Our world runs on computers, but only a few know how and why they work. Computers are much more than a collection of programming languages, and there’s demand in practically every industry for experts who know the ins and outs of the devices that provide too many services to count. If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding career or want to learn the art and science behind modern technology, OHIO’s Bachelor of Science in computer science program is right for you.
As a professional computer scientist, you’ll be equipped to work for businesses, carry out research, and much more. With evergreen skills that make you an invaluable asset in any industry, you’ll have an unimaginable range of doors open to you, and it all starts here at Ohio University .
What You'll Learn
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Core Classes
To ensure you’re ready for any computer science challenge ahead, you’ll complete a collection of 15 required computer science courses covering topics like data structures, software design and development, and operating systems.
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Technical Electives
You’ll also have the opportunity to specialize your degree according to your interests. You’ll choose nine hours of technical electives like computation theory, parallel computing, and software verification to complete your CS program.
Choose Where You Want to Learn
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Athens, OH, Residential Campus
The complete computer science program at Ohio University is only available at our residential campus in Athens . While some classes may be completed online, most students will reap the most rewards from attending full-time at our energizing campus, where students can collaborate, socialize, and enjoy the plethora of fun activities in town.
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Regional Campuses
Many OHIO CS majors opt to take certain classes at our regional campuses. If one of these campuses is closer to your home, you can spend a semester or two studying there before transferring to the main Athens campus.
Careers in Computer Science
Not sure what specific, lucrative computer science careers await you? There are dozens of different positions you’ll be qualified for upon graduating with your computer science degree, including the data science and artificial intelligence / machine learning fields. Examples include:
- Computer programmer
- Computer and information research scientist
- Computer network architect
- Information security analyst
- Web developer
- Software developer
- Network and computer system administrator
Post-Grad Opportunities for Computer Science Majors
Once you graduate from OHIO’s computer science bachelor’s program, the sky’s the limit!
Many of our students head straight into our M.S. in computer science program . It’s a stellar option for those who want to jump into a specific industry or give their careers an early extra boost, and it has both thesis and non-thesis project options. Ohio University also offers a Ph.D. track, enabling you to pursue your doctoral degree – and a career in computer science research – as soon as you decide it’s where you want to go.
But many of our students also take their undergraduate degrees and find immediate success in the job market. Thanks to required internship experiences and additional experiential learning opportunities, you may find that you have one – or several! – job offers waiting for you before your final semester.
Study in the Honors Tutorial Program in Advanced Computing
Exceptional students can apply for and study within the Honors Tutorial Program in Advanced Computing . It offers a flexible curriculum and one-on-one tutorials with the most knowledgeable faculty at the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
Get Hands-On Experience With Your Computer Science Degree
Mastering computer science requires more than sitting through lectures. That’s why CS majors at Ohio University will participate in a variety of hands-on, experiential learning opportunities.
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Participate in undergraduate research
OHIO strongly encourages undergraduate CS research. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to participate in sponsored research projects to hone their skills and bolster their resumes.
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Jump into AR/VR development projects
Ohio University computer science students can participate in augmented reality and virtual reality development projects for medical facilities and other organizations.
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Work with NASA
Ohio University computer science majors have chances to work with major government organizations, including NASA! For instance, previous students completed a Mars rover project.
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Senior design sequence
All computer science majors at Ohio University must finish the senior design sequence. Four students work on a single project all year long, leveraging the CS skills they’ve learned up to that point, and complete it as a team.
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Join the Avionics Engineering Center
OHIO computer science majors can join the Avionics Engineering Center , the largest research center at Ohio University overall and one of the premier avionics research facilities in the world.
Why choose a computer science degree?
As our world becomes more and more reliant on interlinked computer systems, the demand for capable professionals who know how to solve problems, devise new solutions, and use computer technology effectively will continue to rise. Earning your computer science bachelor’s degree now will set you up for decades of professional prosperity, so it’s an excellent program for students concerned about future career prospects.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , employment in the computer and information technology industry is projected to grow significantly over the next decade. This organization projects over 377,000 new job openings every year.
On a personal level, a bachelor’s degree in computer science might be worthwhile if you use computers all the time and want to learn more about this vital technology. Studying computer science as a discipline will provide you with a greater appreciation for the technological marvels we use every day.
Student Support Resources for Computer Science Majors
Computer science majors at Ohio University will benefit from a variety of different support resources, including knowledgeable faculty, who often act as mentors beyond the classroom. In addition, every student will have several success advisors assigned to them – these are knowledgeable full-time professionals committed to helping you make the best choices and accomplish all your degree objectives on time.
At Ohio University, we’re committed to ensuring that every program, including computer science, feels welcoming to students from varied backgrounds. Computer science student organizations such as the National Society of Black Engineers , the Society of Women Engineers , and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers facilitate social events, networking opportunities, and additional professional development for students from underrepresented groups.
All students can apply for various engineering and technology scholarship awards . The Russ College has several renewable scholarships for first-year students, totaling over $1.3 million in scholarship awards to students every year (not counting scholarships offered by Ohio University overall). Cutler Scholarships are an excellent example, available to extraordinary and highly committed students.
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Computer Science Minor
In today's technical society, understanding how computing works and affects nearly every aspect of our lives can be huge benefit to students in other disciplines. With a minor in computer science, you'll have a foundation of knowledge that can be applied to fields such as business, medicine, education, and even the arts.
For more info. on the computer science minor program, explore the course requirements or email eecs@ohio.edu .