Contact: Harriet Laird
STARKVILLE, Miss.—The future is bright for those interested in cutting-edge careers in computing technology, as Mississippi State University is offering three new degree programs this fall to help put students on the path to professional success.
MSU's new Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity, Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Master of Science in Applied Data Science programs will provide students with hands-on training in a profession that will grow at a much faster pace than the average for all occupations over the next 12 years.
Currently, the university has programs such as a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, a Bachelor of Science in Data Science, and a Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Operations.
“As a comprehensive public research university, we want to teach innovative, current best practices in all of our programs and prepare students to be job-ready when they graduate,” said David Shaw, dean and vice president of Michigan State University. “Every day we look at the big picture and analyze employer needs and workforce demands to deliver top-notch academic programs.”
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that there will be an average of approximately 377,500 job openings for computer and information technology occupations by 2032. Many of the job openings will be due to job growth, but also due to an aging and retiring workforce. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual salary in 2023 will be $104,420, significantly higher than the average annual salary of $48,060 for all occupations.
This fall, MSU is also adding three bachelor of applied science degrees: business office technology, health care management and public administration. The bachelor of applied science programs are ideal for students who have completed or will complete a two-year college or military applied science associate degree.
These degrees offer online, in-person and hybrid learning options, providing flexibility for working professionals and transfer students with an AAS technical degree in a variety of fields. Most students in these programs have the opportunity to earn a valuable credential while completing their degree.
There is also a new graduate degree for teachers: the Elementary Education Alternative Route Master of Education, designed specifically to address the state’s challenge of recruiting and retaining quality teachers, with more than 100 public school districts experiencing a critical teacher shortage.
New degree programs: Find out more
—The BAS in Cybersecurity is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and expertise to become a cybersecurity analyst. The program will enable graduates to become well versed in the theoretical aspects of cybersecurity and equip them with the practical skills needed to defend organizations against cyber threats.
—Students earning a bachelor's in artificial intelligence are trained in the core theoretical knowledge and skills to design and develop artificial intelligence systems. Data analytics, machine learning, robotics and more form the foundation of the degree to prepare graduates for careers as AI researchers, data scientists and more in technology, healthcare and many other industries.
—MSU offers a Master's in Applied Data Science for working professionals with a variety of bachelor's degrees. Students learn foundational concepts in data science while also gaining practical skills using real datasets in a variety of application domains. Careers for data scientists are myriad, from agriculture and sports to finance and healthcare.
—The BAS in Business Office Technology prepares those with an AAS degree in Business/Technology to enter jobs such as office manager, administrative supervisor, IT administrator, etc. The course is offered in both online and in-person formats to accommodate the preferences and schedules of the diverse population interested in earning a BOT degree.
—People with a health-related AAS degree can pursue MSU's BAS in Healthcare Administration at MSU Meridian, which prepares students for management positions in hospitals, private practices, pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies, etc. The curriculum includes coursework and skills training in subjects such as healthcare finance, law and management.
–MSU's new public administration bachelor's degree is specifically designed to enhance the education and career options of existing AAS degree professionals in public safety fields such as fire science, law enforcement and emergency medical/management services. Potential job opportunities for graduates include city or emergency managers, criminal justice administrators and fire marshals.
—A new graduate-level licensure program, the Alternative Route Master of Elementary Education, prepares students for advanced instruction in kindergarten through sixth grade. Coursework at MSU-Meridian includes planning and managing learning, assessment and serving children with special needs. One year of training includes diagnosing reading disorders.
Mississippi State University is doing things that matter. Learn more at www.msstate.edu.
