Computer Science Degree Programs at Point Park University
Point Park University appears in our ranking of the Top 10 IT Degrees Online (Bachelor’s).
With a computer science degree, it is possible to move into a career as a software developer with an average annual income of $105,590. Most positions require only a bachelor’s degree and the industry is expected to grow by 21 percent over the next ten years. Individuals could also obtain positions as network and computer systems administrators with salaries that average $82,050 per year. These positions are expected to grow by five percent over the next ten years and require a bachelor’s degree. Point Park University offers degree programs designed to help people move into these positions and more that require a computer science background.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology prepares students for an industry that changes rapidly. The program focuses on entrepreneurship as well as technical business solutions, providing them with the tool-building skills necessary to achieve their professional goals in the industry. Students gain an understanding of going from ideas to building programs, data analytics, entrepreneurship, innovation, programming, problem-solving as well as software development. Courses required may include:
- Advanced Programming
- Big Data Applications
- Business Analytics
- Data Mining
- Digital Security
- Entrepreneurship for Software Developers
- Introduction to Programming
- Networking and Security
- NoSQL Databases
- Server Management
- Software Development for E-Commerce
The program is available both on campus and online.
Master of Science in Information Systems and Business Analytics
The Master of Science in Information Systems and Business Analytics is a 36-credit hour program designed to meet the demand in the global marketplace for professionals with skills in science, technology, engineering, and math. The program is a joint graduate program between the Rowland School of Business and the Department of Natural Sciences, Engineering and Technology. Courses required may include:
- Applied Data Mining
- Artificial Intelligence
- Augmented Reality
- Business Analytics
- Data Analysis & Visualization
- Database Management & Applications
- Development of Support Networks
- Engineering Analysis I
- Engineering Project Management
- Management Information Systems
- Project in Engineering Management
- Statistics & Quantitative Methods
- Virtual Reality
About Point Park University
Point Park University began as a small business training college under the direction of Dorothy Finkelhor and L. Herbert Finkelhor who founded the school in 1933. Within 30 years, the school had grown to over 800 students and moved to a new location on Wood Street in downtown Pittsburgh. After the move, the name of the school was changed to Point Park Junior College, named for historic Point State Park.
In 1966, Point Park was awarded four-year status, becoming Point Park College. During the 1990s, the school weathered a significant financial crisis and implemented a new strategic plan to boost enrollment. In 2003, it became Point Park University.
Today, there are more than 4,000 students enrolled and the strategic plan continues to focus on academic excellence. In 2008, the school announced the Academic Village at Point Park, a living and learning hub.
Point Park University Accreditation Details
Point Park University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Accreditation lets parents, students, and employers know that the programs offered by the University meet standards set by the Commission that indicate excellence. It also indicates that the school has the resources to meet its stated goals and objectives. Programs throughout the school are accredited by the following organizations:
- Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET
- International Assembly of Collegiate Business Education
- National Association of Schools of Dance
Point Park University Application Requirements
Applicants to the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology must provide official high school transcripts and must have a GPA of 2.5 in a college preparatory program. They must provide official ACT or SAT scores as well. A personal essay and letters of recommendation may be submitted but are optional. Applicants who have earned college credit after high school graduation must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
Applicants to the Master of Science in Information Systems and Business Analytics must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university. They must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended along with two letters of recommendation.
Point Park University Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition for the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is $913 per credit hour. Tuition for the Master of Science in Information Systems and Business Analytics is $880 per credit hour.
Financial aid is available, and 99 percent of incoming freshmen receive some type of financial assistance. The average financial aid packet is $27,483. In order to qualify for financial assistance, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the form must be renewed annually. Financial aid is not based solely on need so students should not assume they are not eligible, regardless of income.
Aid may be offered in the form of grants which are often need-based. Scholarships are also offered and may be based on merit or financial need as well as offered through outside organizations. There is a Foster Care Tuition Waiver for youth in, discharged or adopted from foster care at the age of 16. Loans may be offered but must be paid upon graduation. Students attending on campus may be offered work-study programs as well. Graduate students may be offered assistantships or fellowships if they are attending on campus. Point Park University also accepts tuition discounts from certain employers or organizations, employer reimbursement, and military tuition reimbursement.
Point Park University offers an engaging, active, professional education in the only institute of higher learning in downtown university. Students at Point Park University are provided access to successful, working professionals in their field of study through internships, job opportunities, and mentoring options. Point Park University strives to be the most dynamic, private, urban university in the country with a focus on student success through unique, innovative and experiential learning.
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