WGU Indiana’s new B.S. in Computer Science includes key IT certifications

Indianapolis – WGU Indiana’s College of Information Technology announced today the addition of a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) degree program. This online, competency-based degree includes valuable certifications from CIW, CompTIA, Axelos and Oracle, at no additional cost. Students who apply now can begin their program as early as June 1, 2018.

“With the addition of our B.S. in Computer Science, WGU Indiana is responding directly to the workforce needs of Hoosier employers. This new degree program was developed in collaboration with industry and academic experts and will equip WGU Indiana graduates with the necessary skills to fill a rapidly growing number of technology-focused jobs across Indiana,” said Allison Barber, chancellor of WGU Indiana.

In 2015, there were almost 10 times more computing jobs open in the U.S. than qualified computer science graduates. In addition, the demand for computer scientists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2016 to 2026, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. By 2024, Indiana is projected to add 16,650 computer occupations jobs to its workforce, over half of which will require a bachelor’s degree.

WGU Indiana’s BSCS will teach graduates to design, develop and optimize systems, preparing them for opportunities in careers such as computer systems analyst, programmer, AI specialist, software engineer, UX designer and network architect. Of these occupations, computer systems analyst positions in Indiana are expected to increase by 25.2 percent.

"Many Indiana tech companies are growing rapidly, and Indiana companies from other industries are becoming more tech-enabled, creating need and job opportunities for people with computer- and software-related skills. WGU Indiana continues to work to create pathways to those opportunities for Hoosier adults," said Mike Langellier, President and CEO of TechPoint.

Competency-based education (CBE) is a good fit for busy adults because it allows them to study and learn on their schedules and advance as soon as they have mastered course materials. Students have 24/7 access to their course materials and faculty members provide one-on-one support. Terms are six months long, and students in the BSCS are charged a flat-rate tuition of $3,190 per term, regardless of the number of courses completed. Many students are able to accelerate their studies, finishing their degrees sooner, saving both time and money.

About WGU Indiana

WGU Indiana offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate online degree programs in business, education, information technology and healthcare, including nursing.
According to a 2016 Harris Poll, 95 percent of WGU graduates are employed, 87 percent of them in their degree field. According to a 2016 Gallup study, WGU graduates are more likely than graduates from other U.S. universities to have the jobs they want, feel engaged at work and have an emotional attachment to their alma mater.

WGU Indiana has helped more than 5,700 Hoosiers achieve their dream of completing a college degree. Another 5,000 students are currently enrolled. For information about WGU Indiana’s degree programs and scholarships, visit indiana.wgu.edu.