Welcome to the Department of Computer Science Undergraduate Program page!
Computer science emerges from the interaction of two powerful kinds of machines: computers and the human brain. Computer scientists are inventive, innovative, collaborative thinkers creating software solutions and synergies on the cutting edge of technology. The Information Age is here; computer scientists are shaping it.
We offer:
- Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science
- Minor in Computer Science
The choice to pursue a BS or BA in Computer Science (CS) should primarily be driven by your long-term career goals. While the BA requires fewer CS courses, it offers flexibility in your college plan, requiring a minor and even leaving space for a second major which can be just as valuable in building your knowledge, skills, and application. Some employers may specifically desire a BS, while others may value language proficiency, or the areas of focus demonstrated with your non-Computer Science coursework. The BS requires significantly more CS courses and will allow a student to dive deeply into different aspects of the field. Students should choose their degree path and courses and the depth of their pursuit of the Computer Science field with the future in mind. Regardless of choosing the BA or BS in Computer Science, employers want to see candidates with strong knowledge, skill, and ability. This may be shown through coursework, internship experience(s), personal projects, involvement in school activities, etc.
The differences in required coursework for each degree include the following (beginning Spring 2022 or later):
| Bachelor of Arts | Bachelor of Science | |
|---|---|---|
| Math | College Algebra | Calculus II or Linear Algebra |
| Second Language | 4th semester proficiency | 2nd semester proficiency |
| Science | At least one 3-unit science course | Two 4-unit lab science courses |
| Minor | Required | Optional |
| CS Major | 13 total Computer Science courses | 16 total Computer Science courses |
All students pursuing a Computer Science degree at UA, including transfer students, must start in the Pre-Computer Science Major. During your time in the pre-major, you will take a series of 100/200-level Computer Science courses. Full admission to the Computer Science major (Bachelor of Science degree or Bachelor of Arts degree) will be granted upon completion of major admission requirements.
For more information, see also the links to the left.