Frequently Asked Questions
- What types of programs are offered?
- Can I take all of my courses online?
- Will I be required to enroll in courses other than computer science courses?
- Do I have to attend every class?
- Is work outside of class required?
- When may I use the computer laboratories?
- Can I get assistance outside the classroom?
- Are tutors available?
- Can I receive evaluated credit for work experience?
- Can I transfer all courses I take at CTC to other colleges?
- Do I have to take computer science courses in the sequence listed on the program of study?
- Are all courses offered every semester?
- Which computer science courses are offered in the summer?
- When are the online computer science courses offered?
- Do I have to take every course listed on the program of study?
- What is the MCSA/MCITP program?
- For which Certification Exams will the MCITP program prepare me?
- I have more questions about computer science at CTC. Where can I find answers?
1. What types of programs are offered?
The Computer Science Department offers four Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees and two 1-year Certificates of Completion.
2. Can I take all of my courses online?
That depends on the degree you are seeking. Almost all of our courses are offered both in the classroom and online. Currently, only the AAS, Business Programmer Analyst (CSBP) and AAS Network Systems Administrator (CSNS) have some required courses that are only available in the classroom. That means that all the other programs of study can be completed entirely online.
3. Will I be required to enroll in courses other than computer science courses?
Yes. All degrees and certificates have requirements in addition to computer science courses. These courses are listed within the program of study and certificate plans.
4. Do I have to attend every class?
Yes. Computer Science classes are intense classes. One of the factors which greatly contributes to a student's success in a Computer Science course is attending every lecture. Before enrolling in a Computer Science course, the prospective student should ascertain that there will be no conflicts which will prevent him from attending class. Missed classes are a prime reason for failing grades.
5. Is work outside of class required?
Yes. In all Computer Science classes, work outside of class is required. In a programming class, laboratory work (the writing of computer programs) can consume an additional ten or more hours per week.
6. When may I use the computer laboratories?
Computer Science students may use the labs seven days per week (holiday closures are posted). Normal hours are:
- Mon-Thurs 8:00 a.m. to 9:00* p.m. (* 10:30 p.m., if there are students)
- Fri 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Sat & Sun 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Holiday closures are posted
Please read the Computer Science Department Computer Use Agreement.
7. Can I get assistance outside the classroom?
Yes. Each instructor has scheduled laboratories when they are fully available to students. Additionally, lab assistants are available during lab hours, and can usually help with specific questions.
8. Are tutors available?
Yes. Contact the Project PASS office for further information if you feel you need a tutor.
9. Can I receive evaluated credit for work experience?
Possibly. Contact the Evaluations Office.
10. Can I transfer all courses I take at CTC to other colleges?
That depends entirely on the school to which you are planning to transfer (receiving institution). You must check with the receiving institution to determine how many and which courses they will accept.
11. Do I have to take computer science courses in the sequence listed on the program of study?
This is not required but strongly encouraged. Classes may not be offered every semester (see below), and many courses have prerequisites, which have been considered in the established sequence.
12. Are all courses offered every semester?
No. Courses are offered in the semester they are listed on the program of study in the CTC catalog. The "First Semester" is FALL while the "Second Semester" is SPRING. Courses with sufficient student demand are scheduled more often. Many courses are also offered online throughout the year.
13. Which computer science courses are offered in the summer?
Most first-year courses are offered each summer.
14. When are the online computer science courses offered?
CTC offers online classes starting every month. Most computer science courses are offered in 8 and 16 week versions (10 weeks in the summer). The content is the same, but the shorter courses are much more intensive.
15. Do I have to take every course listed on the program of study?
Yes. You must successfully complete all courses listed on the degree plan before a degree can be awarded.
16. What is the MCSA/MCITP program?
The Computer Science Department offers an online program and Certificate, preparing the students to take various Microsoft and COMPTIA certification exams. These courses are not part of the normal college curriculum and have their own fee structure. Upon completion of each course, students may attempt the appropriate certification exam offered through independent companies. Please see Microsoft Certification Preparation for more information.
17. For which Certification Exams will the MCITP program prepare me?
The list of certification exams includes CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, MCP, MCTS (Server 2008 Infrastructure and Active Directory), MCITP Server Administrator.
18. I have more questions about computer science at CTC. Where can I find answers?
Contact the Computer Science Department at 254-526-1164, or email the Department Chair, Mr. Bob Grazinski, at bob.grazinski@ctcd.edu, or stop by Bldg 121, Room 211. We will be happy to answer your questions.
