The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UIUC is internationally recognized for its academic excellence, innovative curriculum, and vibrant research ecosystem. Designed to blend solid theoretical foundations with real-world application, this program prepares students for leadership roles in software development, research, and interdisciplinary innovation.
UIUC consistently ranks among the world’s top computer science programs, offering students access to cutting-edge labs, entrepreneurial opportunities, and close connections with industry leaders.
Curriculum Overview
Students must complete approximately 128 credit hours, encompassing core computer science, mathematics and science, technical electives, and general education requirements.
Core Computer Science Courses
Students gain in-depth exposure to foundational topics through courses such as:
Introduction to Computer Science I & II
Data Structures and Discrete Structures
Computer Architecture and System Programming
Algorithms and Models of Computation
Programming Languages and Compilers
Database Systems and Computer Systems Organization
Applied Machine Learning or other senior-level electives
Senior Project or approved Capstone experience
Mathematics and Science Foundation
A robust mathematical background supports computational problem-solving, with required courses in:
Calculus I, II, and III
Linear Algebra or Differential Equations
Statistics
University Physics I & II with labs
An additional approved lab-based science course
Technical Electives and Specializations
Students have the flexibility to pursue advanced electives in areas such as:
Artificial Intelligence
Computer Vision
Data Science
Robotics
Human-Computer Interaction
Cybersecurity
Software Engineering
General Education
The program also includes UIUC’s general education curriculum, which ensures a well-rounded academic experience through coursework in composition, humanities, social sciences, and advanced writing.
Capstone Project
In their final year, students complete a Senior Capstone Project (CS 499). Working in teams—often in collaboration with industry partners—they design and build a substantial software or research project, showcasing their ability to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.
UIUC strongly encourages real-world, hands-on learning across several platforms:
Internships and Co-ops:
Through the Engineering Career Services, students have access to internships and co-op opportunities with major tech companies, startups, and research labs. UIUC is a top-recruiting school for employers like Google, Meta, Amazon, and NVIDIA.
Undergraduate Research:
The Illinois Scholars Undergraduate Research Program (ISUR) and PURE (Promoting Undergraduate Research in Engineering) allow students to engage in research alongside faculty in areas such as quantum computing, bioinformatics, and machine learning.
HackIllinois and Hackathons:
UIUC hosts HackIllinois, one of the largest student-run hackathons in the Midwest, along with numerous other project-based competitions.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship:
With resources like Research Park and the Siebel Center for Design, students can collaborate across disciplines and work on entrepreneurial ventures supported by mentors, workshops, and seed funding.
Student Organizations:
A wide variety of active clubs, including ACM, Reflections | Projections Conference, WCS (Women in Computer Science), and SIGs (Special Interest Groups), offer networking, skill-building, and community engagement.
UIUC Computer Science graduates are among the most sought-after in the world and enjoy exceptional career outcomes.
Employment Opportunities:
Graduates are employed in roles such as:
Software Engineer
Data Scientist
Systems Analyst
Machine Learning Engineer
UX Developer
Cybersecurity Analyst
UIUC alumni can be found at top-tier companies like Apple, Meta, Google, Microsoft, Adobe, and Tesla, as well as within academia, national labs, and startups.
Graduate Studies:
Many students go on to pursue graduate degrees at UIUC or other elite institutions, supported by the program’s research-oriented curriculum and faculty mentorship.
With its blend of theoretical depth, practical training, and expansive resources, the Computer Science program at UIUC cultivates innovative, career-ready graduates capable of making a global impact.
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