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Princeton University offers a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in Computer Science through the School of Engineering and Applied Science.
The BSE in Computer Science is a highly rigorous and flexible program that provides students with a strong technical foundation, a deep understanding of computer systems and algorithms, and interdisciplinary exposure across engineering, mathematics, and the sciences. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in advanced technology, quantitative research, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles across diverse industries.
Curriculum and Modules
Core Computer Science Courses:
Students begin with a structured core that builds fundamental skills in computing:
Programming and Data Structures (COS 126, COS 217, COS 226)
Algorithms and Theoretical Computer Science (COS 340)
Computer Systems, Architecture, and Operating Systems
Software Engineering Principles
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Foundations
This foundation enables students to develop strong computational thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for both theoretical and applied careers.
Mathematical and Engineering Requirements:
The BSE requires significant coursework in mathematics and engineering fundamentals, including:
Multivariable Calculus and Linear Algebra
Probability and Statistics
Physics and Engineering Science
Advanced coursework in topics like Optimization, Cryptography, or Computational Mathematics
These modules ensure that students approach computer science problems with a robust quantitative and systems-driven perspective.
Advanced Electives and Interdisciplinary Flexibility:
Students are encouraged to personalize their study by choosing advanced electives across topics such as:
Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning
Robotics and Vision
Security and Privacy
Human-Computer Interaction
Computational Biology
Quantum Computing
Many students combine computer science with minors or certificates in fields like Finance, Engineering Biology, Robotics, or Applied and Computational Mathematics.
Undergraduate Research:
Princeton places a major emphasis on independent research. Students frequently engage in:
Junior Independent Work (individual research projects under faculty supervision)
Senior Thesis (a capstone, year-long original research project)
Research assistantships with faculty labs across AI, Systems, Theory, Robotics, Bioinformatics, and more
The senior thesis is often a substantial piece of work that contributes to a student's research portfolio for graduate school or industry roles.
Internships and Industry Engagement:
Through Princeton’s Center for Career Development and strong alumni networks, students secure prestigious internships at:
Technology giants (Google, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft)
Finance and quantitative trading firms (Citadel, Jane Street, Goldman Sachs)
Startups and venture-backed companies
Research institutions and government agencies
Many students participate in multiple internships during their undergraduate years, gaining experience in software engineering, product development, AI research, cybersecurity, and more.
Hackathons, Competitions, and Innovation Labs:
Students frequently compete in national hackathons like HackPrinceton, participate in Princeton's eLab Summer Accelerator for startups, and engage with centers like the Keller Center for Innovation and Engineering Education.
Career Pathways:
Graduates of the BSE in Computer Science at Princeton pursue top-tier careers including:
Software Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Data Scientist
Quantitative Researcher or Analyst
Cybersecurity Engineer
Product Manager
Further Study and Research:
Many students continue their academic journey in:
MS or PhD programs in Computer Science, AI, Data Science, Robotics, or Engineering
MBA programs (often after gaining industry experience)
JD programs with a focus on technology and intellectual property law
Leadership Growth:
Princeton alumni are well-represented in leadership roles across industries. Common long-term trajectories include:
Senior Software Engineer → Engineering Manager → Director of Engineering → CTO
Data Scientist → Lead AI Engineer → Head of Data Science
Product Manager → Senior PM → VP of Product Development
The strong theoretical and practical preparation ensures that graduates can adapt to emerging technologies and drive innovation throughout their careers.
SAT/ACT Update: Applicants must send SAT/ACT scores directly from testing agencies. Princeton accepts SAT Score Choice and the highest ACT composite score but encourages submitting all scores. Superscoring is not allowed between paper and digital SAT formats. Use codes SAT: 2672 and ACT: 2588 when registering.English Language Proficiency Requirement: If English is not your native language and your school does not teach in English, you must take the TOEFL, IELTS Academic, or PTE Academic. This requirement is waived if English is your native language or if you have studied for at least three years at a secondary school where English is the primary language of instruction.Graded Written Paper- The graded written paper must be submitted in English and can come from O- or A-level coursework, so long as this student-written essay meets all of the other requirements listed. The graded written paper and teacher comments should not be translated from another language into English, they must be written in English. If you are also submitting a rubric, that must also be in English.Applications are sent through the Common AppRecommendations: School Report- Required, Counselor Recommendation- Required, Mid Year Report- Required, Final Report- Required, Teacher Evaluation(s): 2 Required, 0 Optional Other Evaluation(s): 0 Required, 2 Optional.Writing Requirements: Common App personal essay- Required, College questions- 5 Required Questions (This college does not use a writing supplement for any additional writing requirements). 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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Princeton University
