PATHWAY TO COMPUTING

A New Online Graduate Certificate From USF

Prepare for a master’s degree in computer science or get the skills to transition to a new tech career with this affordable, fully online certificate program.

Breaking Down Barriers to a Computer Science Career

pathway-to-computing-consortium

Have you thought about transitioning to the computer science field, but lack the technical proficiencies required? Our new 15-credit bridge program can help you qualify for positions in the white-hot technical job market or prepare to enroll in a graduate-level computer science program. Prior experience isn’t necessary – we’ll teach you everything you need to know, from discrete structures to object-oriented design to algorithms.

At USF, we believe that a master’s degree in computing should be accessible to graduates from any discipline, regardless of prior experience or knowledge. USF’s Pathway to Computing Certificate is a quick and effective way to gain the foundational skills required to enter a master’s program or advance in your career. Plus, you can choose to attend full time or part time, allowing this program to fit into your busy life.

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Why Choose USF’s Pathway to Computing Certificate?

No Computer Science Experience Required Icon

No Computing
Experience Required

No computer science background? No problem!

Affordable Costs Icon

Affordable Costs

We offer low tuition rates.

Fast Completion Icon

Fast Completion

Short, 15-credit program can be completed in just months.

No GRE Required Icon

No GRE Required

Test scores are not needed to apply.

Student Testimonial

See what our graduates have to say about USF’s Computer Science and Engineering programs.

“It was such a collaborative atmosphere. Everybody had the common thread of creativity and making something new and useful.”

- Bhavika Shah, BS in Computer Engineering

“I’ve had really positive experiences with our faculty. Many of them, like Dr. Hendrix and Dr. Zhang, are always willing to go above and beyond to help their students with material and even provide mentorship in times of need.”

-Sayde King, BS in Computer Science, Graduate Student in Computer Science and Engineering

“I was empowered by meeting successful women throughout the spectrum, and that has helped me tremendously in my pursuits as a scholar and a person.”

-My Nguyen, BS in Computer Engineering and Computer Science

Is the Online Certificate Program Right for You?

This online computer science certificate program is ideal for a wide variety of individuals who completed a bachelor’s degree in another field. Before committing, ask yourself some important questions:

  • Do you have a non-computing background and need a bridge to a master’s degree in computer science?
  • Do you want a pathway to a computing career, but need additional computer science prep courses to get there?
  • Do you want to obtain the technical skills needed to transition your career to computing fields or advance in your current role?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you’re a great candidate!

Get Priority Admission to USF’s Master’s in Computer Science Program

Don’t let your non-computing bachelor’s degree hold you back from pursuing an advanced degree in computer science. Students who successfully complete this online certificate program with a minimum GPA of 3.00 and B- or better in all courses are eligible for priority admission to USF's Master of Science in Computer Science program.

There are no additional tests to take, so you can get started on your degree sooner. This is your chance to qualify for a leading computer science graduate program no matter what undergraduate degree you hold.

Prepare for a High-Demand Computing Career

Through this online computer science certificate, you’ll build advanced technical skills in software development, system design, scripting languages and more. If you pursue the Master of Science in Computer Science following the Pathway to Computing certificate, you will be positioned for success in several exciting careers, including some of the hottest tech jobs:

  • Software Engineer
  • Systems and Infrastructure Engineer
  • Network Engineer
  • AI/Data Scientist
  • System Architect


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