Applied Computer Science
Master of Science (M.S.)
Graduate Major
Grand Rapids • Face to face • Hybrid • Online • 33 Credits
Computer science is the study of algorithms, data structures, and the principles of computing, encompassing both theoretical foundations and practical applications in software and hardware systems.
Overview
Grand Valley's Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Computer Science program enables computing professionals to deepen their expertise and expand career opportunities. This interdisciplinary program blends computer science, cybersecurity, data science, and information systems, allowing students to tailor their studies by drawing from all four fields for a highly flexible and comprehensive graduate degree. Advisors work with students to create tailored study plans that align with specific career goals, offering flexible options for both part-time and full-time enrollment.
The Applied Computer Science curriculum includes content areas for depth of study, electives for breadth, and a capstone project or thesis. Students can specialize in several content areas: biomedical informatics, cybersecurity, data analytics, database management, distributed computing, information systems management, software design and development, software engineering, and web and mobile computing. These nine areas of concentration provide the flexibility for students to develop the necessary skills for career advancement.
The program features an applied computing curriculum and state-of-the-art computer labs for hands-on experience, including a premier data communications lab and a computer architecture lab. Faculty members in the College of Computing are experts in their field, holding doctorate degrees and authoring textbooks on the subject. Classes are designed to be flexible and convenient for working professionals, and students pay the same graduate tuition rate regardless of their residency status.
College of Computing
Program Director
Jagadeesh Nandigam
Career Opportunities
Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
Top skills- Programming
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Operations Analysis
- Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 43,764.64 | 10% |
| $ 55,156.57 | 25% |
| $ 91,208.00 | 50% |
| $110,179.81 | 75% |
| $136,959.28 | 90% |
Apply knowledge of health care and database management to analyze clinical data, and to identify and report trends.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 59,112.68 | 10% |
| $ 77,669.94 | 25% |
| $ 98,818.91 | 50% |
| $124,506.02 | 75% |
| $147,608.24 | 90% |
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 73,125.18 | 10% |
| $ 84,893.38 | 25% |
| $107,500.39 | 50% |
| $134,775.23 | 75% |
| $165,493.70 | 90% |
Produce financial and market intelligence by querying data repositories and generating periodic reports. Devise methods for identifying data patterns and trends in available information sources.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Active Listening
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 59,112.68 | 10% |
| $ 77,669.94 | 25% |
| $ 98,818.91 | 50% |
| $124,506.02 | 75% |
| $147,608.24 | 90% |
Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Complex Problem Solving
- Writing
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 83,488.04 | 10% |
| $100,892.73 | 25% |
| $113,075.08 | 50% |
| $146,379.98 | 75% |
| $186,936.41 | 90% |
Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
Grand Valley offers myScholarships
(a scholarship matching tool) to help admitted students match
with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
myScholarships will prompt you to answer questions to help match you
to scholarships for which you might qualify.
Nine Areas of Concentration
There are nine areas of concentration available in the Applied Computer Science program:
- Biomedical Informatics
- Cybersecurity
- Database Management
- Distributed Computing
- Information Systems Management
- Web and Mobile Computing
Combined Degree Programs
The School of Computing offers four combined degree programs for undergraduate students who are interested in an applied computing degree and want to save time and money.
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