The user-friendly master's degree in applied computer science, designed to help you break into the information technology field.
At Southern Adventist University, we put your future at the forefront of every program. Whether you want to break into the IT space or advance your current career, your investment in an advanced degree should help you land a career aligned with your interests.
If you have the drive and ambition to improve your skillset and advance your career, we're here to help. The road ahead may feel unclear. We'll help you determine if an MS in Applied Computer Science is the right path for you and provide clarity around next steps.
The IT and computing field is growing rapidly. There's never been a better time to stand out in this high-demand field.
If you're interested in a job in the IT field but aren't sure how to break into the space, a degree from Southern can help. Here, you'll learn the hard skills you'll need to succeed in a career in computing, data analytics, IT, programing, and beyond.
First, let's take a look at what the applied computer science field can offer you. Or, skip ahead to our program details if you're ready.
Applied computer science is different than computer science and encompasses in-demand skills across several sub-disciplines, including computer science, data analytics, cybersecurity, and web development. As more companies rely on technology, the skills you develop in a master's program will apply to virtually any industry.
A master's in applied computer science can help you grow into a more technical role within your current field or break into a new career in IT. It's easier to get into applied computer science than you may think, thanks to this program being designed specifically for students who lack a technical background. This new venture may be your ticket to a successful new career.
One of the biggest appeals of applied computer science is that you get to select your specializations based on your areas of interest. In addition to its foundational computer science skills (like programming, algorithms, and networking), applied computer science allows you to develop specialized skills in the area of IT that stand out to you, like data analytics. Here's a look at some career paths you could follow depending on your area of interest:
If you enjoy math and problem solving and can see yourself working with computer software and hardware, then applied computer science could be a good fit for you. You could become a:
If you enjoy problem solving and can see yourself working to protect against digital threats and attacks, then a career in cybersecurity could be the way to go for you. You could become a:
If you can see yourself working with large sets of data to pull meaningful insights, then a career in data analytics could be a solid path for you. You could become a:
We have a guide all about jumpstarting your career with data analytics. Check it out here!
If you enjoy coding and can see yourself building and improving websites, then a career in web development might suit you. You could become a:
Depending on your area of specialization, the industry, and your job, you can expect an annual salary in the range of $60,000 - $80,000 with the potential to earn $100,000+ in more senior positions. Here's a quick look at the average annual salaries for some of the careers listed above.
If you're looking to break into the IT space, data analytics skills can be your ticket to a career you love. We put together a comprehensive guide on the data analytics industry and how to build a career with this specialization, including:
The IT field is full of opportunity, but it may not feel accessible to working professionals who lack an extensive technical background. That's why we created our MS in Applied Computer Science program, a user-friendly graduate degree program that equips you with the skills and certifications that will distinguish you in the IT field.
Gain a user-friendly foundational understanding of computer science and programming across a range of applications. Courses cover topics including:
This certificate focuses on technical skills, ethical hacking, and defending servers against hacking. Courses cover topics including:
Build a strong foundation for data analytics with a special emphasis on programming, query languages, database design, and UX/UI. Courses cover topics including:
Establish yourself by developing skills in mobile app development and languages such as JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Courses cover topics including:
Our MS in Applied Computer Science program doesn't just teach you the why, it also covers the how—you'll learn the theory and background behind the core topics in your area of interest within a practical, realistic context that you can apply directly to your career.
Alongside the in-demand skills you'll develop within your specializations of choice, our program will get you up-to-speed on core IT areas including:
Southern's MS in Applied Computer Science program is designed for professionals who want to break into the IT field but lack a background or undergraduate degree in the technical space. Our program is a great fit for:
To open this opportunity to students regardless of their current technical backgrounds, we have some basic program entry requirements in place:
We're happy to tell you more about the program specifics, requirements, and admissions. Request more information to connect directly with a program director who can answer your questions about Southern's MS in Applied Computer Science.
We're so excited to hear that you may be interested in pursuing a career in IT! With more than 50 years of combined technical experience, we're thrilled to offer a program that enables anyone interested in IT to break into this growing space.
If you don't have much of a technical background, there is no need to feel intimidated or under-qualified. Everyone has to start somewhere, and we designed this user-friendly program specifically for people in your position.
We welcome you to learn more about this opportunity to break into the IT field and how our program sets you up for the next step in your career. Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions!
A graduate degree from Southern equips you with practical skills that will transfer directly into your career. Our private, faith-based graduate programs are designed to help you reach your personal and professional goals and arrive at your desired career path—all at a public school price.
More flexible. More affordable. More valuable—get your MS in Applied Computer Science degree from Southern!
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