Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Our students gain knowledge and awareness of computing at all levels, preparing them for intriguing and successful careers in industry, research, entrepreneurship or academia.

The BS degree in computer science emphasizes knowledge and awareness of computing at all levels. Students gain a hands-on education exploring circuits and computer architecture, operating systems, and programming languages. Through the program, students learn about theoretical and mathematical aspects of computing while gaining understanding of the interdependence of hardware and software, preparing them for careers in most fields. 

  • Develop complex software knowledge
  • Learn about the engineering principles used to meet software production challenges
  • Design and build the systems that keep our society functioning

Connect with many high-tech companies right here in Boulder, many of which sponsor computer science internships or mentorship programs

Top 20 public U.S. university for engineering

(U.S. News & World Report, 2020)

Learn from award-winning faculty, including NSF CAREER Award winners

Be successful.

Be prepared to meet the needs of society by applying your knowledge and expertise in computer science to industry or academia.

 
$104,000

Median salary of CU Boulder computer science students 1–5 years after graduation

 

Software engineer, software developer, web developer, programmer and research assistant are common job titles of our graduates

 

Amazon, Seagate Technology, Microsoft, Google, Twitter and Lockheed Martin employ our graduates

Academic Plan & Requirements

Students in the computer science BS program will complete a breadth of computer science courses with a strong foundation in mathematics. Students must also complete a required senior software design project, entrepreneurial capstone or senior thesis.

Courses include:

  • 58 credit hours of computer science classes
  • 17 credit hours of mathematics classes
  • 18 credit hours of humanities, social science and writing classes
  • 17 credit hours of natural science classes
  • 12 credit hours of free electives

And an additional degree option for computer science students: 

  • Bachelor’s-accelerated master’s: A combined bachelor's (BS) and master's (MS) degree is offered for highly motivated undergraduate students. The BAM program allows students to take advanced courses at an accelerated pace, engage in an independent research project and obtain both degrees in five years.

Community & Involvement

We offer students many opportunities to network with peers and faculty, further their studies, and get the most out of their undergraduate experience.

Some opportunities include: