Offered on main campus and online, the College of Information Science's Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Computing (BAS AC) prepares you with the skills, insight and experience to launch an exciting career where creativity meets digital communication.
120
Units to Complete Degree, Includes:
42 Major Units
2
Ways to Study:
On Campus
Online
6
Emphasis Areas:
Applied Artificial Intelligence
Cloud Computing
DevOps
Information Management
Network Operations
Software Development
Program Learning Outcomes
The BAS in Applied Computing is a robust program with learning outcomes designed to position graduates for dynamic careers in essential technology positions across industries.
- Students will identify and approach problems computationally, including being able to a) explain and apply fundamental aspects and concepts of applied computing, b) select and use relevant analytic and modeling methods, c) formulate problems and describe problem solutions in a chosen specialization, and d) design and conduct practical investigation, to interpret data and draw conclusions.
- Students will use and design computer-based systems, including a) have in-depth knowledge of, and ability to apply and evaluate, computer-based systems, b) analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations and society, c) select and use appropriate process models and/or programming environments, and d) apply knowledge and design hardware and/or software to meet requirements.
- Students will prepare for continued professional development, including a) work effectively in teams to develop solutions to solve problems, b) communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, c) think critically and creatively, both independently and with others, and d) be aware of project management business practices.
Emphasis Areas
As a Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Computing student, you'll choose from one of six dynamic emphasis areas:
Gain a firm understanding of AI technology, its applications and its use cases. Become familiar with concepts and tools including machine learning, statistical analysis and data analysis in cybersecurity computing.
Career Options: AI Specialist/Developer, Machine Learning Specialist/Engineer, Data Engineer, Data Analyst, Security Programmer, Cybersecurity Application Analyst
Understand technical infrastructure related to virtualization and leading cloud computing solutions, AWS and Microsoft, including advance security topics such as incident response, defense techniques and penetration testing. Transition into a cloud computing career and let employers know that you have the knowledge to tackle complicated infrastructure issues.
Career Options: Cloud Administrator, Cloud Architect, Automation Engineer, Security Analyst, Data Engineer, Software Architect/Engineer
Develop a solid foundation in programming, networking and cybersecurity. Approach practical application problems in secure computing by applying DevOps in a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach.
Career Options: Development Operations Architect/Engineer, Automation Engineer, Software Architect, Application Developer, Data Engineer, Security Engineer
Learn to develop information processing solutions that provide organizations with enhanced insight, decision-making ability and process automation by focusing on visualization, management and analysis.
Career Options: Database Administrator, Data Analyst, Data Engineer, Information Architect, Web Developer
Develop the engineering and operational skills required to create, operate and defend complex computing and information networks through coursework in theory, operational labs, modern network architecture, advanced routing and switching, systems administration, cloud computing, network defense, wireless networking and network security.
Career Options: System/Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Network Analyst, Network/Security Designer, Network Manager, Network Operations, Incident Response Analyst
Learn a variety of software fundamentals, including object-oriented and system programming, UNIX, mobile app development, web programming and secure computing.
Career Options: Software developer, Web Developer, Data Engineer, mobile App Developer, Data Analyst
Sample Four-Year Plan
120 units are required for graduation.
In addition to the required foundation and general education courses, BAS in Applied Computing students must also take 42 units of major courses.
- Transfer students, map your transfer coursework for the BAS AC here: Applied Artificial Intelligence emphasis, Cloud Computing emphasis, DevOps emphasis, Information Management emphasis, Network Operations emphasis or Software Development emphasis.
Click to view sample courses by year:
Year 1 | Fall
| ENGL 101: First-Year Composition | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| UNIV 101: Introduction to the General Education Experience | 1 unit |
| General Education | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| TOTAL | 13 units |
Year 1 | Spring
| ENGL 102: First-Year Composition | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| General Education | 3 units |
| MATH (based on placement) | 3 units |
| General Education | 3 units |
| TOTAL | 15 units |
Year 2 | Fall
| Major Course | 3 units |
| General Education | 3 units |
| General Education | 3 units |
| First-Semester Language | 4 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
| 16 units |
Year 2 | Spring
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| General Education | 3 units |
| Second-Semester Language | 4 units |
TOTAL | 16 units |
Year 3 | Fall
| UNIV 301: General Education Portfolio | 1 unit |
| General Education | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
| General Education | 3 units |
TOTAL | 16 units |
Year 3 | Spring
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
TOTAL | 15 units |
Year 4 | Fall
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
TOTAL | 15 units |
Year 4 | Spring
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Major Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
| Additional Elective Course | 3 units |
TOTAL | 12 units |
This is a sample plan and is subject to change based on catalog year, placement tests, AP/CLEP credit, transfer work, minor requirements, summer school, etc. The official degree requirements may be found in the University General Catalog and all University of Arizona students should refer to the Academic Advising Report for specific graduation requirements.
Curriculum & Courses
Bachelor's in Applied Computing students take a mix of Foundations, General Education, Core and Electives courses, subject to change based on catalog year, placement tests, AP/CLEP credit, transfer work, minor requirements, summer school, etc.
View or download fillable BAS in Applied Computing degree checklist by emphasis area:
- Artificial Intelligence checklist
- Cloud Computing checklist
- DevOps checklist
- Information Management checklist
- Network Operations checklist
- Software Development checklist
Click a link below to learn more and view course information: