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B.S. Computer Science

We See Your Future in Computer Science
Prepare to lead in the new frontier of software and technology with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science focused on logical thinking and hands-on learning.
Norfolk State University
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Are you fascinated by computers and software? Do you think of yourself as a creative problem-solver who likes a challenge? Earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Norfolk State University will provide you with the tools and knowledge to excel as a computer scientist, both independently and as a member of a team.

As technology continues to become more complex and society’s reliance on computing systems increases, skilled and adaptable computer scientists are in higher demand than ever. Earn a degree in computer science from NSU and join this exciting field.

A flexible computer science degree

Computer science is a huge field of study, with many opportunities to specialize in what interests you most. That’s why we offer four computer science major tracks. Want to become a systems administrator or solve problems at the code level? Our computer science degree track is for you. Want to help organizations stay secure or protect user data? Concentrate on cybersecurity. If you want to learn about the hardware that runs the software, consider our computer engineering track. Finally, if you’re interested in developing and writing the code that runs everything, our software engineering concentration might be the right fit for you.

B.S. Computer Science Degree at a Glance

  • Average Class Size: < 32
  • Formats Offered: In Person, Online, Hybrid
  • Total Credit Hours: 120

Enrollment and Degree Awarded for Computer Science

View computer science degree plans of study | Request more information | Apply now

 

Accreditation for Computer Science at NSU

The Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science at Norfolk State University is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the General Criteria and the Computer Science Program Criteria. 

Program Educational Objectives

Graduates of the Computer Science BS degree program at Norfolk State University will be able to accomplish the following in three to five years after graduation:

  1. Demonstrate ongoing commitment to develop their professional knowledge and skills by remaining informed about emerging technologies in computer science or related fields.
  2. Enhance their communication, collaboration, and leadership skills while contributing as a member of the computing profession or as a graduate student.
  3. Create work products independently or as a team member, appropriate to their level of experience, while upholding ethical, social, and professional standards.
  4. Apply core computing principles and practices to advance the computing profession or computer science as a discipline.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation, computer science students will demonstrate an:

  1. Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
  3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
  4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice, taking into account legal, ethical, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility principles consistent with the mission of the institution. based on legal and ethical principles.
  5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
  6. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

Why Study Computer Science at NSU?

As a computer science major at Norfolk State University, you’ll benefit from resources and a lively community dedicated to helping you succeed academically and professionally. The Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science at Norfolk State University is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET under the General Criteria and the Computer Science Program Criteria. This means that the computer science degree you earn from NSU will be recognized and respected around the country.

As you earn your Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from NSU, you’ll enjoy an exceptional educational experience:

Work with experienced faculty

You can take advantage of our small class sizes to work closely with faculty mentors who have years of professional and teaching experience. They foster creativity and intellectual risk-taking to ensure that you’re ready for the career of your dreams after earning your computer science degree.

Get hands-on experience in your field

When you earn a degree in computer science at NSU, you’ll get hands-on experience mastering the technology and skills needed to become a successful computer scientist. Your studies will culminate in a year-long research capstone project in which you’ll design and create a real software product, which you can then continue perfecting in a job or graduate program.

Access first-class facilities

All computer science majors have access to our state-of-the-art labs dedicated to a diverse range of specialties, including robotics/mobile computing, cybersecurity, network research and microcomputers. Master the tools you’ll need every day in your career.

What Courses Will I Take as a Computer Science Major?

As you earn a degree in computer science from NSU, you’ll take courses that cover a diverse range of topics, including mathematics, programming languages and technical writing. Most of your computer science courses will involve hands-on practice, so you can apply your knowledge and skills to real-world settings even before you graduate.
Whichever of our computer science major tracks you choose, you’ll build fundamentals skills in creative problem-solving, presenting and writing — skills that will help you stand out on the job in any field.

Some of the core computer science degree courses you’ll take include:

  • Computer Programming
  • Data Structures
  • Data Communication 
  • Operating Systems
  • Computer Architecture

Where Will My Computer Science Degree Take Me?

Computer scientists are the backbone of our modern world. They design, implement and maintain the technology we use daily — from ATMs and smart TVs to social media tools and smartphone apps. As you earn a degree in computer science at NSU, you’ll join a fast-paced and growing field with a variety of career opportunities.

Many of our past Computer Science majors have gone on to work in government agencies, research labs and prestigious companies such as Lockheed Martin, Microsoft and Netflix.

Career outlook for Computer Science majors

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for computer and information research scientists is expected to grow by 22% over the next decade. That’s more than double the national average. Information security analysts can expect an even better job outlook, with 33% job growth predicted over the same amount of time. Job titles for professionals with a degree in computer science include:

  •  Chief information security officer
  •  Cloud computing engineer
  •  Computer scientist
  •  Computer science researcher
  •  Data scientist
  •  Business analyst
  •  Database administrator
  •  Full-stack developer
  •  Information security analyst
  •  Information technology specialist
  •  Mobile application designer or developer

How Do I Get Started in the Computer Science Program at NSU? 

Whether you have questions about filling out your application or finding the right financial aid to help you earn a degree in computer science, we have an extraordinary team of advisors, counselors and staff who can help you at every stage of your academic journey.

Learn more about the requirements for earning a computer science degree at NSU.  

“I will forever be indebted to NSU, for I owe much of my professional success to the educational as well as social experiences gained. NSU taught me that if I work hard enough, anything is possible, and no goal is unachievable.”
– Dorvarius P. ’09, B.S. in Computer Science

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