Clover Park Technical College launching new bachelor of science degree
By Jean Borst
Clover Park Technical College (CPTC) is set to launch a new Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Cyber-Physical Software Engineering that will give the college – and students – a competitive edge and meet the growing demand for skilled software development professionals in manufacturing and beyond.
Meeting a growing need
While the name may be a mouthful, the degree aptly reflects one of the most pressing needs in today’s manufacturing sector: the integration of software and hardware. As the manufacturing industry increasingly relies on advanced technology, the demand for software engineers with hardware experience has surged.
The new degree – CPTC’s first bachelor of science offering – is designed to provide students with the skills they need to develop software applications that integrate with physical devices. The program will be one of only a few of its kind on the West Coast, further positioning CPTC as a leader in educating tomorrow’s tech workforce and preparing students for Industry 4.0 – the next phase in the manufacturing revolution that combines technologies to automate processes and improve efficiency.
“This degree will bridge the critical gap between software development and hardware integration, equipping students to design and implement systems that connect virtual processes with physical machines,” Dean of Instruction Dr. Claire Korschinowski said. “Graduates will be well prepared to thrive in the Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 world, where both hardware and software skills are necessary.”
The new BS degree aligns with the mission of CPTC’s School of Advanced Manufacturing to co-locate manufacturing-related programs together, including the college’s Manufacturing Engineering Technologies (MET), Mechatronics, Nondestructive Testing, Computer Programming, Network Operations & Systems Security (NOSS) and Cybersecurity programs. This integrated approach ensures a collaborative and immersive student experience and prepares graduates with skills and training to succeed in today’s manufacturing landscape.
Why the degree matters
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Cyber-Physical Software Engineering addresses a key issue in the manufacturing sector, according to CPTC Computer Program instructors Ken Meerdink and Joe Ortiz.
“The industry is in dire need of software engineers, but very few four-year colleges offer job-ready training,” Meerdink said. “Hands-on training offered through technical colleges typically doesn’t come with the credentials needed to land a job, but this BS degree will change that.”
“Most software development jobs require a bachelor’s degree,” Ortiz added. “We think this degree will attract more students to CPTC and help fill critical positions in the workforce.”
Companies often hire traditional programmers and train them to understand the manufacturing side, which can require significant upskilling. This program will prepare students with both software development and manufacturing knowledge – and a lot of practical, hands-on experience – from the start.
The standout feature of the new BS is its three-quarter capstone project, which offers
students an extended opportunity to work on real-world problems. Unlike most BS degree programs that allocate only two quarters for capstone work, CPTC’s program will allow students to work continuously on a project throughout their senior year. Students will manage the entire lifecycle of a hardware and software project, from gathering requirements and documentation to testing and deployment.
State funding seals the deal
In 2021, Washington State passed legislation that allowed community and technical colleges to offer four-year computer science degrees and help underserved communities access careers in the tech sector. Amazon subsequently provided millions in grants to support affordable, four-year computer science degree programs for local residents in the Puget Sound region.
“We started thinking about creating this program 10 years ago,” Meerdink said. “When the state got behind it, that was the real kicker to get us going. It allowed us to develop curriculum for the new BS degree and revamp our AA degree program.”
The new BS degree has already received state approval. An official start date for the program will be announced once faculty are in place to teach the additional courses. The program is expected to launch later this academic year, giving students the opportunity to begin or continue their education in this rapidly evolving field.
“Manufacturing is all behind the scenes, and many people aren’t aware of the automation and job opportunities that are out there,” Ortiz said. “With more manufacturers relying on digital technologies to enhance their physical systems, the demand for qualified software engineers continues to grow.”
Expanded BS offerings
With the addition of the BS in Computer Science and Cyber-Physical Software Engineering, CPTC will offer six bachelor’s degrees, including programs in Mechatronics Engineering Technology & Automation, Operations Management, Cybersecurity, Environmental Sciences and Interior Design.
Designed with busy professionals in mind, these programs build on existing AA degrees and skills and offer a mix of in-person and online learning to accommodate busy schedules.
To learn more, prospective students can attend an online or in-person information session or contact the CPTC BAS navigator for more details.