B.S. in Applied Computing

Program Overview

The B.S. in Applied Computing offers a comprehensive and up-to-date background in the field of computing, with a strong emphasis on the practical application of analytical and programming skills. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to select a concentration or "track" that closely aligns with their individual interests and career goals, such as Computer Information Systems. A key component of the program is a capstone project, which requires students to design and implement their own project, applying computing tools and techniques to a related cognate area. This project-based learning ensures graduates have tangible experience in solving real-world problems.

STEM-designated: Yes, the B.S. in Applied Computing at SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a STEM-designated program. This designation is highly beneficial, especially for international students, as it potentially allows for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the United States after graduation. This provides valuable additional time for graduates to gain practical work experience in their field within the U.S., leveraging the program's strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

ABET-accredited: While SUNY Polytechnic Institute generally holds ABET accreditation for its engineering and technology programs, and the university as a whole is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), specific direct confirmation of ABET accreditation for the B.S. in Applied Computing program is not explicitly available in the provided search snippets. It's recommended to consult SUNY Poly's official academic catalog or the department for the most precise accreditation status of this particular bachelor's degree.

Curriculum: The Applied Computing curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive and versatile background in computing, blending core principles with practical application. Students gain knowledge and skills in a wide range of computing competencies, allowing them to adapt to the fast-paced, ever-changing field of technology. The program combines the core of baccalaureate programs in computer information systems or computer and information science with strong academic preparation in another area of study (the "cognate area"). This broad yet focused approach ensures students develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and programming skills, culminating in a practical capstone project.

Research Focus: While the B.S. in Applied Computing is primarily focused on practical application, its "research focus" is embedded in the capstone project requirement, where students apply the tools and techniques of computing to a specific cognate area through design and implementation. This encourages an applied research methodology, where students investigate problems and develop computational solutions. Faculty within the computer science and information systems departments, who may teach courses for this program, are often engaged in research, including areas like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity. These broader university research initiatives can indirectly provide an environment that fosters an understanding of current research trends and methodologies in applied computing.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a significant strength of the Applied Computing program at SUNY Poly. The curriculum is designed to be up-to-date and relevant to industry demands, emphasizing the practical application of computing skills. The university fosters strong connections with various companies and organizations. These connections often lead to opportunities for internships and experiential learning, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge in professional settings and build valuable industry networks. The program's focus on a capstone project also provides a tangible portfolio piece that showcases a student's ability to solve real-world problems, directly addressing industry needs.

Global Perspective: SUNY Polytechnic Institute integrates a global perspective into its Applied Computing program, recognizing the inherently global nature of technology and its applications across diverse industries and cultures. The program's emphasis on versatile computing skills prepares graduates to work with technologies and systems that are developed and deployed internationally. SUNY Poly's diverse student body, comprising individuals from over 20 nations, enriches the learning environment by exposing students to various cultural viewpoints and approaches to technological challenges. This broad exposure helps prepare graduates for careers in an increasingly interconnected and international technological landscape, where collaboration across borders is common.