Oklahoma Christian University (OC): Merging Technical Mastery with Mission, Purpose, & Integrity
David North, Computer Scientist Department Chair, Oklahoma Christian University (OC)
The United States maintains its position as one of the leading destinations in the world in computer science and IT higher education through numerous universities that deliver excellent programs. However, institutions need to stay abreast of technological developments while meeting rising cybersecurity job market requirements through practical education that meets industry needs. Educational institutions encounter multiple challenges that include graduate ethical development and diversity promotion along with workforce preparedness for global employment environments. Oklahoma Christian University (OC) stands out as an exceptional educational establishment because of its creative values-based method for teaching computer science and cybersecurity.
The national recognition of cybersecurity education at OC is its most notable distinguishing factor. It earned its CAE-CD status as the first four-year institution in the Oklahoma City metroplex in 2021 when the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approved its National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education designation. The university stands among a limited group of nationally accredited institutions because of its prestigious CAE-CD designation.
The recognition extends beyond being symbolic. The NSA reviewed every aspect of OC’s cybersecurity education including its curriculum development, faculty credentials, and student participation in the National Cyber League competition against thousands of participants to confirm the university’s adherence to top national standards. According to Senator James Lankford, OC serves the purpose of training experts to enhance national cybersecurity through information security and system safety. “OC maintains its exclusive status as Oklahoma’s sole faith-based institution with CAE-CD recognition by demonstrating how it combines superior technical expertise with Christian principles”, says David North, Computer Scientist Department Chair, Oklahoma Christian University.
What gives the institution an edge is the fact that it is in the greater Oklahoma City area. Oklahoma City is the 20th largest city in the United States. The attractions of the Bricktown Entertainment District, renowned museums, and the Oklahoma City Zoo make it a hub of entertainment and culture, and there is a vibrant lifestyle on offer in the city. Its central location within the U.S. is one of the reasons behind the city’s conservative values as well as its reputation of being a friendly, community-oriented living place. It is home to major industries such as oil and gas, aviation, healthcare, and shared services with a large number of career opportunities in different sectors.
Hands-On, Industry-Aligned Curriculum
The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) at Oklahoma Christian University allows students to concentrate on Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, or Software Engineering. Students enrolled in this program can finish the degree in one year through evening classes that serve working professionals and international students. The education plan merges core computer science studies with specialty classes and elective courses, thus creating graduates qualified to work at professional levels or continue academic advancement.
Typical students for the MSCS program are individuals holding an accredited undergraduate degree in computer science, or a closely allied discipline, such as engineering or mathematics. The graduates of the program have a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical computer science principles. By focusing on programming languages, algorithms, databases, operating systems, and computer architecture, they acquire proficiency in the required domain. Also, the program nurtures teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and ethical use of technology in a Christian worldview, enabling students to use their expertise for the service of society.
The curriculum starts with 12 hours of credit in foundational subjects like Algorithm Analysis, Object- Oriented Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, and Technology Ethics. Afterward, students go on to study one of four recognized specializations, namely Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Data Science, or Software Engineering which encompass altogether 12 focused credit hours. They provide immersive learning in areas of Machine Learning, Network Forensics, Big Data Management, and Software System Architecture, among others.
Students also choose six elective credit hours from advanced CMSC 5000 level offerings that have not been used to satisfy the chosen track requirement. This structure shapes the academic journey to each user’s career aims, from entry into industry, and research, to continued academic development. OC provides flexible evening class schedules and adaptable scheduling for its graduate programs which support working professionals. Oklahoma Christian’s academic programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
"OC maintains its exclusive status as Oklahoma’s sole faith-based institution with CAE-CD recognition by demonstrating how it combines superior technical expertise with Christian principles"
Faculty Expertise & Industry Connections
OC’s programs demonstrate strength through their faculty who deliver practical industry and academic expertise to students in classroom instruction. The faculty members possess qualifications as both teaching professionals and certified practitioners in computer science. They have experiences in consulting and software development alongside cybersecurity and various additional fields which enables them to deliver effective mentoring and industry practice knowledge to students.
Focus on Ethical Leadership & Values
Every student in the computer science program at OC must integrate ethical principles into their academic work and future professional development. Graduates receive training through their technology ethics curriculum which appears in their course selection and classroom discussions. The value-driven education teaches students to employ their skills toward socially responsible actions while maintaining ethical standards and purposeful leadership which today’s employers and wider society appreciate.
Strong Career Preparation & Student Outcomes
The educational programs at OC provide career readiness as their fundamental principle. Students gain the most value from educational programs that combine challenging coursework with actual work experience along with professional advancement possibilities. The computer science program at OC enables senior students to collaborate with real-world users on actual projects, which directly develops their workplace readiness. The university’s focus on teamwork and communication alongside project management skills creates additional career opportunities for students.
Students who major in cybersecurity at OC University demonstrate exceptional readiness for employment opportunities. Hands-on laboratory experience in the program matches industry certification requirements to create an advantage for graduates seeking employment. The students of OC regularly participate in national and international cyber competitions with their teams consistently securing top 10 positions. Through practical experience, students develop technical competencies, gain confidence, and build resilience.
Students who want to advance their studies should start with the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science because the program combines theoretical concepts with practical applications.
Building Leaders in Enterprise Systems
An alumnus of Oklahoma Christian University’s M.S. in Computer Science program, Harsha Mulukutla credits the institution for helping to shape his successful career in enterprise technology. Having an IT background, Harsha looked for a graduate program that would expand his technical knowledge and, at the same time, fit with real-world industry needs, especially when it comes to enterprise systems like SAP. This is exactly what OC’s curriculum provided due to its focus on hands-on learning and critical thinking. Harsha developed the technical and leadership skills he needed for his role as an SAP Lead by working on projects in collaboration with faculty such as Professors Robert Nix & David North.
The national recognition of cybersecurity education at OC is its most notable distinguishing factor. It earned its CAE-CD status as the first four-year institution in the Oklahoma City metroplex in 2021 when the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approved its National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education designation. The university stands among a limited group of nationally accredited institutions because of its prestigious CAE-CD designation.
The recognition extends beyond being symbolic. The NSA reviewed every aspect of OC’s cybersecurity education including its curriculum development, faculty credentials, and student participation in the National Cyber League competition against thousands of participants to confirm the university’s adherence to top national standards. According to Senator James Lankford, OC serves the purpose of training experts to enhance national cybersecurity through information security and system safety. “OC maintains its exclusive status as Oklahoma’s sole faith-based institution with CAE-CD recognition by demonstrating how it combines superior technical expertise with Christian principles”, says David North, Computer Scientist Department Chair, Oklahoma Christian University.
What gives the institution an edge is the fact that it is in the greater Oklahoma City area. Oklahoma City is the 20th largest city in the United States. The attractions of the Bricktown Entertainment District, renowned museums, and the Oklahoma City Zoo make it a hub of entertainment and culture, and there is a vibrant lifestyle on offer in the city. Its central location within the U.S. is one of the reasons behind the city’s conservative values as well as its reputation of being a friendly, community-oriented living place. It is home to major industries such as oil and gas, aviation, healthcare, and shared services with a large number of career opportunities in different sectors.
Hands-On, Industry-Aligned Curriculum
The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) at Oklahoma Christian University allows students to concentrate on Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, or Software Engineering. Students enrolled in this program can finish the degree in one year through evening classes that serve working professionals and international students. The education plan merges core computer science studies with specialty classes and elective courses, thus creating graduates qualified to work at professional levels or continue academic advancement.
Typical students for the MSCS program are individuals holding an accredited undergraduate degree in computer science, or a closely allied discipline, such as engineering or mathematics. The graduates of the program have a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical computer science principles. By focusing on programming languages, algorithms, databases, operating systems, and computer architecture, they acquire proficiency in the required domain. Also, the program nurtures teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and ethical use of technology in a Christian worldview, enabling students to use their expertise for the service of society.
The curriculum starts with 12 hours of credit in foundational subjects like Algorithm Analysis, Object- Oriented Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, and Technology Ethics. Afterward, students go on to study one of four recognized specializations, namely Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Data Science, or Software Engineering which encompass altogether 12 focused credit hours. They provide immersive learning in areas of Machine Learning, Network Forensics, Big Data Management, and Software System Architecture, among others.
Students also choose six elective credit hours from advanced CMSC 5000 level offerings that have not been used to satisfy the chosen track requirement. This structure shapes the academic journey to each user’s career aims, from entry into industry, and research, to continued academic development. OC provides flexible evening class schedules and adaptable scheduling for its graduate programs which support working professionals. Oklahoma Christian’s academic programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
"OC maintains its exclusive status as Oklahoma’s sole faith-based institution with CAE-CD recognition by demonstrating how it combines superior technical expertise with Christian principles"
Faculty Expertise & Industry Connections
OC’s programs demonstrate strength through their faculty who deliver practical industry and academic expertise to students in classroom instruction. The faculty members possess qualifications as both teaching professionals and certified practitioners in computer science. They have experiences in consulting and software development alongside cybersecurity and various additional fields which enables them to deliver effective mentoring and industry practice knowledge to students.
Focus on Ethical Leadership & Values
Every student in the computer science program at OC must integrate ethical principles into their academic work and future professional development. Graduates receive training through their technology ethics curriculum which appears in their course selection and classroom discussions. The value-driven education teaches students to employ their skills toward socially responsible actions while maintaining ethical standards and purposeful leadership which today’s employers and wider society appreciate.
Strong Career Preparation & Student Outcomes
The educational programs at OC provide career readiness as their fundamental principle. Students gain the most value from educational programs that combine challenging coursework with actual work experience along with professional advancement possibilities. The computer science program at OC enables senior students to collaborate with real-world users on actual projects, which directly develops their workplace readiness. The university’s focus on teamwork and communication alongside project management skills creates additional career opportunities for students.
Students who major in cybersecurity at OC University demonstrate exceptional readiness for employment opportunities. Hands-on laboratory experience in the program matches industry certification requirements to create an advantage for graduates seeking employment. The students of OC regularly participate in national and international cyber competitions with their teams consistently securing top 10 positions. Through practical experience, students develop technical competencies, gain confidence, and build resilience.
Students who want to advance their studies should start with the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science because the program combines theoretical concepts with practical applications.
Building Leaders in Enterprise Systems
An alumnus of Oklahoma Christian University’s M.S. in Computer Science program, Harsha Mulukutla credits the institution for helping to shape his successful career in enterprise technology. Having an IT background, Harsha looked for a graduate program that would expand his technical knowledge and, at the same time, fit with real-world industry needs, especially when it comes to enterprise systems like SAP. This is exactly what OC’s curriculum provided due to its focus on hands-on learning and critical thinking. Harsha developed the technical and leadership skills he needed for his role as an SAP Lead by working on projects in collaboration with faculty such as Professors Robert Nix & David North.
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