Computer Science B.A. Curriculum

Students following the B.A. curriculum will achieve a solid background in computer science and have additional flexibility to pursue other academic interests while completing the degree.

Course Requirements

A minimum of 36 credits (maximum of 51) from the following required core courses:

  • CSC 110 - Computing Concepts (4cr)
  • CSC 211 - Introductory Programming and Design (4cr)
  • CSC 212 - Data Structures and Abstractions (4cr)
  • CSC 301 - Fundamentals of Programming Languages (4cr)
  • CSC 305 - Software Engineering (4cr)
  • CSC 320 - Social Issues in Computing (4cr)
  • Including at least one of the following:
    • CSC 411 - Computer Organization (4cr)
    • CSC 412 - Operating Systems and Networks (4cr)

2 additional courses at the 300-level or above:

  • CSC 402 - Compiler Design (4cr)
  • CSC 436 - Database Management Systems (4cr)
  • CSC 481 - Artificial Intelligence (4cr)

    • except that CSC 491, 492, and 499 may be used only with prior departmental approval.

11 credits from the following required courses:

  • URI 101 - Traditions and Transformations: A Freshman Seminar (1cr)
  • MTH 141 - Introductory Calculus with Analytic Geometry (4cr)
  • MTH 215 - Introduction to Linear Algebra (3cr)
  • One COM course (3cr)

6 additional credits chosen from:

  • WRT 104 - Writing to Inform and Explain (3cr)
  • WRT 105 - Forms of College Writing (3cr)
  • WRT 201 - Writing Argumentative and Persuasive Texts (3cr)
  • WRT 333 - Scientific and Technical Writing (3cr)

A total of 121 credits is required for graduation.

Download the B.A. Curriculum Worksheet (PDF) for full details and to aid you in your planning.

Sample B.A. Program of Study

A typical plan for graduating in four years follows:

Semester 00: 15 credits

  • CSC 110 - Computing Concepts (4cr)
  • MTH 141 - Introductory Calculus with Analytic Geometry (4cr)
  • URI 101 - Traditions and Transformations: A Freshman Seminar (1cr)
  • WRT 101 - Composition (3cr) [No Longer Offered]
  • Basic Liberal Studies requirement or Elective (3cr)

Semester 01: 16 credits

  • COM 100 - Communication Fundamentals (3cr)
  • CSC 211 - Introductory Programming and Design (4cr)
  • MTH 215 - Introduction to Linear Algebra (3cr)
  • Basic Liberal Studies requirement (3cr)
  • Elective (3cr)

Semester 02: 16 credits

  • CSC 212 - Data Structures and Abstractions (4cr)
  • Basic Liberal Studies requirements (6cr)
  • Electives (6cr)

Semester 03: 14 credits

  • CSC 301 - Fundamentals of Programming Languages (4cr)
  • WRT 333 - Scientific and Technical Writing (3cr)
  • Basic Liberal Studies requirements (6cr)
  • Elective (3cr)

Semester 04: 16 credits

  • CSC 305 - Software Engineering (4cr)
  • CSC elective (4cr)
  • Basic Liberal Studies requirements (6cr)

Semester 05: 14 credits

  • CSC elective (4cr)
  • Basic Liberal Studies requirements (6cr)
  • Electives (6cr)

Semester 06: 14 credits

  • CSC 320 - Social Issues in Computing (4cr)
  • CSC elective (4cr)
  • Basic Liberal Studies requirement or Elective (3cr)
  • Elective (3cr)

Semester 07: 14 credits

  • CSC elective (4cr)
  • Electives (10cr)