Bellingham, Wash.-based Whatcom Community College is launching a new bachelor of science in computer science degree that it says focuses on increasingly in-demand skills.
The new degree effort will get rolling in the fall of this year. Enrollment is now open, and students are encouraged to apply by April 23.
“Careers in computer science are rapidly growing such as, AI engineers, data analysts, data scientists, software developers, web or application developers, systems or cloud support, cybersecurity or IT analysts, robotics engineers, computer vision engineers, autonomous systems engineers, or healthcare systems engineers,” the college said.
“Employers look for graduating students with skills in critical thinking, communication, team collaboration, and adaptability -the skills that AI cannot replace,” it emphasized.
The college’s new degree will focus on problem solving and computational thinking, algorithms and data structures, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, and adaptability to new tools and platforms.
Steven Thomas, Whatcom’s vice president of instruction, said, “As artificial intelligence and emerging technologies reshape the workforce, the need for strong foundations in computer science has never been greater.”
“This program prepares students to understand the principles behind the technology – not just the tools – so they can lead and innovate in a rapidly changing world,” he said.
