Computer Science Discipline

If you’re interested in using technology to solve everyday problems, a career in computer science may be right for you. Computer science can be a rewarding career for those with an aptitude for math and technology, but it’s so much more than crunching numbers and coding languages. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, computer scientists advance computing technology and innovate existing technology. At its core, a computer science career focuses on finding the most efficient approach to improve computing technology performance.

Specific Computer Science Majors

• Software Engineering: This major focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of software applications, emphasizing principles of software development, testing, and project management.

• Computer Engineering: This major combines computer science with electrical engineering, focusing on the design and development of computer hardware and systems, including embedded systems and computer architecture.

• Data Science: This major focuses on the extraction, analysis, and interpretation of large datasets, using statistical methods, machine learning, and data visualization techniques.

• Cybersecurity: This major focuses on protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats, including topics like network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking.

• Information Technology (IT): This major focuses on the management and maintenance of computer systems and networks within organizations.

• Web Development: This major focusses on how to build websites and apps from the ground up.

Undergraduate Sample Schedule

Year	Fall Semester	Spring Semester
First Year	APPM 1350: Calculus 1 CSCI 1000: Computer Science (Field, Work, Study) CSCI 1300: Computer Science 1 PHYS 1110: General Physics 1	APPM 1360: Calculus 2 CSCI 2270: Computer Science 2: Data Structures Natural Science Sequence HUEN 1010: Humanities for Engineers
Second Year	CSCI 2400: Computer Systems CSCI 2824: Discrete Structures CSCI 3308: Software Dev. Methods/Tools Natural Science Elective	CSCI 3104: Algorithms Science Elective Linear Algebra Natural Science
Third Year	CSCI 3155: Principles of Programming Languages Science Elective Probability or Statics Elective	Science Elective Natural Science Elective Free Elective
Fourth Year	Capstone Science Elective Upper-Division Elective Free Elective	Capstone Science Elective Upper-Division Elective Free Elective

Best Colleges for A Computer Science Major

1. MIT

2. Carnegie Mellon University

3. Stanford University

4. University of California Berkeley

5. University of Illinois Champaign Urbana

Classes to take in high school to prepare for a computer science major

To prepare for a computer science major in high school, focus on advanced math and science, and take any available computer science courses. These classes build the logical reasoning and problem-solving skills necessary for success in the field. These include AP Computer Science A (focusing on Java and problem-solving), AP Calculus AB or BC (for mathematical concepts), and AP Physics 1 or C (as physics concepts are often related to computer science). Additionally, AP Statistics can be beneficial for understanding data analysis and probability, which are crucial in computer science.

Popular Career Paths

• Software Developer/Engineer: Designs, codes, and tests software and mobile applications.

• Web Developer: Creates and designs websites, working on either the front-end (user-facing) or back-end (server-side).

• Computer Programmer: Writes the code and instructions that enable software and applications to run.

• Cybersecurity Analyst: Protects an organization's computer systems and data from cyber threats.

• IT Project Manager: Oversees and coordinates tech-related projects from start to finish.

• Data Scientist/Analyst: Analyzes complex data to extract insights and inform business decisions.

• Video Game Developer/Designer: Creates video games, specializing in development or design aspects.

Schooling you need to complete to be successful in the computer science field

To succeed in computer science, a bachelor's degree is generally considered the minimum requirement. Many roles, especially in specialized fields or for advanced positions, may also require a master's degree. A strong foundation in math, particularly calculus and statistics, is often expected. A four-year bachelor's degree in computer science provides a comprehensive foundation in programming, algorithms, software development, and systems fundamentals. A master's degree can lead to specialized roles in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, or advanced research. It can also be a differentiator for senior positions. A PhD is typically pursued by those interested in advanced research or academic positions.