Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Miami

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science at the University of Miami combines programming, computer systems, mathematics and software development with the flexibility to pursue a non-STEM minor and explore interests across different disciplines. Designed for students who want to understand how computing works and how technology can solve real-world problems, the programme builds skills in software design, algorithmic thinking, systems programming and interdisciplinary problem-solving.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Programming and Mathematical Foundations

Students begin with Computer Programming I (CSC 120) and Calculus I (MTH 161), developing fundamental programming techniques and the mathematical skills needed for computing. They progress to Computer Programming II (CSC 220) and Discrete Mathematics I (MTH 309), strengthening their understanding of programming structures, problem-solving methods and the mathematical principles behind algorithms.

Year 2: Computer Architecture and Systems Programming

Students explore how computers operate internally through Computer Organization and Architecture (CSC 314), covering digital systems, machine-level data representation and memory organisation. They then study System Programming (CSC 322), learning about UNIX environments, shell scripting, C programming, processes, threads and system calls while continuing their general education and minor requirements.

Year 3: Data Structures, Algorithms and Software Engineering

Students develop more advanced computational skills through Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis (CSC 317), examining algorithmic strategies, fundamental computing algorithms and efficiency. The suggested study plan also includes Introduction to Software Engineering (CSC 431), which introduces software processes, requirements, design, validation and project management, helping students understand how to develop and maintain reliable software systems.

Year 4: Advanced Electives and Interdisciplinary Study

Students complete their remaining computer science electives and university degree requirements, using the flexibility of the B.A. structure to develop a broader academic profile. Depending on their chosen electives, they may explore areas such as cybersecurity, data science, web application development, mobile applications, machine learning or computer engineering, while completing their non-STEM minor and other graduation requirements.

Focus Areas

Computer programming, data structures, algorithm analysis, computer architecture, system programming, software engineering, mathematics for computing, cybersecurity, data science, web and mobile application development, interdisciplinary computing.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates are expected to translate real-world problems into computational solutions, develop efficient and reliable computer programs, understand the mathematical foundations of computer science, and build, integrate, document and deploy software solutions. The programme also develops analytical thinking and prepares students to apply computing knowledge in technology-focused industries and organisations that rely on digital systems.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The official programme information does not identify a specific professional accreditation for the B.A. in Computer Science. Students seeking roles that require a particular professional credential should confirm the relevant requirements with the university and prospective employers.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Miami's Computer Science Department identifies software development and computing-related industries, including technology, banking, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare, as potential areas of employment for graduates. A verified programme-specific employment rate, salary figure or subject-level employability ranking was not established from the official programme information reviewed.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The University of Miami's Computer Science Department combines classroom instruction with laboratory work, independent projects and group projects to help students develop practical computing skills. The department provides dedicated computer laboratories for interactive learning, programming practice and collaborative work. Students can also explore faculty research, complete eligible computer science internships and choose project-oriented electives that apply computing concepts to practical challenges.

Programme-related practical opportunities and resources include:

Computer Science Lecture and Learning Lab: Located on the third floor of the Ungar Building, this laboratory supports interactive teaching, practical learning activities and workshops.
Discovery Lab: A collaborative computing space adjacent to the teaching lab, where students can work in groups and meet teaching assistants.
Programming and Systems Tools: System Programming (CSC 322) introduces UNIX environments, shell scripting, C programming, system calls, processes and threads, helping students develop practical systems-programming skills.
Software Development Projects: Introduction to Software Engineering (CSC 431) covers software requirements, design, validation, project management and software development tools and environments.
Team-Based Programming: The department identifies group project work as part of its educational approach, helping students practise collaboration and the development of integrated software solutions.
Computer Science Internship: CSC 412 provides an opportunity to gain experience in a commercial computing environment. The course carries 1–3 credits and normally requires 50 internship hours per credit earned, subject to departmental eligibility requirements.
Undergraduate Research: The department's research activities span areas such as cybersecurity, machine learning, data science, computer graphics, robotics and scientific computing. Eligible students may explore faculty-supervised research opportunities, including structured summer research programmes.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The B.A. in Computer Science prepares students to pursue careers involving software development, programming, computer systems and technology-enabled business solutions. Its combination of technical coursework and interdisciplinary study can be particularly useful for graduates interested in applying computing skills across industries such as finance, healthcare, transportation, manufacturing and technology.

Potential career paths include Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Application Developer and Junior Programmer.

Students can strengthen their career readiness through the following university resources and opportunities:

Career Development Services: The University of Miami's Toppel Career Center offers career guidance, job-search support, résumé preparation, interview preparation and opportunities to connect with employers.
Internships and Professional Experience: The Computer Science Department offers CSC 412, a credit-bearing internship course that allows eligible students to gain experience in a commercial computing environment.
Research Opportunities: Students interested in research can explore faculty projects and structured undergraduate research programmes, developing experience that may support applications for technical positions or postgraduate study.
Industry Applications: The department identifies technology companies and computing-dependent industries, including banking, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare, as potential employment areas for graduates.
Employment Statistics and Salaries: A verified employment rate or salary figure specifically for graduates of the Computer Science B.A. was not identified in the official sources reviewed. Salary expectations will vary according to the role, location, technical skills and prior experience.
Professional Accreditation: The official B.A. programme information does not identify a specific professional accreditation. Students should verify any credential requirements relevant to their intended career.
Graduation Outcomes: Students develop programming, algorithmic reasoning, systems knowledge and software-development skills that can support entry-level employment or further academic study. Actual outcomes depend on students' elective choices, practical experience and individual qualifications.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue a master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity or another related field, depending on the admission requirements of the chosen programme. The University of Miami offers graduate study in Computer Science, including an M.S. in Computer Science, and a Ph.D. in Computer Science for students interested in advanced technical training or research. Students planning to pursue graduate study should check the required mathematics and computer science prerequisites, as well as whether their undergraduate coursework meets the requirements of their intended programme.