6 things you should know before college
November 25, 2016
College is different than high school. Keep these things in mind while preparing to come to Colorado State University.
Computer Science Major
Do you want to ensure your future in technology, software development and beyond?
At a glance
In this major, you’ll do more than program. You’ll learn about the algorithms, logic, and math behind software systems and then build your own. You’ll learn to develop software solutions for real-world problems using the latest techniques. Then you’ll learn how to enable software and computers to learn and adapt on their own. You’ll leave with a well-rounded tech background that can take you into almost any field.
| Degree type | Bachelor of Science | |||
| Format | On campus and online | |||
| Part of | College of Natural Sciences | |||
| Competitive major? | Yes | |||
| Accelerated option? | No |
Not sure if this is the right major for you?
See all of them!
See all of them!
Concentrations
A concentration allows you to specialize in a certain area within your major, offering a depth of information and hands-on experiences that you may not otherwise get. Many students in this major will concentrate in one area to work in a specific field after college, as well as find mentors and internships before they even graduate.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are about creating intelligent systems – systems that perceive and respond to the world around them. AI and ML systems are everywhere, in our cars and smartphones, and businesses of all sizes are investing in these areas. This concentration combines a rigorous computer science degree with coursework in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data.
Computer Science Education
You’ll work effectively in groups to develop computational solutions to complex problems, and learn to communicate ideas effectively, both generally and specifically, with regard to technology and computing. You’ll learn strong practices related to education and computational thinking, and develop lesson plans related to computer science with artifact generation and statistical analysis of artifacts and student performance.
Computing Systems
Computing systems are integrated devices that input, output, process, and store data and information. They can range from simple sensors and hardware components to phones, laptops, desktops, and entire data centers. This concentration teaches you to solve important and demanding systems problems at scale and how to design and assess these systems.
Computing for Creatives
This is a new concentration under the Computer Science major. More information will be available soon.
General Computer Science
This is a broad computer science program that prepares you for any position in the field. It is the most flexible of the concentrations, allowing you to take with a minor of your choice and/or choose a research area to focus on that topic in your upper-level classes.
Human-Centered Computing
Human-centered computing involves designing, developing, and deploying human-centric computer systems. In this concentration, students will learn techniques for human-computer interaction using gestures, mobile devices, large surfaces, and virtual environments. Students will also learn how to design and conduct human-subject experiments and understand the role of HCC in developing human-centric artificial intelligence systems.
Software Engineering
Software engineering involves designing, implementing, and maintaining computer programs. Developing modern software systems requires more than programming skills and core computer science concepts. It requires software engineering skills, which are in high demand. This concentration will focus you on the concepts, techniques, and tools necessary for software analysis, design, testing, maintenance, and teamwork.
Networks and Security
Networks connect computers and other devices so they can share information. This concentration will have you exploring the design, building, and maintaining networks and protecting them from cyberattacks. You’ll learn computer networking, systems security (including the latest trends and technologies in cyber security), ethical hacking, operating systems, databases, and software.
Some Career Options
As a computer science graduate, you’ll be in high demand in every industry, including government agencies, entertainment, music, app design, cyber security in corporate/nonprofit businesses, and research laboratories. Internships are readily available to enhance your skills and marketability.
- Systems Programmer/Engineer
- Software Designer
- Computer Researcher
- Systems Administrator
- Security Systems Designer
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Full Stack Developer
- Technical Product Support Personnel
- Teacher/Professor
Tour and info session options
Tours may be available as part of Admissions tours and info sessions, offered throughout the year.
For additional opportunities, please reach out to:
CNS undergraduate recruitment coordinator, at [email protected].
academic Info and Tips
Not sure what to major in? Follow these steps
January 4, 2017
Get all the tools and advice you need to find the major that suits you best.
Why should I join the Honors Program?
September 30, 2017
Current student Marcela explains why the Honors Program at CSU has been a life changer for her, and why you should join.
Competitive majors: must-know tips for transfers from a transfer student
October 11, 2017
Recent grad Holly offers transfer-only advice.
Explore even more
Want a more in-depth look at this major? Take a look at the program website to learn more.