ÖØ¿ÚζSM

Detail of liquid-cooled computer equipment

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Learning to code is only part of it. Computer science at the University of ÖØ¿ÚζSM goes beyond programming to explore how technology can support communities, empower people, and solve real-world problems. It offers the rare opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills in an interdisciplinary department that emphasizes hands-on learning with modern technology.

Why Study Computer Science at ÖØ¿ÚζSM?

You will acquire technical, analytical, and human-centered skills needed in a variety of careers by learning from faculty with expertise in artificial intelligence, computer security, graphics, human-centered interaction, cryptography, software engineering, and so much more. Whether you go on to work for a Silicon Valley powerhouse, stay in the Twin Cities at a local company, or seek an advanced graduate degree, you have the power to shape your career to your interests. Our alumni have gone on to work in tech roles for the FBI, Meta, Target, and more.

Solving Real-World Problems

  • Course Requirements
  • Four-Year Plan
  • Degrees Awarded
  • On-Campus Jobs and Research Opportunities
  • Course Requirements

    You will start by developing a sound mathematical and programming foundation to set yourself up for success in advanced computer science courses. Upon completing your foundational computer science courses, you will have access to an exciting array of courses focusing on topics such as computer security, full stack web development, operating systems and more. Throughout your time in our program, you will work in teams and foster effective communication skills to convey technological ideas and results.

    Four-Year Plan

    Our curriculum includes a wide range of cutting-edge topics that will pique your curiosity. We recommend meeting with a faculty member to build your four-year plan so you can learn more about what courses are available to you, along with extracurricular opportunities such as research.

    Degrees Awarded

    • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
    • Minor in Computer and Information Sciences

    On-Campus Jobs and Research Opportunities

    Students pursuing a degree in Computer Science have the opportunity to gain valuable experience as on-campus tutors for introductory courses and as research assistants supporting faculty projects. Our program encourages students to collaborate with faculty across disciplines, applying their computing expertise to support projects in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Faculty within the department hire students to participate in cutting-edge research, including projects in areas such as:

    • Applied machine learning / deep learning
    • Human-AI interaction and cognitive science
    • Virtual reality and immersive technologies
    • Cybersecurity and encryption
    • Scientific and high-performance computing
    • Computer science education
    • Human-computer interaction
    • Software engineering and maintenance

    Course Requirements

    Course Requirements

    You will start by developing a sound mathematical and programming foundation to set yourself up for success in advanced computer science courses. Upon completing your foundational computer science courses, you will have access to an exciting array of courses focusing on topics such as computer security, full stack web development, operating systems and more. Throughout your time in our program, you will work in teams and foster effective communication skills to convey technological ideas and results.

    Four-Year Plan

    Four-Year Plan

    Our curriculum includes a wide range of cutting-edge topics that will pique your curiosity. We recommend meeting with a faculty member to build your four-year plan so you can learn more about what courses are available to you, along with extracurricular opportunities such as research.

    Degrees Awarded

    Degrees Awarded

    • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
    • Minor in Computer and Information Sciences

    On-Campus Jobs and Research Opportunities

    On-Campus Jobs and Research Opportunities

    Students pursuing a degree in Computer Science have the opportunity to gain valuable experience as on-campus tutors for introductory courses and as research assistants supporting faculty projects. Our program encourages students to collaborate with faculty across disciplines, applying their computing expertise to support projects in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Faculty within the department hire students to participate in cutting-edge research, including projects in areas such as:

    • Applied machine learning / deep learning
    • Human-AI interaction and cognitive science
    • Virtual reality and immersive technologies
    • Cybersecurity and encryption
    • Scientific and high-performance computing
    • Computer science education
    • Human-computer interaction
    • Software engineering and maintenance
    Two people working together to solve a coding problem.

    Career Paths

    You will develop technical and human-centered skills that give you a career edge. Our graduates pursue diverse and rewarding careers in a variety of roles.

    • Web Developer
    • AI Architect
    • Software Developer
    • Database Administrator
    • Information/Cyber Security Analyst
    • Cloud Computing Architect

    Get Engaged

    147

    The Computer Science Club has 147 active members on-campus.

    24

    Introductory computer science classes are capped at 24 students and include a lab session.

    75

    Our faculty are active researchers and have published in over 75 peer-reviewed research journals.

    We Love Our Alumni

    Our alumni took advantage of all the opportunities given to them by the computer science program. Here are a few highlights of some of our movers and shakers.

    Miguel Velez ’16 and Ryan Slechta ’16 have gone on to pursue advanced degrees in computer science at Carnegie Mellon and The Ohio State University after graduating from ÖØ¿ÚζSM.

    Nicholas Cipoletti’s ’15 research with Dr. Dalma Martinovic-Weigelt and Dr. Erin Curran won first place in the Best Platform Category at the annual meeting of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry.

    Miguel Velez ’16 received first place in the Discovery Track at the Consortium for Computer Sciences in Colleges – Midwest Region at the University of Evansville, IN.

    Whitman College Professor Greg Ogin in a computer hardware room

    Program Advantages

    The Computer & Data Sciences Department has access to cutting-edge technology, meaning you will challenge yourself and develop your skills at every stage of your undergraduate career.

    • Our classes are small and hands-on: every computer science classroom is taught in dedicated labs, and instructors combine theory with immediate hands-on learning.
    • We own and maintain high-performance research and computer resources, such as an ultra-high-resolution display wall, dedicated servers for training and running deep learning models, and virtual reality headsets.
    • Students learn at least four programming languages and a variety of other useful technologies before graduating.
    • Study abroad opportunities in Barcelona, Ireland, Scotland or other locations.
    Computer Science student video

    It's More Than Coding

    Computer science at ÖØ¿ÚζSM gives students the tools to transform computers into powerful tools. They learn valuable skills throughout their undergraduate careers because of diverse array of courses that allow them to pursue their interests.

    Take the Next Step

    best-value-logo-2022-transparent.pngThere is more to learn about ÖØ¿ÚζSM; including our ranking as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.