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Computer Science, B.S.

Solve Problems Through Computing
  • 94%

    Of 2019-20 graduates Were Employed or Planning to Attend Graduate School

  • 364

    Number of Students Who Declared a Computer Science Major, Fall 2025

  • 29

    Full-Time Faculty (38% Female)

Alumni have lucrative careers such as:

Software engineers develop, design and test software applications. They apply engineering principles to the process of building software.

Computer programmers write and test code that allows computer applications and software programs to function properly.

System architects design complex computing environments that can support AI operations. 
Mobile app developers focus on building applications for mobile devices.
Computer and hardware engineers work on the physical components of computers and related devices.
AI developers design, create and implement AI systems and algorithms. 
Machine learning engineers design, build and maintain systems that improve AI tools using data and algorithms.

Learn To

Understand mathematical, algorithmic, computing, and artificial intelligence principles appropriate to the design and implementation of computer-based and intelligent systems.

Apply analysis, design, development, and testing principles in the construction of software and AI-driven systems.

Function effectively on a software development or AI project team, and communicate clearly on technical and data-driven subject matters.

Recognize the value of continued professional development, including the ability to acquire and use appropriate techniques, skills, and tools necessary for modern computing and AI practice.

Understand professional, ethical, legal, security, and societal issues, including those uniquely related to computing, artificial intelligence, and intelligent systems.

“ Between fantastic relationships with faculty, well thought out degree requirements, and opportunities for undergraduate research, I received an educational experience I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else. ”
Computer Science Alum
Computer Science, B.S. Program Overview

Choose Your Program of Study

We offer two programs of study leading to a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

Both options will prepare you to attend graduate school or to pursue career opportunities in computer science or closely related areas.

Both options follow the systems-based approach set forth by the Association for Computing Machinery and the IEEE Computer Society for undergraduate degree programs in computer science.

Two Tracks

ABET LogoThe Systems Option (Option 1), which is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), contains more thorough coverage of concepts in operating systems and scientific computing, and has more elective credit hours in upper-level computer science courses to allow you the flexibility to explore additional advanced topics.

Option 2 is designed to give you a strong foundation in computer science while allowing in-depth study through one of UNCW’s specialized concentrations, such as Artificial Intelligence, Digital Arts, Security or Software Engineering.

What The Curriculum Looks Like

To solve problems using computers you should be able to make the computer do what you want it to do, i.e., by programming it. Thus, the early part of the curriculum is focused the principles and the practice of programming.

Later, you will learn techniques and concepts specific to sub-areas like operating systems, computer networks, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, compiler construction or databases.

Implementing the techniques you learn in these courses will require you to write computer programs.

Programming Languages

We currently use the programming languages Python and Java in the introductory 3 course sequence of CSC 131, CSC 231, and CSC 331.

Later courses may teach, or require you to learn, other languages. For instance, the operating systems course may use C or C++, the database course may introduce PHP, and a course on artificial intelligence might use Prolog.

Sample Courses in Computer Science

Table lists sample courses for this program
CSC 131 Introduction to Computer Sciences
CSC 231 Introduction to Data Structures
CSC 302 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
CSC 340 Scientific Computing
CSC 380 Design & Analysis of Algorithms
CSC 421 Computer Gaming
CSC 450 Software Engineering
See The Full Curriculum

How Do I Declare my Major?

Students may declare a major in computer science at any point.

Read our FAQs

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Department

Are You an International Student?

This is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security STEM designated program that allows eligible F1 international students to apply for a 24-month optional practical training extension.

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    Digital Arts, B.A.

    An interdisciplinary major lying at the intersection of Art and Computer Science.

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    Mathematics, B.S.

    Learn to analyze data and solve problems using advanced math applications.

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    Software Engineering, B.S.

    Software engineering emphasizes the study of principles and practices necessary to create high-quality software systems that meet the requirements of real-world use. 

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  • Graduate Programs to Consider Next

    Computer Science and Information Systems, MS-CSIS

    The program prepares students to take on leadership roles in the development and implementation of computer and information systems.

    Learn More

    Computer Science and Information Systems, M.S.

    Gain advanced skills and knowledge in planning, design, implementation, testing and management of computer systems and applications.

    Learn More