BS in Computer Science

Accreditation

HCU’s Computer Science program is accredited by ABET. This accreditation ensures that our program meets the highest standards of quality and rigor, preparing our graduates to excel in the field of computer science.

For more details about our new ABET accreditation, please read our press release.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

The BS in Computer Science curriculum engages foundational and advanced topics in programming, data structures, computer operating systems, and programming languages and empowers you to apply classroom learning in a sequence of applied projects.

The 128-credit bachelor’s in computer science degree merges instruction in principles of liberal arts and philosophy, math, science, and core computer engineering concepts to foster a well-rounded academic journey.

Degree Plan

Review degree plan

Program of Study

In your first two years, you will:

• Learn fundamental knowledge and skills in mathematics (e.g., calculus, linear algebra), science and computer programming
• Implement and demonstrate these skills in a sequence of projects using a versatile hardware platform (mobile electronics kit, computing kit)
• Study additional concepts in programming, data structures and computer operating for more advanced subjects and projects in the upper levels
• Engage with HCU’s industry partners, including members of HCU’s Science and Engineering Advisory Board

In your junior and senior years, you will:

• Learn important concepts in computer architecture, computer networks and security, advanced data structures and programming languages, and software design
• Choose from advanced elective courses in digital forensics and cyber crime, wireless and mobile security, reverse engineering, cryptography, distributed and cloud computing, data analytics, and blockchain
• Complete at least one computer science internship

Computer Science Major Courses

As a computer science major, you will take courses in a range of in-demand areas of computing, including:

• Database Management Systems
• Computer Architecture
• Web Application Programming
• Software Design and Engineering

See more information about lab courses and any required equipment.

Computer Science Minor

Enhance your understanding of the back-end development of technology frameworks by adding the computer science minor to your chosen science and engineering major to learn more about computer programming, computer architecture, and data analytics.

View minor page

Review minor requirements

Graduate qualified and confident to excel as a valuable employee or entrepreneur with an enhanced understanding of current industry issues, whether you become a professional in the workforce or pursue advanced studies in computer science or a complementary field.

Learn more about the field of computer science.

Career Outcomes and Opportunities

After graduation from the BS in Computer Science degree program, you may seek initial professional roles and advance to higher positions in a variety of industries and career paths.

Every business or organization needs computers or information scientists to manage the technology relevant to that organization. At HCU, we are committed to strengthening your prospects in high-demand computer science job fields including education, energy, healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, technology, and more.

Gain the skills to work in rapidly growing careers and pursue additional professional training. You will be able to demonstrate the capabilities to:

• Analyze complex computing problems
• Apply computing and software development principles and computer science theory to identify solutions
• Design, implement, and evaluate computing-based solutions to meet given requirements
• Communicate effectively and execute professional responsibilities in a variety of professional contexts
• Collaborate with and lead teams
• Make informed decisions based on legal and ethical dimensions of computing

Whether you go on to design the next generation of world-changing software or build better security measures to protect the lives, property, and privacy of citizens domestically and globally, graduate ready to take on the challenge with HCU.

Explore the types of careers pursued by computer science majors.

Salaries

Because computer science remains one of the most in-demand professions in multiple industries, it follows that the salary outcomes for graduates of the bachelor’s in computer science have surged to some of the highest-paying jobs available.

While salary potentials grow for computer and information scientists and researchers who hold advanced degrees and have undergone years of experience, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports average salaries for roles attainable with a computer science bachelor’s degree up to six figures. This includes computer and information research scientists working in computer services, software publishing, scientific study, and the government and as computer science educators and professors.

Learn more about salaries for computer science majors.

Prepare for Further Education and Professional Development

The College of Science and Engineering provides tailored preparation for any future graduate-level education in computer science and related fields to ensure your readiness for competitive applications and high-level research projects after you graduate.

Receive one-on-one advice and mentorship, search for internships and graduate schools, and even complete prerequisite coursework necessary for your desired graduate degree program.

Explore resources available through the Professional Experience Office (PXO).

Built-in Engineering Internship

Before graduating from the computer science major program you will complete at least one real-world internship, observing professionals and gaining meaningful experience in the daily tasks and responsibilities of computer scientists.

Connected faculty and robust career support staff are on standby to help you find the internship that aligns with your interests and career goals. We have partnerships with top companies in Houston and beyond to provide you with a range of options.

The College of Science and Engineering is dedicated to helping you enhance your college experience with an internship that advances your knowledge of your chosen career path.

Explore internship opportunities for computer science majors.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

The curriculum of the bachelor’s in computer science leverages faculty who are research pioneers to institute comprehensive project-based learning, beginning with the courses you take as a first-year student.

Then, building on foundational practical applications in hardware and software, as a computer science major you will complete industry-driven projects and begin matching with existing or new faculty research initiatives, gaining reputable experience to add to your résumé.

Learn about undergraduate research experiences at HCU.

Networking and Professional Associations

At HCU, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with respected professional organizations such as the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM), the world’s largest educational and scientific computing society.

Faculty members and the ACM student chapter facilitate a multitude of career experiences and resources, providing access to top digital libraries, leading publications, and industry events.

In addition to HCU’s industry partners, the Science and Engineering Advisory Board puts accomplished computer scientists at the forefront of the program.

Dedicated Student Services

For students pursuing computer science degrees or studying in any of our academic programs, HCU provides a wide variety of outstanding student services, including success coaches, tutors, study rooms and career counseling. Most of these activities are coordinated through the Academic Support and Resources, which aims to provide resources to facilitate the academic side of student success. Tutoring is HCU’s largest service, providing support for anywhere between 50 to 100 courses each semester.

Computer Science Program Accreditation

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree program is designed to meet curricular requirements and accreditation criteria set by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

With strong career outcomes in the exciting fields of computer science and engineering, the BS in Computer Science at Houston Christian University guides accomplished students to break ground in research and practice across all industries.

Begin the application process today.

Program Educational Objectives

The Computer Science degree program educational objectives are broadly stated goals pertaining to career and professional accomplishments desired for program graduates. Graduates of the Computer Science program are expected within a few years of graduation to:

• Establish themselves as practicing Computer Science professionals or engage in advanced study in a related or complementary area
• Engage in professional development in order to remain current in the field for enhanced understanding of current issues in Computer Science
• Receive positive recognition and reward for the productive application of their skills and knowledge

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 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.

Computer Science Enrollment