Key Takeaways
- Chaffey College will launch new associate‑degree and certificate programs in artificial intelligence, data science, DevOps, and game development for fall 2026.
- Each program aims to prepare students for high‑paying tech careers, with salaries often exceeding six figures and job growth projected up to 32 % over the next decade.
- The college is the first in the region to offer an associate’s degree in artificial intelligence and continues to build on its pioneering cybersecurity associate degree.
- Faculty emphasize hands‑on learning, real‑world projects, and alignment with industry demand for skilled workers.
- Chaffey’s computer‑information‑systems programs are ranked No. 3 in California and No. 8 nationally, reflecting strong academic quality.
- As a Hispanic‑Serving Institution with three Inland Empire campuses, online options, and high‑school partnerships, Chaffey serves a diverse student body and remains one of California’s oldest community colleges.
Overview of New Technology Programs
Chaffey College is expanding its Computer Information Systems offerings with four cutting‑edge pathways set to debut in the fall semester: artificial intelligence (AI), data science, development operations (DevOps), and game development. Each pathway will provide both certificate options and associate‑degree tracks, giving students flexibility to enter the workforce quickly or continue toward further academic study. The initiative reflects the college’s response to rapidly evolving industry needs and its commitment to equipping graduates with skills that command premium salaries.
Artificial Intelligence Program Details
The AI program stands out as one of the first associate‑degree offerings of its kind in the region. Students will engage in hands‑on activities such as analyzing large datasets, constructing intelligent models, and deploying AI‑driven solutions to address real‑world problems. Coursework blends theory with practical labs, ensuring learners can transition smoothly into roles like machine‑learning engineer, AI specialist, or data analyst. Faculty anticipate strong employer demand, citing projected salary ranges that frequently surpass $100,000 annually.
Data Science curriculum
Data science at Chaffey focuses on teaching students how to extract meaning from data through statistical analysis, visualization, and predictive modeling. The curriculum covers programming languages such as Python and R, database management, and machine‑learning fundamentals. Graduates will be prepared to support organizations in making data‑informed decisions, a capability increasingly valued across sectors from finance to healthcare. The program’s emphasis on real‑world projects helps students build portfolios that demonstrate their analytical prowess to prospective employers.
Development Operations (DevOps) Pathway
DevOps, the practice of integrating software development with IT operations, is highlighted for its potential to deliver lucrative careers. Chaffey’s DevOps track covers continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, infrastructure as code, containerization, and cloud‑platform management. According to program information, professionals in this field can expect average annual salaries between $100,000 and $130,000, with job openings expected to rise sharply as companies accelerate digital transformation initiatives.
Game Development Expansion
Building on a certificate program introduced in 2025, Chaffey will now offer an associate degree in game development due to surging interest in mobile and immersive gaming. The curriculum will address game design principles, storytelling, 2D/3D graphics programming, and interaction with game engines such as Unity and Unreal. Professor Tracy Kocher Woolls notes that the rising demand for skilled developers stems from consumers’ appetite for richer gaming experiences, positioning graduates for rewarding careers in entertainment, simulation, and educational technology sectors.
Faculty Perspectives and Program Impact
Professor David Nimri, a Computer Information Systems instructor, emphasized that Chaffey remains on the cutting edge of preparing students for future‑focused careers. He pointed out that jobs tied to the new programs regularly pay well over six figures and are projected to grow by as much as 32 % over the next ten years. Nimri also highlighted the college’s earlier distinction as the first community college in the area to launch a cybersecurity associate degree, underscoring a tradition of leadership in emerging tech education.
National Recognition and College Profile
Chaffey’s computer‑information‑systems programs have earned notable accolades, ranking No. 3 in California and No. 8 nationwide. This recognition reflects the quality of instruction, curriculum relevance, and graduate outcomes. Beyond technology, Chaffey College serves as a comprehensive two‑year institution offering 28 transferable degrees, numerous certificates, and flexible learning options across its three Inland Empire campuses, online platforms, and local high schools. As a federally designated Hispanic‑Serving Institution, the college mirrors the demographic richness of Southern California and remains committed to accessibility and inclusion. Founded in 1883, Chaffey ranks among the state’s oldest community colleges, blending a longstanding tradition of service with a forward‑looking approach to workforce development.