Walla Walla University is strengthening its Department of Computer Science by launching two new majors: cybersecurity and game development.
As the amount of digitization in every field grows, so does the need to protect that information. According to Ben Jackson, chair of the Department of Computer Science, a computer science degree no longer offers all the tools necessary for high-level management of network safety. This is where a degree in cybersecurity is necessary; it helps students understand both the hardware and human elements involved in keeping data safe.
Similarly, game development presents a unique opportunity for students to combine their coding and storytelling skills in an impactful way. “There are some coding-heavy classes, but we’ve also added classes from the visual arts about storytelling, cinematography, and lighting,” said Jackson. Overall, these core elements, combined with Adventist values, emphasize ethical and uplifting game design.
The computer science department provides the shell structure for these majors, while partnering with Rize Education for the major-specific classes. This partnership allows WWU to host these programs “without the immense cost and time typically required to start a new major.”
While larger institutions often emphasize scale and resources, Jackson said WWU focuses on community and open doors. “We offer this small personal program where everybody knows everybody, and we take care of each other. [We have] all of the Walla Walla advantages with the expertise of a larger location.”
Interested in learning more about cybersecurity or game design? Visit wallawalla.edu/cs to get started.
Posted Jan. 23, 2026.
