The MiraCosta College's Computer Science program is among the prestigious Verified Programs designated by the San Diego Regional EDC (Economic Development Corporation) in collaboration with numerous industry partners. Industry leaders have hailed these Verified Programs for their exceptional preparation of students pursuing careers in computing and engineering fields. This recognition extends to 30 educational programs, representing 16 different institutions across San Diego and Imperial Counties.

"Being recognized as part of the Verified Programs in Computing Talent by EDC is a testament to our commitment to preparing students for successful careers in computing and engineering. At MiraCosta College, we take great pride in addressing the talent needs of our region's employers and fostering an inclusive and diverse talent pipeline. This achievement reflects the dedication and collaboration of our faculty, staff, and students alongside industry and employer partners, and we look forward to continuing to provide high-quality education and opportunities for our students," explains Ben Gamboa, Associate Dean of Career Education at MiraCosta College.

The verification process was conducted under the auspices of Advancing San Diego, the flagship program of EDC's Talent Initiatives. This initiative aims to double the production of skilled workers for high-wage, high-demand occupations in San Diego while prioritizing historically underrepresented populations in the innovation economy.

In today's rapidly evolving job market, San Diego and the nation face a significant challenge in matching talent supply with demand. As innovation clusters expand and non-STEM roles become increasingly technical, the importance of accessible and high-quality training programs cannot be overstated. Simultaneously, demographic shifts are reshaping the workforce landscape. Over 50 percent of San Diego's seventh graders come from historically underrepresented backgrounds, and nearly 25 percent of the U.S. workforce is approaching retirement age. 

"To secure the talent pipeline for the future, we must ensure that all San Diegans have access to top-notch training programs that open doors to high-wage, high-demand careers," explains Gamboa.

Verification as a Verified Program signifies that an educational program excels in five critical areas:

Additionally, the Verified Program designation opens up exciting opportunities for students enrolled in publicly funded programs. They can now take advantage of paid work-based learning experiences. In collaboration with the Border Region Talent Pipeline K-16 Collaborative, San Diego and Imperial Counties companies are invited to apply to host funded interns specializing in computing, engineering, and business for the Summer of 2024, all sourced exclusively from the Verified Programs roster.

At MiraCosta College, Computer Science studies computers and their applications. It includes a variety of specialties, such as systems programming, artificial intelligence, robotics, networking, and graphics. In preparation for transfer into more advanced fundamental and specialized areas, students will learn basic programming, data structures, and architecture. Computer Science majors will also need two or three semesters of calculus and discrete mathematics, depending on the choice of transfer institution.

MiraCosta College is honored to join this distinguished group of Verified Programs in computer science, biotechnology, business, engineering technician, and medical assisting. In addition, cybersecurity and systems administration programs were recognized by the San Diego Workforce Partnership CyberHire program, which connects MiraCosta students to careers in San Diego's burgeoning tech industry.

The District remains committed to providing exceptional education and training opportunities for our students.