Computer Science, B.S.
Format: Face To Face Credits:120
The computer science major provides students with the intellectual foundations and experiences necessary to succeed professionally in the computing and information technology field.
92%
Alumni Working in Their Field
92% of GVSU computer science alumni work in their field.
9%
National Job Growth
Computer science opportunities are projected to grow 9% in the U.S. by 2025.
24,000+
Computer Science Jobs Available in Michigan
More than 24,000 computer science jobs were available in Michigan in 2019.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Computer science students receive a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. The diverse elective courses offered within the curriculum allow students to explore specialties within their field, such as:
- Artificial intelligence
- Computer graphics
- Web/mobile applications
- System/software security
- Usability design
- Data mining
A minor is also available.
WHY STUDY COMPUTER SCIENCE AT GRAND VALLEY?
Computing professionals who want to take their expertise or career to the next level can take advantage of Grand Valley's highly-credentialed and well-connected faculty.
- Accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, abet.org.
- The program offers a variety of electives and minors, so students can tailor their education to their interests.
- The curriculum is a combination of theoretical foundation and applied computing, giving students a competitive edge in the job market.
- Students gain practical experience through extensive internship opportunities available through the School of Computing.
- Dedicated computer labs with state-of-the-art equipment ensure relevant, hands-on experience.
COURSEWORK
The computer science program consists of core computer science classes, along with specialized applications. Some of these classes include:
- Algorithms
- Computer architecture
- Database
- Operating systems
- Programming languages
- Software engineering
SECONDARY ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Admission to major standing in computer science is competitive and requires a secondary application. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Overall GPA of 2.5 or above in all Grand Valley State University coursework
- GPA of 2.5 or above in the technical core
- Completion of each course in the technical core with a grade of C or above (C- is not sufficient)
- CIS 162 - Computer Science I
- CIS 163 - Computer Science II
- MTH 225
- STA 215 (or STA 312)
- COM 201
COMBINED DEGREE PROGRAMS
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
CAREER OPTIONS
Job opportunities in the computing and information technology industry are growing rapidly, particularly in occupations such as:
- Computer programmer
- Network administrator
- Software engineer
- Web domain administrator
- Web programmer/developer
- Database developer
SKILLS EMPLOYERS WANT
The B.S. in Computer Science at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following skills correlate with those pulled from actual computer science job postings.
- Computer Science
- Agile Software Development
- SQL (Programming Language)
- Project Management
- Information Systems
- Automation
- Java (Programming Language)
- Business Requirements
- Software Development
- Trouble Shooting
Source: EMSI, 2020
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.