The Program
Applied computing is a field of study and practice that focuses on using computing technologies, software, and systems to solve real-world problems across various industries. It emphasizes the practical applications of computer science principles rather than purely theoretical or abstract concepts.
SUNY Poly’s Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing combines traditional coursework in computer science and information systems with strong academic preparation in another field of study. Students in the Applied Computing program choose from two distinct tracks:
• Computer Science
• Information Systems
Students leverage the coursework in their area of concentration and develop problem-solving skills, which combined with studies in computer science, business, communication, or another discipline of their choice, results in career success in a variety of fields where computer skills are intertwined with knowledge of a second subject matter area.
Forecast data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that, over the decade 2023-2033, computing occupations are expected to have the second strongest employment growth due to sustained increases in computing demands, pervasive applications of artificial intelligence, and massive data collection and analysis needs.
Nearly every field today benefits from computing power, and our graduates of our Applied Computing program are uniquely prepared to bring expertise to their organizations by leveraging computing to best affect their larger field.
Core Principles of Applied Computing
• Practical Application
• Interdisciplinary Nature
• Broad Scope
• Problem-Solving
Career Opportunities
Applied computing is an excellent field for individuals who enjoy solving practical problems through technology and are interested in applying computing concepts in diverse, real-world contexts. Computing occupations are the second fastest growing job set in the U.S. today, and a degree in Applied Computing will help tomorrow’s graduates turn their entrepreneurial dreams and personal passions into reality.
Graduates of our Applied Computing program have found employment as:
• Software Developers
• Data Analysts
• Systems Administrators
• IT Consultants
• Cybersecurity Specialists
• Web Developers
• Artificial Intelligence Specialists
• UX/UI Designers
Industries that Benefit from Applied Computing
• Bioinformatics
• Business
• Data Science Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Finance
• Healthcare
• Medicine
• Multimedia Development
• The Arts
Alumni Careers
Graduates of the applied computing program pursue diverse, well-paying careers. Our alumni say they gained many valuable skills through their academic preparation at SUNY Poly. Find more information about alumni employers and alumni job titles online.
Faculty
SUNY Poly faculty work closely with students and challenge them to excel. Many members of the faculty have experience in business and industry as well as academic credentials. A low student-to-faculty ratio means faculty really get to know and work closely with students.
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. William ‘Amos’ Confer
Associate Professor of Computer Science
Dr. Confer’s current interests include embedded and mobile systems, architecture and organization, generative design, interactive multimedia and data visualization, and software engineering. During a two-year leave from academia, Dr. Confer served as the managing lead for Samsung Mobile’s Advanced and Future Projects team and lead of the Mobile Network Operator (MNO) Patent Group, reporting directly to the SVP of all North American MNO operations. Dr. Confer also consults as a fiber optics test equipment developer. He holds a US Patent for a low-cost character recognition algorithm designed for the most resource limited devices, and also holds four additional patents pending based on his work at Samsung Mobile. In addition, Dr. Confer assisted with the translation and technical editing of the English edition of the German generative design text, “Generative Gestaltung,” distributed in the US by Princeton Architectural Press.
Our Campus
Located in Utica, NY, on hundreds of wooded and landscaped acres, SUNY Poly’s campus is a beautiful living and learning environment. Students live in our modern, spacious residential complexes, including the new Hilltop Hall, SUNY’s first zero-net carbon residence hall, and enjoy an expanding array of student-focused facilities that include our state-of-the-art Center for Global Advanced Manufacturing, Student Center, and Wildcat Field House. Life on campus is enriched by a wide variety of events and activities, including the Wildcats’ championship-winning intercollegiate athletics program, our Wildcat Esports team, and a weekly agenda of intramurals, concerts, comedians, and more. Students can join one of the dozens of clubs and organizations or start one with a group of friends who share an interest.
