How does this program compare to similar programs at other schools?
The Computer Science program at UMLAC follows the ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) guidelines for computer science education. Because of this, our program features many of the same subjects that you would find at any other university. Like other universities, we also offer a combined BS and MS in Computer Science. The difference is that we also offer Consciousness-Based education. It’s really a very different environment here—one that’s conducive to many kinds of growth.
Why should someone choose this program over any other?
The unique approach to education at UMLAC creates a certain atmosphere on campus, so the learning and social environment is unlike any other.
- Our aim is to develop the whole student, resulting in a well-rounded person who is relaxed and strong, with the flexibility to do well on the job, but also in all of life.
- You’ll be surrounded by an entire university full of students, faculty, and staff dedicated to developing themselves in the highest values of life, in every area of life.
- There’s really nowhere else you can experience this kind of holistic development while studying the practical information you need for your chosen career
What does the program cover? What can a student expect to know at the end of this program?
Students learn all the current IT industry knowledge used in major corporations throughout the country.
The undergraduate Computer Science program provides a basis of programming knowledge onto which students can add specific skills needed by employers while on the job. The two electives the student chooses also develop specific skills.
The core of the program consists of Procedural Programming, Object Oriented Programming, Functional Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms, Computer Organization and Architecture, and Theory of Computation. In addition to these, students take electives in Databases, Web Application Programming, Operating Systems, Networking, Security, Parallel Programming, Graphics, Compiler Construction, and Software Testing. At the end of the program students are required to take a course in Software Development before they start on their senior project.
What were the senior projects at MUM, our sister university, last year?
- Card game for Android phones and tablets
- Online chat application with custom encryption
- Application for a meal delivery service
- Web application to rate and discuss movies
- Web application to sell sportswear
Would you say the students in this program have an edge over the competition when they graduate?
Our deep and holistic approach to education—along with the unique environment and culture on the UMLAC campus—develops the whole person in sometimes unexpected ways. Our students find they grow much more than just professionally.
This positive, holistic growth is seen in many facets of their lives, and that makes a stronger professional candidate upon graduation. We train our students to be strong at every level. Sure, skills are important, but they aren’t a constant and will always be changing.
In this Forbes article on The 15 Traits of the Ideal Employee, not a single trait mentioned has to do with any particular skill. The article encouraged employers to “be flexible on background requirements, but continue to be stringent on personality traits.”
Why Transcendental Meditation? Is it part of the Computer Science program?
The Transcendental Meditation technique gives our students deep rest and relaxation that helps them counter the stress of work, and of life in general. It is a part of the Computer Science program, and most of our undergrads specifically come to UMLAC because of the meditation. Many students in our program have reported a deepening appreciation of the TM technique as a tool for helping them stay balanced, focused and rested in the often stressful and challenging environment of a new and demanding job.
You’re in a Caribbean location. How does this compare to other, more exciting environments?
Curaçao historically has been a strongly internationalized society with 65 different nationalities that have established themselves on the island to pursue a better living that has been offered by an internationally oriented economy mainly in the areas of oil refinery, logistics, international financial service, and tourism. It is a lively community.
What does it take to be a successful IT employee?
When narrowing down a group of job applicants with similar skills sets, what makes a winning candidate stand out are qualities like confidence, creativity, positive attitude, along with strong leadership and people skills. Yes, it’s important to get the skills. But in today’s competitive job market, IT skills aren’t enough. Be the whole package, and you’ll have more opportunity for success.
What advice do you have to someone seeking an education in IT?
Think of your time in school as an opportunity to build a strong foundation for your career, but also your whole life. You want and deserve the very best for yourself, on every level. Get a top-level education with the best opportunities available to you. Develop yourself completely, and you’ll have the edge in the marketplace, along with the skills and habits to enjoy a happy and successful life.