Skip to main content

Compare Programs

Not sure which program is right for you? Comparing programs is easy. Select any program from the dropdown menu below, then choose any additional programs of interest and click "Compare" to see them side by side.

x remove Web Design and Development, B.A.S. x remove Applied Computer Science, M.S.
Credits Required
Meet with advisor for plan
33
Format
Face To Face
Location

Complete this degree fully online or opt for face-to-face classes.

Expand button

Classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.

Expand button
Coursework

You must follow all general education requirements and complete a minimum 120 credits total toward the degree. This can include credits from an associate degree or other prior coursework at an accredited institution. An additional 24 credits may be awarded towards the degree total through prior learning assessment (PLA). All B.A.S. majors must complete the following requirements:

  • BAS 301 - Concepts of Learning Integration
  • BAS 495 - Senior Seminar in Applied Science
  • INT 331 - Person and Profession in a Global Environment

Required web design and development courses:

  • ART 150 - Foundations: 2-D Design
  • ART 209 - Graphic Design Basics
  • CIS 162 - Computer Science I
  • CIS 163 - Computer Science II
  • CIS 238 - Internet Media and Programming
  • CIS 353 - Database
  • CIS 368 - Usability Design and Evaluation
  • CIS 371 - Web Application Programming
  • CIS 491 - Web Design and Development Practicum
  • DS 202 - Digital Data and Design
  • WRT 351 - Writing for the Web
  • One additional elective course: CIS 260, CIS 320, CIS 357, or WRT 451
Expand button

The M.S. in applied computer science curriculum includes content areas for depth of study, electives for breadth, and a capstone project/thesis. Specialization in content areas include:

  • Biomedical informatics
  • Cybersecurity
  • Database management
  • Distributed computing
  • Info systems management
  • Web and mobile computing
  • Software engineering
Expand button
Career Options

The unique structure of this program allows professional adults with an associate degree to move forward with their education to take the next step for professional job opportunities or advance their careers. The web design and development program maximizes the value of your knowledge and skills base while preparing you for future occupations that may not be reflected in current academic programs.

Expand button

Computing professionals are in demand regionally and nationwide. According to 2020 EMSI data, job opportunities are projected to grow 11% in West Michigan and 8% in the U.S. by 2024. These jobs include:

  • Computer programmer
  • Network administrator
  • Software engineer
  • Web domain administrator
  • Web programmer/developer
  • Systems analyst
  • International organizations
Expand button
Application Deadline
Expand button

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Deadlines for international students are May 1 for fall and October 15 for winter; domestic student deadlines are July 1 for fall and December 1 for winter. The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if the applicant has previously applied to GVSU.

Expand button
Skills Employers Want
Expand button

The M.S. in Applied Computer Science degree at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following skills correlate with those pulled from actual job postings in computing.

  • Agile Software Development
  • Information Systems
  • SQL (Programming Language)
  • Business Process
  • Strategic Planning
  • Business Requirements
  • Project Management
  • Budgeting
  • Auditing

Source: EMSI, 2022

Expand button