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Computer Science Major

Become an expert at programming and software engineering

A variety of careers in computer science and technology are waiting for you. You’ll gain fundamental knowledge, as well as real-world practical experience, using the latest techniques and current software. Learn how to program using the most up-to-date languages and complete coursework in full-stack software development or cybersecurity.

What to Expect

Choose from one of three tracks: Cybersecurity, Full-Stack Software Development, and Theoretical Computing.

Consists of 41-50 credits with core classes in programming, algorithms, operating systems, software engineering, and more.

Courses

You’ll take courses that will teach you how to use computers to solve problems. Classes like programming, operating systems, software engineering, database systems, computer networks form the core of the major that prepares graduates to impact cutting edge computer technology.

Programming I
CSCI-101

Introduces the fundamentals of programming in a general-purpose object-oriented programming language such as C++ or Java.

Operating Systems
CSCI-342

Covers principles of computer operating systems including the management of processes, memory, I/O devices, and file systems.

Software Engineering
CSCI-400

A project-based course that covers the tools used in modern software development. Students design, implement, test, and document a software system.

Required Courses Meet the Faculty

Student pointing at paper while professors writes on chalkboard

The Computer Science faculty inspired me by showing me that I could fall in love with programming and create something from just an idea.

Jarret Horton ’18, Computer Science Major

Careers

Pursue careers in programming, software design, research and development, technical support and more. Our alumni have landed in careers at The Smithsonian Institution, IBM, and Leidos among others. Their career paths include:

  • Computer Programmer
  • Computer Engineer
  • Database Analyst
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Systems Manager
  • Network Administrator
  • Programmer/Analyst
  • Security Analyst
  • Software Engineer
  • Web Developer

Chart your path

Learn more about career paths, employment and advancement in the field of computer science from the Association for Computing Machinery.

Beth was a student mentor and a work-study student. She spent a summer working with program flight data. After graduation, she worked for Eagle Technologies, a government contractor in Northern Virginia. She spent five years working on database application development and preparing for her current position as Senior Systems Analyst at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. “See opportunities as steps toward your dream, but don’t be limited by your dream.”

Gillian rode with the equestrian team and was part of the Flory Fellows Honors Program. She worked as a teaching assistant and tutor for multiple computer courses. She has worked in software development for the aerospace industry and is now a Senior Software Engineer and Systems Designer working for SWIFT, the organization where she interned for two summers while at Bridgewater College. “BC prepared me to be curious, to ask questions, to speak up when I don’t understand something, and to be confident in my abilities.”

Jarret honed his leadership ability and teamwork skills on the field as a pitcher for BC’s baseball team. He completed internships with the Department of Labor Office of Administrative Law Judges and Anthem Health Insurance. He also interned at Whiteboard Federal Technologies, where he now works as a Software Engineer. “BC’s curriculum really challenged me and pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, which helped me become a better person and professional.”

Questions? Contact Us!

Dr. Verne E. Leininger, Department Chair
540-828-5698
vleining@bridgewater.edu