Computing
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Grand Rapids • Online • Traverse City • Face to face • Hybrid • Online • Variable Credits
The B.A.S. in Computing is a comprehensive and flexible program integrating core computing foundations with applied, career-relevant specializations
Overview
Grand Valley's B.A.S. in Computing is a career-focused degree that emphasizes hands-on, practical skills for immediate entry into the workforce. Unlike a traditional Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science, which is heavily theoretical and mathematical, the B.A.S. focuses on using technology to solve real-world problems in business and industry.
The program is designed for students who have completed 15+ credit hours at another college with a technical focus from one of the following areas: (i) a technical associate's degree (AAS or equivalent), (ii) a technical certificate, or (iii) a minimum of 15 technical credits earned previously.
This degree builds on prior programming skills, adding specialized computing knowledge in areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Human-Centered Computing
- Software Engineering
- Information Technology
- Information Systems.
Admission Information
Our admissions criteria have been thoughtfully redesigned to expand access and create greater opportunity for students from a wide range of academic, professional, and life experiences. The crtieria is as follows:
- a technical associate's degree (AAS or equivalent)
- a technical certificate OR
- a minimum of 15 technical credits earned from previous coursework
GVSU Center for Adult and Continuing Studies
gvsu.edu/learn
(616)
331-7180
[email protected]
Career Opportunities
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% |
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 |
|---|---|
| $ 44,040.81 | 10% |
| $ 55,448.89 | 25% |
| $ 91,686.02 | 50% |
| $110,374.49 | 75% |
| $134,984.96 | 90% |
Manage web environment design, deployment, development and maintenance activities. Perform testing and quality assurance of web sites and web applications.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Monitoring
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 48,015.39 | 10% |
| $ 70,046.62 | 25% |
| $ 98,672.79 | 50% |
| $129,085.27 | 75% |
| $156,611.33 | 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 |
|---|---|
| $ 83,416.89 | 10% |
| $100,761.00 | 25% |
| $112,877.48 | 50% |
| $146,086.51 | 75% |
| $186,736.84 | 90% |
A "Best Bang for Your Buck"
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117K
GVSU Alumni in Michigan
Get Credit for your A.A.S. and Work Experience
Grand Valley will give you up to 80 credits for your applied associates and previous work experience. The final 40 credits must be at GVSU. The Web Design and Development degree will give up to 64 credits to transfer. Schedule an appointment with our advisors for details.
Higher Learning = Higher Earnings
According to a recent Lightcast study, there were 132,000 more Michigan job opportunities available to bachelor’s degree holders than associates degree holders in 2024. The median advertised wage for these jobs was also $32,000 more annually than positions requiring associates degrees.
Speak With an Advisor
Your advisor will:
- Explore your options.
- Review your transcripts from all schools (If you've taken classes other than at GVSU, please bring an unofficial copy of your transcripts to your first appointment.)
- Discuss services and supports available to you at GVSU.
- Assist with the admissions and financial aid process.
- Give you a personalized education plan, letting you know what you would have left to complete.
All advising appointments will be virtual or held by telephone. You can also email [email protected] or call (616) 331-7180 if you have any questions.
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