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Bachelor of Science in Computing, Computer Science Concentration

Computer Science: Programming Your Path to Excellence

Computer science is a fast-growing field. Since technology plays such a key role in work and life, computer scientists are in high demand. Companies need employees with the skill to analyze a problem, design a solution, and write software based on that design. In this advancing job market, employers seek qualified software engineers who are knowledgeable in computer systems and capable of achieving desired results.

Combining comprehensive computer training with a broad liberal arts base, the computer science program at Pensacola Christian College will train you to be both well-equipped for your career and well-rounded as a professional. Your freshman year will blend your introduction to computer science with liberal arts classes like English and speech, giving you a solid academic foundation. By your senior year, you will apply your accumulated knowledge to design and present your software engineering project at the annual Software Expo.

Practical application in projects, hands-on experience in lab, and presentation experience in class and at the Expo will prepare you to step into your career ready to succeed. The computer science concentration is designed to produce graduates who possess both the skills needed and insight necessary to excel in such a broad career field.


Faith-Based Computer Science

In a field where career opportunities are almost endless, ministry opportunities also abound. PCC trains computer science students to see their opportunity to help people and make a difference. All your classes are taught from a biblical perspective, including your computer science courses which emphasize ethics with technology. You will also complete Bible classes that ground you in your faith and understanding of Scripture, allowing you to enter your career as a well-equipped Christian computer scientist.

student working on project

Computing Program Educational Objectives

Within the first five years after graduation, our computing alumni are expected to make measurable contributions in the following spiritual and professional objectives:

  • Entry-Level Employment—apply computer knowledge, professional ethics, and Christian principles in the workplace;
  • Christian Ministry—support a local church and other Christian ministries;
  • Leadership—demonstrate Christian leadership through career, church, or community opportunities; and
  • Lifelong Learning—advance intellectually through activities such as continuing education or industry certification.

Computer Science Concentration Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of the computer science concentration, you will be equipped to demonstrate:

  • Problem Solving—analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions;
  • Technical Skill—design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline;
  • Communication—communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts;
  • Ethics—recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles;
  • Teamwork—function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline; and
  • Theory—apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

Program Highlights

Topics in Computation

CS 431 explores the mathematical foundation of computation. Through the study of automata of varying complexity, students explore the bounds of what is and what is not computable. An emphasis is placed on parsing and recognition of formal languages and grammars by various classes of automata, culminating with an in-depth coverage of the Turing Machine.

Software Engineering Project

In CS 451 and 452, senior computer science students apply their knowledge to design, create, test, implement, and maintain a large software system in a team-based environment. Each team’s final product is tested using a variety of techniques, and students gain experience presenting their final system to their peers and faculty at the annual Software Expo. This course provides students excellent practical experience and has been a tremendous asset to graduates as they encounter similar situations in their careers.

Your Computer Science Future

What can you do with a computer science concentration?

In PCC’s computer science concentration, students follow proven software engineering principles to develop skills in large-scale software development and receive a strong background in theoretical and mathematical concepts in a team-based environment. With understanding in areas such as networks, databases, and computer architecture, PCC graduates are valuable assets to their employers. PCC alumni have applied their computer science skills to internships, graduate studies, and careers and have found themselves well prepared to succeed as professionals.

Here are a few of the countless career opportunities available to you.

  • Applications Developer
  • Computer Programmer
  • Network Administrator
  • Software Designer
  • Software Engineer

Here are a few of the grad schools our computer science alumni have attended.

  • Liberty University
  • Stony Brook University
  • University of Dallas
  • University of Illinois
  • University of North Carolina, Charlotte
  • University of West Florida

Here are a few of the many places that our computer science alumni have worked.

  • Apple
  • Boeing
  • CGI
  • Department of Homeland Security
  • Link Labs
  • Ramsey Solutions
  • SSI Group
  • Tropicana, PepsiCo

Faculty Highlight

Dr Howell

Dr. Robert Howell

B.S., M.S., Michigan State University
Ph.D., Century University


“PCC has a strong computer science concentration, and I thoroughly enjoy imparting to our students the knowledge I have obtained from my 28 years in the CS field.

Freshman students are often unsure and have limited CS knowledge. By their senior year, I watch them make presentations with confidence and self-assurance, showing the tremendous knowledge and ability they have gained from our program. It thrills me to watch them graduate and then excel in the CS industry, knowing I have had a small part, with God’s help, in making this happen.”

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Alumni Spotlight

Tobi Adegunloye
Tobi Adegunloye ’19

Web Programmer, Abeka

B.S., Pensacola Christian College
Graduate study: Pensacola Christian College, M.B.A., Information Technology Management specialization


“The computer science faculty helped my development as a professional software developer—courses like Data Structures and Algorithms and Programming Languages taught me the fundamentals of computer programs and how to learn new languages quickly and effectively. And these classes, coupled with general knowledge classes like Free Market Economics and Oral Communication in the Professions, prepared me for an impactful career. I’ve noticed that skills that I developed have become more valuable with the more responsibility I receive in my career: the ability to communicate effectively, create PowerPoints, direct meetings, and coordinate projects are skills that I use every day.”

Meet more alumni

About the Computer Science Concentration

The purpose of the computer science concentration is to prepare students to design and develop software systems and computing solutions which solve real-world problems within a team environment. Students are also trained to apply formal software development practices as well as to pursue continued learning to maintain currency and relevance in today’s increasing technological society.

Recommended high school preparation for a computer science concentration is two units of algebra and one unit of advanced mathematics (trigonometry, geometry, or precalculus). Opportunities are available to make up this deficiency. In this case, time required to complete a computer science concentration could be expected to increase.

Students complete a minor in mathematics through their required mathematics support courses.

Computer science students can apply for scholarships to receive financial aid.

Psalm 90:17 Computer Science Scholarship
$500 scholarship awarded to students with a computing major who have a financial need, to be applied over one semester.

See More Scholarships
student exploring software expo

Computing Career Support

With Career Services and Career Link, students can start making connections with employers while on campus during Career Fair events. These services provide tools and resources designed to empower you for your career in computer science.

Need help? Career Services staff are ready to assist you in researching employment opportunities, exploring job qualifications, and providing mock interviews and résumé support.