Designing an Accessible Applied Computing Degree for Students with Hearing Impairments

<p>This article presents the development, implementation, and preliminary outcomes of the bachelor of applied computing (BAC) program tailored specifically for students with hearing impairments at Dhofar University. Addressing the dual goals of workforce readiness and educational inclusivity, the program integrates robust practical computing education with targeted accessibility strategies, including professional sign-language interpretation, specialized faculty training, and adaptive assistive technologies. The curriculum, meticulously aligned with both Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) criteria and the Oman Qualifications Framework (OQF), was informed by comprehensive stakeholder consultations, market analyses, and international benchmarks. Preliminary evidence from stakeholder surveys indicates notable industry demand for applied computing graduates (over 80% of surveyed employers reporting workforce shortages) and improved student engagement following curriculum revisions (student satisfaction increasing from 3.1 to 4.2 in post-implementation surveys). Initial feedback from employers and external reviewers highlights the program’s potential to contribute to economic and social inclusion initiatives. This article outlines key aspects of the program’s design and explores continuous improvement strategies aimed at sustaining high standards of inclusivity and relevance in higher computing education.</p>