The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology is a robust, technically focused program designed to develop high-performing software engineers, system architects, and computational thinkers. Consistently ranked among the top undergraduate engineering schools in the U.S., Rose-Hulman offers a rigorous and practical curriculum grounded in engineering principles and enriched by extensive hands-on experience. The program’s emphasis on small class sizes, industry engagement, and real-world application ensures graduates are prepared to innovate and lead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
The BS in Computer Science at Rose-Hulman requires the completion of approximately 194 quarter credit hours, encompassing CS core, mathematics, science, humanities, and electives.
Core Computer Science Courses:
CSSE 120: Introduction to Software Development
CSSE 132: Introduction to Computer Systems
CSSE 220: Object-Oriented Software Development
CSSE 230: Data Structures and Algorithms
CSSE 232: Computer Architecture
CSSE 333: Database Systems
CSSE 332: Operating Systems
CSSE 374: Software Design
CSSE 479: Senior Capstone in Software Engineering
CSSE 490: Theory of Computation
CSSE 497/498: Capstone Project Design and Implementation
Mathematics and Science Requirements:
MA 111–113: Calculus I, II, III
MA 221: Matrix Algebra
MA 375: Discrete Mathematics
MA 381: Probability and Statistics
Two courses in lab-based sciences (e.g., Chemistry, Physics, or Biology)
Humanities and Social Sciences (HSSA):
Students complete a sequence of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts to support well-rounded communication and ethical reasoning skills.
Technical Electives:
Students choose advanced CS electives tailored to their interests, with options in:
Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning
Cybersecurity
Mobile and Web App Development
Game Development
Parallel and Distributed Computing
Human-Computer Interaction
Capstone Experience:
The two-quarter Senior Capstone Project (CSSE 497 & 498) challenges students to work in teams on real-world problems, often in collaboration with industry sponsors, startups, or nonprofits.
Rose-Hulman is deeply committed to applied learning and early career development:
Internships and Co-ops:
Over 85% of students complete at least one internship, supported by the Office of Career Services, which boasts one of the highest placement rates among undergraduate institutions. Students intern at Google, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, and Raytheon, among many others.
Undergraduate Research:
Students can engage in research with faculty through independent study or formal research programs such as ROSIE (Rose-Hulman Opportunities for Summer Intellectual Engagement). Research areas include machine learning, robotics, algorithms, and embedded systems.
Rose-Hulman Ventures:
This unique center gives students the chance to work with real companies on live projects as paid interns, developing software solutions and gaining valuable client experience before graduation.
Student Organizations and Events:
RHIT ACM Chapter
Cyber Defense Club (CDC)
Game Developers Club
Women in CSSE
Hackathons and Programming Competitions, including ICPC and RoseHack
Rose-Hulman graduates are highly valued in both industry and academia for their practical experience and problem-solving ability.
Employment Opportunities:
Graduates commonly pursue careers in:
Software Engineering
Systems Architecture
Data Science
Embedded Systems
Cybersecurity
DevOps and Cloud Computing
Top employers include Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Eli Lilly, Garmin, Epic Systems, and the Department of Defense.
Graduate Studies:
Many graduates go on to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in computer science, artificial intelligence, or related engineering fields at prestigious institutions such as MIT, Stanford, UIUC, and Carnegie Mellon.
Rose-Hulman’s Computer Science program delivers a rigorous, project-based, and industry-aligned education that equips students with the technical prowess and leadership skills to thrive in today’s technology-driven world.
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