Major in computer science
The emphasis of computer and information science is on software, the methodologies of computing, and the study of powerful programming.
The computer science 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.
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.
The Computer & Information Science Department also offers a bachelor's degree in computer science with an option 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.
Computer scientists harness technology and imagination to make everything work better.
Internship sites
- Dell EMC
- General Dynamics
- Global Aquaculture Alliance
- Naval Undersea Warfare Systems
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
- IBM
- Lifespan
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- MathWorks, Inc.
- Microsoft Corporation
- Ocean Spray
- Oracle Corporation
- Putnam Investments
Entry-level computer science salary range:$58,990 - $74,784
National Association of Colleges & Employers 2019
Software developer was ranked #1 in "100 Best Jobs of 2019" by U.S. News.
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 option: The department offers a BS degree in computer science with an option 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.
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.
- 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.
- Experience: participate in co-op and internship programs to gain the practical experience sought by employers.
- New initiatives: collaborate, create, and explore at our IDEAStudio and the Center for Scientific Computing and Visualization Research.
- Honors College: take advanced courses, pursue research, and be part of a community of scholars
- Study Abroad: earn academic credits and gain a global perspective on your field
- Undergraduate Research: faculty work with students on cutting-edge research projects
- University Studies: gain the benefit of a broad university education to enhance your knowledge and skills
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
with advanced study
- 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.