Exploring Bachelor of Computer Science Programs

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Posted Nov 6, 2024

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A Bachelor of Computer Science degree can be completed in four years, with some programs offering a co-op or internship option to gain hands-on experience.

The curriculum typically includes courses in computer systems, software engineering, data structures, and algorithms.

Students can expect to take a variety of electives to specialize in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or human-computer interaction.

Many programs also offer a research component, where students can work on a project under the guidance of a faculty member.

Choosing a CS Program

Choosing a CS program can be a daunting task, but there are several key factors to consider. Online vs. in-person vs. hybrid programs are all viable options, and it's essential to choose the one that best fits your learning style.

Accreditation is also a crucial factor, as it ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality. Prestige can also be an important consideration, as it can impact job prospects and career advancement.

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When researching programs, it's also a good idea to consider faculty diversity and background, as well as graduation rates. This can give you a sense of the program's effectiveness and support.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a CS program:

  • Online vs. in-person vs. hybrid
  • Accreditation
  • Prestige
  • Faculty diversity and background
  • Graduation rate
  • Career services

Factors to Consider in Choosing a CS Program

Choosing a CS program can be a daunting task, but breaking it down into key factors can make it more manageable. Online vs. in-person vs. hybrid programs are all viable options, and it's essential to consider which one suits your learning style best.

Accreditation is also a crucial factor to consider. It ensures that the program meets certain standards, which can be beneficial for your future career. Look for programs that are accredited by reputable organizations.

Prestige is another aspect to consider, but it shouldn't be the only factor. A program's prestige can be influenced by many factors, including its faculty diversity and background. A diverse faculty can bring different perspectives to the classroom, enriching your learning experience.

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Graduation rate is an important metric to consider. It indicates how well the program prepares its students for success. Look for programs with high graduation rates to increase your chances of completing your degree.

Career services are also essential to consider. A good program should offer resources to help you find a job or start your own business after graduation. Some programs may have stronger career services than others, so be sure to research this aspect.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a CS program:

Student Voices

New York Tech's computer science courses are designed to be very open-ended, allowing students to experiment and find solutions on their own. This hands-on approach helps students grow and understand the process of software development.

This type of learning environment will serve students well when they enter the workforce after graduation, where they'll be expected to think critically and solve problems independently.

Objectives

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Choosing a CS program can be a daunting task, but understanding the objectives of the program can help you make an informed decision.

The program's educational objectives are designed to prepare students for a successful career in computer science. Students are expected to attain the following abilities within a few years of graduation: grow as well-educated professionals, apply theoretical and practical knowledge to develop software solutions, work effectively as individuals or team members, and maintain their skills as the field evolves.

A bachelor's degree in computer science can provide students with a broad range of skills, including theory and mathematics of computation, problem analysis, programming languages, and decision loops.

Programs may also emphasize specific areas, such as algorithms, data structures, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. For example, students can develop skills in discrete algebra and human-computer interaction.

Here are some key objectives to look for in a CS program:

  • Broadly Educated and Versatile
  • Inspiring and Collaborative
  • Innovative
  • Engaged

These objectives can help you understand what the program is trying to achieve and whether it aligns with your goals.

CS Program Details

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Before you start building your skills, experience, and credentials at New York Tech, you'll want to learn more about applying to the bachelor's in computer science.

Applying to the bachelor's in computer science at New York Tech requires some preparation, so make sure to review the program details beforehand.

To get started, you'll need to learn more about the program and its requirements, including any related scholarship opportunities that can help make your education more affordable.

New York Tech offers a range of scholarship opportunities for students pursuing a bachelor's in computer science, so be sure to explore these options carefully.

The program details will give you a clear understanding of what to expect from the program, including the curriculum, course requirements, and any specializations or concentrations available.

By reviewing the program details, you'll be well-prepared to apply and start building your skills, experience, and credentials in computer science.

Admission and Requirements

To pursue a Bachelor of Computer Science, you'll need to meet New York Tech's undergraduate admission requirements.

You'll also need to have completed at least three years of high school-level math.

Reviewing the program-specific requirements will give you a clear understanding of what you need to apply.

Enrollment and Graduation

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The number of students enrolled in the program has fluctuated over the years, with a low of 246 in 2018-2019 and a high of 331 in 2016-2017.

The number of graduates has also varied, with a low of 26 in 2016-2017 and a high of 72 in 2017-2018.

Here's a breakdown of the enrollment and graduation figures over the past few years:

The number of students has been steadily increasing in recent years, with a notable jump from 246 in 2018-2019 to 311 in 2022-2023.

Admission Requirements

To get into New York Tech's Computer Science program, you'll need to meet the standard undergraduate admission requirements.

Incoming first-year students must have completed at least three years of high school-level math.

Review the program-specific requirements carefully to ensure you're on the right track.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships are available for computer science majors, but they often come with specific requirements and competition.

You can find scholarships that support computer science majors broadly, while others focus on specific concentrations like cybersecurity or software development.

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Some scholarships, like the Betty Stevens Frecknall Scholarship, require applicants to be U.S. citizens or residents, enrolled full-time in accredited institutions, and have a GPA of 3.0 or better.

Other scholarships, such as the Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship, award $10,000 to 200 recipients each year, with the option to renew up to three times, totaling $40,000.

To qualify, applicants must hold a 2.5 GPA or higher and be willing to intern with Lockheed Martin.

Additionally, scholarships like the Palantir Future Scholarship support students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups in technology careers.

FASTRAC Scholarships, backed by the National Science Foundation, provide four years of financial and academic support to incoming students majoring in computer science or electrical and computer engineering.

Are Degrees Expensive?

The cost of a degree can be a major concern for many students. The average net price for one year of college at public institutions is $14,700, while private nonprofit institutions charge $28,400, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

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Tuition for online computer science programs can vary significantly, ranging from $130 to $550 per credit. Online degrees may be more affordable than on-campus programs.

Large public universities often charge less than small private colleges, and your state residency can also determine your tuition rate at a public university. This means that students who are residents of their state may pay lower tuition fees.

Some schools offer subscription-based programs that allow you to complete assignments at your own pace, which can be a cost-effective option for highly motivated students.

Fastrac Scholarships

The FASTRAC Scholarships are a great option for students planning to major in computer science or electrical and computer engineering. These scholarships are backed by the National Science Foundation and provide four years of financial and academic support.

Recipients of the FASTRAC Scholarships receive faculty mentorship, access to high-impact instruction, and opportunities to participate in engineering design projects, internships, and hackathons. This comprehensive support can help students succeed in their studies and prepare them for a career in computer science or electrical and computer engineering.

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The FASTRAC Scholarships are available to incoming students, and recipients can expect to receive four years of funding. This can help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing a degree in computer science or electrical and computer engineering.

Applicants for the FASTRAC Scholarships should note that the program is designed to support students who are just starting their undergraduate studies.

Career and Salary

A bachelor's degree in computer science can prepare you for a career in computer programming, information security, software development, or web development.

Professionals in the computer and information technology field earn a median U.S. annual salary of $100,530 as of May 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

With a computer science degree, you can pursue many dynamic careers, including those in cybersecurity and data science, which are expected to experience above-average growth through 2032.

Here are some median annual salaries for computer science graduates:

  • Computer and information technology: $100,530 (May 2022)
  • Computer science and related occupations: $104,920 (May 2023)

Is a Degree Worth It?

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A computer science degree can help open doors to many dynamic careers. The BLS projects that employment in computer and information technology will grow faster than average from 2022-2032, with jobs in this group paying a median annual wage of $104,920.

You'll need to consider the cost of earning that degree, though. As of the 2020-21 school year, the average net price for one year of college at public institutions stood at $14,700 and $28,400 at private nonprofit institutions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

The good news is that a computer science degree can be worth it in the long run. With a median annual wage of $104,920, you can expect a strong return on investment.

Online degrees may be more affordable than on-campus programs, with tuition running from $130-$550 per credit, though costs can vary significantly.

Student Outcomes

As a computer science graduate, you can expect to possess a range of skills that make you a valuable asset in the industry.

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You'll be able to analyze complex computing problems and apply principles of computing to identify solutions, which is a crucial skill for any computer science professional.

By graduation, you'll be able to design, implement, and evaluate computing-based solutions to meet specific requirements, a skill that's highly sought after in the industry.

Effective communication is also a key aspect of computer science, and you'll be able to communicate effectively in various professional contexts.

Professionals in this field must also recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments based on legal and ethical principles.

To give you a better idea of what you'll be able to do after graduation, here are the specific skills you'll possess:

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

Career Options

As a computer science graduate, you'll have a wide range of career options to choose from. With a median annual wage of $104,920, according to the BLS, you can pursue a career in computer programming, information security, software development, or web development.

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Computer science graduates can work in various fields, including cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering. These fields are expected to experience above-average growth through 2032, with cybersecurity and data science surpassing other disciplines.

You can consider a career in computer programming, which combines coursework in programming, data structures, and cybersecurity to empower new programmers, developers, and administrators. This degree can also prepare you for a career in software engineering, emphasizing computer programming, engineering, and math.

If you're interested in teaching or research, you can pursue a Ph.D. in computer science, which can give you the chance to shape the technology of the future. With a Ph.D., you may be able to advance into a specialized position or leadership role.

Here are some potential career paths for computer science graduates:

  • Computer Programmer: Empower new programmers, developers, and administrators with coursework in programming, data structures, and cybersecurity.
  • Software Engineer: Prepare individuals to pursue work as software engineers and research scientists with a focus on computer programming, engineering, and math.
  • Information Security Expert: Equip information security experts with knowledge of data analytics, penetration testing, and digital forensics.
  • Data Scientist: Learn the mathematical uses of technology required to solve operational problems, in addition to computer science.
  • Web Developer: Pursue a career in web development with a focus on computer programming, information security, and software development.

Professionals in the computer and information technology field earn a median U.S. annual salary of $100,530 as of May 2022, according to the BLS. With a bachelor's degree in computer science, you can start your career and work your way up to specialized positions or leadership roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a bachelor of computer science do?

A Bachelor of Computer Science prepares you for careers in programming, software development, and web development, with opportunities to advance into specialized or leadership roles. It's a stepping stone to a wide range of tech careers, from coding to cybersecurity.

Is computer science BA or BS better?

Both BA and BS in computer science have their benefits, but a BA is ideal for a multidisciplinary approach, while a BS is better suited for specialized technical roles

Landon Fanetti

Writer

Landon Fanetti is a prolific author with many years of experience writing blog posts. He has a keen interest in technology, finance, and politics, which are reflected in his writings. Landon's unique perspective on current events and his ability to communicate complex ideas in a simple manner make him a favorite among readers.

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