Experian, Wells Fargo, EMC Corporation and AXA Equitable. UCI Alumni Association A standout characteristic of UC Irvine s career seminars is their adoption of online webinars as their primary vehicle for presentations. Career advancement webinars are available to download from the career archives section, and include topics on interviewing techniques, projecting an employee brand, and writing effective resumes. Regarding individual chapters, UCI s alumni network supports nine chapters of alumni, including the Information and Computer Science Alumni Chapter. However, the chapter pages contain little information on ongoing activities and participants. UC Irvine could greatly benefit from a webinar series covering hiring needs in information technology, along with providing greater detail for its existing ICS chapter. Career Center Appendix Page 88
UCI s own career center hosts four career fairs each academic year. The Internship and Career Fair held annually in January is a dedicated internship showcase for many companies the January 2013 event hosted 92 companies, 56 of which were actively seeking internships, and 20 percent of the students in attendance were pursuing computer science majors. UCI also hosts the Engineering, Science and Technology Fair every October, a platform for science students to seek out job opportunities 29 percent of October 2013 s attendees were students in computer science. Companies are also invited to host individual information sessions on campus, and post internship listing on UCI s job search tool ZotLink. UCI s efforts in supporting IT job development are the standard to beat for local universities. Internships Cal State Fullerton At CSUF, finding an internship is an entirely student-led process. However, students can receive guidance from an assigned career advisor, and CSUF s Career Services office provides Fullerton students with a variety of resources to help kick-start their careers. Undergraduates in IT-related areas of study can use both the business school Career Services Center and the general CSUF Career Center as platforms to find student-exclusive postings for paid and unpaid opportunities. Several undergraduate positions exist for the beginning IT/business specialist, including placements in quality control and marketing strategy. Alumni Association Events for the Cal State University Fullerton campus include networking receptions and fundraisers across its 19 chapters, designed to help young professionals interact with the university, affiliate companies, and peers. While CSUF does not currently have an IT-related alumni chapter, existing chapters that may be receptive to integrating IT elements include Business Titans, Nonprofit Professionals, and Hispanic/Latino Alumni. With its increasing availability of joint business/it degrees, CSUF has great growth potential for increasing formalized alumni activities in the IT space. CSUF Career Center Cal State University Fullerton is also on top of providing effective IT career events CSUF s career center hosted four career events from February through April, including the Business Career Expo, the Engineering & Computer Science Fair, and the Internship & Career Expo. They also offer pronounced sponsorship opportunities for events, including benefits that give premium placement at events and on student-facing material. Students are encouraged to attend career events frequently, and are offered workshops such as the Make Your Best Impression workshop in preparation for job fair attendance. The notable support for students considering internships and the guidance offered throughout the process helps make CSUF students stand out as better-prepared for employers. CU Alumni Chapman University Chapman s most active networking event is a monthly happy hour, hosted simultaneously in eight different regions. There are no defined chapters for Chapman University alumni by area of study, which could be an opportunity for an ITrelated group to eventually be formed. In particular, integrating a support network for Chapman s unique areas of study such as game design and economic systems could provide a significant advantage to alumni looking for support in specific fields. Career Development Center Appendix Page 89
Chapman s career center features regular career events for all students, as well as Career Excursions, off-campus day trips to companies throughout Orange County and Los Angeles. Chapman s focus is on expanded networking events that give professionals and students exciting mingling opportunities, such as the Courses of Excellence fine dining experience. While no specific STEM-related career events are publicly broadcast, this presents a chance for growth in the career center for IT-focused introductory experiences. Orange County Community Colleges Numerous community colleges feature dedicated job placement centers, fleshed out with counselors and seminars for giving students the edge in resume writing, interviewing technique, and access to job postings on unique pages for CollegeCentral.com. While schools such as Coastline Community College highlight their coursework in IT-related class clusters, many of the prominent community colleges in Orange Country do not feature IT-specific career services beyond the standard career center. As demonstrated by the above program offerings, internship placement services and networking opportunities for IT are fragmented, difficult to find, and occasionally not even provided. Developing a platform to compile all of the universityhosted career events in Orange County can help students explore all of their available options, help institutions increase their foot traffic at career events, and help employers streamline their application process and materials for presenting themselves at these events. It may also encourage smaller institutions such as community colleges and private education companies, underrepresented in the IT job fair space, to develop and promote similar events due to the increased visibility of a central online location for Orange County. Targeting education-employer relationship-building events maintains the spirit of the business/it collaboration process, and contributes meaningfully to the overarching goal of improving IT education and how it relates to ever-changing hiring needs. Appendix Page 90
Case Studies Veterans Programs Hiring Our Heroes The U.S. Chamber of Commerce launched the Hiring Our Heroes program in March 2011 to help military personnel and their spouses find meaningful employment, targeting recent returning veterans of the Iraq War. As of January 1st 2013, Hiring Our Heroes: Hosted 430 career fairs for veteran employment across Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, and all 50 of the United States. Connected 18,400 veterans and military spouses to new jobs through connections established at Hiring Our Heroes career fairs, 4,300 of which were hired within the last three months. Brought over 750 companies into contact with veterans and filled their employment needs. In March 2012, through a partnership with Capital One, Hiring Our Heroes launched a nationwide initiative called Hiring 500,000 Heroes, designed with the goal of achieving a half-million veteran hires by the end of 2014 in every sector of the U.S. economy. Utilizing the U.S. Chamber of Commerce s federation of 1,600 local chambers, Hiring Our Heroes is enlisting the support of thousands of small companies across America to achieve this goal. According to the latest quarterly status report provided by the organization, more than 800 companies and organizations have made commitments as part of the Hiring 500,000 Heroes campaign. Thus far, companies have committed to hiring over 182,000 veterans and military spouses by the end of 2014. More than 85,000 veterans have been hired by these employers between March 2012 and September 2012 alone. Hiring Our Heroes launched a standalone program for military spouses on January 13, 2012 in Washington, D.C, also sponsored by Capital One. The Military Spouse Business Alliance (MSBA) is a coalition of 10 leading military family nonprofits nationwide, and the MSBA has held 20 hiring fairs to date with built-in career forums for spouses. More recently, Hiring Our Heroes has offered workshops at other hiring fairs in conjunction with GE. As of September 2012, Hiring Our Heroes has helped 2,300 veterans improve interview techniques and resume writing at 33 job fairs. Hiring our Heroes has held an average of four job fairs per month in California, half of which are located in either Los Angeles County or Orange County. Joining Forces Joining Forces is a national initiative by the federal government that aims to motivate businesses, nonprofits, government bodies, and philanthropic organizations to become informed of the struggles faced by military families and offer support for veterans and their spouses. The initial challenge mandated by the federal government was for private sector companies to hire 100,000 veterans by August 2013. By August 2012, 200 American companies had hired a combined 125,000, achieving the original goal over a full year in advance. As part of the Joining Forces initiative, some high-profile technology companies that contributed to the effort included: LinkedIn: Committed to adopting the job posting schema and developing an easy to use tagging method to help facilitate the identification of veteran hiring commitments posted on their web site. Additionally, LinkedIn is Appendix Page 91
developing innovative applications to support veteran employment and developing a microsite to help veterans find jobs. Microsoft: Committed to offer 10,000 technology training and certification packages to U.S. military veterans over a two year period, through a partnership with the Department of Labor. The technology training and certification will be available at intermediate and advanced levels and will be delivered through e-learning, with additional in person support. This partnership is an extension of the overall Microsoft Elevate America veteran's initiative, which demonstrates a total investment of $12 million cash, product and related support for U.S. veterans. AT&T: Committed to launch two new online resources: a custom military skills translator, which will enable servicemen and women to use their current Military Occupation Code or Military Occupation Specialty to find corresponding civilian career opportunities at AT&T, and the Careers4Vets program which connects interested veterans with mentors within AT&T. These new platforms will support AT&T s ongoing veteran initiatives, including supplier diversity initiatives like Operation Hand Salute, a mentoring program that is designed to help disabled veteran businesses develop the tools and expertise to win large corporate contracts. Hewlett Packard: Plans to expand on its original $50,000 commitment to the American Corporate Partners (ACP), a nationwide mentoring program dedicated to helping veterans transition from the armed services to the civilian workforce through mentoring, career counseling, and networking during a yearlong mentorship. As a participating institution, HP has helped recruit executives, employees and retirees to be mentors in this program and is now expanding its mentoring program to California. CompTIA: Committed to train and certify 35,000 veterans and military spouses by 2013 with an IT-certification through their Troops to Tech Careers (T2TC) Program. This goal is part of CompTIA s long-term plan to provide 92,000 veterans and military spouses with valued-added IT-credentials by the end of 2016. To help reach this goal, CompTIA has launched troopstotechcareers.org, a national aggregator of information and resources for veterans and their families. The site connects veterans and families to benefits information, helps locate education institutions to prepare for CompTIA or other certifications, and includes a corporate registry which will link to companies that want to hire veterans and families. The IT Training and Certification Partnership debuted in April 2013, a new private-public partnership designed to address the need for IT credential training provided for military veterans. The fact sheet cites this new effort as an extension of June 2012 s Military Credentialing and Licensing Task Force, designed to provide training opportunities for veterans focused on industries that have an identified need for more skilled workers and stand to benefit from military expertise and training, including manufacturing, first responders, healthcare, information technology, and transportation and logistics. The partnership is directed at service members who are phasing out of the military and into the civilian workforce, as well as at current military service agents in their early career stages. The end outcome of the partnership is to assist 161,000 eligible participants to gain industry-approved certification in 12 high-tech fields, including healthcare IT and IT security. The IT Training and Certification Partnership can be used to leverage additional training opportunities that can directly contribute towards service members attaining civilian IT-related certifications beyond those that are provided in-service. Many prominent IT companies are at the forefront of the initiative, donating resources and instruction services for the improvement of military careers in IT fields. Some of the highlights available from the fact sheet are listed below: Appendix Page 92
Cisco Systems: Developed the IT Training and Certification Program that will match Military Occupation Codes (MOCs) with private sector core technology career paths. Cisco also worked with its partners, Global Knowledge and Pearson VUE, to provide ANSI-accredited Cisco training courses that will allow transitioning military personnel to prepare for Cisco CCNA certification exams and other globally recognized industry certifications at no cost to participants. Microsoft Corporation: Will donate 500 exam vouchers and partially underwrite the cost of training for service members to receive Microsoft official skills training. CompTIA: Will donate vouchers for certification exams, such as CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security+, to program participants. CompTIA has previously committed to train and certify 35,000 veterans and military spouses by the end of 2013, and 92,000 by 2016, with an IT certification through its Troops to Tech Careers initiative. Futures Inc.: Will provide the IT Pipeline platform that will be the centralized hub for matching and connecting transitioning and Reserve Component personnel with civilian training, certification, and employment opportunities Through these and other pipeline efforts, employers can look forward to an increased pool of IT talent returning from military service provided with guidance from retraining institutions in collaboration with high-profile IT specialists, helping veterans to ultimately leave a lasting impact on their chosen technical fields. PG&E: PowerPathway PG&E s PowerPathway trade skill program collaborates with community colleges and public workforce development systems to allow accessible coursework for workers interested in utility or energy occupations. The program begins with the Workforce Investment Board who screens, tests, advises and supports potential applicants. Successful applicants are turned over to education partners who provide training courses to advance student careers in the energy and utility industries. PG&E's role varies from partner to partner with duties including curriculum design, technical assistance, codelivery of classroom instruction, program funding, employment, and enlistment of additional participating employers. In PowerPathway s case, job skills learned in the workplace can be taken in the fields of Utility Worker, Pre-Apprentice Lineman, Electrician, Telecommunications Technician, and Welder. Many of the key features of PowerPathway could be very transferrable to a similar IT-oriented program. PowerPathway works to collaborate with community colleges for specialty certificate programs for instance, The PowerPathway Certificate in Electrical and Power Systems at the College of San Mateo was designed to source hard-to-fill apprentice electrical technician positions. By precisely defining the skills needed in a given position and combining technical requirements with soft skills instruction, IT could also capitalize on specialized training should the proper business partner make the connection with educators. PowerPathway also has a significant veteran s retraining component PG&E has hired 1,200 veterans to date of their 20,000 employees. More than 100 military veterans to date have graduated from the PowerPathway Bridge to Utility Worker and Bridge to Utility Equipment Mechanic programs at Fresno City College and American River College in Sacramento. 60 percent of successful graduates have been hired by PG&E, a PG&E contractor, or an industry-related employer. Finally, PowerPathway centralizes its course listings, training locations, and job openings on an accessible, easily-searchable page. Giving prospective students complete and easy-tofind information on programs and the steps to follow helps enrollment and ultimately graduation in the program best suited for each student. Appendix Page 93
STEM Academic Programs The following institutions are recognized as resources that support K-12 or post-collegiate learning through various methods and strong education goals. Some of these groups are within the IT realm, while others may concentrate in different fields but serve as examples of successful education plans that could be applied to an IT education setting for Orange County. Early College Program Early College Designs is an organization that supports creating combined high school and community college coursework, enabling students to obtain up to two years of college credit while completing their high school degree. Unlike advanced placement, Early Colleges benefit from a more specific design that seamlessly blends college-level and high school-level material and targets at-risk student demographics such as English language learners and lowincome families. Participating Southern California locations include Middle College High School in Santa Ana, Newport- Mesa Early College High School in Costa Mesa and Nova Academy in Santa Ana. Project Lead the Way (PLTW) PLTW provides challenging and innovating STEM education curriculum to middle and high schools across the United States. PLTW s comprehensive curricula are collaboratively developed by teachers, university educators, engineers, biomedical professionals and school administrators to promote critical thinking, analytical reasoning and real-world problem solving skills in students. The curriculum is delivered through PLTW s Virtual Academy, free of charge, to schools that register with PLTW. Overall, the program aims to expose students to courses and various pathways that they would otherwise not pursue, in the hopes of providing students with a wide perspective on potential career paths in the STEM fields. Currently, there are more than 42,000 schools nationwide that participate in Project Lead the Way. Linked Learning Linked Learning is an attempt to revolutionize and evolve the average high school experience by integrating core academic principles with technical skills and real world experiences. Under this program, students follow industrythemed pathways in popular trades such as engineering, arts and media, biomedicine and health. These pathways are intended to prepare high school students for careers and a full range of higher education options including attending a 2- or 4-year college or university, apprenticeships, military service and formal employment training. Overall, the program is designed to solidify and bring relevance to abstract high school courses by reinforcing theoretical academic principles through work-based learning, i.e., internships, job shadowing, and real-world applications. Consequently, the program relies heavily on teachers to blend academic and technical curriculum in ways that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. Pathways are intentionally left undefined to allow flexibility and individualization based on the educational setting and chosen implementation model. However, Linked Learning requires the following four components for a well-designed pathway: 1. An academic component Core subjects such as mathematics, English, history, foreign language and science courses must be integrated to the curriculum so that students will be ready to transition to the state s community colleges and universities, as well as to career training programs such as apprenticeships. Appendix Page 94
2. A technical component Three or more courses must be designed in a manner that helps students gain the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful and gain a head start in a career. 3. A series of work-based learning opportunities These can begin with mentoring and job shadowing, and later evolve into intensive internships or apprenticeships. 4. Support services Counseling and supplemental services such as tutoring must be provided for students to help them master academic and technical concepts necessary to be successful in higher education. In 2011, passing of legislation AB 790 by former Assembly Member Warren Furutani called for the establishment of 20 pilot Linked Learning programs. Participants selected by the Department of Education include school districts, countylevel offices of education, and several regional groups of educational agencies. Together, the initial program is estimated to reach approximately 600,000 high school students, about 30 percent of the state s public high school population. These pilot programs, scheduled to take effect in fall 2013, will be used to assess how Linked Learning can be expanded to schools across the state. Currently, participating districts and county-level offices are not receiving additional funding from the state for participating in the program, despite potential higher costs. Each pilot project has varying emphases based on the district/area job market, prominent industries, other relevant workforce indicators, and/or interests of members within the group. Evaluation of the program will be primarily based on outcome data that include: student dropout rates, number of students who meet admissions requirements to California public universities (A-G requirements), and relevant student workforce data. Global Information Technology Academy: Brea Olinda High School (Brea, California) In 2005, Orange County s Brea Olinda High School introduced the Global Information Technology Academy (GITA), which allows eligible students to gain college-level instruction specifically in IT while still in high school. GITA endeavors to combine practical problem-solving skills and customer requirements with the essential job features incorporated in IT work, and is a great foundational model for other Orange County institutions to base projected programs off of. GITA is laid out as a four-year program for incoming high school students, with two GITA-related courses assigned each year. Courses focus particularly on software and web development, with course content including Javascript, visual BASIC, web design, and culminating in advanced placement courses for computer science. GITA is a partner with the Informatics department of UCI, helping to develop curriculum and host seminars. While GITA is a great example of program structure and pipeline management, content for emerging programs must move to include both foundational computer science and introductions to business-favored alternative areas of IT, such as network management and hardware setup. Troy Tech Program: Troy High School (Fullerton, California) Ranked second in 2012 s assessment of top STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) high schools in the nation by U.S. News, Troy High School provides a unique technology-oriented program titled Troy Tech for students interested in acquiring technological skills while learning about career paths in the field. The program is designed to provide postsecondary students with a hands-on education about technology and related concepts through required courses on the fundamentals of programming, computer logic and algorithms. Additionally, students are asked to follow one out of five available specializations: Media, Business, CSIS, Engineering/Architecture and Governmental Leadership. Using required courses and student-selected specialization pathways, the Troy Tech program endeavors to provide a balanced education that encompasses a variety of skill-sets above and beyond traditional technological concepts. Further, during Appendix Page 95
the senior year of high school, students are mandated to participate in an internship in a company of their choosing; this component enables students to apply their acquired skills to solving real-world problems in a professional setting. K-12 STEM Youth Events Youth-focused events have the potential to be one of the greatest contributors to IT career experiences for young students, and are a key linkage between business and education in terms of supporting practical, workplace-ready IT skills. Many examples of events exist throughout the United States, and can be categorized into three main types. In the following section, community displays, individual skill-building opportunities, and competitions are compared to highlight their unique traits in engaging different student dispositions and learning inclinations. Several examples of high-profile events in each category are shown as exemplary models for event types to consider fostering in Orange County. Community Displays: Fairs and Expos Community displays are powerful tools for popularizing IT engagement with a two-tiered effect encouraging existing IT students to proudly show their skills, and inspiring attendees who view their efforts as both fascinating and wholly attainable. Talented students often serve as the best inspiration for prospective students because they help prospective students feel that with proper instruction and determination, they can also learn the techniques and knowledge of their peers on display. While fairs and expos can contain a competitive element for groups presenting themselves, they are typically positioned as celebrations of their subject matter, vehicles that deliver the wonders and possibilities of IT in a constructive environment, and thus are distinguished from traditional competitions. Kent School District (KSD): 2013 Tech Expo The ShoWare Center in Kent, Washington recently played host to the seventh annual KSD and Boeing Tech Expo for students, entitled Classroom, College & Career Skills. Designed especially for students interested in exciting new careers in IT, the event s overarching theme is to bring 21 st -century skills to the front of classrooms, where students in every age group can be adequately prepared for tomorrow s tech challenges. Schools within the district are the primary booth owners, with presentations for teachers and students on using technology in the classroom to greater effect. The KSD expo is an exemplary model for a region-specific tech fair, targeting schools and students with regional strengths and relevancies in mind. The consistent message of how every booth applies to job readiness is well-constructed and disseminated, giving the event strong differentiation and articulating tangible learning goals for students and parents to absorb from the experience. Milford 2 nd Annual Career Expo The city of Milford, Connecticut features its own online news resource titled Milford Patch, which features regionspecific news, announcements, and business listings. The recently-held career expo announced here was formatted similarly to a college-level career fair, but designed for K-12 students as an information session to talk with actual career professionals about their work, and offer advice on post-secondary education programs to follow, as well as extracurricular activities to further grow skills in that particular occupation. The career expo s target audience of K-12 students stands out as a valuable way for young students to get a preview of what career exploration is like in college. The expo offered fun sessions on dress code, handshaking, and writing mock applications in addition to traditional career informational booths. Applying a similar model to an IT-centric career fair for K-12 students exposes them to IT-related opportunities while simultaneously demonstrating the concept of job fairs. Appendix Page 96
Partnering with a region-specific news resource like Milford Patch could be a reality through a proposed centralized IT resource website for Orange County. Individual Skill-Building: Seminars, Camps, and Workshops Seminars, camps, and workshops all share a common purpose as an event how to improve. For this reason, events designed around skill-building for individuals are ideal events for aspiring IT talent, fresh and eager to learn after their exposure at community display events. These events are also closely linked to universities, often hosted or sponsored by prominent schools looking for branding opportunities. They are great venues for IT faculty members as well as special guest speakers to contribute to the community. Allowing students to explore, particularly in collaborative feedbackdriven environments like camps and workshops, helps them to adopt findings as their own and further drive the natural curiosity that can evolve into a passion. Providing these platforms, particularly to those unable to procure selfeducation, is a critical step in elevating the IT literacy field. R.I.T. Kids on Campus Hosted at the Rochester, New York campus of the Rochester Institute of Technology, Kids on Campus is a two-week summer program for Students from grades 5 through 12 to participate in academically-rigorous workshops in computer science. Visual programming is the primary subject matter for the majority of workshops offered, ranging from 3D modeling in Unity and Maya to integrating graphic design software into video editing. Particularly noteworthy is the Women in Technology workshop, a coding and game design series designed and taught for young women in 10 th through 12 th grades. Program instructors are a mix of R.I.T. faculty, undergraduate and graduate students, and local professionals. Where Kids on Campus shines is in providing a collaborative group setting designed to engage talented students and enable new learners to draw insight from their classmates. It also merges creativity with technical expertise in a compelling package for students of all backgrounds to follow. Summer Computer Animation Camp Hosted by PVNET, a Palos Verdes based program with over 3,000 students, Summer Computer Animation Camp is described as a unique opportunity for students to learn about the mechanics of creating high-quality animated films. Through several intensive classes students are taught advanced basics in 3-D modeling, character design, rigging, animation, and rendering. At the end of each session students are able to have a completed product suitable for a demo reel a potential selling device for prospective employers. Currently, there are several animation camp graduates at major animation studies worldwide, such as Pixar. Mathobotix Orange CA Mathobotix, located in Irvine and Los Alamitos, is a privately-held California corporation offering STEM education activities and classes to K-12 students. Mathobotix unites the rigor of logic programming and the creativity of kids construction toys into a fun, engaging series of summer programs hosted locally in Orange County. Mathobotix features scalable K-12 classes on programming and engineering utilizing Lego Mindstorms NXT software; students build by following the structure of real robotic systems development lifecycles and showcase their creations as a capstone project. Building-block robotics is a natural way to incentivize students of all ages to learn through play and as a field, Robotics integrates academic subjects, real life applications and workplace competencies in a complete package. Competitions Appendix Page 97
IT students need motivators to continue pursuing their IT skills beyond a hobbyist level if they want to succeed professionally, and competitive environments can be the best setting to encourage advanced students to grow. Competitions can also inspire students similarly to expos and fairs, by giving students hope that they also can attain the technical heights of their peers. Competitive events are a long-term investment for students, and require the support of both family and education institutions to succeed. Fostering great competitions can bring prestige to a team, a school, and the County, and can double as a compelling promotional tool solidifying a region or school s IT prowess. Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision ExploraVision is the largest science competition in the United States, boasting over 300,000 student participants since its introduction in 1992. Administered by the National Science Teachers Association and open to K-12 students throughout the country, the crux of ExploraVision is to challenge student teams of 2-4 to identify what they anticipate will be new inventions 20 years in the future. The competition is structured to treat student teams like professional scientists in research and development, and involves the production of research abstracts, a formal bibliography, and sample web pages. Project submissions are due at the end of January each year, with regional and national winners announced from March through May of the same year. Students are encouraged to partner with a guiding teacher to integrate the project with course curriculum, but the primary driver for project completion grows organically from the student team. Projects are judged on creativity, scientific accuracy, communication and feasibility of vision. The most successful competitions highly regard creativity as a driver for student motivation, and ExploraVision utilizes creativity and multidisciplinary applications to the fullest extent. Such competitions break down the barriers to science as a nebulous, difficult-to-grasp area of study for young students, and reinforce the fact that technical solutions come from addressing practical problems. K-12 Student and Youth Engagement Youth Expo: STEM and the Arts Career Showcase was a special event within the annual Youth Expo, hosted at the Orange County Fairgrounds last April. Over 45 exhibitors offered hands-on interactive booths for students to learn about STEM careers through mobile labs and live demonstrations. One major goal of events targeted at K-12 students is to promote discussion with their families. Another is to appeal to a broad range of students, fostering interest in potential career areas that students had never considered. The Youth Expo event also featured individual and group student projects in robotics and alternative fuel vehicles, which is a massive inspiration-builder for younger students seeing a senior student achieving in creative uses of technology makes a future in that field seem that much closer within reach. As this has only been the second year of the Youth Expo s STEM event, supporting a successful third year with expansive marketing, high-profile exhibitors, and exciting booths aimed at inspiring all ages should be a high priority for enabling families to bridge the digital divide. On the subject of inspiring the younger generation, a proposed IT Big Brother/Sister organization could match young students to role models within the IT industry that can provide insight on tools, subjects, and philosophies in learning IT skills. Role models could be college-level IT students, career professionals, or teachers. Exemplary IT professionals could also be invited to give presentations at schools and field questions from students following some preparation from teachers. Challenges for university-level students such as hackathons are great venues not only for students to test their prowess in real-world settings, but they can also serve as great showcases for interested companies eyeing soon-to-be graduates. Hosted by universities or even by companies themselves, getting students engaged in tackling technical challenges Appendix Page 98
benefits students by indirectly teaching soft skills essential to success creative problem-solving, team coordination, communication skills and project management. IT-oriented competitions could be devised for any number of subsections in IT: digital media in visual design contests, network solutions, programming, game design, data manipulation, and more could be considered for a competitive setting. Such competitions could even leverage a multidisciplinary approach, comprising teams of students with non-it expertise to contribute appropriately to a finished product. Vital Link Initiated by the American Business Conference, Vital Link Orange County invites high school students to explore career paths by experiencing them first-hand. Vital Link One Day Programs let students essentially try a career for a day through a career exploration program event hosted on site at their schools, where professionals walk students through real tasks that they would find on-the-job in the event s featured careers. As highlighted on the Vital Link website, students can try their hand at a number of IT-related projects, including: Designing a product and print it in 3D Watching a reenactment of a surgery Utilizing surgical programs and tools to simulate a laparoscopy operation Designing a robot and compete for prizes Learning about career options in green technology Meeting animators, video producers and video game designers Creating personal avatars and web pages Using medical robotics equipment In addition to traveling one-day events, Vial Link also plays host to several major job expositions, many of which feature STEM-related careers prominently. The previously-mentioned STEM and the Arts Career Showcase was a Vital Link initiative, Featuring industry and education displays, exhibits, and workshop presentations emphasizing middle and high school students, encouraging them to Explore, Discover, and Connect to their future careers. Also hosted annually by Vital Link, Kid 2.0 is a great example of career-related events targeted for grade-school students familiar with science and technology to take steps toward further curiosity in the field. For parents, the event held in March 2013 at the UCI campus was a great introduction to careers in STEM areas giving parents guidance on how to assist their children in pursuing a STEM-related profession. Children in attendance could enjoy fun interactive exhibits, while parents could learn about math and science resource centers in the vicinity, talking to engineers and scientists that share their work experiences and give advice on entering their fields. Beyond events, Vital Link also works closely with educators themselves to become better prepared in fostering the growth of essential employment skills in the classroom. Industry Externships connect educators with local businesses by providing company tours and information sessions, giving teachers concrete information on how industries are changing over time and obtaining information on essential job skills directly from the source. Vital Link is also deeply invested in providing curriculum supplements and guidance to existing schools, in order to help students carve out a career plan. Vital Link s soft skills curriculum is designed to accompany a technical education program, and through Vital Appendix Page 99
Link s Personal Portfolio study guides, provide high school students with a custom-tailored assessment of their education and experience needs in order to be prepared for the career of their choice. By supporting two critical audiences student career exposure, and educator preparation skills Vital Link aims to accomplish its mission of creating the link between business and education, transitioning hardworking students into meaningful employment. Vital Link is committed to making high school meaningful during the formative stages of the career development process. Junior Achievement Junior Achievement (JA) of Southern California is a prime example of an education pipeline initiative for underserved communities that supports relevant life-skill learning at all stages, and feature a model for planning similar practices for IT-oriented activities. JA provides supplemental volunteer-led learning opportunities for K-5, 6-8, and 9-12 grade levels, and ranks elements within all three according to their three pillars of student success: entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and work readiness. Programs can be implemented within the classroom, during after-school hours, or as a capstone program comparable to a field trip. Elementary-level programs relevant to IT include JA BizTown, a simulated community experience for 5 th -graders where students participate with different worker and consumer assigned roles. Understanding the role particular jobs play in the economy and potential career pathways at a very young age can help set the stage for IT interest if properly implemented. At the Middle School level, programs focus on teaching students personal finance, understanding the global economy, and for the JA It s My Business! Program, which is designed to equip pre-secondary students with entrepreneurship concepts laced within social studies, reading and writing. High school programs emphasize business ethics, purposeful career choices and a firm grasp of micro- and macroeconomics. Also notable is the JA Job Shadow program, designed to allow students to acquire valuable job skills direct from the source. One of the greatest benefits of the JA program spectrum is exposure. Getting students informed and enabling them to actively participate in activities can let students learn by doing. By shadowing workers and understanding financial management best practices before graduation, students can be more powerfully equipped to succeed at the university, the workplace, and beyond. Latino Educational Attainment (LEA) LEA is a revolutionary initiative composed of a coalition of business, non-profit, and academia, designed to increase parent engagement and awareness of Orange County s education system in order to improve student performance in Orange County s 100 lowest performing school districts. To increase parent participation LEA provides parents with specialized tools and resources to ensure student success. On average, students of LEA trained parents have a higher Grade Point Average (GPA) than non-lea parents. Currently, this successful initiative has approximately 8,000 parents that have completed the formal training, 115 organizations actively participating in LEA, 500 LEA trainers, 26 coalition partners, 10 participating school districts, and 140 participating schools. LEA s success can largely be attributed to the unique forms of information dissemination that the initiative adopts. Specifically, recognizing that many low-income minority groups largely relay information through each other, LEA developed the concept of Good Gossip. This method trains and educates well-respected members of the community to inform parents of the benefits of LEA in well-traveled public locations such as the soccer field, community center, or other popular neighborhood destinations. The continued growth of the LEA coalition can largely be attributed to the Good Gossip concept. Appendix Page 100
Additionally, LEA trains parents using the 10 Education Commandments guide. These 10 Education Commandments are designed to inform parents on Orange County s education process, as well as means for ensuring that their children are college ready. The 10 Education Commandments of LEA for parents are: 1. Commit as a family to be involved in school 2. Do my part in helping my child study 3. Understand how grades work ( A, B, C, D, F) 4. Learn how the schools are structured 5. Learn what my child needs to graduate successfully from high school 6. Help my child prepare for college early 7. Realize college is affordable 8. Support the learning of mathematics, science, and English 9. Encourage my child to take honors and advanced courses 10. Teach my child to hope and visualize his/her future Beyond increasing parent awareness of Orange County s education system, LEA further strives to retain students from ethnic communities by encouraging them to join the workforce in Orange County and surrounding regions. This creates the opportunity for students to give back to the communities they grew up in while contributing to Orange County s economy. Today, LEA has grown into a small group of dedicated volunteers and organizations with an incredibly diverse partnership of parent, corporate, educational and non-profit volunteers and sponsors. Along with the much needed support of many civic leaders and investors the LEA coalition has established an innovative system to support the future of our youth and usher them into the workplace in Orange County. Girl Game Company Primarily designed for middle-school aged participants, Girl Game Company is a Santa Cruz, California based program which aims to increase interest, knowledge and desire for young women to pursue courses and careers in IT. Participants in the initiative engage in activities such as designing and programming computer games, publishing and receiving feedback in a virtual community, and participating in field trips to technology-oriented companies. In terms of the program structure, students meet twice a week after school during the academic year and two to three weeks during the summer. The program has the following overall goals: Short-term: Increasing IT fluency Increasing the appeal of educational pathways to IT careers Building a network of friends and educators that support the pursuit of computing Long-term: Appendix Page 101
Increase the diversity in the STEM workforce with a focus on young women, particularly those from Latino families Currently, 276 young women and their families (80 percent of which are Latino families) have been involved in the program. According to an independent evaluation survey conducted using 59 participants, significant improvements have been found in the areas of computer literacy, attitude towards computing and computing careers and perception of women as computer scientists in IT. Stanford University Mobisocial Lab: Imagine Mobile Competition The MobiSocial Lab provides the opportunity for corporations and other organizations to conduct research and attend workshops with Stanford experts in mobile and social computing research. In 2012, the Lab hosted a summer workshop series on programming for high school students, culminating in a discussion on why high school students may be averse to computer science as an area of study. The students cited their preconceptions about computer science prior to engaging in the workshop process, stating that computer science is considered solitary, tedious, uncreative, and insignificant in individual impact. Thus, the MobiSocial Lab developed new opportunities for attracting students to the positive aspects of IT work by focusing on areas many high school students know well mobile devices and social networking. The Imagine Mobile Competition is a concept competition for middle school and high school students, emphasizing the creativity in devising new IT tools for everyday life. Students as individuals or as a group can submit a concept video up to three minutes in length, describing an idea for a useful mobile application. No programming knowledge is required for participation the competition is idea-driven. Multiple cash prizes are available, as well as opportunities to learn how to create the winning concept apps. This approach is designed to strip away the elements of IT that are intimidating for demographic groups distant from IT, and reward a problem-solving process that maintains the human element of IT. Winning students will be naturally motivated to see their concepts come to fruition, which in turn can motivate them to learn the skills necessary to design their winning apps. Junior Engineering Technical Society (JETS) Junior Engineering Technical Society (JETS) is the leading non-profit educational organization dedicated to promoting engineering and technology careers to America s youth. Currently, JETS has a national audience of more than 40,000 students and 10,000 educators in 6,000 high schools each year. Through the launch of their free electronics newsletter and career exploration material, JETS has been able to extend its outreach to more than 200,000 students. Additionally, JETS has a diverse group of participants, with more than 50 percent coming from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the technology and engineering fields including over 33 percent female participation. In order to spark student interest in engineering and technology fields, the JETS program adopts the Explore, Assess and Experience model, detailed below: Explore The Pre-Engineering Times, a free monthly e-newsletter highlighting exciting, real-world experiences and people in engineering; Explore magazine, JETS newest publication that helps students discover engineering; Jets.org/explore, the ultimate online resource covering more than 20 careers in engineering; Appendix Page 102
Assess PathAssess: an online tool showing students how their unique interests and skills can align with certain majors and careers in engineering; Experience TEAMS, a written competition for students highlighting the Grand Challenges identified by the National Academy of Engineering; National Engineering Design Challenge (NEDC), a hands-on design challenge in which students make a direct impact in their community by improving the lives of people with disabilities; and, UNITE, a summer program designed to prepare and motivate minority students for success in engineering through advanced academic classes. Using unique and innovative teaching and assessment tools, JETS is able to provide students with a multi-dimensional understanding of the engineering discipline. Additionally, JETS has been very successful in helping students re-frame any negative perceptions about the engineering and technological fields. Seattle Science Festival Every summer, the Seattle Science Festival brings together a broad mix of students, leading scientists, and a sprawling collection of universities, companies, and individual event coordinators for an 11-day celebration of all aspects of science in the Puget Sound area. Events are tailored for various age groups and familiarity with STEM-related studies. This year s iteration ran from June 6-16, 2013. The Festival is uniquely structured to create opportunities for community participation and provide access to community-driven content throughout the Festival. The highlight of the celebration is Science EXPO Day, a 150-booth gallery of hands-on exhibits, demonstrations, and performances in all STEM-related areas, hosted at the Seattle Center. The key differentiator for the Seattle Science Festival is the extensive offerings for Signature Programs hosted throughout the festival s duration. Community members throughout the region can volunteer to host behind-the-scenes tours, science adventures, field trip opportunities for classrooms, workshops, screenings of science-themed films, or many other events promoted through the Seattle Science Festival website and documented on the Festival s calendar. The 2013 Festival is hosting an average of six Signature Programs daily. There are no organizational fees involved with the hosting of a Signature Program through the Festival, making it a unique opportunity for organizations of all sizes to bring creative learning experiences to the table for public access. A filtered application process ensures that hosted Signature Programs are of the highest quality and bring the best in family-friendly experiential learning to Seattle. In regards to addressing the digital divide, adopting a festival model similar to the Seattle Science Festival can help bring smaller, focused initiatives on gender and ethnic groups into the public view giving them visibility and access during an extended showcase for IT opportunities. Furthermore, the sheer variety of Signature Programs offered has the advantage of attracting a broad range of potential students into IT. University of California Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Appendix Page 103
Offered at the nine UC Campuses statewide, LSAMP programs seek to significantly increase the number of baccalaureate degrees granted to underrepresented students in the STEM fields. Overall, LSAMP adopts the following fundamental goals: Steadily increase minority STEM enrollment and B.S. degree production; Expand undergraduate research opportunities, domestically and internationally; Increase enrollment in and provide support for STEM graduate education; Document effectiveness through evaluation and assessment. Additionally, if students wish, LSAMP supports the continued education of minority students through graduate and doctoral studies. Through this program, underrepresented groups gain many significant advantages through academic and professional development opportunities, and hands-on experiences that support and reinforce retention and degree completion. CT Workshop Children s Technology Workshop is an established franchise in the field of primary student after-school activity centers. Its signature program, icamp, is a summer program for students in grades 2 through 8 that incorporates Lego Mindstorms, video game design, digital art, and audio editing software into a comprehensive summer technology experience. Workshop Club is a weekly after-school year-round program that gives students practical application opportunities for technology learning both at the CTW and in the outside world. While bearing some similarities to Orange County s Mathobotix, CTW denotes that all of its games, robotics, and art design activities are strictly nonviolent. This policy could be considered an asset for appealing to specific demographics that culturally are against the emphasis on violence commonly associated with video games and computer software. Violence and tolerance for its depictions is a significantly divisive issue by gender, and a controlled environment can potentially be more effective in reaching out to young women for interest in IT. Appendix Page 104
The Role of Private Post-Secondary Education and Training Providers in IT Training: New Horizons Case Study New Horizons (NH) is a private post-secondary education and training provider with a significant presence in Orange County and provides a valuable case study regarding the future of distance learning, IT certification training, and the value of private technical institutions compared to traditional education institutions. The following section is a representative perspective of the role of private post-secondary providers in supplying an educated IT workforce. NH gives insight into a model of how private post-secondary providers have demonstrated how efficiently and effectively institutions like New Horizons can fill employer s IT job training needs. NH is a preferred partner for Microsoft, Cisco and Vmware curriculum, offering first-party certified instructors and courses. A large portion of NH s US offices are in California. Red Hat enterprise software for Linux is a key focus area, as NH is the only Red Hat preferred instructing partner in the state. NH provides classes for gaining trade certifications in four main IT divisions: System Administration Software Development Network Administration Database Administration CompTIA is a non-profit provider of certifications and the standard for many other vendors. CompTIA s A+ and Network+ are considered the foundation for basic computer knowledge, and students can branch into specialized sectors from there. Typically, receiving all baseline certifications is a seven-month process. All NH teachers are officially certified by the product vendors and their training programs Microsoft, Cisco, etc. Teachers typically need to recertify annually, to keep up with software revisions and updates. The ongoing education instructors receive from vendors is key to keeping the skills taught relevant. Microsoft is known to change its course materials as often as every three months. Likewise, professionals who earn their certification will need to re-certify with the same or new certification every three years. Since certifications are narrowly defined, professionals will have to adapt. For example, certification in Windows Server 2008 is irrelevant if a company is running the 2012 edition. Most courses are intensive and concentrated, some in as small as a week s full-time 40 hours commitment. NH classrooms adopt a Mentored Learning model. There are computer lab rooms at NH where students can take classes, consult lectures, complete assignments and review digital textbooks. A Microsoft-certified technician is inperson to take any questions or solve any IT issues students have. Test rooms are where students can take officially proctored exams to gain certification. Lab assignments usually consist of 1.5 hours of study and hands-on assignments followed by 4-10 follow-up questions to reinforce learning. There are specialized classrooms for Excel, Adobe Acrobat. Classrooms are remote-in friendly, meaning many classes allow students to telecommute, ask questions via chat boxes or video. The teacher is liverecorded, and students can tune in to the feed or an archived class session later. Some classes are 100 percent online with the teacher broadcasting exclusively to distance students. Class content determines if a class is suitable for online-only or if in-person coursework and instant help is more supportive for the Appendix Page 105
class. NH has doubled its number of classrooms since last year, and hosting distance learning courses at very high frequencies is the key to letting them offer more classes at a lower organizational cost. In terms of NH student demographics, the educational background of their incoming students is diverse some are Bachelor s degree holders in computer science or completely unrelated fields, some are PhDs looking to get practical assistance, and some are tradesman over 30 looking for career changes. 80 percent of NH students are funded by their parent companies to retrain. About 10% are on grants from the Workforce Investment Act, and less than 2 percent are attending out-of-pocket. The majority of NH s business comes from successfully-placed students who later convince their entire organization to retrain at NH. When advising students at NH, the student s background is implemented first, before determining which sect of IT would best enhance the student s career. For example: A former carpenter wanted to become a medical coder, but NH steered him into business intelligence at Home Depot through classes and certifications in databases. Counseling is concerned about outcomes, and keeping students moving forward with practical training in a way that fits their backgrounds. Addressing the age-technology generational gap is key to the success of IT retraining. Key Takeaways: A primary issue confronting IT education and training in general is that for many institutions is that educators, and therefore the classes they teach, become outdated quickly without continual re-education and professional development by instructors. Often, gray material is taught, coursework created by the instructor who often lacks official teaching certifications from vendors such as Microsoft and Cisco. Many courses focus too much on irrelevant course information students don t need to know the history of binary code, they just need to know how to apply it. Cost is perhaps the biggest underlying issue in highlighting how difficult many lower-cost training providers such as community colleges struggle to meet employer s IT education and training needs. A single class ranges from $2,500- $4,000 from New Horizons and most entry-level certifications require at least three classes. These prices are largely determined by the vendors, which is why community colleges need to use gray material because affording official certified Microsoft, Cisco, etc. instructors is not feasible. The well-publicized lack of state funding for community colleges exacerbates the problem. Many lower-income students attend lower-cost institutions such as community colleges to get technical training in a specific area. NH s prices and intensive class structure are unusable for low-income workers, the type of workers the County would like to transform the most into an IT workforce. With community colleges needing to maintain multiple facets of education university training, trades outside of tech, language learning, remedial courses it s difficult to expect them to be able to shift to a model similar to NH that does IT training justice at the neglect of other areas. Another overarching problem is the near-monopoly Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle, etc. hold on training requirements. Most vendors release revised content every two years or even faster and with the difficulty of adjusting curriculum colleges already have, it becomes expensive for instructors, institutions, and students alike to keep up with necessary updates. NH is an excellent program that s adapting in all the right ways to using distance learning, digital textbooks and integrated career counseling, ways that community colleges can definitely make short-term changes in. Teachers at community college also need to become more receptive to change and adapting to updates. If businesses want community colleges to improve their quality, community colleges should look into getting company-sanctioned instructors and certification for their current IT teachers a state subsidy to the companies involved could help the community colleges keep costs down for everyone and maintain the official content and certifications businesses need. Appendix Page 106