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The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UC San Diego is designed to provide students with a well-rounded and rigorous education in computing. With a strong balance between theoretical foundations and hands-on applications, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced tech landscape.
Whether you're interested in building innovative software, working with complex systems, or pursuing research, this program lays the groundwork for career readiness and academic excellence.
The curriculum is structured to first establish core competencies before allowing students to branch into specialized areas.
These foundational courses focus on:
Mathematics and Physics
Programming Methodologies
Computer Organization
Together, they develop the analytical and technical skills needed for more advanced computer science study.
In the later stages of the program, students dive into:
Algorithm Design and Analysis
Software Engineering
Hardware and Software Systems
Systems Programming
Students also have the opportunity to customize their academic path through electives, choosing from areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, machine learning, computer graphics, or data science.
UCSD’s Computer Science program offers academic flexibility, enabling students to:
Pursue minors or double majors in complementary fields
Select electives that match their career interests
Participate in research, internships, and capstone projects for real-world experience
This adaptable structure helps students shape their education to fit their personal goals and prepares them for a wide range of career paths in technology, research, or graduate studies.
A top-ranked computer science department with strong industry ties and research output
Access to cutting-edge labs and innovation hubs
A diverse community of faculty, peers, and global collaborators
Located in San Diego, a growing tech and biotech hub
UCSD’s B.S. in Computer Science offers the depth, flexibility, and innovation-driven mindset that today’s tech industry demands, empowering students to become the next generation of leaders in computing.
UCSD emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, providing computer science students with numerous opportunities to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom:
Research Opportunities: Undergraduates are encouraged to collaborate with faculty and graduate students on research projects, allowing them to gain practical experience and explore specific areas of interest.
Internships: The Research Experience & Applied Learning (REAL) Portal assists students in discovering internships and other hands-on experiential learning opportunities.
Team Internship Program: This program places multidisciplinary teams of students with corporate sponsors to work on projects together for 10-12 weeks during the summer, providing real-world experience in a collaborative setting.
These experiential learning opportunities are designed to enhance students' practical skills and prepare them for professional success.
UCSD offers robust support to ensure computer science graduates are well-prepared for their careers:
Career Services: The Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) department provides career advising to help students plan and achieve their industry and academic career goals. Services include guidance on navigating the job market, networking strategies, and workshops on resume building and interview preparation.
Fellowships and Scholarships: The department offers information on various fellowships and scholarships available to undergraduate students, supporting their academic and professional development.
By integrating rigorous academics with practical experiences and comprehensive career support, the B.S. in Computer Science program at UCSD prepares students for successful transitions into the professional world.
SAT/ACT Update: UC does not consider SAT/ACT scores for admissions or scholarships but may use them for eligibility or course placement. Scores can only be reported after application submission.English Language Proficiency: AP, IB, English proficiency, and international exams are reported separately in the test score section. Enter your scores or indicate future test plansActivities/Awards: Share what you're most proud of outside the classroom, focusing on quality over quantity. Classify each activity or award into one of six categories: Award/Honor, Educational Preparation Program, Extracurricular Activity, Other Coursework, Volunteering/Community Service, or Work Experience.Personal Insight Questions: Choose 4 out of 8 questions to answer, each with a 350-word limit. Select those most relevant to your experience and personal circumstances.How applications are reviewed: https://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/how-to-apply/applying-as-a-freshman/how-applications-are-reviewed.htmlApplications are done through the UC Application between 1st August and 30th November. 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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University of California San Diego
