Computer Science
BS, BS/MS

Major in computer science

The emphasis of computer and information science is on software, the methodologies of computing, and the study of powerful programming. From developing cutting-edge software to advancing artificial intelligence, computer scientists drive innovation in nearly every industry.

What do computer scientists do?

Computer scientists develop new technologies and improve existing ones to solve complex problems. Computer scientists work in industries such as tech companies, research labs, government agencies, and startups, shaping the future of technology and innovation.

Computer science is one of the fastest growing industries. As the demand for new and better technology grows, computer scientists' expertise will be needed to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

The computer science program curriculum is programming intensive, supported by substantial laboratory components, and directed toward modern software development. Your studies are supplemented by work in specialized labs and a network of state-of-the-art workstations. Through internships, hackathons, and our signature capstone program, you will gain real-world experience and build industry connections to help launch your career in computer science.

You will be prepared to work in the computer industry and in business, in careers that have high growth and earning potential. You may work as a computer scientist, software engineer, software developer, database administrator, computer support specialist, or system administrator. You'll also be well-prepared to continue your studies at the graduate level.

Optional concentrations in the computer science program include software development, artificial intelligence, game design, and cybersecurity.

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.

Software Engineering concentration: The department offers a BS degree in computer science with a concentration in software engineering: the systematic approach to the development, operation, and maintenance of software systems used in business, medicine, science, engineering, entertainment, and other fields. For this option, you will complete 63 credits in general engineering and computer science courses with 120 credits overall.

Artificial Intelligence concentration: The department offers a BS degree in computer science with a concentration in artificial intelligence: the study of computer applications and information science applicable to fields that require intelligent software systems.

Computer Game Design concentration: The department offers a BS degree in computer science with a concentration in Computer Game Design: the study of software technologies relevant to games, in preparation for a promising career in the gaming industry.

Cybersecurity concentration: The department offers a BS degree in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity: the study of cyber defense and secure software development.

Artificial Intelligence: Prepares you with knowledge in AI and the ability to effectively provide technical diversity in fields that are shaping the world economically, socially, and culturally. For this minor, you’ll complete 18-20 credits in computer science courses.

Computer Science: Learn about the structure, methodologies, and trends in computer science. For the minor, you'll complete 21 credit hours in computer and information science courses.

Computer Game Design: Learn how to develop video games, independent of platform. For the minor, you'll complete 20 credits in computer science courses.

Mobile Applications Development: Prepares you to develop and market applications for mobile devices. For the minor, you'll complete 17 credits in computer science courses.

Computer Science Cybersecurity: Prepares you with advanced skills in cyber defense. For the minor, you'll complete 21 credits in computer science courses.

Student success

Kyle Furtado '23

Computer science student Kyle Furtado '23 interned as a software engineer for the combat systems department at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center in Newport, R.I. He also conducted research on the awareness and attitudes of the public on the use of ads and their personal data, and on artificial intelligence.

Graduate school placements

McGill University (Canada)
Northeastern University
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Southern California
University of Texas at San Antonio
University of Washington

Career placements

Amazon
Apple
Environmental Partners
Google
IBM
Lifespan
Lockheed Martin Corporation
MathWorks, Inc.
Microsoft Corporation
Ocean Spray
Oracle Corporation
Putnam Investments

Average starting salary for computer science majors, class of 2022:
$83,259

NACE AY 2022 Data Collection of Undergraduate Alumni

Software developer was ranked #1 in "100 Best Jobs of 2023" by U.S. News & World Report.

Best Colleges US News Computer Science 2024

UMass Dartmouth: Best Colleges for Computer Science - US News

UMassD advantages

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.

UMass Dartmouth offers a great transfer experience for students who:

have graduated from an accredited community college, or
have earned college credits from an accredited college or university

Transfer Admissions

Expand your opportunities

Accelerated BS/MS Option in Computer Science: This program enables qualified BS degree students in computer science to complete both the BS and the MS with 9 fewer credits than if taken separately.
MS in Computer Science: Advanced study in theoretical computer science, computer systems, software engineering, parallel and distributed computing, and computer networks.
PhD program in Engineering and Applied Science: Emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of modern research at the interfaces of engineering, the applied sciences, and technology.