Continuing its mission to prepare students to excel in a global society, Southwest Baptist University will now offer master’s degrees in fast-growing STEM fields such as artificial intelligence and data science.
The new master’s programs build upon SBU’s strong undergraduate degrees in Computer
Science, Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering. The following programs will be available
for students to enroll beginning with the March 17 eight-week session: 
“These new programs demonstrate our commitment to offering practical training in fields that are in demand by both students and employers,” said Dr. Rick Melson, President of Southwest Baptist University. “We are excited to continue leading the way in training servant leaders with a Christian worldview who will make a difference in science, technology, and health.”
All six new programs can be completed in just 30 credit hours. They are available fully online with the ability to start every eight weeks. The Master of Science programs will have a residency option three times per year in Springfield for international students studying on an F-1 visa, allowing them to participate in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or meet the educational requirements for Optional Practical Training (OPT) as part of the program.
Students will learn both practical and theoretical principles through courses such as Applied Natural Language Processing, Parallel Computing, and Ethical Challenges in Tech Management.
SBU is also creating 4+1 pathways for undergraduate students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s in one of the new programs in just five years. Students enrolled in bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science and Mathematics will have the option to start earning master’s-level credit during their senior year coursework. This will allow them to finish a master’s degree in one year after graduating.
The Cybersecurity and Computer Science bachelor’s degrees at SBU boast the highest program-level accreditation through ABET, and SBU is one of only two evangelical Christian universities to have both undergraduate degrees accredited by ABET. The 4+1 pathways create a unique opportunity for students to enter the workforce with practical skills and high-level credentials.
The programs are part of the newly formed Division of Graduate Technology and Information Science, which includes Dr. Eric Harter, Professor of Business Administration. Students interested in learning more about the programs or applying can visit www.SBUniv.edu.
Published March 11, 2025