South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) is celebrating a major milestone this June as the first cohort of students graduates from its Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BS in CS) program. Ten students will earn their bachelor’s degrees during the college’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony, marking the successful launch of SPSCC’s first-ever four-year degree.
The BS in CS program officially launched in 2024, expanding SPSCC’s ability to provide accessible, high-quality education in high-demand fields. The program allows students to complete all four years of their degree at their local community college, eliminating the need to transfer to a university. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program features hybrid and online coursework to support working professionals, caregivers, and other non-traditional students.
“This first graduating class represents the vision and dedication behind SPSCC’s expansion into bachelor’s degree education,” said Jason Selwitz, Dean of Applied Technology at SPSCC. “These students have demonstrated not only strong technical skills, but also a commitment to their career goals while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. We are proud to see them cross this important milestone and look forward to the impact they will make in our regional workforce and beyond.”
The inaugural graduating class includes: Thomas A. Baker, Xin Ding, Krysta L. Gallegos, Kyle Geissinger, Nils E. Julnes, Mattox Marsh, Jordan Y. McNair, Brandon A. Reeder, Marissa N. Stout, and Taran H. Triggs.
Brandon Reeder, graduating with Highest Honors, reflected on the program’s strong sense of community and opportunities for real-world connection. “My favorite part of the BS in CS program was learning and working alongside people who share a similar passion for technology and solving problems,” Brandon said. “I found the events hosted by SPSCC involving representatives from local businesses to be very helpful. They gave students opportunities to hear from professionals about the tools and practices being leveraged in the workplace today. It was also a great opportunity to learn about how emerging technologies are changing the field.”
Xin Ding, also graduating with Highest Honors, emphasized the program’s hands-on learning and supportive environment. “I enjoyed being able to build projects and use the knowledge I learned from my class and books,” Xin shared. “The support from instructors, advisors, and classmates helped me a lot. SPSCC helped me improve my technical skills and build more confidence for the workforce. I learned how to work on projects, solve problems, and work with other people as a team.”
SPSCC’s BS in CS program was developed to meet regional workforce needs while creating more equitable pathways to bachelor’s degrees. By offering a four-year degree at a community college, SPSCC helps reduce barriers related to cost, geography, and access, while preparing graduates for careers in software development, cybersecurity, system administration, and other in-demand fields.
Applications for SPSCC’s BS in CS program are now open for Fall Quarter. Qualified students may be eligible to enter the program as third years after completing the required prerequisites. For more information, visit the college’s Computer Science webpage.
