Computer Science, B.S.

Computer science student smiling in front of lap top wearing long sleeve navy shirt.

Master software design, data representation, data management, and data transition.

As technology grows, so does the need for those who can understand and apply its principles. When you become a computer science major, you’ll enjoy a challenging learning environment that’s designed to help prepare you for a rewarding career. We offer small classes with individualized attention taught by full-time faculty members. We also provide both internal and external internships where you can gain valuable, hands-on work experience. Plus, our computer science degree is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and meets the latest industry standards and trends. You can also choose to specialize in End-User Computing through an optional concentration.

Program Highlights

  • On campus
  • Program is ABET accredited
  • Instructors with industry experience
  • Work in one or more real world projects
  • Build an attractive portfolio as part of the program

Challenge yourself and discover new ways of thinking.

Learn to design, implement, and apply computing-based solutions to solve problems.

Start a successful tech career with a bachelor’s in computer science.

  • Computer science student writing in front of laptop wearing blue long sleeve shirt.

    Pursue your interests as you choose your electives

    Our program offers a variety of elective courses that allow you to concentrate and specialize in an area that interests you most. Choose from mobile computing, cloud computing, cybersecurity, game development, machine learning, and other interesting fields.

  • Computer science faculty member wearing white coat assisting a student wearing navy hoodie.

    Individualized attention and outstanding student support

    Get the hands-on experience you need to thrive. Whether you’re looking to specialize in software design, web development, or network administration, you will benefit from small class sizes and individualized advising. Take advantage of opportunities for mentorships designed to support you and participate in external events like programming competitions.

  • Three computer science students smiling in front of laptops.

    Accredited program prepares you for success

    Our Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program of study is based on the curricular recommendations of the ACM and is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. We constantly review our computer science degree curriculum to ensure it’s up to date—not only for required courses, but also for the choices of electives within it.

Program Details

Program Mission

Program Mission:

Our mission is to provide our students with a high quality and comprehensive education in different areas of computer science and information technology, so that upon graduation they will:

  1. Be gainfully employed in a computer-related field, engaged in graduate study, or successfully involved in activities or careers that make use of the knowledge and abilities acquired in their computer science and computer information systems program of study.
  2. Contribute to their workplaces and society in a manner that is meaningful, professional, and ethically responsible.
  3.  Have the ability to adapt to the changing needs of the workplace by acquiring, whether via graduate work, professional improvement opportunities, professional societies, or self-study, the knowledge and skills that will allow them to be successful.
  4. Communicate effectively, so as to enable them to perform both collaborative work within teams and effective interaction with a broad range of audiences.
Program Vision

The computer science (CS) major has as its focus the design and implementation of algorithms, interfaces, and software in the areas of systems, application and/or web-enhanced programming, networking, database, and computer architecture. The program can best be described as a mixture of theoretical study combined with application-oriented work in the key areas of the discipline. Generally, graduates of this program of study are recruited as software or system designers, consultants, or scientific or technical application programmers. This program of study requires 79 credits in the major, to include 54 credits of direct CAIS study, and 25 credits in the supporting areas of mathematics, physical science and technical writing (of which 16 credits simultaneously fulfill 4 core course requirements).

Learning Outcomes

Computer Science Student Outcomes 

  • Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
  • Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts. 
  • Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
  • Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
  • Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

There were a few things I learned in school that really helped with my career. The first is computer science fundamentals, data structures, programming, object-oriented design. That is your foundation for any job related to computer science. Another thing I learned was to be self-driven. There are so many different technologies that you will need the ability to teach yourself on the job when you encounter something new. And then the last thing I learned that really helped are soft skills and professional skills to be able to work with other people.

Christian Biseinere, '19

What can you do with a computer science degree?

Earning your computer science degree ensures that you are trained in the latest technologies and have the skills you need for the position you want. You’ll hit the ground running with the knowledge and experience you need to thrive in positions such as:

  • Software engineer
  • Web developer
  • Database administrator
  • Network administrator 
  • DevOps engineer
  • Cybersecurity analyst 
A person works on a laptop set in front of an additional monitor.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Program Educational Objectives

Computer Science Program of Study

"Program Educational Objectives" are broad statements that describe what graduates are expected to attain within a few years of graduation. These Program Educational Objectives were developed, refined, and finalized with input and feedback from various constituencies involved in and concerned with the Computer Science program of study, including the DCIS faculty, the DCIS Advisory Board, representatives of local employers, computer science faculty from schools with graduate programs, and both graduates and current students of the Westfield State University computer science program.

Our graduates will be gainfully employed in a computer-related field, engaged in graduate study, or successfully involved in activities or careers that make use of the knowledge and abilities acquired in their computer science program of study. Our graduates will contribute to their workplaces and society in a manner that is meaningful, professional, and ethically responsible. Our graduates will have the ability to adapt to the changing needs of the workplace by acquiring, whether via graduate work, professional improvement opportunities, professional societies, or self-study, the knowledge and skills that will allow them to be successful. Our graduates will communicate effectively, so as to enable them to perform both collaborative work within teams and effective interaction with a broad range of audiences.

The members of the DCIS Advisory Board (i.e., the constituents of the Westfield State University Computer Science program) are local business leaders, industry employers, computer science faculty from schools with graduate programs, and both graduates and current students of the Westfield State University computer science program - all of whom have a direct stake in the quality of the educational program that we provide.

 

Computer Science Student Outcomes

Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program's discipline. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgemnts in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program's discipline. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

The CS program student outcomes are the student outcomes proposed by the ABET Computing Accreditation Board.

For information about the Mathematics and Computer Science Double Major, B.S. degree please click here.

Requirements for the Computer Science Major

The COMS program of study requires 79 credits in the major, to include 54 credits of direct CAIS study, and 25 credits in the supporting areas of mathematics, science, and technical writing (of which, 16 credits simultaneously fulfill four core course requirements). The requirements are as follow:

Direct CAIS Study - 54 Credits

Two of the following (CAIS Electives) - 6 Credits:

Non-CAIS Background and/or Core Courses - 25 credits

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in the Common Core.

View the computer science course plan

Get big school features with small school advantages.  

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 92%+

    of faculty hold doctorates

  • 84%

    of grads are employed in their field 

Learn from industry leaders.

Our dedicated full-time faculty combine theory and practice to prepare you for what’s ahead. As experienced professionals, they are constantly keeping up with the latest technology to ensure you get the most out of your learning experience. Our state-of-the-art Student Multimedia Technology Center and modern student classroom/lab/distance learning facility—along with small classes and one-on-one attention—mean that you will have access to the education you need to pursue the career you want.

Department Chair Steve Boughosn poses for a photo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a computer science degree?

A computer science degree helps you to gain the knowledge and abilities you need to understand software design, data representation, data management, and transmission of data via files and networks. You’ll be prepared to work in web development, computer hardware organization, networking, security, graphics, simulation, and artificial intelligence.

What jobs can you get with a computer science degree?

A computer science degree prepares you for employment in many computer-related fields, such as systems programming or systems administration (with responsibilities in areas such as compiler, operating system, or utility program design). You'll also be prepared to work as a network, database, or security administrator; web programmer; or a scientific or application software engineer, designer, or analyst.

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

What scholarships are available?

S-STEM Scholarship is available to Incoming full-time first-year​​​​ Westfield State University students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, and Mathematics, with low-income status defined as Pell Grant eligible by the Financial Aid Office and an average GPA equal to or higher than 2.8, are eligible to apply.

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Computer Science, B.S.