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Duke University offers two undergraduate degree options in Computer Science, each designed to serve different academic and career goals:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science
Ideal for students seeking a strong technical foundation, this degree prepares graduates for careers in the tech industry, research, or further academic study in computing or engineering.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Computer Science
This more flexible program allows students to combine their interest in computer science with studies in other disciplines such as economics, biology, or the humanities—making it a great fit for interdisciplinary thinkers.
Computer Science:
COMPSCI 101L: Introduction to Computer Science
COMPSCI 116: Foundations of Data Science
Mathematics:
MATH 111L: Introductory Calculus I
MATH 112L: Introductory Calculus II
All students complete a foundational core, including:
COMPSCI 201: Data Structures and Algorithms
COMPSCI 230: Discrete Math for Computer Science
COMPSCI 210D: Introduction to Computer Systems
COMPSCI 330: Design & Analysis of Algorithms
For B.S. Students:
One advanced systems course (such as Operating Systems or Databases)
Two additional courses in mathematics or statistics
Five upper-level electives (200-level or higher)
For B.A. Students:
Three upper-level electives (200-level or higher)
This path offers more space in the schedule for double majors or minors in other fields.Areas of Concentration (Optional – B.S. Degree)
Students pursuing the B.S. degree can choose to specialize in one of the following areas:
Software Systems
Data Science
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Software Engineering and Design
Each concentration includes specific course requirements that help students build expertise in their area of interest.
Whether you’re aiming for a tech career, graduate school, or a multidisciplinary academic journey, Duke’s Computer Science programs offer the flexibility and depth to help you get there.
Duke emphasizes practical experience through:
Undergraduate Research: Students can engage in cutting-edge research with renowned faculty.
Internships and Co-ops: The department's strong industry connections facilitate internships, providing real-world experience.
Student Organizations: Active participation in computing clubs and organizations fosters collaboration and professional development.
Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in technology, research, and academia. The comprehensive curriculum and emphasis on both theoretical and practical skills equip students to tackle complex challenges in the field.
By integrating a rigorous curriculum with experiential learning opportunities, Duke University's Computer Science programs aim to develop well-rounded professionals capable of adapting to the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
SAT/ACT Update: We will continue to consider SAT and ACT scores as part of the application of students who choose to submit them and will accept self-reported scores for purposes of assessing an application. Scores sent from testing agencies will be required from those students only if they enroll at Duke.Admission Profile: https://admissions.duke.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2028ClassProfile.pdfEnglish Language Proficiency: If you are a non-native English speaker or if you are not currently studying in an English-medium curriculum, we recommend but do not require that you take an English proficiency test. If you take the test more than once, we will use your highest score, and we do not have any preference among English proficiency tests. CAMBRIDGE C1 ADVANCED or C2 PROFICIENCY (Minimum score expected is 180) DUOLINGO (Minimum score expected is 130) IELTS (Minimum band score expected is 7) PTE ACADEMIC (Minimum score expected is 70) TOEFL (including the TOEFL Home Edition) Minimum scores expected: 100 on the internet-based TOEFL 75 on the revised TOEFL paper-delivered test.Recommendations: School Report- Required, Counselor Recommendation-Required, Mid Year Report- Required, Final Report- Required, Teacher Evaluation(s): 2 Required, 1 Optional, Other Evaluation(s): 0 Required, 1 Optional.Activities: The application includes space for up to ten extracurricular activities. Use as few or as many spaces as you need. Be sure to include school, community, family, and work commitments on your list. Keep in mind that we are more interested in seeing sustained commitment rather than a long list.Interview: Alumni interviews are optional and not offered to all applicants. They’re prioritized for students where more information is needed and do not impact admission chances. If selected, you'll be contacted after applying to schedule a virtual 30–60 minute interview with an alumni volunteer. Interviews with admissions officers are not available, and requests for interviews are not accepted. U.S. applicants can submit a Glimpse video (60–90 seconds) to help us get to know you better. Deadlines: Nov 6 (Early Decision) and Jan 16 (Regular Decision). International students, especially in China, are encouraged to submit an InitialView interview. Early booking is recommended.Writing Requirements: Common App personal essay- Required, College questions-1 Required Question.Career Pathway:
Software Engineering: DeveloperFull-Stack EngineerMobile App Developer
AI & Data Science: Machine Learning EngineerData ScientistAI Researcher
Cybersecurity & Cloud: Cybersecurity AnalystCloud EngineerEthical Hacker
Finance & Business Tech: Quantitative AnalystFintech DeveloperBlockchain Specialist
Product & Management: Product ManagerTechnical Program Manager
Entrepreneurship: Startups and innovation
Further Studies: MS or PhD in AIcybersecurityor data science for research rolesMBA for leadership and management positions
Long-Term Growth: Engineering: Software Engineer → Tech Lead → CTO
Data & AI: Data Scientist → Head of AIManagement: Product Manager → VP of Engineering
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