SOS is a collaborative, project based program in that teaches not only computer programming, but software design, teamwork, and project management. Seminar is an important component of SOS, with weekly reading and discussion groups. Additionally SOS has one or more technical components each quarter wherein students learn specialized skills in the computer science domain. This program has been offered every other year since 1983.

SOS students qualify for upper division science credit.

Prerequisites for this program include the Evergreen program "Data to Information", or equivalent, which includes a strong grounding in computer science, i.e., the ability to program well in at least one programming language, an understanding of data structures, computer architecture and operating systems, and at least a rudimentary understanding of object-oriented programming. In addition and perhaps most important, students must demonstrate an ability to work independently to learn new technologies, a strong desire to learn about professional software development, and a willingness to work collaboratively on a group software project.