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Graduate Computing Programs

A Different Kind of Creative

Southern Adventist University’s School of Computing offers graduate programs that prepare ethical, innovative leaders in technology. These include a Master of Science in Computer Science, a Master of Science in Applied Computer Science, and graduate certificates in Cyber Security, Data Analytics, and Web Development. Grounded in a Christ-centered mission, our programs combine technical excellence with values-driven leadership, equipping students to make a meaningful impact in their careers and communities. Through rigorous coursework and real-world applications, students gain the skills to thrive in today’s fast-paced computing industry—all within a flexible, supportive learning environment.

Programs

MS — Master of Science in Applied Computer Science

MS — Master of Science in Applied Computer Science

Prepares professionals from diverse academic backgrounds for careers in web development, computing, and technology. Open to students with a bachelor’s degree in any field. Offered fully on campus. Combines technical expertise with ethical leadership through a Christ-centered approach. Each student completes two graduate certificates selected from Cyber Security, Data Analytics, and Web Development, creating a direct pathway to specialized technical roles in today’s evolving technology marketplace.

Program Highlights

  • 33 credits, in person on campus
  • Completed in approximately two years of full-time study
  • Part-time enrollment options available for working professionals
  • Open to students with a bachelor’s degree in any field
  • Includes two graduate certificates chosen from Cyber Security, Data Analytics, and Web Development
  • Emphasizes technical excellence, ethical leadership, and real-world application
  • Designed to prepare graduates for in-demand computing, technology, and web development careers

Additional Information

  • Some courses may have additional prerequisites that must be completed before enrolling in certain graduate-level program courses
In-person, Computing
MS — Master of Science in Computer Science

MS — Master of Science in Computer Science

Designed for students seeking advanced expertise in software development, algorithms, and computing systems. Offered fully on campus. Provides two completion options: a traditional two-year track for students with an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field; and an integrated five-year track combining a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Grounded in a Christ-centered mission, the curriculum emphasizes technical excellence, ethical leadership, and real-world problem-solving, preparing graduates for careers in software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and research.

Program Highlights

  • 33 credits, in person on campus
  • Completed in approximately two years of full-time study
  • Part-time enrollment options available for working professionals
  • Two completion options: traditional two-year track or integrated five-year track
  • Focuses on software development, algorithms, and computing systems
  • Emphasizes technical excellence, ethical leadership, and practical problem-solving
  • Prepares graduates for careers in software engineering, full-stack web development, data science, cybersecurity, and research
In-person, Computing
Graduate Certificates

Graduate Certificates

Provides professionals with specialized, in-demand skills in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Data Analytics, and Web Development for today’s technology-driven marketplace. Grounded in a Christ-centered mission. Combines hands-on learning with ethical principles, preparing graduates for career advancement and technical roles in information technology, cybersecurity, data analysis, and web development across diverse industries.

Program Highlights

  • 12 credits each, in person on campus
  • Available in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Data Analytics, and Web Development
  • Emphasizes hands-on learning, technical proficiency, and ethical leadership
  • Designed for professionals seeking career advancement or specialized technical skills
  • Completed in approximately two semesters
  • Part-time enrollment options available

Additional Information

  • Some courses may have prerequisites that must be completed before enrolling in certain program courses
 
In-person, Computing

Course Guides

Admissions Process

Important Dates

Our deadlines are flexible and we accept applications year-round. While the program’s main entry terms are Fall and Winter, Summer applications are accepted for students completing prerequisite courses. Please reach out to an enrollment adviser when in doubt.


Semester Starts USA Deadlines International Deadlines
Fall: August 25
Winter: January 12
Summer: May 12		 Fall: July 1
Winter: November 1
Summer: April 1		 Fall: May 1
Winter: September 1
Summer: February 1
Admissions Requirements
For comprehensive information regarding the Computing programs, visit the Program's Catalog Page.

Admissions Requirements Admissions Process
  • MS in Applied Computer Science: Applicants can have a bachelor's degree in any discipline.
  • MS in Computer Science: Applicants must have an ABET-accredited bachelor's degree in computer science.
  • Graduate Certificate:  A bachelor's degree in any discipline.
  • GPA requirement: A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0.
  •  
  1. Graduate application: Submit a completed application with a non-refundable fee of $40.
  2. Transcripts: Submit official college and university transcripts.
Admission Requirements for International Graduate Students
Applicants who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States and planning to attend classes on-campus are considered international students and must meet additional requirements for admission.

See Full Requirements

Why Southern?

A computing degree from Southern Adventist University combines cutting-edge technology education with a Christ-centered mission, preparing graduates for careers in software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and information technology. Each program emphasizes technical excellence, ethical leadership, and real-world problem-solving, equipping students to thrive in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven marketplace while making a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.

Faculty

Scot Anderson, PhD

Dean

Rick Halterman, PhD

Professor

Harvey Alferez Salinas, PhD

Professor

Willard Munger, PhD

Adjunct Professor