Bachelor of Science
Take an engineering approach to computer science.
Engineers like to apply scientific principles to solve real-world, practical problems. They like to design and build the systems that keep our society functioning and that keep people healthy and safe. Engineers like to build things, creating prototypes that might solve a particular problem, and then iterating on the design until it's just right.
The BS degree program emphasizes knowledge and awareness of computing at all levels, from circuits and computer architecture through operating systems and programming languages to large application systems; the theoretical and mathematical aspects of computing; the interdependence of hardware and software; and the challenge of large-scale software production and the engineering principles used to meet that challenge.
Already have a bachelor's degree in a different major, but looking to earn another credential in Computer Science? Learn more about the Applied Computer Science Post-Baccalaureate program.Ìý
Curriculum & Requirements
The BS and BA are similar in that both offer the same computer science courses taught by the same instructors all from the Department of Computer Science. The requirements for Foundational Computer Science courses are identical for both programs. However, you will take a wider breadth of CS courses and gain a stronger foundation in mathematics in the BS. You will also be required to complete a senior capstone project or senior thesis.
Senior Design
To wrap up your undergraduate experience at CU Boulder, you will participate in a year-long senior capstone project that gives you a chance to put into practice what you’ve learned and make important professional connections.
Senior capstone is required for all BS students. Â鶹ÒùÔº in the BS program must earn a grade of C- or better in both semesters of the capstone in order to meet degree requirements.
Depending on your personal interests, we have three project types to choose from:
- Software Design Project:ÌýWork with a team to complete a real-world software engineering project from an industry, research or faculty sponsor.
- Entrepreneurial Capstone:ÌýLay the groundwork for your own technical business and prepare to pitch it to potential investors.
- Senior Thesis:ÌýComplete an original research, expository, critical or creative work, under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
Suggested Plans of Study
The undergraduate degree requirements allow for some flexibility in which courses you can take to satisfy your Computer Science Core and Electives. The following suggested plans of study are optional*, and are provided to help you select courses that will help you focus on one area of interest while working toward your degree requirements. You should check your degree audit to determine how each course counts toward degree requirements.
Â鶹ÒùÔº in both the BS and BA may choose to follow all suggestions in a particular plan, partÌýor none of these. These plans are meant to be a helpful planning tool.
*If you entered the Computer Science BS degree prior to fall 2015, you should consult with your academic advisor and your degree audit regarding classes that meet your specific Track requirements.
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Accreditation
The Computer Science Bachelor of Science (BS) degree is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, , under the General Criteria and the Computer Science and Similarly Named Computing Programs Program Criteria.
Learning Goals & Outcomes
Upon graduation, students will be able to:
- Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.Ìý
Program and Educational Objectives
Our program educational objectives for students 3–5 years after graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree inÌýcomputer science are that they will be:
- Broadly Educated and Versatile.ÌýThey are able to draw upon foundational knowledge, learn, adapt and successfullyÌýbring to bear analytical and computational approaches on changing societal and technological challenges
- Inspiring and Collaborative. TheyÌýare leaders and responsible citizens whose strengths come from an ability toÌýdraw on and contribute to diverse teams, expertise and experiences.
- Innovative.ÌýTheyÌýdriveÌýscientific and societal advancement through technological innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Engaged.ÌýThey areÌýand remains engagedÌýwith the University of Colorado, the state of Colorado and technical andÌýscientific professional communities.
Enrollment and Degree DataÌý
Available at:Ìý/engineering/accreditation