Applied Computing Foundations
Undergraduate Badge
Allendale • Face to face • Online • 9-12 Credits
Applied Computing Foundations is an interdisciplinary study that introduces students to core computing fields.
Overview
The Applied Computing Foundations undergraduate badge at Grand Valley State University equips students with a dynamic introduction to the world of computing. From computer science and cybersecurity to information technology, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and human-centered computing, this badge opens the door to today’s most exciting and impactful fields. Students gain essential knowledge while exploring diverse career pathways, empowering them to match their skills and passions with the right domain. Serving as a launchpad for deeper study and specialization, the Applied Computing Foundations badge prepares students to thrive in the fast-paced, ever-evolving landscape of technology.
Students build a strong base in computing through courses that introduce programming, data science, and computer science fundamentals. They explore specialized areas including artificial intelligence, human-centered computing, cybersecurity, software engineering, information systems, and hardware/software concepts. This well-rounded curriculum provides both technical depth and broad exposure, preparing students to pursue advanced study and discover the computing domain that best fits their interests and career goals.
Because many students enter college with limited exposure to these areas, this badge fills a critical gap by offering structured, hands-on exploration across multiple domains. It helps students uncover new opportunities, align their interests with career pathways, and confidently chart their academic and professional futures in technology.
Career Opportunities
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Monitoring
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 43,542.61 | 10% |
| $ 48,629.32 | 25% |
| $ 61,811.63 | 50% |
| $ 77,632.82 | 75% |
| $101,476.48 | 90% |
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
Top skills- Programming
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Quality Control Analysis
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 33,183.91 | 10% |
| $ 53,495.60 | 25% |
| $ 67,847.87 | 50% |
| $ 84,162.81 | 75% |
| $121,967.21 | 90% |
Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 36,104.38 | 10% |
| $ 44,589.36 | 25% |
| $ 55,990.10 | 50% |
| $ 69,094.58 | 75% |
| $ 86,648.52 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Monitoring
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 96,291.37 | 10% |
| $124,071.03 | 25% |
| $158,311.34 | 50% |
| $183,570.74 | 75% |
| $231,451.42 | 90% |
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
Top skills- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Systems Evaluation
- Active Listening
- Systems Analysis
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 62,770.67 | 10% |
| $ 79,129.94 | 25% |
| $ 99,677.21 | 50% |
| $122,706.25 | 75% |
| $136,478.07 | 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.
Top skills- Programming
- Critical Thinking
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Reading Comprehension
- Systems Analysis
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 72,991.74 | 10% |
| $ 84,739.38 | 25% |
| $107,332.35 | 50% |
| $134,383.71 | 75% |
| $164,929.63 | 90% |
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