Degree Programs in Computer Science: Building a Foundation

By Brandon Swenson October 8, 2024

The UA Grantham online associate and bachelor’s degree programs in computer science offer a flexible and accessible way to acquire foundational and advanced skills – and a respected credential – in one of today’s most sought-after fields. These two programs cover a range of essential concepts, each building upon the other to prepare students for a variety of roles in the computer science building a foundation for the future.

Learn to Program

Programming is the backbone of computer science. It enables the creation of everything from simple scripts to complex software systems. UA Grantham programming classes teach students to write code in languages such as Java or C++. Students learn to solve programming problems using modular, structured programming; use sequence, branching, and loop logic; construct arrays and menus; employ the basic concepts of object-oriented programming; create simple interactive applications, and employ exception handling techniques to recover from program error.

In data structures and discrete math classes, students learn to describe and use the basic concepts of object-oriented programming; describe and use the methods of algorithm analysis; and describe and use abstract data types and algorithms in C++, including lists, stacks, queues, trees, heaps, disjoint sets, graphs, hashing, and sorting. Students also learn how to apply mathematical reasoning in order to read, comprehend, and construct mathematical arguments; how to apply the mathematical processes for algorithm building; and how to apply discrete structures, which are abstract mathematical structures used to represent discrete objects and their relationships.

Design, Develop, and Maintain Software

Software engineering is another core focus area; in these classes, students learn how to design, develop, and maintain software systems in a systematic manner. Software engineering combines technical skills with project management.  Students learn to ensure that software is delivered on time, within budget, and to specification. An example of this in the real world is the development of enterprise software, which requires careful planning and collaboration among teams, departments, and business units to meet organizational needs.

Database Query and Management

Understanding databases and database management systems (DBMS) is vital, as these backend systems are used to store and manage data efficiently. Database query languages like the many “flavors” of SQL allow users to perform operations such as data insertion, updating, and querying. In practice, these systems power e-commerce websites, handling transactions and customer data securely and efficiently.

Network Operations

In the study of networks, students learn how data is transmitted across interconnected systems. This includes understanding network protocols, network topologies, and security measures. A real-world application is in the design of corporate networks, ensuring that data flows seamlessly and securely between different components of the organization’s technology stack.

Operating System Management

Operating systems manage hardware resources and are the platform software runs on; in these courses, students learn how operating systems like Windows or Linux handle tasks such as memory management, process scheduling, and file system management. For example, an operating system’s ability to manage multiple applications running simultaneously is essential in environments where multitasking is key.

Cybersecurity

In today’s connected world, cybersecurity is an ever-present concern for computer science practitioners. In UA Grantham programs, students are equipped with the knowledge to protect systems from various threats. This includes learning about encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. For example, cybersecurity professionals work to safeguard financial institutions by implementing security protocols that prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

A more theoretical aspect of the program are the classes in calculus and mathematical statistics, where students learn to use descriptive statistics in the context of exploratory data analysis; apply basic probability concepts and describe the role of probability in statistics; and calculate confidence intervals and determine sample sizes, among many other concepts.

Web Development

Finally, classes in web development tie together many of these concepts, teaching students how to create and maintain websites. This includes front-end development, which deals with the user interface, and back-end development, which involves server-side programming and database integration. Real-world examples include developing responsive websites that work across different devices, and creating web applications that interact with databases to deliver dynamic content.

Students enrolling in online degree programs in computer science are often quantitatively-minded individuals who are either looking to transition into the field or upskill; the advantage of online programs, of course, is that they allow students to balance education with other responsibilities, such as work or family.

Careers Available to Graduates with a Computer Science Foundation

After graduation, computer science students find themselves in diverse roles. Some may become software developers, creating and optimizing applications. Others may become data analysts, interpreting complex datasets to inform business decisions, or network architects, designing and managing networks that keep businesses connected and secure.

The versatility of a computer science degree may also open doors to roles in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and even entrepreneurship, where graduates apply their technical understanding of computer science to innovate and launch tech startups. In essence, an online degree in computer science builds a foundation with the technical prowess and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in today’s digital economy .

About the Author

Brandon Swenson
Brandon Swenson, communications manager, is on University of Arkansas Grantham’s editorial board. A veteran and college graduate himself, he understands the benefits and intricacies of government education programs, such as veteran education benefits. Brandon earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City toward the end of his nearly two-decade tour in the United States Marine Corps.
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