"I really enjoy NOVA’s diverse student community. I appreciate the energy and support from both students and faculty. NOVA is a friendly, welcoming place."

Dr. Cristina Boicu was born in Bucharest, Romania, at a time when computing was not widely popular. In high school, she was accepted into one of Romania’s top specialized technology programs, where she spent four years immersed in programming and application development. The field fascinated her—it just clicked. Inspired by this early exposure, she pursued a career in computer science. After moving to the United States, she earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. in the discipline. Today, she finds great fulfillment as an associate professor.

At NOVA, most computer science students earn their associate degree before transferring to a four-year university to complete their bachelor’s. Others apply their knowledge through internships or entry-level jobs, gaining industry experience while continuing their education.

“Our program gives students a strong start,” Cristina says. “Once they grasp the concepts, they truly enjoy the subject. It’s inspiring to see their dedication and motivation. The program builds a solid foundation, preparing them for the next chapter and giving them the confidence to explore and grow in their careers.”

The curriculum emphasizes programming, problem-solving, and hands-on learning with Python and Java through real-world projects. Students can choose from flexible learning formats, including in-person, Zoom, and online courses. Faculty members stay current by attending conferences and collaborating with universities, ensuring the curriculum evolves alongside industry advancements. Students also explore emerging trends like AI and automation.

Those who excel in NOVA’s computer science program enjoy problem-solving, computational tasks, and puzzles. A strong foundation in algebra, modeling functions, and debugging is beneficial, as these skills are essential for tackling complex programming challenges. Success in the program also requires motivation, determination, and perseverance, as students must troubleshoot errors, adapt to new concepts, and navigate a rapidly evolving field.

Dr. Boicu’s Advice for Students:

• Take a computer science class—you might discover a passion for it.
• Gain industry experience through internships.
• Stay curious and experiment with new technologies.
• Attend conferences and explore AI and other emerging fields.