Computer Science, B.S.

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Wake Forest University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Wake Forest University provides students with a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, computer systems, artificial intelligence, and computational problem-solving. Designed for students who enjoy technology, mathematics, and logical thinking, the programme combines core computing courses with advanced electives and mathematical study, preparing graduates for careers in software development, data-focused roles, systems engineering, and further study in computer science.

Curriculum Structure

Wake Forest's B.S. in Computer Science requires core courses in programming, data structures, programming languages, computer systems, algorithm design, and additional advanced computer science electives, alongside mathematics courses. The following year-by-year outline represents a suggested progression based on the official curriculum rather than a fixed university-prescribed schedule.

Year 1: Programming and Mathematical Foundations

Students begin with Introduction to Computer Science (CSC 111), which introduces programming in an object-oriented language, including control structures, methods, classes, arrays, testing, and debugging. They progress to Fundamentals of Computer Science (CSC 112) to develop algorithmic problem-solving skills, explore data structures, and understand recursion and algorithm complexity, while mathematics courses build the foundations needed for advanced computing.

Year 2: Data Structures, Programming Languages, and Computer Systems

Students strengthen their technical understanding through Data Structures and Algorithms (CSC 201), learning how to organise information and develop efficient computational solutions. Programming Languages (CSC 231) introduces concepts behind programming-language design and implementation, while Computer Systems I (CSC 250) explores the underlying organisation and operation of computer systems. Discrete Mathematics and Linear Algebra support students' analytical and mathematical reasoning.

Year 3: Systems, Artificial Intelligence, and Ethical Computing

Students deepen their understanding through Computer Systems II (CSC 251) and Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (CSC 270), exploring advanced computing concepts and approaches to intelligent problem-solving. Computing Ethics (CSC 280) encourages students to consider the social responsibilities and ethical implications of technology. Students can also begin choosing advanced electives that reflect their interests and intended career direction.

Year 4: Advanced Study and Professional Preparation

Students complete Algorithm Design and Analysis (CSC 301) and select at least 12 credit hours of computer science courses at the 300 level or above. These advanced courses allow them to develop specialised expertise, apply computational concepts to more challenging problems, and prepare for professional opportunities or graduate study. Students also complete the Computer Science Mastery Exam (CSC 399), which assesses their understanding of core computer science topics.

Focus Areas

Programming and software development, data structures and algorithms, programming languages, computer systems, artificial intelligence, algorithm design and analysis, computing ethics, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, advanced computer science electives.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to design, implement, test, and debug computer programs; organise and process data using appropriate structures and algorithms; analyse computational efficiency; understand programming languages and computer systems; apply foundational artificial intelligence concepts; evaluate ethical issues in computing; and use mathematical reasoning to solve technical problems. Advanced electives help students build specialised knowledge for professional employment or further academic study.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Wake Forest's official programme bulletin outlines the B.S. curriculum and graduation requirements but does not establish programme-specific accreditation by a professional computing accreditation body. Students who require a particular accreditation should confirm the current status directly with the university before applying.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

Wake Forest's Computer Science Department reports that its undergraduates obtain summer internships across a variety of industries and organisations. The department lists employers such as IBM, Accenture, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Nike, Workday, and SAS Institute, and reports internship roles including AI Researcher, Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Software Engineer, Technology Consultant, and Website Developer. These examples demonstrate the range of professional opportunities reported by the department, but they are not a guarantee of employment or a programme-specific placement rate.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Wake Forest University encourages Computer Science students to apply classroom knowledge through programming assignments, research projects, and collaboration with faculty. Students can explore research in artificial intelligence, software security, computer vision, mobile application development, network security, and high-performance computing. The department also provides access to specialised computing resources, including GPU-powered systems, and opportunities to work on projects that address real-world challenges.

Students can develop practical experience through the following programme-related opportunities and facilities:

- Programming and Software Development: In Introduction to Computer Science (CSC 111), students work with an object-oriented programming language and learn control structures, classes, arrays, testing, and debugging. The department identifies IntelliJ as an integrated development environment used in early programming courses.

- GreenFlash GPU-Optimised Computing Cluster: Students can use this specialised computing resource for coursework and research involving graphics processing units. The department describes opportunities to learn CUDA programming and develop high-performance computing applications.

- DEAC Supercomputing Cluster: This university-supported resource provides computing capacity for research and instructional activities, with technical support for training, troubleshooting, software installation, and data management.

- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Research: Students may explore faculty research in interpretable AI, robust reinforcement learning, scalable machine learning, and AI-agent software engineering, depending on project availability and faculty supervision.

- Computer Vision and Imaging Projects: Research opportunities include imaging algorithms, image recognition, image analysis, and the use of satellite imagery to identify environmental changes. These projects allow students to investigate how computing can address scientific and environmental problems.

- Mobile Application Development: The department supports student engagement in mobile app development through interdisciplinary projects involving students from Computer Science, Business, Mathematics, Economics, and Physics.

- Computer Science Center: Located in Alumni Hall 289, this centre offers peer learning and academic assistance for students taking introductory and intermediate computer science courses. Graduate teaching assistants and advanced undergraduate students provide support during scheduled hours.

- Faculty-Supervised Research and Independent Study: Students are encouraged to discuss research opportunities with faculty members. Independent study can provide experience in specialised topics that are not normally covered in regular courses, while research projects may involve developing software, evaluating data, or investigating new computational methods.

- Internships and Employer Experience: The department reports that students obtain summer internships with organisations such as IBM, Accenture, Nike, Workday, JPMorgan Chase, and SAS Institute. Reported internship roles include AI Researcher, Data Analyst, Software Engineer, Technology Consultant, and Website Developer. Opportunities vary by employer and recruitment cycle.

Official facilities and practical learning information is available through Wake Forest's Computer Science Department, High Performance Computing resources, Computer Science Center, and department internship information.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The B.S. in Computer Science prepares students for technology careers by developing their programming, algorithm design, mathematical reasoning, and computer systems knowledge. Graduates can apply these skills across software development, artificial intelligence, data analysis, cybersecurity, and computing research, depending on their advanced coursework and practical experience.

Typical career options include Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Researcher, Systems Analyst, with additional opportunities in database development, software security, technology consulting, and research-oriented roles.

Students can strengthen their career prospects through the following opportunities at Wake Forest:

- Internship and Career Preparation: The Computer Science Department shares internship opportunities from companies seeking students for summer positions, with listings often available through WFU Handshake. Students can use these opportunities to gain professional experience and build connections with employers.

- Employer Connections: The department reports student internship experiences with organisations including IBM, Accenture, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Nike, Workday, and SAS Institute. These examples demonstrate the range of employers represented in reported internship experiences, rather than guaranteed recruitment partnerships.

- Research Experience: Students can participate in faculty-supervised research involving artificial intelligence, computer vision, cybersecurity, mobile applications, and high-performance computing. Research experience can help students develop technical portfolios and prepare for specialist roles or graduate programmes.

- Honors and Academic Recognition: Eligible students may pursue Honors in Computer Science by completing a senior research report and meeting the department's GPA requirements. This provides an opportunity to demonstrate advanced academic achievement and independent research skills.

- Employment Statistics and Salaries: The department publishes examples of internship employers and job roles, but the official programme information reviewed does not provide a verified B.S.-specific graduate employment rate or salary figure. These statistics should be obtained from a current official graduate-outcomes report rather than estimated.

- Professional Accreditation: The published degree requirements do not establish programme-specific accreditation by a professional computing accreditation body. Students should confirm the current accreditation status directly with Wake Forest if this is important for their intended career or postgraduate plans.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue a master's degree in Computer Science or related areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, or High-Performance Computing. Wake Forest also offers a joint B.S. and M.S. pathway that allows eligible undergraduate Computer Science students to complete graduate coursework during their senior year, undertake an approved internship after graduation, and finish the remaining master's coursework during the following academic year. Admission requires meeting the programme's academic and application criteria. Students interested in academic or advanced research careers may also consider pursuing a Ph.D. in Computer Science or a related field.