Starting in Fall 2021, Pearl River Community College will begin a new Computer Coding Technology program at the school’s Forrest County Center.
Coding skills are in demand across a broad range of careers, not just for programmers, so PRCC is looking to fill a need within the community by adding the new program.
“The computer coding program will provide students with skills that will be unique from any of Pearl River’s current degree pathways,” said Dr. James David Collum, Dean of Career and Technical Education at the Forrest County Center. “The jobs that this program will prepare students for are the jobs of the future. The students will be critical to fill the current software development positions and they will also be a key component in attracting new high-tech companies to our state.”
The Computer Coding Technology program is designed to prepare individuals to be software developers. Individuals will be given the opportunity to master skills such as the fundamentals of coding, app development, web applications, and life leadership skills as they relate to HTML and CSS, Database Fundamentals, Python, and JavaScript.
There will be a 30-hour certificate, 45-hour technical degree, and 60-hour associate of applied science degree options.
According to data from the State Workforce Investment Board, the software developers (applications and software) occupations are projected to grow at 26.46 percent statewide.
Entry level pay starts at $45,000 and the median annual income for this occupation is $80,629 at a state level.
Dr. Jana Causey, Vice President for the Forrest County Center, Allied Health and Nursing programs, says Computer Coding Technology is a skill that is in high demand.
“Pearl River Community College is committed to providing programs that prepare our students to enter high paying jobs as well as meet the needs of our local industry,” said Dr. Causey. “Implementing this program will help us provide a skilled workforce prepared to understand the language of computers and evolving technology.
“Computers are involved in so many aspects of life so the need for this coursework is growing at a rapid pace. We are excited to offer this opportunity for our community.”
For information about the Computer Coding Technology program, call 601-554-5539, email jcollum@prcc.edu or visit the Forrest County Center on U.S. 49 South.
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