Computer Science Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida

Getting a Computer Science Degree in St. Petersburg, Florida

Pursuing a Computer Science degree in St. Petersburg, Florida, offers a pathway to an exciting and in-demand career in technology. This guide provides an overview of the options available in St. Petersburg, including local educational institutions, career opportunities, and program requirements. Whether you’re interested in software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, or another tech specialization, you’ll find the information you need to get started.

A Computer Science degree equips students with the skills necessary to develop software, analyze data, manage systems, and solve complex technological problems. Degrees range from associate to master’s programs, each with its own unique benefits and career prospects.

About St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, often referred to as “The Sunshine City,” is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and thriving downtown, the city also plays a key role in the Tampa Bay area’s growing tech industry. Major employers, startups, and educational institutions make St. Petersburg an excellent place to pursue a Computer Science education and launch a career.

To learn more about St. Petersburg, visit the official city website.

Computer Science Degree Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg offers multiple options for pursuing a Computer Science degree. Below is a list of local and nearby institutions with Computer Science programs:

1. University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USFSP)

Location: Downtown St. Petersburg
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Specializations in Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, and Digital Design
Highlights: USFSP is part of the University of South Florida system, offering state-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with tech companies. It also features a 2+2 transfer program for students coming from community colleges.
Program Details: Visit the USFSP Computer Science page.

2. St. Petersburg College (SPC)

Location: Multiple campuses across St. Petersburg
Programs Offered:
- Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Computer and Information Science (Transfer Plan)
- Associate in Science (A.S.) in Cloud Computing Technology
Highlights: SPC offers affordable tuition and opportunities for students to transfer to four-year institutions through its A.A. transfer plan.
Program Details: Visit the SPC Computer Science page.

3. Eckerd College

Location: South St. Petersburg
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Highlights: This liberal arts college provides a well-rounded education with small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty.
Program Details: Visit the Eckerd College Computer Science page.

Additional Nearby Institutions

If you’re willing to explore outside St. Petersburg, consider the following institutions in the Tampa Bay area:

University of South Florida (Tampa campus) (30 miles): Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate Computer Science programs.
Hillsborough Community College (Tampa) (25 miles): Features an A.A. transfer plan for Computer Science.

Computer Science Career Opportunities in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is part of the Tampa Bay area’s tech ecosystem, providing numerous career opportunities for Computer Science graduates. Here are some prominent organizations:

1. Jabil

Industry: Global manufacturing and technology solutions
Location: Northeast St. Petersburg
Careers: Software engineering, IT systems, data analytics
Website: Jabil Careers

2. Tech Data (now TD Synnex)

Industry: IT distribution and solutions
Location: Clearwater (15 miles from St. Petersburg)
Careers: IT support, cloud computing, cybersecurity
Website: TD Synnex Careers

3. Raymond James

Industry: Financial services and technology
Location: Carillon area, St. Petersburg
Careers: Software development, IT security, data science
Website: Raymond James Careers

Prerequisites for Computer Science Programs

Admission requirements for Computer Science programs vary by institution, but common prerequisites include:

A high school diploma or equivalent
A minimum GPA (varies by program)
Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT for undergraduate, GRE for graduate programs)
Previous coursework in mathematics (e.g., algebra, calculus) and basic programming experience

Be sure to check the specific admissions criteria for your chosen institution.

Computer Science Degree Requirements in Florida

Earning a Computer Science degree in Florida typically involves completing the following:

Core Coursework: Programming fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, and software engineering
Specializations: Options such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, or data analytics
Internships/Capstone Projects: Many programs include practical experience through internships or capstone projects
Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)

The Florida Department of Education oversees higher education in the state. Visit their official website for more information.

Get Started Today

A Computer Science degree can unlock countless opportunities in one of the fastest-growing industries. Whether you’re starting with an associate degree or pursuing advanced studies, St. Petersburg offers excellent options to help you achieve your goals. Contact a school today to begin your journey toward a rewarding career in technology.