Walla Walla University has received approval from Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities to launch its first three-year bachelor’s degree, Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Science.
The 144-quarter credit program allows students to enter the workforce sooner in a field where demand for skilled computer science professionals continues to grow.
“This degree is a thoughtful response to the rapidly changing landscape of computer science,” said Howard Munson, WWU associate vice president for student affairs and academic administration. “It's a pilot program, launched with careful consideration and a strong commitment to maintaining the high academic standards that define WWU.”
The university will collect at least two years of program performance data before considering expansion of the three-year format to additional majors. Jonathan Duncan, WWU associate vice president for academic planning and innovation, said the program balances innovation with integrity while opening new pathways for students.
Computer science students may still choose traditional four-year course plans for Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degrees, which offer greater flexibility for double majors or minors in areas such as graphic design or business.
WWU Department of Computer Science also offers Bachelor of Science degrees in cybersecurity, game development and information systems, as well as minors in computer science and cybersecurity. More information about the department and the new degree is available at wallawalla.edu/cs.
