Computer science worker shortage pushes Tri-Cities college to develop new degree

Columbia Basin College has requested approval to develop a new program in hopes of graduating more IT and computer science professionals in the Tri-Cities.

The Pasco-based college’s “statement of need” to develop a bachelor’s degree in computer science was approved this month by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

Students who earn a bachelor’s in computer science will be hired as software engineers, web developers, systems analysts, database administrators, network engineers, cybersecurity analysts and IT consultants.

“The development of the bachelor’s of science in computer science at CBC is a strategic move that supports its mission to serve the educational and workforce needs of its community,” Elizabeth Burtner, assistant vice president for marketing and outreach at CBC, wrote in a statement.

CBC will now seek approval from its accreditor, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Staff hope to have the degree available to students by Fall 2025.

Students at CBC can already obtain a bachelor’s degree in software development, Burtner says, but the new computer science degree will focus more on the theory behind the field and provide students a “clearer path” to pursue a master’s or PhD.

The degree will be the 10th baccalaureate offered at CBC. Other degrees currently offered include:

• Applied Management
• Community Healthy
• Cyber Security
• Dental Hygiene
• Health Physics
• Software Development
• Nursing
• Project Management
• Teacher Education.