Oregon State University’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and emerging tech industries. With options for on-campus and fully online study, the program emphasizes problem-solving, innovation, and technical mastery. OSU is a recognized leader in STEM education, with a strong commitment to experiential learning and industry engagement.
The BSCS program at OSU typically requires the completion of 180 quarter credits (equivalent to 120 semester credits), encompassing core CS coursework, mathematics, science, technical electives, and baccalaureate core (general education).
Core Computer Science Courses:
CS 161: Introduction to Computer Science I
CS 162: Introduction to Computer Science II
CS 261: Data Structures
CS 271: Computer Architecture and Assembly Language
CS 290: Web Development
CS 325: Analysis of Algorithms
CS 340: Introduction to Databases
CS 344: Operating Systems I
CS 361: Software Engineering I
CS 362: Software Engineering II
CS 450: Introduction to Computer Graphics or other advanced electives
CS 467 & CS 468: Capstone Software Projects I & II
Mathematics and Science Requirements:
MTH 251, 252: Calculus I & II
MTH 231 or 341: Elements of Discrete Mathematics
ST 314: Introduction to Statistics
Two approved laboratory science courses (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
Baccalaureate Core (General Education):
Courses in writing, speech, social sciences, literature and the arts, global awareness, and cultural diversity form a well-rounded foundation.
Options and Tracks:
Students may pursue specialized tracks such as:
Cybersecurity
Artificial Intelligence
Game and Simulation Development
Data Science
Web and Mobile Development
Capstone Project:
The two-part Senior Software Engineering Project (CS 467 & 468) involves team collaboration on a real-world problem with industry mentorship, simulating a professional software development lifecycle.
Oregon State University encourages applied learning across its computer science programs:
Internships and Career Support:
OSU’s Career Development Center connects students with internships and co-ops at leading tech companies in the Pacific Northwest and nationwide. Many students intern with firms like Intel, HP, Amazon, and Garmin.
Undergraduate Research:
The Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and the Arts (URSA) program and EECS faculty labs allow students to engage in faculty-guided research in areas such as AI, robotics, human-computer interaction, and cybersecurity.
Hackathons and Clubs:
Clubs such as OSU ACM, Cybersecurity Club, Game Development Club, and participation in events like BeaverHacks offer opportunities to build community, gain experience, and showcase projects.
Innovation and Makerspaces:
Facilities like the Collaboratory and Open Source Lab support student creativity and entrepreneurial initiatives with access to cutting-edge tools and collaborative environments.
Online Postbaccalaureate Program:
Unique to OSU, the Postbaccalaureate CS Program offers a fully online, accelerated CS degree for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, allowing for a career change into tech.
Graduates of OSU’s Computer Science program are highly sought after by employers and graduate schools.
Employment Opportunities:
Graduates find careers in roles such as:
Software Developer
Data Engineer
Web Developer
Cloud Solutions Architect
Information Security Analyst
Mobile App Developer
Alumni are employed at Intel, Google, Microsoft, Nike, Salesforce, and NASA, among others, benefiting from OSU’s strong industry connections.
Graduate Studies:
The program also lays a strong foundation for those seeking master’s or doctoral degrees in computer science or interdisciplinary fields, both at OSU and other prestigious institutions.
With flexible learning options, strong industry ties, and a robust curriculum, Oregon State University’s Computer Science program offers students the tools and experience needed to thrive in the tech-driven world.
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