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Computer Science
BS, BS/MS, Minor
Major in computer science
Computer science is at the center of today’s AI-driven world, driving innovations in artificial intelligence, data science, software engineering, cybersecurity, cloud computing, robotics, and next-generation digital systems. In the era of generative AI, the role of computer scientists is expanding in new and exciting directions. Today’s computer scientists not only build software, but also shape how intelligent systems are designed, deployed, and used responsibly.
UMass Dartmouth's ABET-accredited computer science bachelor's degree program prepares students to lead in this new reality.
Here you'll find a student-centered, hands-on computer science program with small lab sections, a wide range of elective courses, strong faculty mentorship, early research opportunities, and flexible pathways in high-demand areas such as AI and cybersecurity. You'll have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and customize your education with concentrations in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, game design, and software engineering.
Through internships, undergraduate research, hackathons, and our signature capstone program, you will build a strong portfolio, gain industry experience, and connect with employers, graduating ready for high-demand careers or advanced study.
Program curriculum and details
Student success
Average starting salary for computer science majors, class of 2024
Salary range: $100,000 - $104,150 UMass Dartmouth NACE AY 2024 Data Collection of Undergraduate AlumniComputer and information science occupations are among the fastest-growing jobs according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the World Economic Forum.
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Student spotlight
Bee Greenberg is a computer science major from Mansfield, MA, who built strong experience through undergraduate research and hands-on technical projects. She worked on cybersecurity research exploring blockchain as a security tool and developed projects including a web dashboard for running automated IT tasks. Outside the classroom, Bee was a star student-athlete and a leader in UMass Dartmouth’s LGBTQ+ STEM community.
Internship sites
- Carlson Software
- Curtiss Wright
- Dell Technologies
- General Dynamics
- Global Aquaculture Alliance
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center
- New Bedford Research and Robotics
- Wayfair
Career outcomes
- Amazon
- Apple
- IBM
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- MathWorks, Inc.
- Microsoft Corporation
- Putnam Investments
For the BS in computer and information science, you will complete 65 credits in general engineering and computer science courses with 120 credits overall.
Courses include algorithms, artificial intelligence, computer architecture, computer graphics, computer languages, computer networks, databases, game design, graphics animation, human-computer interaction operating systems, parallel computing, program design, programming, robotics, and software engineering.
During your senior year, you will complete a team-based capstone project that provides real-world experience defined by current industry needs.
You can tailor your education based on your interests and goals with concentrations in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, game design, and software engineering.
See the Academic Catalog for a full list of courses in the computer science curriculum.
Why add a computer science minor?
Students in other programs can enhance their education with a minor in computer science. Computer science plays a role in nearly every industry, from healthcare and finance to engineering, media, and the sciences, making it a valuable minor for students in many majors who want to strengthen their technical skills and expand their career opportunities.
Artificial Intelligence: Adding a minor in artificial intelligence gives you the technical foundation to understand and apply AI tools across industries. Whether you’re studying engineering, business, science, or design, AI knowledge helps you work with emerging technologies that are reshaping the economy and society. This minor requires 18–20 credits in computer science courses.
Computer Science Cybersecurity: Pairing cybersecurity with majors in engineering, business, or information systems can make you especially valuable in today’s security-focused digital landscape. This minor requires 21 credits in computer science courses.
Computer Science: A computer science minor strengthens your technical problem-solving skills and gives you insight into how modern software and computing systems work. It complements majors across STEM, business, and the sciences by adding programming and computational thinking skills that are in high demand. This minor requires 21 credits in computer and information science courses.
Computer Game Design: A minor in Computer Game Design allows you to explore the technical and creative process behind building video games. It pairs well with majors in computer science, digital media, art, or storytelling fields, helping you develop interactive experiences across platforms. This minor requires 20 credits in computer science courses.
Mobile Applications Development: Adding a minor in Mobile Applications Development prepares you to design, build, and deploy applications for smartphones and other mobile devices. This skill set complements majors in computer science, business, design, and entrepreneurship by giving you the ability to bring digital ideas directly to users’ devices. This minor requires 17 credits in computer science courses.
4+1 Accelerated bachelor’s to master’s option
Qualified students in this program may be eligible to pursue an accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s pathway at UMass Dartmouth. This option allows you to begin graduate coursework while completing your undergraduate degree and transition directly into a master's program. Learn how the accelerated program works.
- Capstone projects: most senior engineering students work in small teams on real-world, industry-specific challenges that demand analysis, proposals, prototypes, and solutions.
- Community: join organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers, the National Society of Black Engineers, and Engineers Without Borders.
- ES³ Engineering Student Support & Services: provides academic support, advising, peer mentoring, enrichment, referrals, and more
- Experience: participate in co-op and internship programs to gain the practical experience sought by employers.
- New initiatives: collaborate, create, and explore the Center for Scientific Computing and Visualization Research.
International (F-1) students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). To learn about the eligibility criteria and detailed steps to apply, please review the International Student & Scholar Center (ISSC) OPT page and USCIS resources. F-1 students must consult with the ISSC to apply for STEM OPT.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about the Computer Science BS, BS/MS program? Below are answers to common questions about admissions, curriculum, career outcomes, and student experience.
Computer science is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying job sectors in today's economy. From developing AI-powered tools that advance fields such as healthcare and engineering to building secure systems that protect financial systems and critical infrastructure, computer scientists' work impacts nearly every industry.
Computer science graduates are in-demand in a variety of industries and roles, including:
• Software developers
• Computer and information research scientists
• Information security analysts
• Database administrators
• Systems analysts
• Video game designers and developers
• AI engineers
• Mobile app developers
• Web developers
UMass Dartmouth's computer science program prepares students to adapt and thrive in a workforce that is continually reshaped by AI. Our graduates are also prepared to continue their studies and pursue research at the master's or PhD level.
Computer science majors are in demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that computer and information technology employment is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations between 2024-2034. And, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) reports that computer science majors are among the highest-paid recent graduates. While the tech job market may be competitive, organizations across industries need adaptable, AI-literate problem solvers with the foundational skills necessary to thrive in a changing economy.
At UMass Dartmouth, computer science majors are encouraged to pursue internships, undergraduate research experiences, and other professional development that will make them even more competitive in the job market.
Computer science differs from computer engineering in its emphasis on software, algorithms, data science, how systems are designed, and programming languages. Computer scientists primarily work on the software side of technology.
Computer engineers work with computer hardware, embedded systems, circuits, and processors.
All computer science majors will learn Java and C /C++. Additional programming languages and systems are available through specific courses or workshops.
A strong math background is recommended for computer science majors. The UMass Dartmouth computer science bachelor's degree program curriculum includes courses in calculus and discrete math.
Yes, UMass Dartmouth's BS in computer science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.
The accelerated BS/MS program (also referred to as a 4+1) in computer science allows qualifying students in the BS program to fast-track their pursuit of a master's degree, saving time and money on their graduate education. Students can apply to join this program during their third year of undergraduate study. If accepted to the program, students will take three graduate-level courses during their senior year, which will count toward the completion of both degrees.
The computer science bachelor's degree program at UMass Dartmouth culminates in a final capstone project where students solve a real-world problem for a client or sponsor. During this year-long experience, students will work in teams to bring a project from concept to design, development, trouble-shooting, and final client deliverables. Capstone sponsors and clients include local businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and faculty research initiatives.
No. While prior experience with coding and computer programming is helpful, it is not required for admittance to the computer science program.
International (F-1) students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). To learn about the eligibility criteria and detailed steps to apply, please review the International Student & Scholar Center (ISSC) OPT page and USCIS resources. F-1 students must consult with the ISSC to apply for STEM OPT.
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Accreditations and distinctions
