Program Overview

Introduction to the Computer Science Program

The Computer Science program at Northwestern University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in computer science, preparing them for careers in this field. The program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, with a range of specializations and research areas.

Academics

The Computer Science program offers a range of academic programs, including:

• Undergraduate programs:
  • Computer Science Major (BS/BA)
  • Computer Science Minor
  • Artificial Intelligence Minor
  • Machine Learning and Data Science Minor
  • Combined BS (or BA)/MS Degree Program
• Graduate programs:
  • MS in Computer Science
  • PhD in Computer Science

Undergraduate Programs

The undergraduate programs in Computer Science are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in computer science, as well as the opportunity to specialize in a particular area. The programs include:

• Computer Science Major (BS/BA): This program provides students with a comprehensive education in computer science, including coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, and computer systems.
• Computer Science Minor: This program is designed for students who want to gain a basic understanding of computer science, but do not want to pursue a major in the field.
• Artificial Intelligence Minor: This program provides students with an introduction to the field of artificial intelligence, including coursework in machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision.
• Machine Learning and Data Science Minor: This program provides students with an introduction to the field of machine learning and data science, including coursework in machine learning, data mining, and statistical analysis.
• Combined BS (or BA)/MS Degree Program: This program allows students to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science in five years.

Graduate Programs

The graduate programs in Computer Science are designed to provide students with advanced training in computer science, as well as the opportunity to specialize in a particular area. The programs include:

• MS in Computer Science: This program provides students with advanced training in computer science, including coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, and computer systems.
• PhD in Computer Science: This program provides students with advanced training in computer science, as well as the opportunity to conduct original research in the field.

Research Areas

The Computer Science program at Northwestern University has a range of research areas, including:

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Programming Languages
• Quantum Science and Engineering
• Robotics
• Security and Privacy
• Systems and Networking
• Theory
• Vision and Graphics

Curriculum and Requirements

The curriculum and requirements for the Computer Science program vary depending on the degree level and specialization. However, all programs require students to complete a range of coursework, as well as a final project or thesis.

MS Program Requirements

The MS program in Computer Science requires students to complete 12 units of graduate-level credits with letter grades. The program can be completed in three or four quarters, and students work with the director of the MS program to develop a plan of study that meets their individual goals.

Residency Requirement

The minimum residency requirement for the MS degree is the equivalent of three quarters of full-time registration in graduate courses. Full-time registration is defined as three or four course units per quarter.

Graduate Study Manual

For more information about the requirements for the master of science program, please refer to the department's graduate study manual.

Conclusion

The Computer Science program at Northwestern University provides students with a comprehensive education in computer science, as well as the opportunity to specialize in a particular area. The program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, with a range of specializations and research areas. With its strong curriculum and research opportunities, the Computer Science program at Northwestern University is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in this field.