Undergraduate Programs Pre-Professional Programs The purpose of the Houston Christian University College of Science and Engineering is to build engineers and scientists for tomorrow, who employ biblical principles for solving problems, discovering truth in the created world, and serving God and Man. Undergraduate Programs Undergraduate Degrees Offered Bachelor of Science in: Biology Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Chemistry Computer Science Cyber Engineering Cybersecurity Electrical Engineering Engineering Science, Pre-Medical Studies Option Information Systems Mathematics Science Studies Graduate Degrees Offered Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences Master of Science in Cybersecurity, Information Technology Master of Science in Data Science Professional Science Masters, Health Professions Distinctives The programs in the College of Science Engineering are distinguished by the following major features, providing unique and significant advantages to students, graduates, and employers. Christian Principles and Foundation The Christian mission of the HCU COSE is important to the faculty, administration, and the students. It is also important to the healthcare industry, allied health professions, information security, and other executives who need professionals that are ethical, consistent, and principled. Engineering-based Cyber Programs The programs at HCU provide the only cyber-focused B.S. degrees in any university in the Houston metro area. Cybersecurity is an area of emphasis in all engineering and computing programs at HCU. Health Professions Advising The College offers specialized advising for students planning to continue their education by attending medical, dental, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant, or graduate engineering school. The advising program is open to all HCU students interested in a medical or health professions career. Activities in the program include membership and participation in the appropriate pre-professional student organization, trips to medical and dental schools, and workshops offered by the Health Professions Program. Industry and Nonprofit Engagement Many industrial and nonprofit partners and individuals support the College by providing learning and work experiences (e.g. internships), assisting with lab development, sponsoring projects, providing guest speakers and adjunct instructors, employing interns and graduates, and advising on curriculum design and improvement. Project-based Learning Engineering and computer science students learn to address cyber related issues (e.g., security, internet of things, embedded systems, software protection, network defense) from the beginning of the freshman year. The first-year curriculum utilizes a versatile hardware platform (mobile electronics and computing kit) to provide students with hands-on projects in an immersive learning environment. Students complete a year-long senior project sponsored by industry partners and a professional internship, gaining real-world experience. Undergraduate Research Opportunities Students in all programs are encouraged to work with faculty at HCU and with collaborators at regional medical schools and universities to design and conduct experiments leading to new discoveries and results. Department of Biology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology Major in Biology The Biology Department at Houston Christian University emphasizes the biomedical/biotechnology area of biology. HCU Biology is especially strong in Cell and Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and Animal Systems. The program, taught by faculty with earned Doctorates (e.g., from University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University, Louisiana State University), prepares students for a wide variety of careers including health professions, graduate school, nursing, education, and industry. Graduates of HCU Biology have become PhDs, physicians, dentists, bio technicians, researchers, teachers, and other interesting professionals. They work in the fields of allied health, quality control, ecology, animal and plant science, consulting, lab management, forensics, and related sales areas. HCU Biology prepares students for their careers by offering biology courses with an academically rigorous, contemporary curriculum. HCU Biology faculty serve as mentors to enable students to develop professional attitudes required for success and service. HCU Biology provides mentoring and experiences that enable students to grow in a Christian environment that integrates the principles of biological sciences with their faith. Departmental honors are available in Biology. Bachelor of Science in Biology Requirements Bachelor of Science in Biology with Honors College Core Requirements Biology Minor Requirements Major in Biochemistry-Molecular Biology The College of Science and Engineering provides the interdisciplinary training necessary to prepare students for success in careers in the biological and biochemical sciences. HCU faculty from Biology, Chemistry, Math, and Physics teach and mentor in this major. The Biochemistry-Molecular Biology (BCMB) major incorporates the training needed for students to compete for spaces in medical school, dental school and graduate programs in the biological and biochemical sciences, in addition to entry-level employment in biomedical research at academic institutions and in the biotechnology industry. Departmental honors are available in BCMB. The BCMB program is accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry-Molecular Biology Requirements Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry-Molecular Biology with Honors College Core Requirements Minor in Premedical Studies This minor contains all courses (46 hours) required for students interested in medical school as published by TMDSAS (Texas Medical and Dental School Application Service). This pathway is becoming highly desired by students in non-science majors. Minor in Premedical Studies Requirements Professional Science Master’s in Health Professions The Professional Science Master’s Degree in Health Professions (PSM) is a specialized online master’s degree program designed to provide additional opportunities to those persons interested in enhancing their credentials for entry into a health professions school. As competition for entry into professional schools has increased over the years, more students have felt the necessity to take a “gap year” to study and strengthen their portfolios to become more competitive applicants. The PSM program provides students a structured, degree-seeking opportunity to increase the knowledge and skills as well as the satisfaction of earning a master’s degree. The PSM degree is offered as a cohort-based program with new students entering the program each summer, completing a fixed sequence of courses, and graduating the following May. Admission into the program Admission requirements into the PSM are a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, admission into the HCU graduate school and completion of the following courses with a grade of “C” or better: 8 semester hours of General Chemistry including 2 lab courses 8 semester hours of Organic Chemistry including 2 lab courses 8 semester hours of Physics including 2 lab courses 14 semester hours of science majors Biology including 2 lab courses 6 semester hours of English 3 semester hours of statistics Professional Science Master’s in Health Professions Requirements Department of Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics Major in Chemistry The chemistry major includes courses in general, bio, inorganic, organic, analytical, and physical chemistry. Calculus I and II courses in calculus-based physics are also required. The curriculum provides laboratory experiences and includes a senior research project. Internships and additional undergraduate research opportunities, outside of course requirements, are available to qualified chemistry majors. Chemistry graduates commonly pursue graduate school, industrial employment, and further study in various health professions. Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Requirements Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with Honors College Core Requirements Chemistry Minor Requirements Major in Mathematics The mathematics major combines coursework in both pure and applied mathematics with computer applications. It is designed to prepare students for graduate study or for careers in business, government, and industry. Mathematics courses are also offered to support other programs, including business, chemistry, education, engineering, the health professions, and physics. Mathematics graduates often find employment with companies in technological fields such as computer science, engineering, statistics, and actuarial science and are also highly valued by employers in non-technological fields because of their proven problem-solving abilities. A mathematics degree also provides a solid foundation for students who wish to pursue further studies. Departmental honors are available in Mathematics. Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Requirements Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with Honors College Core Requirements Mathematics Minor Requirements Major in Science Studies The Science Studies major provides a broad-based scientific foundation for students interested in pursuing entry-level positions and/or graduate-level education in research, technical health, teaching, nursing, law, data analytics, and natural history. Courses include lower-level selections in biology, chemistry, and computer science and upper-level opportunities in biology, chemistry, and the social sciences. HCU Science Studies faculty serve as mentors to enable students to develop professional attitudes required for success and service. Bachelor of Science in Science Studies Requirements Bachelor of Science in Science Studies with Honors College Core Requirements Teacher Certification (See College of Education and Behavioral Sciences) All science and engineering majors are encouraged to pursue teaching careers. The demand for, and the impact of, such careers in STEM teaching are significant. The Colleges of Science and Engineering and Education and Behavioral Sciences cooperatively offer teacher certification in the following areas: 7-12 Science 7-12 Mathematics Pre-Professional Programs The College of Science and Engineering also offers (in addition to advising for HCU degree requirements) specialized advising for students planning to continue their education after obtaining a degree from HCU by attending medical, dental, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant, or an engineering graduate school. Assistance with entry into various Pre-Professional programs can be obtained by contacting the Professional Experience Office (pxo@HC.edu). Entry into a health professions school is a competitive process. The Health Professions Packet is preferred by professional schools. This packet contains evaluations from faculty, advisors, and the HCU Health Professions Evaluation Committee. Requirements for students to receive a Health Professions Packet are available by contacting the Professional Experience Office (pxo@HC.edu). The Health Professions Packet can be obtained for students meeting the requirements and wishing to apply to various health professions programs. Students that do not qualify for the Health Professions packet should reach out to evaluators directly requesting evaluations to supplement applications. The pre-medical/pre-dental program is open to all HCU students interested in a career in medicine or dentistry. The program is not a major; rather it is a series of classes and activities designed to prepare students for entry into these schools. Activities in the program include membership and participation in the appropriate pre-professional student organizations, trips to medical and dental schools, shadowing and community service in health professions areas, and workshops offered by the Professional Experience Office. Application to medical and dental schools may occur early in the summer after a student’s junior year if prerequisite courses are complete, and a student has a competitive GPA and MCAT/DAT score. If these conditions are not met, it may be in the student’s best interest to delay application until they obtain a competitive GPA and admissions test score. Pre-Health Post Baccalaureate Coursework* HCU’s Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate coursework will academically prepare students with a bachelor’s degree for a health profession school (i.e. Medical, Physician Associate, Dental, Pharmacy, or Graduate School in the Biological or Chemical Sciences). In addition to academic preparation with graduate-level courses, students will be guided through the application and admission process for health profession schools with application workshops and mock admission interviews. The HCU Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate coursework is designed to give students an opportunity to further their educational journey toward a Health Profession or Graduate school by offering pre-requisite and recommended courses with a faith-centered curriculum. *This coursework program is scheduled for closure in Summer 2026. No new students will be admitted after Spring 2026. Department of Engineering The College of Science and Engineering at Houston Christian University offers B.S. degrees in Cyber Engineering, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science. These degrees produce graduates in high demand in many of our nation’s critical infrastructure industries. Cybersecurity is an area of special emphasis in these degrees at HCU, threaded throughout each curriculum from the first year to the senior year. Please see the information available on these programs on the HCU website, or elsewhere in the catalog. Learning by Doing Engineering students learn to address cyber related issues (e.g., security, internet of things, embedded systems, software protection, network defense, programming, mobility, and cloud computing) from the beginning of the freshman year. The first-year projects curriculum utilizes a unique mobile technology platform (electronics and computing kit) to provide students with hands-on projects. Students learn the intricacies of engineering and computing in an immersive learning environment. This curriculum cultivates problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students look at problems (typically in the cyberspace domain), design algorithms and propose them as solutions, and analyze the effectiveness of their implementation. Professional Learning Experiences All students in the Engineering program complete a year-long senior project directed by faculty but sponsored by industrial partners. HCU staff assist students in identifying internship opportunities. By interacting directly with engineers working in industry, students gain practical and real-world problem-solving experience to enhance their learning. Major in Cyber Engineering The Cyber Engineering Program (CYEN) is a four-year undergraduate degree best described as the intersection of Computer Science (CS) and Electrical Engineering (EE) applied to the cyberspace domain. Cyber engineers incorporate electrical engineering and computer science to understand cyberspace and use skills developed in digital forensics, security policy, and network defense to perform cybersecurity tasks, as well as work on engineering hardware and software. Cyber engineers design secure systems at the interface of operational technology (sensors and things that move) and information technology (the digital world). The CYEN program is designed to prepare students to embark on a variety of opportunities in cyber- related fields; its core consists of a series of cyber courses. These courses are designed to motivate the application of theoretical concepts learned in other courses and to promote discovery of the underpinnings of EE and CS. Combining intense coursework and open-ended problems, the projects-based cyber courses provide students with an immersion in Cyber Engineering. Bachelor of Science in Cyber Engineering Requirements Bachelor of Science in Cyber Engineering with Honors College Core Requirements Major in Cybersecurity Cybersecurity has become a subject that touches virtually every aspect of industry and personal safety. Knowing about cybersecurity and how to prevent attacks is vital in today’s world. The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity (BSCYSC) is a degree designed to introduce different aspects of cybersecurity and educate students about how to keep systems secure for the future. Students enrolled in the BSCYSC program will develop the skills needed to identify and detect vulnerabilities experienced by organizations or the public. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to use these tools and skills in real-world projects and apply this knowledge to help mitigate and recover from attacks. Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Requirements Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity with Honors College Core Requirements Major in Electrical Engineering The Electrical Engineering curriculum is designed to meet the challenges of expanding professional opportunities. From foundations in the basic sciences of mathematics, physics, and chemistry, the program progresses through the engineering sciences to emphasize the roles of electrical theory in the analysis, synthesis, design, and operation of electronic devices and systems. A coordinated laboratory program and series of projects supplement classroom instruction, stimulate creativity, and develop professional competence. Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Requirements Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with Honors College Core Requirements Major in Engineering Science The Engineering Science major (Pre-Medical Studies Option) provides a broad-based electrical engineering and science foundation. Courses include selections in electrical engineering, biology, chemistry, and mathematics and include all courses required for students interested in medical school. Graduates could also pursue work in laboratories for biomanufacturing and medical devices. HCU engineering and science faculty serve as mentors to enable students to develop professional attitudes required for success and service in this multidisciplinary major. Bachelor of Science in Engineering Science Requirements Bachelor of Science in Engineering Science with Honors College Core Requirements Major in Computer Science The computer science curriculum is designed to provide students with a foundational education in mathematics, science, and the humanities; an in-depth study of computing, including the practical and theoretical aspects of both hardware and software; and an opportunity for graduate study or a challenging position in industry. Because of the rapid pace of change in the field, the program places primary emphasis on fundamental computing concepts including multi-disciplinary applications. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Requirements Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Honors College Core Requirements Computer Science Minor Requirements Major in Information Systems An Information Systems degree prepares students to analyze computing problems and design, implement, and evaluate solutions for technology in a business or commercial setting. Students will learn computing theory, programming, computer architecture, as well as accounting, predictive analytics, and management principles for information systems management. Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Requirements Bachelor of Science in Information Systems with Honors College Core Requirements Accreditation Accreditation of engineering and computer science undergraduate degree programs is provided by ABET (previously called the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). The engineering and computer science degree programs received ABET accreditation in 2024. As is common for new engineering programs, the College of Science and Engineering requested that our accreditation be made retroactive so that it applies to the original, charter class of graduates in Spring 2022. The degree programs at HCU have been designed with ABET accreditation as a key feature. Curriculum, courses, educational objectives, and student outcomes for these programs meet the definitions and criteria for accreditation. Assessment processes have been designed to enable sufficient data for evaluation and continuous improvement. Pre-Engineering Program Program Description For those students who wish to pursue a major in a field of engineering not offered by HCU, the pre-engineering program is designed to prepare students to complete an engineering degree after two years of full-time study at HCU followed by two to three years of full-time study at a university that offers alternate engineering programs. The exact time required will depend on the university and the field of engineering chosen. The pre-engineering program allows students to take many of their engineering, math, and science courses and some of their general elective courses at HCU before transferring. The Chair of Engineering will provide students with advice and assistance in selecting courses to prepare them to transfer. The Chair will work with the student and the university that the student plans to attend after leaving HCU to verify that the courses taken at HCU will satisfy that school’s requirements. To be recommended for admission to an engineering school, students must complete all required courses with a grade of a “C” or higher and maintain a cumulative Quality Point Average of at least 2.5. Advantages and Opportunities of Pre-Engineering For students who wish to begin their studies at HCU and later transfer to an engineering college that offers alternate fields of engineering, HCU offers an excellent starting place. While at HCU, students benefit from the University’s quality academic programs based on strong Christian values, small classes with easily accessible faculty, and many opportunities to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including student chapters of professional organizations, music, sports, student government, and fraternities and sororities. The College provides many opportunities for all students, including first and second-year students (and pre-engineering students), to interact with industry professionals and work on realistic projects while learning fundamentals. Graduate Programs Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence Houston Christian University’s 100% online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence offers a comprehensive and practical understanding of AI, equipping students with the skills to excel in this cutting-edge field. Delivered in a fully online format, the program enables learners to engage in major end-to-end projects and exercises, gaining invaluable real-world experience from anywhere in the world. Through this innovative platform, students will master essential AI concepts such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and deep learning while exploring ethical AI practices and implementation strategies. The program’s flexibility allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments, preparing them to navigate the complexities of artificial intelligence in diverse industries effectively. With a focus on practical application and experiential learning, HCU’s online program empowers graduates to make meaningful contributions to the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence. Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (Online) Requirements Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences Houston Christian University’s 100% online Master of Science in Computer and Information Science provides students with a comprehensive and practical understanding of computer science and information systems. Designed to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape, this program equips learners with the skills needed to solve complex computing challenges and contribute to technological innovation. The program is also well-suited for those looking to transition from adjacent fields like business, healthcare, and finance, where technology and data-driven decision-making are becoming integral to operations. Additionally, this program aims to serve current undergraduate students in Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity, Engineering, Data Science, and Information Technology who are interested in continuing their education to gain deeper expertise in their field. Delivered in a fully online format, students engage in projects and case studies that simulate real-world scenarios, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in areas such as software development, systems analysis, data management, and cybersecurity. The program also emphasizes emerging technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence integration, and big data analytics, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the field. HCU’s online program offers flexibility for students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments while building the expertise to excel in diverse industries. Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences (Online) Requirements Master of Science in Cybersecurity, Information Technology Every industry and organization connecting to the Internet is at risk of a cyber-attack. The Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSCYSC) is a specialized online master’s program designed to expand student knowledge and give a more in-depth understanding in cybersecurity. Students enrolled in the MSCYSC program will develop the skills needed to identify and detect vulnerabilities experienced by organizations or the public. Additionally, students may have opportunities to experience and apply the tools necessary to protect against a cybercrime as well as respond and recover from a cyber-attack. Students will be required to have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with at least a 3.0 GPA. Students with a GPA ranging between 2.5 and 2.99 will be reviewed for conditional admission by the Graduate Admission Review Board and need to be approved for admission by either the Dean of the Graduate School or the Dean of the College of Science and Engineering. Admission into the HCU graduate school requires degree completion in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field of study. The Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree plan consists of 30 credit hours, including 18 credit hours of core courses and 12 elective credit hours. Graduates of this program will be required to have completed all 30 credit hours with at least a grade of “B” or higher and must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. The Master of Science in Cybersecurity must be completed within two (2) years of initial enrollment in the program. Any request for an extension of this time limit must be approved by the Dean of the Graduate School. Master of Science in Cybersecurity, Information Technology (Online) Requirements Master of Science in Data Science Data Science is a pioneering interdisciplinary field focused on extracting insights from extensive datasets and applying them across various domains. It encompasses a wide range of tasks, including meticulous data preparation, algorithm selection, processing, analysis-driven strategizing, and effective communication of findings. At its foundation lies the precise formatting of data to ensure its suitability for analysis, followed by the critical selection of tailored algorithms drawing from statistical, computer science, and mathematical principles. The interdisciplinary nature of Data Science is evident in its integration of skills from diverse fields such as statistics, computer science, business, mathematics, and information science, fostering a holistic problem-solving approach. Proficiency in data integration techniques facilitates the seamless assimilation of diverse data sources, enriching analyses and revealing deeper insights. Ultimately, Data Science serves as a catalyst for innovation, bridging data and knowledge realms to drive informed decision-making and propel advancements across industries and disciplines. HCU’s Master’s Degree program in Data Science will offer a comprehensive and practical understanding of the field, emphasizing a hands-on approach to learning. Throughout the program, students will engage in major end-to-end projects and exercises, providing them with invaluable real-world experience. By working directly on these projects, students will develop the necessary skills and expertise to navigate the complexities of data science effectively. Whether it’s designing algorithms, processing and analyzing data, or presenting findings, our Data Science program will ensure that students are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the field head-on. With a focus on practical application and experiential learning, graduates will emerge ready to make meaningful contributions in the dynamic field of Data Science. The MS in Data Science degree plan consists of 33 semester hours of core curriculum. Graduates of this program must complete all 33 credit hours with a grade of B or better and maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additionally, graduates are required to complete at least one graduate capstone project. F-1 visa students participating in the CPT program must complete DSCI 5395 Applied Learning Practicum. Master of Science in Data Science (Low-Residency) Requirements Master of Science in Data Science (Online) Requirements
