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The Department of Computer Science at the University of Rochester offers two flexible and rigorous undergraduate degrees to suit students with varying academic and professional goals:
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science
Ideal for students seeking a strong technical foundation, this program prepares graduates for careers in technology, research, or further academic study.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Computer Science
Designed with flexibility in mind, the BA allows students to combine their computer science studies with interests in other disciplines—making it an excellent choice for those pursuing interdisciplinary or double-major paths.
Curriculum Overview
Both the BS and BA programs share a core set of computer science courses, ensuring a consistent foundation in the discipline:
Core Courses (Shared by Both Degrees):
CSC 171: Introduction to Computer Science
CSC 172: Data Structures and Algorithms
CSC 173: Computation and Formal Systems
CSC 252: Computer Organization
CSC 254: Operating Systems
CSC 280: Computer Models and Limitations
Bachelor of Science (BS) Requirements:
Mathematics Foundation:
Includes a calculus sequence (such as MATH 161–162, 141–143, or 171–172) and MATH 150: Discrete Mathematics
Advanced Computer Science:
Four 4-credit upper-level computer science courses (numbered 200 or above)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) Requirements:
Computer Science Coursework:
Twelve courses beyond CSC 171, with no more than two from outside the department
Track Requirement:
A focused track of three advanced CSC courses to develop depth in a particular area
University-Wide Curriculum
Both degrees are integrated into the Rochester Curriculum, which emphasizes breadth and depth across disciplines. Students must complete:
A major in their chosen field
A cluster in each of the two divisions outside their major (Humanities, Social Sciences, or Natural Sciences/Engineering)
The university’s upper-level writing requirement
Whether you're looking for a technically intensive path or an interdisciplinary approach, the University of Rochester offers the flexibility and academic strength to support your goals in computer science and beyond.
The University of Rochester emphasizes hands-on learning through various avenues:
Undergraduate Research:
Students are encouraged to engage in cutting-edge research projects alongside faculty, with opportunities spanning areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, and human-computer interaction.
Industry Practicum Co-op Program:
An optional eight-month co-op program provides students with quality workplace experience through paid, full-time employment, integrating academic knowledge with practical application.
Study Abroad:
Students can take engineering and computer science classes as part of UR-affiliated study abroad programs, enhancing their global perspective and cross-cultural competencies.
Student Organizations and Competitions:
Active participation in computing clubs and organizations fosters collaboration and professional development. Notably, students have competed in international events like the International Collegiate Programming Contest.
Graduates from the University of Rochester's Computer Science programs are well-prepared for diverse career paths in technology, research, and academia. According to the Greene Center for Career Education and Connections, 96% of Hajim School students report positive career outcomes, with 60.4% entering the workforce and 34% pursuing further education.
The University's emphasis on experiential learning, combined with a rigorous curriculum, ensures that students are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making them competitive candidates in the job market and well-prepared for advanced studies.
By integrating a comprehensive curriculum with ample experiential learning opportunities, the University of Rochester's Computer Science programs aim to develop well-rounded professionals capable of adapting to the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Other deadline information: All first-year Early Decision and Regular Decision applicants who apply for admissions by the respective deadlines are considered for merit scholarships. However, for the highest consideration for merit scholarships specifically under Regular Decision we encourage applicants to complete their application by December 1st. For more information about merit scholarships please visit https://www.rochester.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/.Important Testing Update: Applicants choosing not to submit standardized tests will not be at a disadvantage, nor will it negatively impact their application review or scholarship consideration. Testing is not used as a factor for merit-based scholarshipsSAT/ACT Update: Rochester will accept self-reported exam scores for admissions review. Applicants who self-report scores, earn admission, and choose to attend Rochester will have to send their official scores via the testing agency or on an official school document before they can enroll.English Language Proficiency: IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, DET: 130. English language proficiency test scores must be submitted officially. DET scores must be sent directly from Duolingo. There is no cost to send these scores. Preferably, IELTS and TOEFL scores will also be submitted directly from the testing agencies. If, however, cost is a barrier to sending these scores to Rochester, you may have your school counselor submit a copy of your results.Recommendations: School Report- Required, Counselor Recommendation- Required, Mid Year Report- Required, Final Report- Required, Teacher Evaluation(s): 1 Required, 2 Optional, Other Evaluation(s): 0 Required, 3 Optional.Additional details: Any supplemental material students wish to submit as part of their application (art work, media links, research abstracts, etc) must be uploaded through their MyRoc account. Access the MyRoc portal will be available after the successful completion of the Common Application as well as the University of Rochester-specific questions and writing supplements.Writing Requirements: Common App Essay: Required, Supplemental Essays: Students applying for the Combined Degree Program (REMS, GEAR, GRADE, HEAL, DDE) will have to write additional essays.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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