Programming

Career Certificate
Cost
$3,442*

Gain Computer programming proficiency

You know computers. You’ve heard of C++ and Python. You may even have some experience coding in these languages—and now you want expertise. With a certificate in programming, you make it happen.

Master object-oriented technologies, macros in Microsoft Access and database design in just three semesters. Some courses in your program include Introduction to SQL and Comprehensive Database.

What can you do with a Certificate in Programming?

With this certificate, you can enhance your programming skills. Work with analysts and engineers who design the software that you code. Opportunities in the field are extensive.

Your course work qualifies you to take industry exams: C++ Certified Associate Programmer (CPA) and C++ Certified Professional Programmer (CPP). Prepare yourself for careers where designing, implementing and debugging Python and C++ programs skills come in handy.

Depending on your current education and experience, your role could be:

  • Application programmer
  • Software developer
  • Junior software developer

Highlights

  • Stackable Credentials

    Earn and learn as you go with stackable credentials.

  • WIOA Program

    Eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Career Certificate

    Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.

  • Program Length: 1.5 Years

    Full-time students can complete in 1.5 years.

Career Outlook

View more careers

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) is your "go-to person" ready to help you get started at CLC.

Your CCN guides you through the admission process, helps you choose your academic program, enroll in classes and connect you with resources.

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    CIT 112

    CIT 112 Comprehensive Database

    Class Description

    This course introduces the concepts and features of a PC-based relational database using Microsoft™ Access. Students will learn to create and modify tables, customized queries, forms and reports. Other topics include: embedding objects, creating macros, using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), and database administrative tasks. Students will need to have basic knowledge of Windows and familiarity of basic application software functions to be successful in this course.
         		3
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code CIT 112
      Course Title

      CIT 112 Comprehensive Database

      Class Description

      This course introduces the concepts and features of a PC-based relational database using Microsoft™ Access. Students will learn to create and modify tables, customized queries, forms and reports. Other topics include: embedding objects, creating macros, using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), and database administrative tasks. Students will need to have basic knowledge of Windows and familiarity of basic application software functions to be successful in this course.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CIT 113

    CIT 113 Introduction to SQL

    Class Description

    This course will cover the essential concepts of relational databases using SQL (Structured Query Language). Students will develop skills necessary to effectively interact with an SQL database. Emphasis is on the SQL commands required for designing, accessing and manipulating databases. Students will gain practical hands-on experience using lab exercises and lab experiences.
         		3
    CIT 141

    CIT 141 Programming in C++

    Class Description

    Extends the knowledge of programming by demonstrating how C++ implements the basic constructs of Object Oriented Programming (OOP). Encapsulation, inheritance and polymorphism, the three fundamental criteria for OOP, will be examined closely. Students will implement C++ programs organized as a cooperative collection of objects, each of which represents an instance of some class, and whose classes are all members of a hierarchy of classes united via different kinds of class relationships. In addition, exception handling and object persistence will be deployed in these classes.
         		4
    • Course Code CIT 113
      Course Title

      CIT 113 Introduction to SQL

      Class Description

      This course will cover the essential concepts of relational databases using SQL (Structured Query Language). Students will develop skills necessary to effectively interact with an SQL database. Emphasis is on the SQL commands required for designing, accessing and manipulating databases. Students will gain practical hands-on experience using lab exercises and lab experiences.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code CIT 141
      Course Title

      CIT 141 Programming in C++

      Class Description

      Extends the knowledge of programming by demonstrating how C++ implements the basic constructs of Object Oriented Programming (OOP). Encapsulation, inheritance and polymorphism, the three fundamental criteria for OOP, will be examined closely. Students will implement C++ programs organized as a cooperative collection of objects, each of which represents an instance of some class, and whose classes are all members of a hierarchy of classes united via different kinds of class relationships. In addition, exception handling and object persistence will be deployed in these classes.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CIT 142

    CIT 142 Programming in Python

    Class Description

    This course covers basic to intermediate level programming concepts and problem-solving skills in Python language. Contents include the fundamentals of data storage, input and output, control structures, functions, sequences and lists, file I/O, and objects that are created from standard library classes and users. Students will design, implement, and debug object-oriented Python programs, including simple event-driven Graphical User Interface (GUI) applications.
         		4
    CIT 241

    CIT 241 Advanced C++

    Class Description

    Extends the students' knowledge of C++ through the study of the application of data structures and an introduction to frameworks. The student will learn the basic concepts and the application of the normal data structures of vectors, linked lists, stacks, queues, and trees. These concepts will be examined through discussion on the implementation of these data structures in The Standard Template Library components. These studies will be based on C++ templates and C++ exception handling. The course will examine searching and sorting algorithms especially in relation to the data structures studied above. The course will also study the concepts and use of frameworks emphasizing the C++ Stream I/O classes and their relationships. With this knowledge, students will be able to apply appropriate data structures to solve programming problems. The student will understand the use of frameworks as a basis to solving a class of problems. SOFTWARE: MS-Windows and a recent C++ compiler with a supporting STL.
         		3
    • Course Code CIT 142
      Course Title

      CIT 142 Programming in Python

      Class Description

      This course covers basic to intermediate level programming concepts and problem-solving skills in Python language. Contents include the fundamentals of data storage, input and output, control structures, functions, sequences and lists, file I/O, and objects that are created from standard library classes and users. Students will design, implement, and debug object-oriented Python programs, including simple event-driven Graphical User Interface (GUI) applications.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code CIT 241
      Course Title

      CIT 241 Advanced C++

      Class Description

      Extends the students' knowledge of C++ through the study of the application of data structures and an introduction to frameworks. The student will learn the basic concepts and the application of the normal data structures of vectors, linked lists, stacks, queues, and trees. These concepts will be examined through discussion on the implementation of these data structures in The Standard Template Library components. These studies will be based on C++ templates and C++ exception handling. The course will examine searching and sorting algorithms especially in relation to the data structures studied above. The course will also study the concepts and use of frameworks emphasizing the C++ Stream I/O classes and their relationships. With this knowledge, students will be able to apply appropriate data structures to solve programming problems. The student will understand the use of frameworks as a basis to solving a class of problems. SOFTWARE: MS-Windows and a recent C++ compiler with a supporting STL.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

Total Credit Hours

19

Female student taking notes in class

Computer Information Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

This certificate is just one possible way to study Computer Information Technology. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Computer Information Technology program overview

Frequently asked questions

*Cost includes tuition and other fees, including books and materials before financial aid is applied, such as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.

Paying for college

Explore careers

Discover majors and career paths to complement and extend your intuitive interests and abilities.

Explore Career Coach

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Send me info

Get started

Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.

Start today!
1/4