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College of Letters and Science Applied Computing Degree

Major

SOLVE TOMORROW’S OBSTACLES WITH YOUR DEGREE IN APPLIED COMPUTING

Organizations across industries need computing professionals that are great programmers and can drive business success with skills like project management, communication, and IT strategy. Designed for working adults, the Bachelor’s in Applied Computing degree completion program will help you develop skills in both programming technology and business to prepare you to stand out and secure your spot in this growing field.

You won’t find another computer science program—online or otherwise—that brings such diverse expertise together in one place. That’s because our program is a collaboration between five UW System campuses!

CAREER OUTLOOK

Between 2020 and 2030, computer and IT occupations are expected to grow 13% percent, which is much faster than the average growth percentage for all occupations.
Outcomes

APPLY!

Learn everything you need to do to submit your application.
How to Apply

INSTRUCTORS

Our UW Extended Campus instructors are leading professionals in their fields.
Meet our Instructors

TUITION & AID

The B.S. in Applied Computing is flexible and affordable. View available financial resources to assist your studies.
Financial Aid

Why study Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing online degree?

Job opportunities in the field are continuing to grow due to the rise in cloud computing and collection of big data. Employment for software developers is predicted to increase 22 percent over the next decade. A bachelor’s degree in applied computing ensures your business knowledge will be just as strong as your coding and technical skills.

The Intersection of Technology and Business

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

The University of Wisconsin Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program prepares IT professionals to transform computer science from theory to practice and solve the everyday technical issues that organizations face. As an online student, your degree will be the same respected University of Wisconsin degree earned by on-campus students. Students are required to take each of the 21 technical- and business-focused courses in the curriculum.

Success Coaching

Each student experiences their academic journey differently — and your Student Success Coach will be there right alongside you.

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Applied Computing Jobs

Gone are the days of IT departments stashed in the basement. Today, goal-oriented applied computing majors become leaders and key assets in the workplace, and that’s reflected in the IT job titles of bachelor’s degree holders.

Typical jobs held by applied computing graduates include:

  • Software Developer: $109,020 Average salary
  • Application/Full-stack Developer: $98,742 Average salary
  • Database Administrator: $101,000 Average salary
  • IT Business Analyst: $79,585 Average salary
  • Network/Systems Administrator: $68,698 Average salary
  • Project Manager: $69,832 Average salary

Our graduates have worked for companies including:

  • Northwestern Mutual
  • Inspire Brands
  • JJ Keller & Associates
  • Badger Meter
  • Genesis10
  • Ki Mobility
  • Optimal Blue
  • Milk Can Dev and Design
“Even if you’re hired as a software engineer, they’re going to want you to understand the financial requirements or outcomes of certain projects, and I don’t think it’s something that you would necessarily just learn on the fly.”
Noah BorkowskiB.S. Applied Computing graduate

Applying to the B.S. in Applied Computing online degree program at UW-Stevens Point

Program Admission Requirements*:

To be eligible for the Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing students must meet the following requirements:

  • Approximately 45-60 transferable general education credits with a 2.0 minimum grade point average (GPA). There are options available for those who do not meet this general education requirement, such as potentially taking them through your chosen home campus or through one of these associate degrees.  Please contact an enrollment adviser for more information and to find out what options may be available to you.
  • Prerequisite coursework in college algebra or equivalent coursework
  • Official college transcripts

Important Dates

Semester-based degree programs and certificates offer three start dates: fall, spring and summer semester.

5/28

Summer 2024 Start Date

8/9

Final Day of Summer Semester

8/27

Course Preview Week Start

9/3

Fall 2024 Start Date

11/11

Spring 2025 Registration Opens

12/13

Final Day of Fall Semester

1/21

Course Preview Week Start

1/28

Spring 2025 Start Date

5/9

Final Day of Spring Semester
Major Map
Applied Computing

Navigate Your Major

Major Maps help students map their first day to the first job in their chosen field. While a four-year plan outlines classes to get a degree, Major Maps help students learn how to build career-ready skills and experiences outside the classroom. Each Major Map shows how students can get the most of their UW-Stevens Point journey from enrollment to graduation and beyond. It’s a roadmap to discovering your purpose!

Your B.S. in Applied Computing Will:

  • Help you move from an entry or mid-level IT position to a higher-level role, such as a database or computer developer, or a management role.
  • Prove to employers that you’re skilled in both the theory behind computer science and its direct application.
  • Provide a solid foundation in business, leadership, and communication skills.
  • Teach you how to develop new technologies and participate in future tech innovation.

Accreditation

University of Wisconsin institutions offering the Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission. The program has been approved by the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents.

Tuition for the B.S. in Applied Computing is a flat fee per credit whether you live in Wisconsin or out of state. Cost per credit is $525. Being an online program, there are no additional course or program fees such as segregated or technology fees. If software or special technology is required in one of your courses, it will be provided to you and is included in your tuition.

Financial aid may be available to you and is awarded by your home campus.

The UW Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing is intended for individuals who would like to advance their current role in IT or those who would like to change careers to pursue this in-demand field. Working parents, professionals, and veterans will find the flexibility of online courses especially convenient.

As a bachelor’s completion program, the applied computing degree is a great option for anyone with existing, transferable college credits who wants to complete their degree.  Ideal candidates will hold at least 45-60* general education credits and can come from nearly any professional field. Your Success Coach at UW Extended Campus can help you find a program to complete your general education requirements.

Yes, the UW Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program is approved by the Higher Learning Commission and the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents.

Computer science students usually graduate with very specific technical skills in an area of IT. By contrast, applied computing programs teach students the wide range of technical skills that apply to almost any IT job. Additionally, applied computing curricula emphasize skills, such as project management, professional communication, and business leadership.

Applied computing graduates are trained to solve pressing business problems with the application of technology.

The UW Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing offers 100% online courses. All course content, from multimedia lectures and e-learning tools to homework assignments, will be delivered to you through the program’s online learning management system. You can study and do homework whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you.

Due to the unique nature of the program, courses from other degree programs may not transfer in directly for Applied Computing courses.

Benefits are available to qualifying veterans and those currently serving. Contact your home campus veteran services office for details