Computer Science

Program Overview

Computer Science

School

School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Department

Computer Science and Engineering

Majors

• Computer Science BA
• Computer Science BS

Combined

• Computer Science BS/Computer Science and Engineering MS
• Computer Science BS/MBA

Minors

• Computer Science Minor
• Cybersecurity Minor

What will I learn?

You'll typically start with some core courses in object-oriented programming, data structures and system programming, while also taking classes in math and science. In your junior and senior years, you’ll take more courses in programming languages, artificial intelligence, operating systems and related subjects—plus electives that let you explore networking and other interests—as you continue to strengthen your skills in communication and teamwork.

Computer Science BA vs. BS

• The BA offers more flexibility and lets you take more classes outside of CS.
• The BS is a more in-depth approach to CS.

What can I do outside of class?

• Internships, co-ops and experiential learning. Get real-world experience, like working on the Brain Connectivity project at a local hospital and on-campus engineering intramurals.
• Student groups. Whether you're into hacking and tinkering or networking and making friends, check out UB's dozens of engineering student clubs, including clubs focused on computer science and engineering.
• Research. As one student said, "I enjoy how research-oriented the professors are and how open they are to working with undergraduates."
• Study abroad. If you're looking for a life-changing experience and international perspective, consider going abroad; UB engineering students have traveled to Australia, Costa Rica, France and many other countries during summer and winter breaks.

What can I do with a computer science degree?

From Apple and YouTube to Microsoft, Samsung, Box and the National Institutes of Health, our alumni have worked at some of the world’s leading organizations. They've been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, co-founded a multi-billion dollar software company, co-invented grid computing and much, much more.

So the question is, what do you want to do? Here are a few paths to think about:

• Software developer for a health care organization.
• Security analyst for a cloud platform.
• Systems analyst for a global manufacturer.
• Professor at a world-class research university.

Because nearly every field relies on computers and software, you'll likely find opportunities working for private companies, nonprofit organizations and government agencies around the world, whether you start your career right after graduation or go to grad school.

Who will I learn from?

As one of our students said, "Getting to know my professors helped a lot. They're phenomenal.

At UB, you'll find faculty with an international reputation for excellence and established research ties with some of the world’s leading computing companies, including Microsoft, Google, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Oracle and Nokia.

In addition, our faculty members have served as editorial board members of top industry journals, have earned awards from top national and international organizations, and have been named as Fellows of leading professional societies, including the ACM, IEEE, IAPR and AAAS.

Their commitment to excellence starts in the classroom. Our faculty members have received many awards for outstanding teaching, including the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Teaching Excellence, the UB Teaching Innovation Award, and other high honors for their teaching and mentoring.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• The Computer Science program at UB is designed for students who are passionate about using technology to solve problems and make a difference in the world.
• The program provides students with a solid foundation in computer science principles and prepares them for careers in a variety of industries.
• Students can choose from a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Computer Science, with the BA offering more flexibility and the BS offering a more in-depth approach to computer science.

Outline:

• The Computer Science program at UB typically starts with core courses in object-oriented programming, data structures, and system programming.
• In their junior and senior years, students take more courses in programming languages, artificial intelligence, operating systems, and related subjects.
• Students also have the opportunity to take electives in areas such as networking, security, and game development.

Assessment:

• Students in the Computer Science program at UB are assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, assignments, and projects.
• The program also uses a portfolio assessment system, where students are required to submit a portfolio of their work at the end of their program.

Teaching:

• The Computer Science program at UB is taught by a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members.
• The faculty members have an international reputation for excellence and established research ties with some of the world’s leading computing companies.
• The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, hands-on labs, and group projects.

Careers:

• Alumni of the Computer Science program at UB have gone on to work at some of the world’s leading organizations, including Apple, YouTube, Microsoft, Samsung, Box, and the National Institutes of Health.
• Graduates of the program have also been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, co-founded a multi-billion dollar software company, co-invented grid computing, and much more.

Other:

• The Computer Science program at UB offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved in research, study abroad, and internships.
• The program also has a number of student clubs and organizations that provide students with opportunities to network with other students and professionals in the field of computer science.
• The program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.