¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ

Computer Science: Technical Applications, B.S.

Computer Science: Technical Applications, B.S.

Program Overview

Do you enjoy the challenge of solving problems, and have a knack for using technology to help you solve them? Do you like understanding complex systems? If so, you should consider a major in computer science with an emphasis in technical applications.

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ computer science majors learn how computers work, from the underlying hardware to the use of high-level application programs. In addition, they learn how to design software to perform tasks and provide services. Computer scientists are often the creative force behind computer games, robots, and interactive graphics. With an emphasis in technical applications, you will gain the broader mathematical background often required by graduate programs or the defense and security industries.

The Department of Mathematical, Information, and Computer Sciences (MICS) is committed to working with you to help you discover who you are called to be. As a computer science major at ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ, you will be immersed in a curriculum that not only allows you to gain the broad knowledge of your discipline, but also aims to help you develop the characteristics necessary to be an effective member of the communities where you work and live. As a graduate, you will be prepared to serve our complex world through your technical and professional abilities. All of this and more will be available to you in a collaborative and supportive environment of students and faculty alike.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Computer Science: Technical Applications, B.S. program, view the ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ Catalog. 

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

Apply Now

Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ, we’re committed to supporting you â€” academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Career Opportunities

Over the course of the last half century, computers have become an essential part of modern society. Because technology is constantly evolving, our world cannot function without the expertise of computer scientists. A degree in computer science secures a path toward a multitude of careers and industries, places where problem-solving abilities and analytical skills are valued assets. ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ computer science alumni have found success in the workforce through systems engineering at Leidos, systems security at SPAWAR, and software engineering at General Atomics, just to name a few.

A Bachelor of Science in computer science with an emphasis in technical applications can lead to careers in:

  • Academia
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Bioinformatics
  • Computer aided design
  • Computer engineering
  • Computer games and simulations
  • Computer graphics
  • Computer programming
  • Cryptography
  • Cybersecurity
  • Database administration
  • Information assurance and protection
  • Network administration
  • Operations research analysis
  • System security

Computer science graduates may also choose to pursue a relevant master’s degree in order to qualify as a computer and information research scientist. According to the , research scientists earn a median annual salary of $126,830, and jobs in the profession are projected to grow 15% between 2019-2029.

What can you do with a computer science: technical applications degree?

The field of computer science is vast and broad and many graduates with this degree find success in the workforce after university. For example, ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ alumni have gone on to work for successful technology companies such as: Appfolio Inc., Trellisware Technologies, Inc., Intel Corporation, Miva Inc., and Northrop Grumman Corporation.

The following elaborates on certain positions that ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ computer science alumni currently hold:

Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts

2020 Median annual salary $110,140

Software developers design and create computer applications or programs. Software developers also determine other requirements, such as security. They design the program and then work closely with programmers who write computer code. However, some developers write code themselves instead of giving instructions to programmers. Software quality assurance analysts and testers identify problems with applications or programs and report the defects. 

What it takes to be a software developer or software quality assurance analyst: 

  • Programming and coding knowledge
  • Understanding of how to create test plans, scenarios, and procedures for new software
  • Creativity and ingenuity for model and diagram making
  • An understanding of designing and developing software

Computer and Information Systems Managers

2020 Median annual salary $151,150

Computer and information systems managers come up with, organize, and direct computer-related activities for their companies. Computer and information system managers work to understand the technological needs of a company and find ways to meet those needs through technological implementations. They must be familiar with computer hardware, software, and programs. 

What it takes to be a computer and information systems manager:

  • Analytical skills
  • Communication skills
  • Decision-making skills
  • Leadership skills
  • Organizational skills

Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers

2020 Median annual salary $77,200

Web developers and digital interface designers' main responsibility is to create and maintain websites for their companies. They develop, create, and test website layout, functions, and navigation. Web developers and designers create the look and features of a website. Once a website is created, a designer helps with maintenance and additions to the website.

What it takes to be a web developer and digital interface designer: 

  • Communication skills
  • Creativity
  • Customer-service skills
  • Detail orientation
  • Problem-solving skills

Alumni listed the following skills as the top strengths they acquired as computer science students at ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ: 

  • Software engineering
  • Java (programming language)
  • C++ (programming language)
  • HyperText markup language (HTML)
  • JavaScript (programming language)
  • Python (programming language)

Using your Computer Science: Technical Applications degree beyond university 

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ’s computer science program is designed to prepare you for career advancement and success. In today's society, industries often rely on computer science professionals to manage a company's technological needs, making computer science skills invaluable to countless employers.

For more information about careers in computer science, please visit:

Apply to ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ today or for additional support and answers to any questions you may have.

Marissa Dotter

Teaching Machines to Learn

How can we teach a computer to learn the way we do? Marissa Dotter (17), a physics and engineering graduate, explores this question.

 

Department Faculty