Computer Science, BS

The BS in Computer Science makes a computing degree accessible to a larger population of students, providing them with the knowledge to become software designers and developers, and also allowing for specialization in a few areas within the field of Computer Science. The Computer Science department offers three bachelor degrees in Computer Science: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), and Bachelor of Innovation (BI). Even though the three degrees share many courses, the BS degree focuses on the science and engineering of computing as contrasted to the BA, which focuses on the applications of computing, with strong foundational knowledge of computing. The BI degree is similar to the BS degree, except that it replaces a number of general education requirements with business and entrepreneurship-oriented classes.

General Information

The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Computer Science requires the following:

A minimum of 120 credit hours with a cumulative CU GPA of 2.0. At least 45 of those hours must be upper division (courses numbered 3000 and higher).
A grade of C or better in CS and GDD courses applied to the major.
A minimum 2.0 GPA must be maintained in all CS and GDD course work.
Completion of an Exit Interview with the Computer Science department in the final semester prior to graduation.
The last 30 hours of the degree must be completed while registered in the College of Engineering and Applied Science at UCCS.

Additional general education course work is required to complete the Computer Science, BS degree. Please see the advising guide on the Academic Advising website for more information and a sample 4-year schedule.

Learning Outcomes

An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory and practice.
An ability to model, design, implement and test software systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the trade-offs involved in design and implementation choices.
An ability to learn to use new design methodologies, operating systems, languages, and other software development tools within reasonable time constraints.
An ability to function effectively on teams related to software development.
An ability to communicate with others, both orally and in writing, about technical subjects.
An understanding of professional, ethical and social responsibilities.
Preparation to do continual learning throughout alumni careers, to include such things as pursuing advanced degrees, attending short courses, reading technical or trade journals, participating in sabbaticals, etc.
Preparation to pursue careers in all branches of computer science including technical development, project management, and technical sales.

Course Requirements

Computer Science Competency Areas (43 credit hours)

Complete all of the courses listed below.

Core Programming

Architecture, Operating Systems, and Networking

Software Development and Engineering

Algorithms and Complexity

CS 4720 - Design and Analysis of Algorithms

Computing Ethics and Security

Computer Science Specialty Area (12 credit hours)

Complete 12 credit hours from ONE of the Specialty Areas listed below.

Advanced Software Engineering

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Computer Systems and Networking

Cybersecurity

General Computer Science

This specialty area is focused on creating breadth in the Computer Science discipline. Students can take courses from multiple areas of Computer Science.

Complete 12 credit hours of upper-division (3000+ level) CS courses. At least 6 hours must be 4000-level or higher.

NOTE: Internships, Independent Studies, and similar courses cannot be taken for this requirement.

Mathematics (17 Credit Hours)

Natural Science (9-10 credit hours)

Complete all of the courses for either the Physics or Chemistry sequence listed below.