Computer Science: Coding the Future

How do I know if I should study Computer Science?

  • Do you enjoy logic and problem-solving?

  • Do you find data analysis and algorithms fascinating?

  • Do you like to solve complex challenging problems, including solutions that help people?

If so, a career in Computer Science may be the right fit for you. Computer Science uses coding to develop and test usable computers, software systems and applications. Specialties include artificial intelligence, data science, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Your Pathway to Success

Read on for our comprehensive guide to Computer Science education and training in Montana. Whether you're seeking rapid training programs, certificates, or advanced degrees, you'll find diverse educational pathways to help you align your studies with your career goals.

Check out our Computer Science and IT Career Pathways page to explore in-demand computer science jobs in Montana and take the first step toward a successful career in Computer Science.

Table of Contents

Rapid Training, Certificates, and One- and Two-Year Programs

  • Courses in Computer Science (pg. 93)

    • Program Length: Semester (15 weeks)

    • Description: Even though Chief Dull Knife College doesn’t currently have a certificate or degree program dedicated to computer science, there are 10 elective computer science courses offered to students who are curious and eager to engage with the field. Chief Dull Knife College offers courses in basic computer literacy, computer operating systems, the Microsoft Office suite of applications, and more.

  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) Rapid Training Course

    • Program Length: Semester (15 weeks)

    • Description: The Programmable Logic Controllers course is an introduction to the concepts involved with programmable logic controllers (PLCs). A programmable logic is an industrial computer used to control manufacturing processes, such as assembly lines, machines, and robotic devices. The applications, operations, and programming of PLCs will be covered with an emphasis on programming. This course is also the prerequisite for Advanced PLCs which is offered in the spring.

    Programming and Game Development Associates of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: FVCC’s Programming and Game Development A.A.S. provides students with a foundation in Java, programming desktop applications, and mobile application programming. Game development includes game theory, game programming, and a course in virtual/augmented reality. It should be noted that game platforms and technologies are often used in other non-gaming applications. Both the areas of programming and game development complement each other in terms of problem solving, programming, software analysis, software development, and practical applications.

    Web Technology A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: While enrolled in FVCC’s Web Technology A.A.S. program, students will learn the creative and technical skills necessary to design and develop professional websites. The Web Technology program is ideal for individuals interested in website production and management.

  • Certificate in Web and Mobile Development

    • Program Length: 24 weeks

    • Description: Upon completion of the Certificate in Web and Mobile Development, the student will be able to demonstrate the ability to successfully study and produce academic work at the undergraduate level; apply the fundamentals of database architecture, models, and SQL; gain an understanding of computer architecture and insights on how computer hardware and software function; demonstrate the application of web development with client-server applications and security, and develop websites that are mobile compliant.

  • Computer Programming Certificate of Completion

    • Program Length: 3 semesters (1.5 years)

    • Description: The Computer Programming Certificate of Completion provides an introduction and exploration into the world of computer programming and technology. This certificate prepares students with the essentials of computer programming along with critical thinking skills necessary to design programs and applications. Core courses provide a foundation in programming concepts. Topics such as Object-Oriented Programming, Web Development, Data, and Coding Communities of Practice (CCoP) will be introduced.

  • Computer Programming & Application Development Associates of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Computer Programming and Application Development (CPAD) degree at City College utilizes an interactive hands-on instructional approach to teach students a wide variety of programming languages (C#, C++, Python, etc.), operating systems and servers (iOS, Linux, Windows), and web development. The program emphasizes leveraging and customizing existing computer technologies to meet business needs. Upon successful completion of the CPAD program, students will be prepared for industry certifications, such as the Microsoft Certification Application Developer exam.

  • Computer Programming Associates of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

  • Computer Programming Associates of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Helena College’s Computer Programming A.A.S. option includes hands-on courses focusing on real life application of technology. Computer programmers and software developers write the software that enables computers to perform useful functions. Programmers take the designs of software engineers and developers and turn them into instructions that the computer can read. The work of a programmer can vary, with different subsets that focus on multiple areas in the computer industry. In an industry driven by constant progression, our curriculum is evaluated by an advisory council to ensure relevance and student success in the workplace.

  • Web Development and Administration Associates of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Web Development and Administration associate of applied science (A.A.S.) degree teaches students to utilize current and emerging web development tools. The degree prepares technicians who are knowledgeable in computer and network support and can create and manage an organization’s web presence. The degree is unique in that it has a significant focus on the organization and management aspects of websites and web page creation and design.

  • Computer Technology Associates of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Miles Community College’s two-year degree in Computer Technology prepares students to further their education as a computer technology management major. Students will learn basic computer technology skills that include installing, configuring and troubleshooting hardware and software, common programming techniques, networking implementation and design, and basic digital design skills.

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Minors and Four-Year Programs

  • Computer Science Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor: 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science: 4 years

    • Description: Computer science is a major for problem solvers who want to learn how to use computers and computational processes to build websites, program robots, manage data and databases, mine data, and more. At Carroll College, students enrolled in the computer science program will gain experience with the theory and practice of computer science as they explore algorithms, programming languages, and operating systems. Introductory computer science classes cover topics like algorithm design, computer organization, and abstract data types

  • Computer Engineering Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor: 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science: 4 years

    • Description: The Computer Engineering program at Montana State is an interdisciplinary major that incorporates substantial coursework from both Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science. Students learn common skills in science, mathematics, electronics and circuits as well as additional computer science and computer architecture courses to round out their understanding of the field. With hands-on experiences in labs across campus and a mandatory capstone project to display their skills in their senior year, Computer Engineering graduates have a great reputation for confidence and effectiveness in engineering design

    Computer Science Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science program at Montana State is an interdisciplinary program that pairs knowledge of computer science with the social sciences, humanities or business to become a creative problem-solver in a variety of fields. Computer Science B.A. students choose from dozens of paired majors or minors in the arts, humanities or other non-STEM areas to build a program of study tailored to their interests. Students are then armed with the skills to enter high-demand careers in social media, digital marketing, data analytics and more.

    Computer Science B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Students in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at Montana State immerse themselves in the fundamentals of computing while exploring fields such as artificial intelligence, multimedia and computational biology.

    • Computer Science B.S. students have two tracks to choose from: the Professional Option, which allows students to delve more deeply into computer science and related technical areas, and the Interdisciplinary Option, which allows students to intersect their technological interests with other fields.

  • Computer Science Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor: 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science: 4 years

    • Description: Prepare for cutting-edge computing careers by gaining practical experience designing, building, testing, and maintaining software systems through the ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in computer science at Montana Tech. You can focus your computer science degree by choosing a concentration in business applications, electronic control systems, engineering applications, statistical applications, technical communications, or game development.

    Software Engineering B.S.

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The software engineering program focuses on how to design and build software products that deliver valuable services year after year. Here at Montana Tech, you will take many of the same courses as you would in computer science, but you will take courses that teach you about topics like software requirements, software design, and software testing. You will also learn about working with people (communication, management, working with non-technical customers), methodologies for developing software, and how to measure and analyze a software system.

  • Computer Science Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor: 3 years

      • Bachelor of Science = 4 years

    • Description: The science of computing has propelled innovation in nearly every aspect of modern life. Computer science courses at UM immerse students in the protocols used to transform society via computation. Social structures have yet to adapt to the astonishing rate of change produced by computation, throughout our program ethical considerations are highlighted, and the practice of computing for good emphasized. Specific areas of study include computer science, algorithm design, data science, and software engineering.

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Post-Graduate Programs

  • Artificial Intelligence Graduate Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The Artificial Intelligence graduate certificate program at Montana State is intended to help students understand this rapidly developing technology, reflect on how it might impact their lives and society in general, and identify ethical issues that we may confront related to AI. The 12-credit Artificial Intelligence graduate certificate prepares students to incorporate artificial intelligence techniques when solving problems with computers.

    Computer Science – Master’s of Science (M.S.) and Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

    • Program Length:

      • 2 years for M.S.

      • 3-8 years for PhD

    • Description: In the Gianforte School of Computing at Montana State, graduate students apply their computing skills to high-level problems in order to push computing in new directions. Our faculty have varied research interests and expertise, offering a variety of opportunities for students. With an advanced degree in computer science, Montana State graduates will be at the top of a fast- growing field with in-demand jobs.

  • Computer Science Master of Science (MS)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The science of computing has propelled innovation in nearly every aspect of modern life. Computer science courses at UM immerse students in the protocols used to transform society via computation. Social structures have yet to adapt to the astonishing rate of change produced by computation, throughout our program ethical considerations are highlighted, and the practice of computing for good emphasized. Once fully admitted to the program, students have three options for the Master’s degree: thesis, project, or portfolio.

    Computer Science Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

    • Program Length: 3 – 8 years

    • Description: The granting of a PhD requires demonstration of proficiency in the field of Computer Science, mastery of the current state of knowledge in the field of study, and a substantive new contribution to the body of either knowledge or methodology in the field of study. The student must demonstrate a rigorous comprehension of the principles and current techniques in the field of study, a thorough understanding of scientific data and error analyses, an appreciation of academic and scientific ethics, and a competence in scientific writing and presentation.

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Skill Development and Certifications

  • The Missoula Lifelong Learning Center offers a variety of in-person and online classes, certificates, and career training opportunities. The Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) course will allow you to design, style and format websites exactly how you want. Proficiency in CSS will make you a confident and desirable web developer, and this course will get your started with a foundational understanding of CSS and web design. A pre-requisite of HTML is required.

    The Hyper-Text Markup Language (HTML) course is the scaffolding of all websites. With basic HTML knowledge, you can create websites from scratch, edit or fix existing websites, and open the door to learning web development frameworks that build on and extend the HTML you’ve written.

  • CyberMontana is Montana's hub for the cyber workforce economy and offers cybersecurity certifications, trainings, K-12 education resources, and more.

  • The Montana Code School is a program of the University of Montana & Missoula College offered in collaboration with Promineo Tech. The 18-week coding bootcamps prepare participants for high-growth careers in software development and are designed to be accessible, flexible, and allow working professionals who are actively seeking a career change to do so. Students choose from one of two tracks - Back End Software Developer or Front End Software Developer.

  • Build in-demand cloud skills—your way—with the AWS training and certification online learning center. Whether you're new to the cloud, an experienced builder, or an organization looking to innovate at scale, the AWS Skill Builder can help you stay current and reach your goals.

  • Build apps with low-code techniques to simplify, automate, and transform business tasks and processes. Discover the tools and skills you need to grow your career by browsing Microsoft’s learning paths for app makers.

  • Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform with an ever-expanding set of services to help you build solutions to meet your business goals. Azure has simple web services for hosting your business presence in the cloud. Azure also supports running fully virtualized computers managing your custom software solutions. Azure provides a wealth of cloud-based services like remote storage, database hosting, and centralized account management. Azure also offers new capabilities like artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) focused services.

  • Angular.dev provides an interactive tutorial and extensive documentation for learning the Angular framework.

  • Expand your knowledge on all things Docker with basic to advanced trainings from Docker experts. Check out the Now Streaming sections to find recorded content at your convenience, or register for a live session to participate in a Q&A.

  • Java is the most popular programming language according to the TIOBE Index. Learn how to program in Java in this full course from Tim Ruscica for freeCodeCamp. This is a complete Java course meant for absolute beginners. No prior programming experience is required.

  • Explore a detailed JavaScript developer roadmap, covering everything from basic syntax to advanced topics.

  • Kubernetes.io offers free courses on edX and comprehensive training and certification programs through the Linux Foundation.

  • Develop in-demand programming skills with comprehensive training on the latest Java technology. Learn how to build highly functional, reliable, portable, and secure applications with training created by Oracle’s Java experts, who are at the forefront of high-tech solutions in the world of Java.

  • Real Python offers comprehensive learning paths for beginners to advanced users, covering Python programming fundamentals, web development, data science, and more.

  • Explore a detailed React developer roadmap, covering everything from basic components to advanced topics.

  • Structured query language (SQL) is a programming language for storing and processing information in a relational database. Explore comprehensive SQL learning paths from basic syntax to advanced querying.

  • The University of Providence’s Argo Connect and dual credit programs are crucial in helping to increase the educational options and opportunities for currently enrolled high school juniors and seniors. Not only do these programs provide students with a unique opportunity to earn credit at the secondary and postsecondary levels simultaneously – they provide students with an early glimpse of college life; including course load, deadlines, structure, and more. Students in Dual Enrollment can take up to three 3-credit courses at no cost.

  • Web3Schools is a free online code developer’s haven that engages learners of all ages. Through easy to comprehend examples and tutorials on all things code and web development, Web3Schools helps users master HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, SQL, PHP, jQuery, Java, Bootstrap, C, C#, C++, Web3.CSS, and more. For a fee, Web3Schools also provides opportunities to become certified in its various applications.

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Additional Career Resources

  • Check out our computer science career pathways page to explore in-demand computer science jobs in Montana.

  • To identify in-demand roles in Montana, our team at the Montana High Tech Business Alliance pored over workforce data from the U.S. Department of Labor, research studies, and online job listings to create a list of tech jobs projected to grow fast in the next few years. See our list of 31 hot Montana jobs projected for 2023.

  • We invite you to take advantage of Microsoft's Skills for Jobs initiative, which offers free access to LinkedIn Learning courses covering a wide range of topics, including AI and soft skills. Enhance your digital skills and empower your team and community with valuable knowledge that aligns with the evolving needs of today's economy.

  • Discover summer internships and local mentorship opportunities in Billings through the Campus Billings program hosted by Big Sky Economic Development.

  • CompTIA’s Career Explorer is a comprehensive resource designed to inform, inspire, and guide individuals toward their next career step in the tech industry and beyond. Explore the entire portfolio of Career Explorer resources at no cost, watch video profiles featuring diverse professionals sharing their non-traditional paths into tech careers, and gain insights into earnings potential, job outlook, employer hiring trends, remote work opportunities, and much more across the U.S. and 250 metro areas.

  • Cyberseek is an interactive tool that supports local employers, educators, guidance and career counselors, students, current workers, policy makers and other stakeholders to learn about the U.S. cybersecurity workforce. To help close the cybersecurity skills gap, Cyberseek provides detailed, actionable data about supply and demand in the cybersecurity job market.

  • Pivot Point: Montana Code School offers students route to engaging career, higher wages feature on the Montana Code School.

  • Reach Higher Montana’s Work-Based Learning Collaborative website features resources for employers to grow their talent pipeline through work-based learning, materials to help educators connect their classroom learning to careers, and links to resources that will help Montana students explore their career interests through on-the-job training.

  • The WBLC Data Dashboard aims to make data on work-based learning in Montana accessible to help improve workforce support, work-based learning, and educational opportunities so that young people are better prepared for employment success and employers gain skilled workers. Updates are made annually.

  • Produced by the Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative, the WBL Toolkit for Employers provides employers with resources, tools, and guidance to successfully develop high-quality work-based learning experiences for student workers.

  • The informational interviews handout from the University of Montana College of Business lists five steps for setting up successful informational interviews to learn more about a specific company or industry.

  • Read “5 Tips to Set Yourself Up for Success in a Tech Career” to learn tips for launching a career in tech from hiring managers at Blackfoot Communications, Submittable, GL Solutions, onX, Skyfish, Cognizant, NorthWestern Energy, Pathlabs, Snapchat, and Instacart.

  • In “5 Tips from Hiring Managers - How to Land a Montana Tech Job or Internship” local hiring managers from Boeing Helena, Hyundai Motor Group, and Zoot Enterprises share advice to help students stand out when applying for a Montana tech job or internship.

  • Read “From College to Career - 5 Tips from Humanities & Sciences Graduates on Applying for High Tech Jobs and Internships” to discover helpful job and internship tips from four humanities and sciences graduates from Inimmune Corporation, onX, Cognizant, and Pathlabs.

  • Learn how you can utilize your degree in the humanities & sciences to launch a fruitful career in Montana’s tech industry in “How to Get a High-paying Job with Your Humanities & Sciences Degree.”

  • See what tips you can use to give you an advantage in pursuing Tech Jobs or Internships in Montana.

  • MHTBA’s Five 2021 Montana High-tech Employment Trends revealed in the Alliance Jobs Board data on software engineering and network systems and support jobs in 2021.

  • Check out MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series to learn more about high-tech opportunities in Montana.

  • Take a look at our Jobs board that we use to post many tech jobs that are in Montana from entry level to Senior level positions.

  • Explore the job-leveling matrix for SQL, and understand the roles and skills needed to advance from beginner to leader in this article from Coursera.

  • If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our Jobs Board, see this O*NET Career Database for additional information.

  • Interested in more careers outside of Montana or outside the High Tech Industry? Find additional occupational information on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

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Do you have a helpful resource you’d like to suggest we add to this guide? Do you have information you are searching for, or other feedback? The Montana High Tech Business Alliance would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at communications[at]mthightech.org.

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