(From left) Leslie Aquino, chair of UOG’s Division of Mathematics & Computer Science; Gina Tudela, vice president of academic affairs for GCC; Mary Okada, president of GCC; Anita Borja Enriquez, president of UOG; Rachael T. Leon Guerrro, dean of UOG’s College of Natural & Applied Sciences; Marlena Pangelinan, vice provost for institutional effectiveness for UOG; and Maika Vuki, interim associate dean for UOG CNAS. (Photo courtesy of the University of Guam )
The 2+2 Computer Science Pathway Program between the University of Guam and Guam Community College was renewed on July 24, 2025. Originally executed in December 2019, the agreement allows students who complete an Associate of Science in Computer Science at GCC to seamlessly transfer to UOG as a junior in UOG’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program.
With rapid digital transformation and emerging technologies impacting nearly every industry, graduates with computer science degrees are increasingly in demand. Employers are seeking skilled professionals in software development, IT support, and cloud computing and increasingly more in the areas of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
“The students from this program are getting hired and making productive use of their degrees — and this is exactly what we were hoping to see with this partnership,” said Leslie Aquino, chair of UOG’s Division of Mathematics & Computer Science. “The GCC students are coming to us with the type of skills the industry wants — hands-on knowledge and strong programming skills. Then UOG adds to that with upper-level courses that teach complex problem-solving skills.”
Many of the pathway students opt to add a cybersecurity management minor once at UOG, Aquino said, which further strengthens their resume and employability.
The partnership between GCC and UOG ensures that students can complete their first two years at GCC at a lower cost, with courses that articulate directly into UOG’s Computer Science program. This pathway not only eases the financial burden on students and their families but also guarantees that students are well-prepared to finish their degree programs at UOG.
“Our collaboration with UOG is designed to ensure that students receive a high-quality education that is both affordable and accessible,” said GCC President Dr. Mary Okada. “Students can begin their academic careers in a supportive environment and transition smoothly to UOG, ready to complete their bachelor’s degree.”
Students who opt for this pathway can be confident in the education they receive, as all GCC courses are designed to meet the rigorous academic standards required by UOG. This ensures a consistent and high-quality learning experience throughout their academic journey.
The transfer program has contributed to a five-fold increase in the number of computer science majors in UOG’s bachelor’s program — from 15 declared majors in 2022 to 96 in 2024. Computer science is now the second most popular major after biology within UOG’s College of Natural & Applied Sciences.
“This program is a powerful example of how UOG is building capacity and creating a pipeline in our region for high-demand fields like digital technology, cybersecurity, and computer science,” said UOG President Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez. “By creating a clear, supported pathway from associate to bachelor’s degrees, we’re not only adding value to graduates entering the workforce, but we’re also creating lasting public value for the community.”
To inquire about admission to GCC, call (671) 735-5531 or visit here. For admission to UOG, call (671) 735-2204 or visit here.
