Driven by industry demand, five University of Wisconsin campuses partnered to provide a new online bachelor’s degree in applied computing. The 61-credit Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program is offered through UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls, and UW-Stevens Point.
The demand for IT workers is high
Computer science and information technology fields represent the fastest growing fields in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the IT field are projected to grow 12 percent from 2014 to 2024 depending upon the role. The number of jobs in roles such as computer support specialist, computer and information systems manager, systems analyst, security analyst, web developer, database administrator, and software developer, is estimated to increase an average of 11% to 27% from 2014 to 2024.
In Wisconsin, demand for IT workers is high. Among the leading categories of tech workers needed here are computer systems analysts, software developers and software applications developers, according to CompTIA’s 2017 report, “Cyberstates.” The report ranks Wisconsin seventh among the states in percentage growth of tech workers over the next few years.
A degree that will create opportunities
“We launched the online applied computing degree to attract more adults into the growing IT field to fill these open positions,” said David Schejbal, dean of the Division of Continuing Education, Outreach and E-Learning at UW-Extension, which administers the degree program. “The online format means students can balance work with their studies, and ultimately, earn a degree that opens the door to new possibilities.”
The degree, which incorporates a range of computer science and business skills, was developed based on input from IT employers. According to one employer, “The University of Wisconsin Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing is a great opportunity—every industry is looking for IT professionals,” said Mike Fox, director of Project Services at SafeNet Consulting. “On top of that, the University of Wisconsin garners instant recognition and respect among those employers.”
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Download a four-page overview of the UW Applied Computing bachelor's degree program, including information on courses, careers, and tuition.
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