RSU Computer Science online degree ranked highest among Okla
Source: Rogers State University
AffordableCollegesOnline.org has named Rogers State University's business information technology degree program as Oklahoma's top-ranked computer science program.
The 2015-16 Best Online Computer Science Programs report included RSU as the only Oklahoma school and 32nd of 40 computer science degree programs recognized by the website.
"We wanted to highlight the institutions across the country that are leading in academic excellence for online computer science programs," said Dan Schuessler, CEO and Founder of Affordable Colleges Online. "With over three quarters of new STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) jobs being comprised of computer science disciplines, these schools are making a substantial contribution to the workforce."
Its report noted that computer science/informational technology is the third most popular degree program for online students nationwide.
"RSU's business information technology program is a versatile degree program that allows students to pursue careers in either networking or software development," said Dr. Roy Gardner, Associate Professor and Head of RSU's Department of Applied Technology. "We're honored that our online program has been recognized for its affordability and its value to students."
The Affordable Colleges Online report noted the low cost of RSU's program and that 88 percent of its students received financial aid.
Scoring metrics for the report include online tuition rate, count of online bachelor's degrees available in field, student-faculty ratio (undergraduate), six-year graduation rate, percent of students receiving financial aid, academic and career counseling services, job placement for graduates, acceptance rate, loan default rate and its online Peer-Based Value (PBV). The report gave RSU a peer-based value score of 97.08, which compares the cost of each program to the cost of similar programs with the same qualitative score. The highest ranked school was Clayton State University in Georgia with a 98.85.
The report said RSU students are prepared for a career in information systems through its business information technology degree program, which includes specializations in either computer network administration, or software development and multimedia.
Students in the RSU program take core classes in programming, data modeling, human-computer interface and networking, alongside a core of business support courses. Upon graduation, RSU students are prepared to meet the growing demand for business information technology specialists, the report noted.
Established in 2011, Affordable Colleges Online provides data and information about pursuing affordable higher education. Its site features higher education institutions that have developed online learning environments that include highly trained faculty, new technology and resources, and online support services to help students achieve educational and career success. To be considered for ranking, schools must meet a number of criteria and metrics, including being a public or private, not-for-profit institution; offer at least one fully-online bachelor's degree program; provide academic and counseling services; and have job placement programs for graduates.
For more information about Best Online Computer Science Programs listing, visit www.affordablecollegesonline.org/degrees/computer-science-programs/. For more information about RSU's business information technology degree programs, visit www.rsu.edu/business-information-technology.
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