Wellesley College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science that emphasizes both the intellectual depth and societal relevance of computing. The program, housed within the Department of Computer Science, encourages students to approach computational problems with creativity, rigor, and ethical awareness. With a liberal arts foundation, the program cultivates critical thinking, communication skills, and interdisciplinary exploration—producing graduates who are not only technically competent but also socially conscious leaders in technology.
The Computer Science major at Wellesley consists of at least 11 courses, including core computer science classes, mathematics requirements, and advanced electives.
Core Computer Science Courses:
CS 111: Computer Programming and Problem Solving
CS 230: Data Structures
CS 231: Computer Systems
CS 240: Foundations of Computer Science
CS 301: Seminar in Computer Science (Capstone Course)
Mathematics Requirements:
MATH 205: Multivariable Calculus or MATH 206: Linear Algebra
MATH 225: Combinatorics or another approved theoretical math course
Advanced Electives (Choose at least 4):
Students select from 200- and 300-level courses in topics such as:
Artificial Intelligence (CS 320)
Human-Computer Interaction (CS 317)
Databases (CS 304)
Data Mining (CS 321)
Algorithms (CS 251)
Programming Languages (CS 235)
Software Engineering (CS 314)
Ethics and Technology (cross-listed courses)
Capstone Experience:
Students complete CS 301: Seminar in Computer Science, where they engage in readings, discussion, and a substantial independent or group project. Seniors pursuing honors may also complete a Senior Thesis (CS 360/370), conducting original research under faculty guidance.
Interdisciplinary Options:
Students can combine CS with other disciplines through double majors or minors in fields like mathematics, neuroscience, economics, cognitive science, environmental studies, or media arts.
Wellesley offers robust experiential learning through mentorship, internships, and research.
Research Opportunities:
Undergraduate research is central to the program, with students participating in Summer Research Programs or semester-long research through CS 250 (Research or Individual Study). Areas of research include machine learning, robotics, data privacy, HCI, and algorithmic fairness.
Internships and Career Development:
Wellesley’s Career Education Office and the CS department support students in securing internships at organizations such as Google, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, the U.S. government, and nonprofits. Many internships are funded through the College’s internship grants.
Student Organizations and Events:
Students engage with tech through:
Wellesley Women in Computer Science (WiCS)
CS Club and Hackathons
SIBs (Sisters in CS mentoring program)
Participation in Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing and other national tech conferences
Cross-Registration with MIT:
Through the Wellesley–MIT Exchange, students can take advanced computer science and engineering courses at MIT, expanding their access to specialized electives and labs.
Wellesley’s CS graduates are highly successful in both professional and academic paths, empowered by a strong liberal arts foundation and technical expertise.
Employment Opportunities:
Graduates pursue roles such as:
Software Engineer
UX Designer
Product Manager
Data Analyst
Research Scientist
Cybersecurity Specialist
Employers include Google, Dropbox, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, HubSpot, and the federal government, as well as startups and mission-driven organizations.
Graduate Studies:
Many alumni pursue advanced degrees in computer science, data science, cognitive science, and law at top institutions like MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Carnegie Mellon, and UC Berkeley.
Wellesley’s Computer Science program combines deep academic inquiry with real-world engagement, preparing women to innovate with impact and lead ethically in an increasingly digital world.
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