Computer Science And Information Technology Programs Added To Grand Canyon University's Degree Offerings

PHOENIX, March 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Grand Canyon University is expanding its STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) offerings with two new degree programs in computer science and information technology for the fall of 2014. The two Bachelor of Science degrees, each with three emphases, will prepare students for a variety of technical and entrepreneurial careers, while integrating Christian perspectives, through the university's Center for Integrated Science, Engineering and Technology (CISET).

"There's a high demand in the field for science professionals," said Dr. Michael Mobley, executive director of CISET," and we knew we had to design programs for rigorous careers in technical areas, while meeting the needs of the future with a breadth of 'soft skills', such as ethics, communication, self-discipline, creativity and project management."

The bachelor's in computer science offers three individual emphases in game and simulation development, business entrepreneurship and big data analytics, while the information technology degree also offers three emphases in technology innovation, health information technology and business entrepreneurship. These degrees could lead students to jobs as computer systems analysts, database managers, information technology security specialists and software engineers.

"Our programs were designed to connect soft skills with a STEM intensive core, ensuring all students have a broad foundation in math and sciences," said Mobley, who joined GCU in 2013 after serving as associate director at Arizona State University's Biodesign Institute. "Because of this integrated approach, students will gain the deep technical skills they need through intense collaboration within high-tech interactive classrooms, integrated lab experiences and intensive hands-on experience with problem solving and team projects."

Grand Canyon University expects to have dozens of students enrolled in the six programs this fall, and plans to expand its offerings in STEM-based programs in the upcoming years to include programs in engineering, applied mathematics and advanced life sciences. For additional information, visit gcu.edu/csit.

Grand Canyon University was founded in 1949 and is Arizona's premier private Christian university. GCU is regionally accredited and emphasizes individual attention for both traditional undergraduate students and the working professional. GCU offers traditional programs on its growing campus, as well as online bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs.  The University's curriculum fuses academic and clinical rigor with Christian values to prepare its students to be skilled, caring professionals. For more information about GCU, visit gcu.edu.

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SOURCE Grand Canyon University