MiraCosta College

This certificate of proficiency will prepare students for opportunities in the emerging fields of 3D Printing (3DP), Rapid Prototyping (RP), and Additive Manufacturing (AM). Students develop skills in producing digital 3D models that are used to print, fabricate, and/or manufacture physical prototypes in a rapid manner.

This certificate prepares individuals with skills fundamental to careers in professional interior and industrial design. It is designed for students who desire to secure entry-level positions or who plan to continue their education at a college of design. Job titles typical of students completing this certificate include design assistant or interior design assistant.

This certificate program gives students a working knowledge of the practices and technical aspects of architectural design and drawing. Students complete the required core courses and choose two elective courses that relates to their own career objective. Completion of this certificate provides students with a foundation in architectural design, construction materials, computer-aided drafting, and building-information modeling, and it enables students to qualify for entry-level positions in detailing, revisions, design update, and general office practice.

The Design program offers courses in architecture, drafting, and engineering for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of architectural design, computer aided design, mechanical design, and engineering design. The program also offers courses for those who may not be pursuing a career in design but who have an interest in or need to understand graphic communication. The engineering course work includes engineering design graphics courses for students majoring in aerospace, civil, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and structural engineering. The architectural course work gives students a working knowledge of the practices and technical aspects of architectural design and drawing. Careers in architecture, some of which require an undergraduate degree, include urban planner, surveyor, draftsperson, building inspector, corporate architect, and technical illustrator. Employers for students obtaining certificates and associate degrees include federal, state, and local land use planning agencies; building and transportation agencies; private architectural, contract, and construction companies; and for-profit industrial and manufacturing companies in life science, defense, sport/recreation equipment, and various other industries.

This certificate offers students credit college courses in solid modeling that transfer to local universities and prepare students to take the AutoCAD certification exam and become a certified user. Beginning students who complete this certificate are on a path toward completing an associate degree in computer aided drafting and transferring to a four-year university. The certificate is also valuable to industry professionals seeking to upgrade their skills and obtain certification.

This certificate provides a solid foundation in computer-aided drafting and design (CADD). In addition to the common core of required courses, students choose an area of emphasis (architecture, engineering, or landscape) and complete at least 11 elective units from that emphasis. Completion of this program prepares students for entry-level support positions in a variety of local industries or for continuing their education. Typical job titles of students completing this certificate include designer, CAD technician, design drafter, and architectural and civil designer.

The Design program offers courses in architecture, drafting, and engineering for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of architectural design, computer aided design, mechanical design, and engineering design. The program also offers courses for those who may not be pursuing a career in design but who have an interest in or need to understand graphic communication. The engineering course work includes engineering design graphics courses for students majoring in aerospace, civil, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and structural engineering. The architectural course work gives students a working knowledge of the practices and technical aspects of architectural design and drawing. Careers in architecture, some of which require an undergraduate degree, include urban planner, surveyor, draftsperson, building inspector, corporate architect, and technical illustrator. Employers for students obtaining certificates and associate degrees include federal, state, and local land use planning agencies; building and transportation agencies; private architectural, contract, and construction companies; and for-profit industrial and manufacturing companies in life science, defense, sport/recreation equipment, and various other industries.

This certificate provides a solid foundation in computer-aided drafting (CAD). In addition to the common core of required courses, students choose an area of emphasis (architecture, engineering, or landscape) and complete all the courses from that emphasis. Completion of this program prepares students for entry level support positions in a variety of local industries or for continuing their education. Typical job titles of students completing this certificate include drafter, CAD operator, AutoCAD technician, and architectural and civil drafter.

The Design program offers courses in architecture, drafting, and engineering for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of architectural design, computer aided design, mechanical design, and engineering design. The program also offers courses for those who may not be pursuing a career in design but who have an interest in or need to understand graphic communication. The engineering course work includes engineering design graphics courses for students majoring in aerospace, civil, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and structural engineering. The architectural course work gives students a working knowledge of the practices and technical aspects of architectural design and drawing. Careers in architecture, some of which require an undergraduate degree, include urban planner, surveyor, draftsperson, building inspector, corporate architect, and technical illustrator. Employers for students obtaining certificates and associate degrees include federal, state, and local land use planning agencies; building and transportation agencies; private architectural, contract, and construction companies; and for-profit industrial and manufacturing companies in life science, defense, sport/recreation equipment, and various other industries.

This certificate introduces and provides an overview of the issues and skills involved in drafting education or a career in drafting. A graphics communication course covering sketching, visualization, and projection is combined with a computer-aided drafting and architectural drawing course to help students develop skills using the board and AutoCAD. These courses provide a foundation for work or study related to drafting.

This certificate provides students an opportunity to explore and become proficient with the graphic tools used by designers and engineers to take ideas from design concept to prototype and physical product. Students who complete this certificate are encouraged to then pursue the Mechanical Design or CADD Certificate of Achievement and continue their engineering education.

Upon completion of this program students will be able to demonstrate engineering and design skills necessary for entry level engineering positions and further academic study in engineering and/or design.

The Design program offers courses in architecture, drafting, and engineering for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of architectural design, computer aided design, mechanical design, and engineering design. The program also offers courses for those who may not be pursuing a career in design but who have an interest in or need to understand graphic communication. The engineering course work includes engineering design graphics courses for students majoring in aerospace, civil, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and structural engineering. The architectural course work gives students a working knowledge of the practices and technical aspects of architectural design and drawing. Careers in architecture, some of which require an undergraduate degree, include urban planner, surveyor, draftsperson, building inspector, corporate architect, and technical illustrator. Employers for students obtaining certificates and associate degrees include federal, state, and local land use planning agencies; building and transportation agencies; private architectural, contract, and construction companies; and for-profit industrial and manufacturing companies in life science, defense, sport/recreation equipment, and various other industries.

This certificate prepares individuals for entry-level jobs with companies and agencies involved in the design and/or manufacture of mechanical objects, devices, and equipment. Students develop the knowledge and skills needed to take design ideas from concept sketches to digital models, physical prototypes, detail drawings, and subsequent manufacture and production. Job titles of students completing this certificate include drafter, designer, mechanical designer, and engineering assistant. The certificate also equips employed and transfer students with expertise using the latest industry-standard design tools required for job promotions, advanced study, and professional practice.

The Design program offers courses in architecture, drafting, and engineering for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of architectural design, computer aided design, mechanical design, and engineering design. The program also offers courses for those who may not be pursuing a career in design but who have an interest in or need to understand graphic communication. The engineering course work includes engineering design graphics courses for students majoring in aerospace, civil, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and structural engineering. The architectural course work gives students a working knowledge of the practices and technical aspects of architectural design and drawing. Careers in architecture, some of which require an undergraduate degree, include urban planner, surveyor, draftsperson, building inspector, corporate architect, and technical illustrator. Employers for students obtaining certificates and associate degrees include federal, state, and local land use planning agencies; building and transportation agencies; private architectural, contract, and construction companies; and for-profit industrial and manufacturing companies in life science, defense, sport/recreation equipment, and various other industries.

This certificate offers students credit college courses in solid modeling that transfer to local universities and prepare students to take the SOLIDWORKS certification exam and become a certified user. Beginning students who complete this certificate are on a path toward completing an associate degree in CADD or mechanical design and transferring to a four-year university. The certificate is also valuable to industry professionals seeking to upgrade their skills and obtain certification.

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Suspension and Steering (A4) and Brakes (A5) examinations and for entry-level employment in the suspension and brake areas of the automotive service industry.

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6) examination as well as for entry-level employment in electrical and electronic areas of the automotive service industry.

The Automotive Electronics, Computers, Emissions/HVAC program includes course work in the theory and function of automotive electronics and computer systems. It emphasizes basic automotive electronics, diagnostics, drivability, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and/or emission controls, including smog-check procedures.

This certificate offers training in basic automotive service and maintenance along with the sales training needed for employment as a quick service technician.

This certificate prepares students for entry-level auto mechanic positions at local dealerships and independent repair facilities. The program focuses on diagnosis and repair of internal engine components for domestic and import vehicles. Students take apart engines and transmissions and put them back together from the ground up. This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) examinations for engine repair and automatic and manual transmissions.

This certificate is designed to prepare students for entry-level auto mechanic positions at local dealerships and independent repair facilities. Courses are designed to prepare students for various state licenses and national certification. After completion of these courses, students are qualified to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) tests in engine performance, engine repair, brakes, and steering and suspension, and they will possess entry-level service and repair skills on hybrid and alternative-fuel powered vehicles. Students interested in the ASE Certificate as a Master Automobile Technician need to complete other specific courses listed in the catalog to prepare for the additional test areas.

The Automotive Technology program prepares students for entry-level automotive mechanic positions and provides training for persons already employed in the industry. Automotive courses also prepare students for various state licenses and national certifications, including tests administered by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Career options include auto mechanic/repair technician, professional automotive detailer, service manager, and parts specialist. Potential employers include automotive dealerships and independent repair facilities.

This four course certificate of achievement is designed to serve students who wish to learn automotive, small engine, and motorcycle maintenance and light repair. It is designed to afford students with limited time and/or economic constraints the means to quickly enter the industry as an entry level lube tech, lot porter, detailer, parts counter salesperson, technician's assistant, or entrepreneur.

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Engine Performance (A8) examination and for entry-level employment in the engine performance area of the automotive service industry.

The California Smog Check Technician certificate prepares students for the California Smog Technician Licensing Examination and entry-level positions as smog check technicians and positions in the automotive reconditioning field.

Students interested in the ASE Certificate as a Master Technician need to complete all of the required courses for the MiraCosta College Automotive Technology Certificate of Achievement as well as several other courses to prepare for the additional test areas. Students may earn the MiraCosta College Master Technician Certificate of Achievement by completing the following courses.

The Certified Nursing Assistant certificate introduces students to the basic information and nursing skills needed to pass the state exam required for Nurse Aide Certification, which enables students to work in acute care, long-term care facilities, and home nursing.

The Home Health Aide (HHA) certificate prepares students who are licensed as nursing assistants to care for elderly, recovering, or disabled persons in their own homes or in licensed residential care facilities. Topics covered include basic nursing services, food preparation, and household services. Federal guidelines do not require a competency exam prior to certification as an HHA. Certification is based upon verification of successful completion of an approved HHA training program.

The MiraCosta College Licensed Vocational Nursing program is a six-quarter program leading to a certificate as a vocational nurse. Those who qualify for enrollment receive intensive training and in-class work as well as clinical practice in direct patient care. The clinical practice is constantly supervised by licensed or registered nurse specialists who guide and teach students. Upon satisfactory completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Licensure Examination for Vocational Nurses to achieve licensure. The licensed vocational nurse may seek employment in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, clinics, physicians' offices, or various government agencies, as well as serve as a private-duty nurse in hospitals or homes.

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to promote and maintain a safe environment by integrating nursing process and skill competency to intervene therapeutically for the health of the patient.

This certificate prepares students to perform specialized work related to insurance and coding in medical settings.

This certificate program provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work as medical assistants in a variety of practice settings, such as in medical offices, acute care settings, and clinical or allied health and ambulatory care facilities. Course content includes medical terminology, office systems and procedures, medical coding, medical insurance and billing, electronic health records, patient advocacy, HIPAA compliance, basic anatomy and physiology, medical back office support, and bloodborne and airborne pathogen standards.

This certificate prepares students to work in medical office settings. Students receive training in HIPAA compliance procedures, basic computer competencies, medical office procedures, medical terminology, basic anatomy, electronic health record input and maintenance, and billing and coding practices used in hospitals, medical offices, and clinics.

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to complete all the steps in the Documentation Cycle and the Patient Billing Cycle by creating a patient medical record with all documents labeled and identified by step number.

This certificate prepares students to work in health information management offices. Students receive training in all of the medical administrative tasks performed to manage health records, patient management plans, and patient education. Students acquire skills and training to obtain employment in all health care facilities/settings.

This certificate meets the minimum teaching requirements for private child care centers regulated by Title 22. It also allows students to assist in the instruction of children under the supervision of an associate teacher-level or above in a Title 5 child development program.

This certificate exceeds the minimum teaching requirements for centers regulated by Title 22. It also meets the Associate Teacher Permit requirements for provision of instruction and supervision of assistant teacher-level staff in Title 5 schools.

The Child Development program explores the social/emotional, cognitive/language, and physical/motor growth and development of children from conception through adolescence. Students take child development courses to obtain a certificate or permit, to earn an Associate in Arts degree, to prepare for university transfer, or for professional enrichment. Career options include a variety of professions that serve children and their families, such as infant/toddler care, preschool teaching (including Head Start), elementary and secondary education, early childhood special education, program administration, school counseling, child psychology, child advocacy, social work, and community services.

This certificate is designed to train students to work with young children with special needs (birth to 8 years of age), with those who may be at risk for developmental delays and disabilities, and with their families. This certificate is appropriate for students working as an assistant or a paraprofessional in early intervention or early childhood special education, or as a teacher in an inclusive early childhood program.

This certificate exceeds the minimum teaching requirements for Title 22 schools. It is designed to meet the Master Teacher requirements for Title 5 child development programs. This includes providing instruction, supervising assistants, associate teachers, and teacher-level staff, and serving as coordinator of curriculum and staff development.

The Child Development program explores the social/emotional, cognitive/language, and physical/motor growth and development of children from conception through adolescence. Students take child development courses to obtain a certificate or permit, to earn an Associate in Arts degree, to prepare for university transfer, or for professional enrichment. Career options include a variety of professions that serve children and their families, such as infant/toddler care, preschool teaching (including Head Start), elementary and secondary education, early childhood special education, program administration, school counseling, child psychology, child advocacy, social work, and community services.

This certificate is designed for students who will be single-site supervisors under Title 5 or center directors under Title 22. It allows holders to supervise master teachers, teachers, associate teachers, and assistants as well as to manage single-site programs, provide instruction, and serve as coordinators of curriculum and staff development.

The Child Development program explores the social/emotional, cognitive/language, and physical/motor growth and development of children from conception through adolescence. Students take child development courses to obtain a certificate or permit, to earn an Associate in Arts degree, to prepare for university transfer, or for professional enrichment. Career options include a variety of professions that serve children and their families, such as infant/toddler care, preschool teaching (including Head Start), elementary and secondary education, early childhood special education, program administration, school counseling, child psychology, child advocacy, social work, and community services.

This certificate exceeds the minimum teaching requirements for centers regulated by Title 22. It also meets the Teacher Permit requirements for provision of instruction and supervision of assistant or associate teacher-level staff in a Title 5 (state or federally funded) child development program.

The Child Development program explores the social/emotional, cognitive/language, and physical/motor growth and development of children from conception through adolescence. Students take child development courses to obtain a certificate or permit, to earn an Associate in Arts degree, to prepare for university transfer, or for professional enrichment. Career options include a variety of professions that serve children and their families, such as infant/toddler care, preschool teaching (including Head Start), elementary and secondary education, early childhood special education, program administration, school counseling, child psychology, child advocacy, social work, and community services.

The Administration of Justice discipline examines the structure, functions, laws and procedures, and decision-making processes of agencies that deal with crime management, such as police, prosecutors, courts, and correctional facilities. Students take administration of justice courses to prepare for a criminal justice, criminology, or law enforcement major, to fulfill general education requirements, or for professional development. Career options include work in federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, correctional agencies and institutions, and private security agencies.

The Administration of Justice discipline examines the structure, functions, laws and procedures, and decision-making processes of agencies that deal with crime management, such as police, prosecutors, courts, and correctional facilities. Students take administration of justice courses to prepare for a criminal justice, criminology, or law enforcement major, to fulfill general education requirements, or for professional development. Career options include work in federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, correctional agencies and institutions, and private security agencies.

This certificate offers individuals the opportunity to master skills and abilities necessary to meet the demand for CompTIA entry level professional certifications. Certificate completers are prepared in fundamentals of computer hardware and software, networks, and security while obtaining foundational skills necessary to be successful in information communications essential to successful careers in retail sales of computers, handheld devices, networking services or cell phones, Help Desk, and User Support. Certificate completion helps prepare individuals for CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ certification exams.

This certificate offers individuals the opportunity to master skills and abilities necessary to meet the demand for CompTIA entry level professional certifications. Certificate completers are prepared in fundamentals of computer hardware and software, networks, and security while obtaining foundational skills necessary to be successful in information communications essential to successful careers in retail sales of computers, handheld devices, networking services or cell phones, Help Desk, and User Support. Certificate completion helps prepare individuals for CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ certification exams.

Individuals completing this certificate gain a broad foundation in information technology (IT) theory and skills. Mastery of IT fundamentals across each of the Computer Studies Department's major areas of focus, such as business productivity software applications, data analytics, hardware, and networking, is emphasized. Completing additional coursework (consult a counselor) may result in a transfer pathway to a four-year degree in computer information technology or a variety of related majors. Depending on which courses are chosen, certificate completion may help individuals prepare for the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, CompTIA A+, and Network+ professional certification exams.

The Computer Studies & Information Technology (CSIT) Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career education.

Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computing fundamentals, computer applications, information technology, and networking, CSIT provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. In addition, the department offers several general education courses covering social and ethical issues related to technology.

Completing this certificate prepares individuals for employment and careers as computer desktop support specialists in a business environment. Individuals master skills in software and applications support, operating systems, local area networks, desktop support, and customer service while also being able to answer, or escalate, calls and inquiries from end users. Related jobs include help desk technician, customer support representative, computer support specialist, and technical support representative. Certificate completion may help prepare individuals for the Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) and CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ professional certification exams.

The Computer Studies & Information Technology (CSIT) Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career education.

Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computing fundamentals, computer applications, information technology, and networking, CSIT provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. In addition, the department offers several general education courses covering social and ethical issues related to technology.

This certificate provides a strong foundation for knowledge of basic object-oriented programming (OOP) techniques and data structures used in computer science. Students gain experience in several OOP programming languages and in analyzing and assessing problems and formulating appropriate solutions. Completing this certificate will help students advance in their careers as computer programming professionals and solidify the foundation of their computer science skills.

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to analyze, design, and generate mature software solutions to complex and abstract programming problems utilizing efficient and appropriate algorithms while working alone or cooperatively in a team. Students will also be to competently explain and present the code and the results both verbally and in writing.

Individuals completing this certificate gain a broad foundation in information technology (IT) theory and skills. Mastery of IT fundamentals across each of the Computer Studies Department's major areas of focus, such as business productivity software applications, data analytics, hardware, and networking, is emphasized. Completing additional coursework (consult a counselor) may result in a transfer pathway to a four-year degree in computer information technology or a variety of related majors. Depending on which courses are chosen, certificate completion may help individuals prepare for the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, CompTIA A+, and Network+ professional certification exams.

The Computer Studies & Information Technology (CSIT) Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career education.

Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computing fundamentals, computer applications, information technology, and networking, CSIT provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. In addition, the department offers several general education courses covering social and ethical issues related to technology.

Individuals completing this certificate enhance their ability to explore, start, or advance their careers conducting business on the Internet. The certificate emphasizes mastery of the technical aspects of e-commerce as well as setup and design considerations. Individuals are advised to complete CSIT 146 prior to selecting electives. Depending on which electives are chosen, certificate completion may help individuals prepare for the CompTIA A+ and Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) professional certification exams.

The Computer Studies & Information Technology (CSIT) Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career education.

Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computing fundamentals, computer applications, information technology, and networking, CSIT provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. In addition, the department offers several general education courses covering social and ethical issues related to technology.

This certificate provides the focused skill set necessary to gain employment in website design. Depending on which courses are selected, students gain specific skills in web markup, web programming and production, graphics production, web animation techniques, UI and UX design, content management, and website planning and architecture. Graduates of this program will be able to move into employment opportunities in web design, web development, interactive design, content development, user interface (UI) design, and user experience (UX) engineering.

This certificate trains students in the skills necessary to gain employment in the dynamic field of web and interactive media content design, development, and delivery. Students gain skills in all phases of website design, including site planning and information architecture, user experience design (UX), user interface (UI) and graphic design, web programming and production, animation and motion graphics, audio and video integration, and designing for interactivity. Employment opportunities include web designer, web developer, web producer, front end developer, interaction designer, interactive developer, UI designer, UX designer, UX engineer, production assistant, information architect, mobile content designer, creative director, and project manager.

The Media Arts & Technologies program provides a focused sequence of courses for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of Web and interactive design, graphic design, video production, or print-media creation and delivery. Career options include webpage design, Web/multimedia development, Web/multimedia programming, graphic design, video editing, video, production, media content development, information architecture, graphics production, interface design, and layout design. Specific career positions include Web designer, graphic designer, video editor, webmaster, Web programmer, Flash designer, art production assistant, video production assistant, special effects artist, background artist, product modeler, product animator, and storyboard artist.

This certificate is designed to meet the demand for cybersecurity professionals. Certificate completion results in mastery of fundamentals of computer hardware and software, networks, and security, ethical hacking, cyber analytics, and legal issues surrounding cybersecurity. Career and employment opportunities in cybersecurity include cybersecurity analyst, ethical hacker, forensics, cyber related law enforcement, and cyber technical support specialist roles. Certificate completion may help prepare individuals for Windows, CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Cybersecurity Analyst+ (CySA+), PenTest+/EC Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Linux Professional/Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) professional certification exams, and other cyber-related certifications.

The Computer Studies & Information Technology (CSIT) Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career education.

Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computing fundamentals, computer applications, information technology, and networking, CSIT provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. In addition, the department offers several general education courses covering social and ethical issues related to technology.

Completion of this certificate prepares individuals for careers in the management of information systems. Individuals master how to plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities to determine and implement the information technology goals of an organization. Completing additional coursework (consult a counselor) may result in a transfer pathway to a four-year degree in management information systems or a variety of related majors. Depending on which electives are chosen, certificate completion may help individuals prepare for the CompTIA A+ and Network+ professional certification exams.

The Computer Studies & Information Technology (CSIT) Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career education.

Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computing fundamentals, computer applications, information technology, and networking, CSIT provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. In addition, the department offers several general education courses covering social and ethical issues related to technology.

This certificate prepares individuals for careers and employment in computer networking, network administration, enterprise networking, and Internet or intranet administration. Individuals will be prepared for successful employment in networking related occupations such as network technician, systems administrator, field support technician, customer technical support representative, and technical support specialist roles. Certificate completion may help prepare individuals for the CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+, Windows, and Linux professional certification exams.

The Computer Studies & Information Technology (CSIT) Department serves students with computer-related courses in basic skills, transfer, and career education.

Composed of curriculum focused in the areas of computing fundamentals, computer applications, information technology, and networking, CSIT provides students with theoretical and hands-on experience in using the power of computing to critically evaluate and solve business, network, and security problems. In addition, the department offers several general education courses covering social and ethical issues related to technology.

This certificate provides focused skills necessary to gain employment in the field of digital and print publishing. Students gain specific skills in graphic design, image manipulation, page layout, digital illustration, and preparation for final output. Graduates of this program are able to move into employment opportunities as graphic artists, digital imaging assistants, layout artists, and graphic production assistants. In addition, students majoring in English who are transferring to a four-year university gain the skills necessary for self-publishing their written work.

This certificate provides students with a broad-based foundation in media arts. It includes core classes in the areas of digital imaging, graphic design, web design, and video and media production. It is designed for students seeking stronger digital literacy and media design skills for their current or future jobs. It also allows students to gain broad exposure to the varying disciplines within media arts while taking a sequence of courses that counts toward the certificate of achievement and associate degree programs offered by the department.

This certificate forms a solid foundation in graphic design proficiency. These skills are essential in all types of visual media where a message must be conveyed to a specific target market. This certificate is designed to be completed in conjunction with other MAT certificates to enhance a student’s ability to create more effective and dynamic communication or for professionals who would like to enhance their job skills.

This certificate provides students with the design and technical skills needed to gain employment in the graphic design field with organizations and small businesses that design and distribute publications in both print and digital media. Students who complete this certificate will also be prepared to work as freelancers or pursue a graphic design degree at a four-year university. Students learn principles and professional practices in graphic design and publishing using current computer software applications as well as concept development through project planning and management. Employment opportunities include graphic designer, graphic artist, imaging specialist, photographic assistant, layout artist, and graphic production assistant.

The Media Arts & Technologies program provides a focused sequence of courses for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of Web and interactive design, graphic design, video production, or print-media creation and delivery. Career options include webpage design, Web/multimedia development, Web/multimedia programming, graphic design, video editing, video, production, media content development, information architecture, graphics production, interface design, and layout design. Specific career positions include Web designer, graphic designer, video editor, webmaster, Web programmer, Flash designer, art production assistant, video production assistant, special effects artist, background artist, product modeler, product animator, and storyboard artist.

This certificate provides the skills students need to gain employment in the corporate, broadcast, technical, educational, and entertainment industries. Students learn how to create video programs and digital media content for broadcast, cable, DVD, Internet, and mobile delivery as well as for dedicated computer presentations. Students gain skills in all phases of video production, 3D and traditional animation techniques, special effects, DVD authoring, and project management. Employment opportunities include video editor, video production assistant, camera operator, product animator, DVD author, mobile content developer, special effects artist, and special effects animator.

The Restaurant Management Certificate of Achievement provides students with the broad technical background necessary in today's increasingly diverse food services industry. Requirements for the certificate were developed with input from professional industry members, who comprise the MiraCosta College Hospitality Management Advisory Board, as well as with cooperation from local restaurant and food services executives. Courses for this certificate complement the skills learned on the job and are valuable to either the person seeking a certificate/degree or the individuals already employed in the field and seeking to increase their overall effectiveness with new skills qualifying them for promotions.

The Hospitality Management program offers courses for students planning to transfer as hospitality majors to four-year institutions as well as career and technical courses that can lead to certificates of proficiency and achievement. Career options include event planning, travel and tourism, front office, reservations, sales, marketing, customer service, and management positions in hotels, restaurants, cruise lines, airlines, theme parks, attractions, clubs, and casinos.