Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science

A degree in computer science opens the door to careers that affect nearly every aspect of society. Computer scientists design the programs that run the financial centers of the world, and entertain people with Hollywood special effects, music, and games. Computers are nearly everywhere and computer science graduates are active in places that you might not suspect — from the control systems that run our automobiles to devices that automatically administer medication to critically ill patients. The Department of Computer Science offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. In addition, we offer minors in computer science and a certificate in geographic information science. Your first year of courses in the major teaches you the fundamentals of programming. In the second year, you will begin to take more specialized courses, learning about how computers function, as well as advanced and efficient ways of organizing information. As you move into the upper division courses, you will learn several different computer languages, as well as elements of circuit design and how operating systems such as Windows and UNIX function. You will also have the opportunity to take courses in elective areas such as software engineering, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Career Opportunities: The long-term outlook for careers in computer science is very good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, computer science and related careers are projected to be among the fastest growing occupations over the next ten years. Some computer scientists are employed by companies that design and manufacture computer hardware, or that write application programs for individuals and businesses. Other employment possibilities include a wide variety of businesses, government agencies, research foundations, and universities.