Computer science careers in high demand in Birmingham + beyond

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With an increasing demand in technology, careers in Computer Science continue to gain popularity. 

We interviewed the Computer Science instructors in the Business and Information Technologies Division, Scott Kelley, Bethany Gwin and LaKora Ricard, as well as the Associate Dean, Dr. Alice Tyler Milton, at Lawson State Community College.

Our conversation aimed to uncover how the college’s Computer Science program is equipping students for high-paying jobs and long-term job security.

Computer Science careers are in high demand in Birmingham, Bessemer + beyond

Choosing a career path is a significant decision. However, if you’re looking for a field that offers both job security and competitive compensation, Computer Science is definitely a worthwhile choice.

“Computer Science is one of the fastest-growing academic disciplines today. With the proliferation of online interactive technologies, tech bootcamps, and various delivery modalities, individuals from diverse backgrounds and various locations are capitalizing on this trend.  Consequently, numerous educational institutions have significantly expanded their Computer Science programs.”

Dr. Alice Tyler Milton, Associate Dean – Lawson State

Through Lawson State’s Computer Science program in Birmingham and Bessemer, students are prepared for a range of promising careers, such as:

• IT Client Equipment Services Technician
• Software Developer
• Information Security Associate
• IT Client Support Technician I
• IT Client Support Technician II
• Operations Analyst
• Database Administrator
• IT Administrator
• Hardware Engineer
• Information Security Analyst
• Web Developer

Start your career in Computer Science with Lawson State—apply for the program now.

About Lawson State’s Computer Science Program

Are you ready to pursue a career in Computer Science? (Lawson State)

The Business and Information Technologies’ Computer Science students are given every opportunity to excel and are offered professional development through organizations such as FBLA Collegiate (Future Business Leaders of America (Formerly Phi Beta Lambda [PBL]). 

Students compete statewide with other students from colleges and universities across the state of Alabama. The winners then have an opportunity to compete at the national level with other state winners. 

Two of the nine, first-place winners (Ariana Wyatt and Samuel Bryant), were able to go to the National Conference in Atlanta last year.

Both students placed in the top 10, with plaques in the areas of Network Design and Administrative Support Technology, at the Awards of Excellence Ceremony.

Each year, participating students experienced success, realizing their dominant skills and their worth in the workforce.

(L) Computer Science Students (Ariana Wyatt and Samuel Bryant competed at the National FBLA Conference in Atlanta, GA in 2023); (R) Mr. Scott Kelley, Mrs. LaKora Ricard and Mr. Norris Watkins are FBLA Collegiate advisers. (Lawson State)

As part of the College’s Business and Information Technologies Division, Lawson State Community College offers an accredited Computer Science program with a clear objective to equip students with a deep understanding of:

• Application of theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios
• Competitive industry skills and credentials 
• Comprehensive training that fosters self-confidence and self-esteem for success in the workforce
• Computing principles
• Foundational concepts and specialized knowledge in areas such as Programming, Cybersecurity, Cloud, Web Technologies, Networking + more
• Preparation for continuing their degree at a four-year educational institution
• Preparation for immediately entering the workforce upon graduation
• Problem-solving skills

The Computer Science degrees and certificates are also programmatically accredited through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Students are also afforded the opportunity to join Kappa Beta Delta (KBD), the international honors society of ACBSP. 

Installation ceremonies are held each fall semester in which officers and members are announced formally. Mrs. Bethany Gwin and Dr. Stephanie Henry are the KBD advisers.

What you’ll learn in the program?

Kelley, Gwin and Ricard filled us in on some key things.

As part of the College’s Business and Information Technologies Division, Lawson State Community College offers an accredited Computer Science program with a clear objective to equip students with a deep understanding of:

• Application of theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios
• Competitive industry skills and credentials
• Comprehensive training that fosters self-confidence and self-esteem for success in the workforce
• Computing principles
• Foundational concepts and specialized knowledge in areas such as Programming, Cybersecurity, Cloud, Web Technologies, Networking + more
• Preparation for continuing their degree at a four-year educational institution.  Students continue their education at both in and out-of-state colleges and universities
• Time management and organizational skills
• Adaptability and continuous learning
• Preparation for immediately entering the workforce, upon graduation, with strong training resulting in high self-confidence and self-esteem
• Creative problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Teamwork and leadership

Lawson State’s Computer Science Program allows students to earn a degree, certificates, certifications + industry experience (internships)

Lawson State’s Computer Science program offers six degrees with concentrations, certifications and long and short certificates. Here’s what to know about each:

• Short Certificates—16-28 credit hours
  • Designed to provide a fundamental understanding of key concepts + skills in a shorter timeframe compared to a full degree program.  
  • Prepares students for entry-level employment.
  • Can lead to a long certificate, followed by a degree.

• Certificates—35 credit hours
  • Designed to deepen + validate the skills a student has obtained.
  • Students with a long certificate can seek employment with the credentials.

• Degrees with Concentrations
  • Business + Computer Applications
  • Cloud Computing + Desktop
  • Cybersecurity + Web Technology
  • Networking
  • Programming + App Development

BONUS: Lawson State’s Computer Science classes are offered in several modes, including in-person, hybrid and virtual so you can achieve your goals in a way that works best for you.

Apply to Lawson State’s Computer Science Program now

It’s easy to apply to Lawson State’s Computer Science program. Here are the steps to apply:

1. Visit Lawson State’s website.
2. Click on “ADMISSIONS AND RECORDS”.
3. Select CIS + your desired concentration OR CIB for Computer Science with a Business Concentration

*Students can enroll in the program before the semester they intend to begin classes or during the registration period before classes begin.  

When you follow the three steps above, you’ll be on your way to a successful career in Computer Science. Are you ready? 

 Kickstart your career in Computer Science— apply to Lawson State today.

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