It is well known that the boundaries between the fields of business and computer science are becoming increasingly blurred. “Research indicates that college graduates with a solid foundation in both disciplines are not only more marketable, they often start their careers with higher paying salaries than their singularly- focused counterparts,” said University of Mount Olive Dean of the Tillman School of Business Dr. Kathy T. Best.
UMO is capitalizing on that knowledge by developing a new program slated to roll out in the fall of 2021. According to Best, the BA in computer science with a business concentration provides a degree path for students who want to develop a technical skillset while building a foundation that will allow them to use good judgment in making necessary business decisions at work and in life.
By combining courses in both computer science and business, students will obtain an understanding of business functions and business-related problems that will allow them to analyze business-user information needs, to design computer-based information systems and to implement systems solutions in business organizations.
“This new program will holistically prepare students to achieve their academic goals by developing computer science skills demanded by the market and practicing business acumen required for decision-making,” said Best. “In addition to computer science and computer information systems, students can expect to gain knowledge in accounting, management, finance, marketing, government regulations, laws, and ethics.”
Offered in an online format aimed at working adults, the program is 54 credit hours and will be housed in the Tillman School of Business. However, courses will be taught by professors from both the Tillman School of Business and the School of Arts and Sciences. “Students can expect to take multiple major-specific classes at a time, each with their own assignments and deadlines,” said Dr. Leem Shim, Associate Professor of Computer Information Systems “Learning to juggle multiple projects, working with varying timelines, and thinking outside the box are all skills that students will gain and find valuable as they enter the workforce.”
According to Best and Shim, graduates will be prepared for careers in programming (in Python and C++), software development and maintenance, database development and administration, networking design and administration, computer security, computer system administration, artificial intelligence, and e-Commerce.
For more information about the program or to register to be in the bachelor of arts degree in computer science with a business concentration, or to enroll in the inaugural class, contact 844-UMO-GOAL or go to online@umo.edu.
