EDMONDS — Beginning this fall, Edmonds College will offer new four-year degree programs in computer science and robotics and artificial intelligence.

“We are proud to introduce our very first bachelor of science program on campus in computer science and our fifth bachelor of applied science in robotics and artificial intelligence,” Edmonds College President Amit Singh said in a statement.

The college currently offers five bachelor of applied science degrees, one bachelor of science degree, 66 associate degrees and 111 professional certificates. It serves about 15,000 students each year.

“Computer science, robotics, and AI are dynamic fields constantly evolving and shaping our world in countless ways,” Singh said. “By offering these new programs, we empower students to become highly skilled professionals in demand by local and global companies.”

The college is now accepting applications for the two new programs.

“Computer science students have almost always been headed for jobs that didn’t exist while they were in school,” computer science department head Allison Obourn said in a statement. “Programming languages, systems, and devices come and go so fast that there is no way a program can prepare students for everything they will need in their career. So, instead, we focus on a deep understanding of the underlying concepts and logic.”

Students will learn mathematical foundations, step-by-step problem-solving principles, emerging technologies and computer science theory.

“While specific tools and languages change, the principles don’t,” Obourn said. “This means that students will have the tools and understanding they need to learn whatever comes next. This will allow them to keep their knowledge up-to-date and relevant throughout their careers without the need for more school.”

The robotics and AI program focuses on hands-on learning.

“Our new program goes beyond traditional robotics education by integrating cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies,” said Carey Schroyer, the college;s dean of STEM. “Graduates will be uniquely positioned to advance the development and implementation of intelligent automated systems across multiple industries.”

For more information on the programs, go to: edmonds.edu/programs-and-degrees/

To contact the program manager, email Amanda Goertz at amanda.goertz@edmonds.edu.

Janice Podsada: 425-339-3097; jpodsada@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @JanicePods.