Frequently Asked Questions for Students

The Computer Science major requires a minimum of five semesters to complete.

What success in CS requires:

• Have reliable access to a laptop/desktop with internet. If you do not have personal access, budget time to use campus labs or loaner programs.
• Expect a solid math core (e.g., Calculus, Discrete Mathematics, and possibly Linear Algebra) across both Computer Science and Mathematics.
• Time commitment: plan ~8 to 12 hours per week outside class for each programming-heavy course (reading, coding, debugging, and labs).
• Build a daily coding habit and start assignments early to leave room for debugging short, frequent practice beats cramming.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Computer Science – A liberal arts oriented curriculum combining computing with broader arts and sciences requirements. Limited to students pursuing a double major or closely related minor.
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science – A more technical and mathematically intensive track designed to prepare students for technical careers or graduate study. Includes optional concentrations in Artificial Intelligence, Mobile Programming, Software Engineering, Systems, and Web Development.
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence – Focuses on programming, statistics, and machine learning.
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Information Systems (CIS) – Blends computing, information management, and business processes for students interested in IT, systems analysis, or technology management.

Minors:

• Minor in Computer Science – Introduces programming and computational thinking for students majoring in another field.
• Minor in Computer Application – Focuses on using technology tools and software for data and productivity.

Certificate:

• Digital Technology & Electronics (DTE) – 23-credit program covering circuits, computer architecture, and machine-level programming.

Graduate Program:

• M.S. in Computer Science – Provides advanced technical and theoretical knowledge.

Computer Science (CMP): Prepares students to understand the principles behind how computers operate, software design and development, and computing's influence on modern society. Students learn to design algorithms, write efficient code, manage and analyze data, and create software systems for real-world challenges.

Computer Information Systems (CIS): Focuses on business and applied computing for business/IT systems. Emphasizes databases, networks, and organizational applications rather than theoretical foundations.

Data Science and AI: Concentrates on programming, statistics, and machine learning, with concentrations available in data theory, analytics, AI, and spatial data science.

Visit the Computer Science Undergraduate Programs page for complete and up-to-date program requirements.

Course sequences vary by program. View detailed degree maps at the website for specific dates and times.