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Bachelor of Science Applied Computing
Bachelor of Science
Applied Computing
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Download the degree guide for details on admission requirements, tuition and courses.
Overview
Curriculum
Course Schedule
Admission
Outcomes
Tuition
Future-Focused, Real-World Technology Skills
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing teaches the technologies used in today’s computing environments
and
the learning strategies needed to stay ahead of tomorrow’s innovations. Designed for working adults, this program mirrors how computing professionals actually work, integrating technical skills, problem-solving, and communication into real-world projects.
Your capstone course gives you hands-on experience applying what you’ve learned to a real organizational challenge–something employers notice immediately.
Innovating with Generative AI
The Applied Computing program is a leader in integrating
Generative AI as a practical workforce skill.
Students learn to use AI responsibly and effectively to:
spark creativity
streamline everyday tasks
solve business problems
support smarter organizational decision-making
By blending foundational computing with hands-on AI applications, the program prepares you to navigate–and lead through–every stage of AI adoption in organizations. You’ll graduate with a skill set that sets you apart as a
future-ready innovator.
Career Paths Across Industries
Applied computing graduates work across nearly every sector–healthcare, finance, education, IT, retail, manufacturing, marketing, transportation, security, insurance, and more.
This degree prepares you for roles such as:
Software developer
Database developer
Systems administrator
Application/full stack developer
Software engineer
Video game developer
Business analyst
Web developer
Project manager
Explore how our graduates are using their skills in the workplace.
AI as a Core Professional Skill
Learning AI isn’t optional; it’s a required competency built into your coursework. You’ll learn to:
Evaluate what AI can and cannot do to make sound technology decisions
Use AI tools to solve business problems and support everyday computing work
Identify ethical risks and recommend responsible practices
Apply AI across computing and business functions to increase productivity
Who Should Apply
This bachelor’s degree completion program is designed for:
Computing professionals looking to advance
Career changers entering the tech field
Working adults who need an online, flexible program
Students with
45-60 transferable general education credits
If you still need general education courses, an enrollment adviser can help you find the best path.
RELATED:
Building a Bridge to a Bachelor’s Degree with the UW Online Associate Degree
Universities of Wisconsin Collaboration
The
UW Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing
is a partnership of UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls, and UW-Stevens Point.
Learn more about our campus partners and choosing a home campus
Accreditation
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing is fully accredited by the
Higher Learning Commission
and approved by the
University of Wisconsin Board of Regents.
Your degree carries the reputation of a world-class university system committed to quality, rigor, and student support.
To be eligible for the
Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing
students must meet the following requirements:
Approximately 45-60 transferable general education credits with a 2.0 minimum grade point average (GPA). There are options available for those who do not meet this general education requirement, such as potentially taking them through your chosen home campus. Please contact an enrollment adviser for more information and to find out what options may be available to you.
Prerequisite coursework in college algebra or equivalent coursework
Official college transcripts
Application Deadlines
Your online application and all required materials must be submitted to your preferred home campus
generally 2-4 weeks prior to the date classes start
(this varies by campus) to be considered for admission. Starting your application early will help ensure you have plenty of time to gather required materials (such as transcripts), transfer credits, apply for financial aid, and complete the University of Wisconsin System
Online Admission Application
How to Apply
While you are free to apply on your own, many prospective students speak with an enrollment adviser first. Our friendly staff is here to answer your questions, talk with you about your career goals, and help you decide if this program is a good choice for you.
Step 1.
Select a “home” campus from our list of program partners: UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls, or UW-Stevens Point.
Step 2.
Apply to your preferred home campus using the
University of Wisconsin System Online Admission Application
. Choose the “Applied Computing-Collaborative” program. There is no application fee for all undergraduate degree seeking applicants (domestic and international).
Step 3.
Send official college transcripts from all institutions attended directly to the home campus admissions office to which you are applying. If you have an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent coursework, the ACT or SAT is not required.
Formal admission to the program will be determined by the campus to which you apply.
The UW Applied Computing Program Curriculum
The UW Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing offers 100% online courses. All course content, from multimedia lectures and e-learning tools to homework assignments, will be delivered to you through the program’s
online learning management system
. You can study and do homework whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you.
Students are required to take each of the 21 technical- and business-focused courses in the curriculum. Due to the unique nature of the program, courses from other degree programs may not transfer in directly for Applied Computing courses. Only your home campus can determine how previous coursework might satisfy Applied Computing requirements.
Preview lectures, assignments, and discussions in this
Course Inside Look: Programming
Curriculum - View Printable Version
Course
Credits
This course provides a solid foundation in computing by focusing on problem-solving and fundamental programming skills. You will gain skills in computational thinking and learn to implement solutions using a contemporary programming language. This course will emphasize good programming practices such as writing well-tested comprehensible code that is developed incrementally and iteratively. The course will cover essential topics that will include variables, data types and expressions, control structures (conditionals, loops), basic data structures, functions and modular programming, handling input/output, and testing and debugging.
APC 300 syllabus
3 Credits
This course covers topics that serve as the foundation for general computer science practice including logic, sets, functions, mathematical reasoning, counting, probability, relations, graphs, trees, Boolean algebra, and algorithms.
APC 310 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course introduces the student to the major functional areas of business, including the roles of accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, information systems, and operations in the organization. Other topics covered include the role of business in a free enterprise system, business ethics, leadership, leading change, and the competitive global business environment.
APC 320 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course covers technical and professional communication skills and techniques. Practice in creating effective memos and reports, developing technical materials, delivering presentations, and developing team communication skills will be the focus of the course.
APC 330 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course explores a range of legal, regulatory, ethical and compliance issues associated with developing software and using information systems in an organization. Topics include the ethical and legal issues associated with data privacy and intellectual property, compliance with regulatory requirements such as Sarbanes Oxley, and other related contemporary subjects.
APC 340 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course offers continuation of fundamental computer concepts and Programming. It provides hands-on coverage of Methods, File IO, Arrays and their applications, Abstract Data Types, Classes, simple GUI application, and introduction to inheritance and composition.
APC 350 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 310 – Math for Computer Science
3 Credits
This course covers design and implementation of relational database management systems to support computer-based information systems. Topics include: data modeling techniques such as entity-relationship modeling, extended entity-relationship modeling, database normalization techniques, and basic and advanced features of database query language SQL.
APC 360 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
3 Credits
This course explores the first five phases of the Systems Development Life Cycle including scope definition, problem analysis, requirements analysis, logical design and decision analysis with the goal of determining an effective system solution. Topics covered include use case development, gap analysis, financial analysis of IT investments, and feasibility analysis.
APC 370 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 320 – Introduction to Business
APC 330 – Technical and Professional Communication
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to project management tools and techniques including project selection and life cycle, stakeholder management, scope management, budget control, scheduling, quality management, risk identification, and procurement management.
APC 380 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 320 – Introduction to Business
APC 330 – Technical and Professional Communication
3 Credits
This course offers an introduction to Object-Oriented Programming techniques using the Java programming language. Students will gain skills in using Classes and Interfaces, Exception handling, Programming by Contract, Inheritance, Polymorphism, Overloading, Abstract Classes and Methods, Serialization, Generics, and an Introduction to Recursion.
APC 390 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers fundamental concepts in the design, configuration, and problem solving of computer networks. Topics include: TCP/IP and OSI architecture, application layer (Web, FTP, remote connection, email, client and server interaction), transport layer (TCP/UDP), network layer (IP), data link and physical layers.
APC 400 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers architecture and use-cases of non-relational (NoSQL) based on four types of databases including document, Graph, Key-value, and wide column store. Topics include: data types, create/update/delete data, query, cursors, indexing, dynamic schema design, scalability (scale-out) over scale-up of RDBMS, analysis of massive unstructured and semi-structured data and data security.
APC 410 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 360 – Database Management I
3 Credits
This course covers topics spanning security and risk management, security engineering, identity and access management, and security operations. Topics include cryptography, access control models, malicious software and countermeasures, security policy, security model, trust, vulnerability assessment, security standards and evaluation, administration and auditing, and secure storage.
APC 420 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
Introduction to machine learning and methods, including neural networks and deep learning. Incorporates underlying concepts, hands-on experience and machine learning tools. Topics include generative AI and large language models, supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.
APC 425_Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers fundamental concepts and the application of data structures and algorithms. Topics may include abstract data type, dynamic array, iterators, linked list, generics, stacks, queues, binary search tree, collections, maps, hashing, graphs, and sorting. It introduces a variety of application scenarios including graphics, web programming and user interfaces.
APC 430 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 390 – Object Oriented Programming
3 Credits
This course teaches students how to create advanced and interactive websites using technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap, Python, Django, web services, and database integration. The class also introduces principles of good user interaction design to the creation of effective web pages.
APC 440 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 360 – Database Management I
3 Credits
This course provides introduction to important operating systems concepts such as processes, threads, scheduling, concurrency control and memory management. The students will learn these concepts via systems programming using POSIX API.
APC 450_Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 430 – Applied Data Structures and Algorithms
3 Credits
This course covers basic software development methodologies and tools. Methodologies include the waterfall, iterative, and agile approaches. Tools include integrated development environments (IDEs), unified modeling language (UML), and testing frameworks. Other topics include requirement analysis, object-oriented analysis, test-driven development, and design patterns. Students will work on a team software project.
APC 460 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 370 – Systems Analysis and Design
APC 390 – Object Oriented Programming
3 Credits
This course begins with an exploration of organizational strategy and how Information Systems strategy is developed to support the attainment of organizational goals. The course then explores the management of the IS function using a capability maturity model approach to topics such as budgeting, acquisition, service management, change management, and personnel management.
APC 470 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 380 – Project Management Techniques
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts of computer security and its applications. The course includes two parts. The first part focuses on security concepts, cryptography, policies, and access control. The second part focuses on Java security, malware, and security concepts of operating systems, software, networks, and the Web.
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
The purpose of this course is for students to choose a capstone project, create an initial plan with specific deliverables identified, and receive approval. This course covers review of key concepts necessary for success in the Capstone (APC 495) course, including software engineering practices, project management techniques, systems analysis, and communicating with technical or non-technical audiences (CTO, IT staff, etc.). May include additional topics specific to anticipated capstone projects.
Concurrent Course: APC 460
(Students may take this course after completing APC 460 or they can take the two courses at the same time.)
APC 490 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 380 – Project Management Techniques
APC 460 – Software Engineering Practices
Capstone Project Ideas
1 Credits
The purpose of this course is for students to complete the project that was approved in APC 490. This course covers development, management and delivery of an applied computer science project for a client, including communication of project requirements and status to a non-technical audience.
For inspiration and ideas, explore
past capstone projects.
APC 495 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 490 – Capstone Project Preparation
3 Credits
Spring 2026
Course Preview Week:
January 20 - January 26, 2026
Semester Dates:
January 27 - May 08, 2026
Spring 2026 - View Printable Version
Course
Credits
This course provides a solid foundation in computing by focusing on problem-solving and fundamental programming skills. You will gain skills in computational thinking and learn to implement solutions using a contemporary programming language. This course will emphasize good programming practices such as writing well-tested comprehensible code that is developed incrementally and iteratively. The course will cover essential topics that will include variables, data types and expressions, control structures (conditionals, loops), basic data structures, functions and modular programming, handling input/output, and testing and debugging.
APC 300 syllabus
3 Credits
This course covers topics that serve as the foundation for general computer science practice including logic, sets, functions, mathematical reasoning, counting, probability, relations, graphs, trees, Boolean algebra, and algorithms.
APC 310 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course explores a range of legal, regulatory, ethical and compliance issues associated with developing software and using information systems in an organization. Topics include the ethical and legal issues associated with data privacy and intellectual property, compliance with regulatory requirements such as Sarbanes Oxley, and other related contemporary subjects.
APC 340 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course offers continuation of fundamental computer concepts and Programming. It provides hands-on coverage of Methods, File IO, Arrays and their applications, Abstract Data Types, Classes, simple GUI application, and introduction to inheritance and composition.
APC 350 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 310 – Math for Computer Science
3 Credits
This course covers design and implementation of relational database management systems to support computer-based information systems. Topics include: data modeling techniques such as entity-relationship modeling, extended entity-relationship modeling, database normalization techniques, and basic and advanced features of database query language SQL.
APC 360 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
3 Credits
This course explores the first five phases of the Systems Development Life Cycle including scope definition, problem analysis, requirements analysis, logical design and decision analysis with the goal of determining an effective system solution. Topics covered include use case development, gap analysis, financial analysis of IT investments, and feasibility analysis.
APC 370 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 320 – Introduction to Business
APC 330 – Technical and Professional Communication
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to project management tools and techniques including project selection and life cycle, stakeholder management, scope management, budget control, scheduling, quality management, risk identification, and procurement management.
APC 380 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 320 – Introduction to Business
APC 330 – Technical and Professional Communication
3 Credits
Introduction to machine learning and methods, including neural networks and deep learning. Incorporates underlying concepts, hands-on experience and machine learning tools. Topics include generative AI and large language models, supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.
APC 425_Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers fundamental concepts and the application of data structures and algorithms. Topics may include abstract data type, dynamic array, iterators, linked list, generics, stacks, queues, binary search tree, collections, maps, hashing, graphs, and sorting. It introduces a variety of application scenarios including graphics, web programming and user interfaces.
APC 430 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 390 – Object Oriented Programming
3 Credits
This course teaches students how to create advanced and interactive websites using technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap, Python, Django, web services, and database integration. The class also introduces principles of good user interaction design to the creation of effective web pages.
APC 440 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 360 – Database Management I
3 Credits
This course covers basic software development methodologies and tools. Methodologies include the waterfall, iterative, and agile approaches. Tools include integrated development environments (IDEs), unified modeling language (UML), and testing frameworks. Other topics include requirement analysis, object-oriented analysis, test-driven development, and design patterns. Students will work on a team software project.
APC 460 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 370 – Systems Analysis and Design
APC 390 – Object Oriented Programming
3 Credits
The purpose of this course is for students to complete the project that was approved in APC 490. This course covers development, management and delivery of an applied computer science project for a client, including communication of project requirements and status to a non-technical audience.
For inspiration and ideas, explore
past capstone projects.
APC 495 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 490 – Capstone Project Preparation
3 Credits
Summer 2026
Request Permission Number
Course Preview Week:
May 19 - May 25, 2026
Semester Dates:
May 26 - August 07, 2026
Summer 2026 - View Printable Version
Course
Credits
This course provides a solid foundation in computing by focusing on problem-solving and fundamental programming skills. You will gain skills in computational thinking and learn to implement solutions using a contemporary programming language. This course will emphasize good programming practices such as writing well-tested comprehensible code that is developed incrementally and iteratively. The course will cover essential topics that will include variables, data types and expressions, control structures (conditionals, loops), basic data structures, functions and modular programming, handling input/output, and testing and debugging.
APC 300 syllabus
3 Credits
This course offers continuation of fundamental computer concepts and Programming. It provides hands-on coverage of Methods, File IO, Arrays and their applications, Abstract Data Types, Classes, simple GUI application, and introduction to inheritance and composition.
APC 350 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 310 – Math for Computer Science
3 Credits
Introduction to machine learning and methods, including neural networks and deep learning. Incorporates underlying concepts, hands-on experience and machine learning tools. Topics include generative AI and large language models, supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.
APC 425_Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers basic software development methodologies and tools. Methodologies include the waterfall, iterative, and agile approaches. Tools include integrated development environments (IDEs), unified modeling language (UML), and testing frameworks. Other topics include requirement analysis, object-oriented analysis, test-driven development, and design patterns. Students will work on a team software project.
APC 460 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 370 – Systems Analysis and Design
APC 390 – Object Oriented Programming
3 Credits
Fall 2026
Request Permission Number
Course Preview Week:
September 01 - September 07, 2026
Semester Dates:
September 08 - December 18, 2026
Fall 2026 - View Printable Version
Course
Credits
This course provides a solid foundation in computing by focusing on problem-solving and fundamental programming skills. You will gain skills in computational thinking and learn to implement solutions using a contemporary programming language. This course will emphasize good programming practices such as writing well-tested comprehensible code that is developed incrementally and iteratively. The course will cover essential topics that will include variables, data types and expressions, control structures (conditionals, loops), basic data structures, functions and modular programming, handling input/output, and testing and debugging.
APC 300 syllabus
3 Credits
This course covers topics that serve as the foundation for general computer science practice including logic, sets, functions, mathematical reasoning, counting, probability, relations, graphs, trees, Boolean algebra, and algorithms.
APC 310 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course introduces the student to the major functional areas of business, including the roles of accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, information systems, and operations in the organization. Other topics covered include the role of business in a free enterprise system, business ethics, leadership, leading change, and the competitive global business environment.
APC 320 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course covers technical and professional communication skills and techniques. Practice in creating effective memos and reports, developing technical materials, delivering presentations, and developing team communication skills will be the focus of the course.
APC 330 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course offers an introduction to Object-Oriented Programming techniques using the Java programming language. Students will gain skills in using Classes and Interfaces, Exception handling, Programming by Contract, Inheritance, Polymorphism, Overloading, Abstract Classes and Methods, Serialization, Generics, and an Introduction to Recursion.
APC 390 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers fundamental concepts in the design, configuration, and problem solving of computer networks. Topics include: TCP/IP and OSI architecture, application layer (Web, FTP, remote connection, email, client and server interaction), transport layer (TCP/UDP), network layer (IP), data link and physical layers.
APC 400 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers architecture and use-cases of non-relational (NoSQL) based on four types of databases including document, Graph, Key-value, and wide column store. Topics include: data types, create/update/delete data, query, cursors, indexing, dynamic schema design, scalability (scale-out) over scale-up of RDBMS, analysis of massive unstructured and semi-structured data and data security.
APC 410 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 360 – Database Management I
3 Credits
This course provides introduction to important operating systems concepts such as processes, threads, scheduling, concurrency control and memory management. The students will learn these concepts via systems programming using POSIX API.
APC 450_Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 430 – Applied Data Structures and Algorithms
3 Credits
This course begins with an exploration of organizational strategy and how Information Systems strategy is developed to support the attainment of organizational goals. The course then explores the management of the IS function using a capability maturity model approach to topics such as budgeting, acquisition, service management, change management, and personnel management.
APC 470 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 380 – Project Management Techniques
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts of computer security and its applications. The course includes two parts. The first part focuses on security concepts, cryptography, policies, and access control. The second part focuses on Java security, malware, and security concepts of operating systems, software, networks, and the Web.
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
The purpose of this course is for students to choose a capstone project, create an initial plan with specific deliverables identified, and receive approval. This course covers review of key concepts necessary for success in the Capstone (APC 495) course, including software engineering practices, project management techniques, systems analysis, and communicating with technical or non-technical audiences (CTO, IT staff, etc.). May include additional topics specific to anticipated capstone projects.
Concurrent Course: APC 460
(Students may take this course after completing APC 460 or they can take the two courses at the same time.)
APC 490 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 380 – Project Management Techniques
APC 460 – Software Engineering Practices
Capstone Project Ideas
1 Credits
Spring 2027
Registration Opens:
November 09, 2026
Course Preview Week:
January 19 - January 25, 2027
Semester Dates:
January 26 - May 07, 2027
Spring 2027 - View Printable Version
Course
Credits
This course provides a solid foundation in computing by focusing on problem-solving and fundamental programming skills. You will gain skills in computational thinking and learn to implement solutions using a contemporary programming language. This course will emphasize good programming practices such as writing well-tested comprehensible code that is developed incrementally and iteratively. The course will cover essential topics that will include variables, data types and expressions, control structures (conditionals, loops), basic data structures, functions and modular programming, handling input/output, and testing and debugging.
APC 300 syllabus
3 Credits
This course covers topics that serve as the foundation for general computer science practice including logic, sets, functions, mathematical reasoning, counting, probability, relations, graphs, trees, Boolean algebra, and algorithms.
APC 310 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course explores a range of legal, regulatory, ethical and compliance issues associated with developing software and using information systems in an organization. Topics include the ethical and legal issues associated with data privacy and intellectual property, compliance with regulatory requirements such as Sarbanes Oxley, and other related contemporary subjects.
APC 340 Syllabus
3 Credits
This course offers continuation of fundamental computer concepts and Programming. It provides hands-on coverage of Methods, File IO, Arrays and their applications, Abstract Data Types, Classes, simple GUI application, and introduction to inheritance and composition.
APC 350 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 310 – Math for Computer Science
3 Credits
This course covers design and implementation of relational database management systems to support computer-based information systems. Topics include: data modeling techniques such as entity-relationship modeling, extended entity-relationship modeling, database normalization techniques, and basic and advanced features of database query language SQL.
APC 360 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
3 Credits
This course explores the first five phases of the Systems Development Life Cycle including scope definition, problem analysis, requirements analysis, logical design and decision analysis with the goal of determining an effective system solution. Topics covered include use case development, gap analysis, financial analysis of IT investments, and feasibility analysis.
APC 370 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 320 – Introduction to Business
APC 330 – Technical and Professional Communication
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to project management tools and techniques including project selection and life cycle, stakeholder management, scope management, budget control, scheduling, quality management, risk identification, and procurement management.
APC 380 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 300 – Programming I
APC 320 – Introduction to Business
APC 330 – Technical and Professional Communication
3 Credits
Introduction to machine learning and methods, including neural networks and deep learning. Incorporates underlying concepts, hands-on experience and machine learning tools. Topics include generative AI and large language models, supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.
APC 425_Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 350 – Programming II
3 Credits
This course covers fundamental concepts and the application of data structures and algorithms. Topics may include abstract data type, dynamic array, iterators, linked list, generics, stacks, queues, binary search tree, collections, maps, hashing, graphs, and sorting. It introduces a variety of application scenarios including graphics, web programming and user interfaces.
APC 430 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 390 – Object Oriented Programming
3 Credits
This course teaches students how to create advanced and interactive websites using technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap, Python, Django, web services, and database integration. The class also introduces principles of good user interaction design to the creation of effective web pages.
APC 440 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 360 – Database Management I
3 Credits
This course covers basic software development methodologies and tools. Methodologies include the waterfall, iterative, and agile approaches. Tools include integrated development environments (IDEs), unified modeling language (UML), and testing frameworks. Other topics include requirement analysis, object-oriented analysis, test-driven development, and design patterns. Students will work on a team software project.
APC 460 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 370 – Systems Analysis and Design
APC 390 – Object Oriented Programming
3 Credits
The purpose of this course is for students to complete the project that was approved in APC 490. This course covers development, management and delivery of an applied computer science project for a client, including communication of project requirements and status to a non-technical audience.
For inspiration and ideas, explore
past capstone projects.
APC 495 Syllabus
Prerequisites
APC 490 – Capstone Project Preparation
3 Credits
Our Mission
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program is dedicated to equipping a diverse student community with the knowledge, practical skills, and experiential learning needed to excel in the field of technology. Rooted in a foundation of computer science theory, programming languages, and interdisciplinary problem-solving, our mission focuses on developing the skills required to have a successful career in the IT Industry. Our program’s dedication to continuous learning, supported by dedicated faculty and industry-leading resources, shapes graduates into forward-thinking professionals poised to drive technological progress in a framework of ethical action and sustainability.
Upon completion of your bachelor’s degree, you will possess the following IT skills and abilities:
Demonstrate a solid foundation in core computer science.
You will be able to:
Apply fundamental programming knowledge and techniques to write software of varying complexities
Utilize standard data structures and algorithms in the software development process
Develop system-level software using operating system theory and concepts
Demonstrate the understanding of computer networks, protocols, and devices
Describe the professional, ethical, and social issues and responsibilities in the computing field
Demonstrate a solid foundation in software engineering practices.
You will be able to:
Analyze a problem and identify and define the computing requirements for a solution
Design, create, and document software to solve a defined problem
Use testing methodologies to ensure software meets requirements
Integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and principles while assessing their capabilities, limitations, and ethical implications
You will be able to:
Evaluate the capabilities, limitations, and appropriate use cases of AI systems to inform technology decisions and solution design across IT contexts
Apply AI tools and technologies to solve business problems, including the use of generative AI for documentation, system analysis and design, project management, and for making decisions
Analyze machine learning approaches, including supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning to determine their suitability for specific business and technical requirements
Assess ethical implications and risks of AI systems, including bias, privacy, security vulnerabilities, transparency concerns, and recommend responsible AI practices
Recognize and address security issues.
You will be able to:
Describe the elements needed to implement a comprehensive security plan for an organization (e.g. asset security, communication/network security, and identity/access management)
Utilize best practices in security engineering when developing software and managing data
Describe the privacy, legal, and regulatory compliance environment under which systems
Implement a computing solution for a business problem.
You will be able to:
Apply Agile and traditional project management methodologies to the development of systems
Use systems analysis methodologies to solve a business problem
Describe the role and responsibilities of the functional areas of business
Evaluate the risk, capability, and benefits of adopting new technologies
Explain the role of IT in supporting organizational process and strategy
Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
You will be able to:
Write, format, disseminate, and orally communicate technical materials
Help non-technical professionals visualize, explore, and act on technical information
Facilitate discussions with stakeholders through listening, questioning, and presenting
Effectively collaborate in a team environment
Demonstrate a solid foundation in data management.
You will be able to:
Design and implement relational database systems to support computer-based information systems
Design and implement non-relational database systems to support computer-based information systems
Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary data management issues
Tuition for the online
Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing
is a flat fee of $525 per credit whether you live in Wisconsin or out of state.
There are no additional course or program fees, however, textbooks are purchased separately and are not included in tuition. As this is an online program, you will not pay segregated fees—fees in addition to tuition that cover the costs of student-organized activities, facility maintenance, and operations. Also you will not be charged a technology fee as part of this program. If software or special technology is required in one of your courses it will be provided to you and is included in your tuition.
Financial Aid
Financial aid may be available to you as a returning adult student and is awarded by your home campus.
Learn more about our campus partners and choosing a home campus
Your first step when applying for federal and state financial aid is completing the
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Please check with your home campus regarding minimum credits required to qualify for financial aid as a full- or part-time student.
Veteran Benefits
Benefits are available to qualifying veterans and those currently serving. Contact your
home campus veteran services office
for details.
Ways to Pay for Your Degree
As a returning adult student, you may consider the following sources of financial aid to help with the cost of your online degree:
Grants
—award is usually based on financial need. Grants, unlike loans, generally do not have to be repaid.
Scholarships
—usually based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria, awarded by a wide range of organizations. Scholarships do not need to be repaid.
Loans
—a loan is money you borrow and must pay back with interest. Student loans are available from the federal government, private sources such as a bank or financial institution, or other sources. Federal student loans usually have lower interest rates than private loans, and offer flexible repayment plans.
Military benefits
—aid available to eligible veterans and current members of the military.
Tuition reimbursement
—a benefit offered by companies to their employees to help pay for education. Ask your human resources department if your company offers this benefit.
ducation tax benefits
—research possible tax benefits with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
UW Grants and Scholarships
You may be eligible for a grant or scholarship as a student in a semester-based collaborative program. More information can be found
here
Experience UW Applied Computing
Learn about the applied computing industry, program faculty, read student stories, and more.
Explore the blog.
Program:
Applied Computing
Applied Computing Careers: UW Graduates in the Workplace
January 5, 2026 · 4 minute read
Program:
Applied Computing
An Inside Look at a UW Applied Computing Course: Programming I
August 7, 2025 · 6 minute read
Program:
Applied Computing, Associate of Arts, Health Information Management and Technology, Sustainable Management
How an Associate Degree Can Be a Stepping Stone to a Bachelor’s Degree
December 16, 2024 · 4 minute read
Program:
Applied Bioinformatics, Applied Biotechnology, Applied Computing, Biodiversity Conservation and Management, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Health Information Management and Technology, IT Management
Online Degree and Certificate Programs for the Next Generation of Women In STEM
March 8, 2024 · 3 minute read
Program:
Applied Bioinformatics, Applied Biotechnology, Applied Computing, Biodiversity Conservation and Management, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Health Information Management and Technology, IT Management
‘Dress For STEM’ Celebrates Women in STEM and Brings Awareness to Gender Gap
March 1, 2024 · 6 minute read
Program:
Applied Computing
Industry Experts Examine the Current Trends and Career Outlook for the Computing Field
January 24, 2024 · 11 minute read
Our Program At A Glance
Online Format
Semester-based
Program Type
Bachelor's Completion
Credits
61
Tuition
$525 per credit
Offered By
UW-Milwaukee, UW–Oshkosh, UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls, UW-Stevens Point
Our Student Body
See who makes up our students
Our Faculty
Meet our Faculty
Our Advisory Board
Meet Our Advisory Board
Enrollment Advisers Are Here to Help
Contact our enrollment advisers to find out more.
Business Hours:
Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST, or by appointment.
Call:
608-800-6762
Email:
learn@uwex.wisconsin.edu
Schedule an appointment
608-800-6762
learn@uwex.wisconsin.edu
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