Computer Science major
Computer Science: courses, careers, and where to study
Computer Science combines the mathematical foundations of computation with practical software engineering — preparing graduates for careers in software, AI/ML, security, data, and research.
A Computer Science (CS) major covers algorithms, data structures, operating systems, computer architecture, programming languages, databases, and the mathematics behind them — discrete math, linear algebra, and probability. Most CS programs require 3–4 semesters of math and physics in addition to the major.
By the time graduates leave, they can write production code in multiple languages, reason about algorithmic complexity, design and reason about distributed systems, and have at least one specialization (AI/ML, security, systems, theory, or applications). Many CS programs offer concentrations or BS-vs-BA tracks; the BS typically requires more math and engineering coursework.
What you'll study
- Programming foundations in languages like Python, Java, C/C++, and JavaScript
- Algorithm design and analysis (Big-O, dynamic programming, graph algorithms)
- Data structures (arrays, trees, hash tables, heaps, graphs)
- Operating systems, networks, and computer architecture
- Databases and distributed systems
- Discrete mathematics, linear algebra, probability, and statistics
- Software engineering practices: version control, testing, code review, agile workflows
- A specialization track such as AI/ML, security, theory, systems, or HCI
Typical careers
- Software Engineer
- Data Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Site Reliability Engineer
- Security Engineer
- Research Scientist (CS PhD)
Starting salary range: $78,000–$135,000 starting (BLS, 2024 software developer median $132,270)
Find a Computer Science program
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