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Overview
The Computer Science program at the College of Western Idaho will provide you with a rich learning environment that encourages you to explore the fundamental aspects of computer science. Coursework covers a variety of subjects including mathematics, chemistry, physics, computer science, and English.
This program is designed to result in an Associate of Science degree in Computer Science and meets the general education requirements at all Idaho public universities. By completing the degree requirements, you will be prepared to transfer to a four-year institution and pursue an advanced degree in computer science.
Mission
The mission of the Computer Science program is to prepare students to transfer to a four-year institution with a good understanding of computer programming principle and provide students the tools to succeed in technology: logical thinking, problem solving, and holistic analytical skills.
Why This Program
By completing the degree requirements, students will be prepared to transfer to a four-year institution and pursue an advanced degree in computer science.
What You Will Learn to Do
- Understand the fundamental structures and syntax of computer languages
- Develop good style practices and software design principles
- Explore proper coding processes and development tools
- Hone logical thinking and problem solving through related Math and Science courses
- Develop life-long learning skills
Clubs

College of Western Idaho's Gaming Club is for anyone who plays video games, board games, tabletop, or even card games! Join us as we build and establish the gaming community on campus and connect and build friendships with fellow gamers. Check...
Additional Opportunities
CWI offers you the opportunity to learn the fundamental building blocks of Apple's Swift programming to explore a career in app development. Learn more about Swift Classes.
NEW! The Computer Science Program is now offering an introductory course in Python Programming (CPSC 111). This course is also an approved elective for the STEM Program. Contact your advisor for details.
Cyber Defense Center
College of Western Idaho's Cyber Defense Center offers cybersecurity awareness, best practices, news, events, and activities for Idaho communities, businesses, partners, and students while striving to advance U.S. Federal Government, State of Idaho, and industry initiatives in cyber defense.
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Requirements and Costs
Degrees and Certificates
Explore the resources below for information, dates, and deadlines related to admissions, financial aid, registration, and next steps.
Dates & Deadlines for Credit Programs | Summer 2023 | Fall 2023 | Spring 2024 |
---|---|---|---|
Priority Registration Begins 1 | N/A | Apr 10 | Nov 13 (2023) |
Open Registration Begins | Feb 27 | Apr 17 | Nov 20 (2023) |
Financial Aid Priority Deadline | May 13 | Jul 29 | Dec 16 (2023) |
Admission Deadline 2 | May 27 | Aug 12 | Jan 6 |
Last Day to Register for Classes | Jun 2 | Aug 18 | Jan 12 |
Tuition and Fees Due | Jun 2 | Aug 18 | Jan 12 |
Classes Begin 3 | Jun 5 | Aug 21 | Jan 16 |
1 Priority registration is limited to continuing students. Students are assigned a registration time based on their cumulative credits earned. Students should check myCWI and their CWI email to learn their assigned registration time. Students may register online anytime on or after their assigned registration time.
2 The Admission Deadline for international students is earlier than the deadline for non-international students and is only available during the fall and spring semesters. Please consult the Academic Calendar for the international student admission deadlines.
3 Classes in shorter sessions (including 4-, 5-, and 8-week sessions) may begin before or after this date. Please refer to the specific class session sections beneath the full Academic Calendar for more information.
Advising
Navigating your way through college can be confusing, especially if you try to go it alone. CWI offers advising assistance to help in deciding which courses you need to take to reach your education and career goals. Visit Advising or contact One Stop Student Services for more information.
Connecting With Ideas
Connecting With Ideas (CWI 101) is the first semester student success course designed to help CWI students become engaged members of the academic community and cultivate habits for lifelong achievement and success. Each semester, students can select from a variety of themes. More information about next semesters CWI 101 themes
Transfer
Look beyond your degree at CWI and plan for continuing your education by working closely with CWI advising and representatives of your intended transfer school. Planning before you transfer can save you time and money. Visit Transfer Information for more information or contact One Stop Student Services.
Financial Aid Available
Did you know that as a student in this program you may be eligible for financial aid? Through grants, scholarships, and loans, more than 60 percent of first-time, full-time CWI students receive some form of financial assistance. To learn more about financial aid options and whether you may be eligible, visit Financial Aid.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition for a full-time CWI student averages half the cost of a state university and a third of the cost of a private college. Tuition and fees vary based on program and residence. Visit Tuition and Fees for more information.
Career Info
Professions
- Software Developer
- Software Engineer
- Software Architect
- Programmer Analyst
- Systems Developer
- Big Data Scientist
- Cybersecurity Scientist
This program is designed as a transfer to Boise State University for an advanced degree in Computer Science or Engineering or a transfer to Northwest Nazarene University for a BA or BS in Computer Science.
Locations
Instructors
Program Department Chair
Instructor(s)
Respectful Community
College of Western Idaho is committed to maintaining a Respectful Community by providing equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate in services, benefits, or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status, age, or any other legally protected status. More on Title IX
News and Blogs

Congratulations to Student Success Advisor, Jessica Chapple, named College of Western Idaho’s Staff of the Month for January 2022.

Congratulations to Gary Brennan, College of Western Idaho’s Staff of the Month for July 2021.

"Because of CWI, I was able to return to college as a non-traditional student having been out of high school for a decade, find my passion, make wonderful friends, gain influential mentors, and successfully graduate with honors and two science degrees."

CWI joined Boise State University to celebrate student success during Onramp's 2021 Spring Showcase.

CWI is excited to announce the introduction of Swift programming classes for the Spring 2021 semester.
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