Program Overview

Computer Science Program

The Computer Science program at UNH Manchester is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in computer science, preparing them for careers in this rapidly growing field. The program combines a strong technical foundation with hands-on experience, allowing students to develop cutting-edge computing systems.

Program Description

The program is grounded in mathematics and computer engineering, advancing the science and theory of computation and developing computing-based systems. Computer science is one of the fastest-growing fields in the United States, with exciting job prospects that value highly creative, interdisciplinary, and impactful work.

Why Study Computer Science at UNH Manchester?

Through project-based learning in the classroom and relevant internships and research experiences, the computer science program at UNH Manchester prepares students with the skills to pursue careers or graduate school in this high-demand and rewarding field. Students learn computer science theories, build a strong technical foundation, and apply computing concepts and practices through real-world experience with a vast network of local businesses and tech companies.

Potential Careers

• Applications architect
• Big data engineer
• Computer network architect
• Data security analyst
• Database developer
• Full stack developer
• Information security analyst
• Mobile application developer
• Software engineer
• Software systems engineer

Curriculum and Requirements

Program Educational Objectives

Within five years of graduation, a CS student should be able to:

• Demonstrate mastery of the core areas of computer science
• Invent, develop, manage, and evaluate computing systems and services
• Exercise professional responsibility and have appreciation of the social, legal, ethical, and cultural issues inherent in the computing field

Degree Plan

Sample Course Sequence

The program requires a minimum of 128 credits, including:

• Mathematics and Science courses (e.g., Discrete Structures, Statistics in Computing and Engineering, Calculus I, Linear Algebra for Applications, General Physics I)
• Computing Core courses (e.g., Mobile Computing, Applied Computing 1, Systems Fundamentals, Data Structures Fundamentals, Machine and Network Architecture, Ethics and the Law in the Digital Age)
• Project and Professional Practice courses (e.g., Internship Experience, Capstone Project)
• Computing Topics courses (select two from options like Full Stack Development, Database Systems and Technologies, Programming Languages, Machine Learning Applications and Tools, Applied Cryptography)

Requirements for the Program

• Minimum Credit Requirement: 128 credits
• Minimum Residency Requirement: 32 credits must be taken at UNH
• Minimum GPA: 2.0 required for conferral
• Core Curriculum Required: Discovery & Writing Program Requirements
• Foreign Language Requirement: Yes

Student Learning Outcomes

Program Learning Outcomes

• Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions
• Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program's discipline
• Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts
• Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles
• Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program's discipline
• Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions

Career Opportunities

The need for tech-savvy graduates is growing, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipating positive growth in many computing professions. Combined with growing market demand, the business and tech skills developed at UNH Manchester translate to an impactful and lucrative career.

Job Title, Job Growth, and Average Salary

• Computer and Information Systems Manager: 15% growth, $131,600 average salary
• Computer Network Architect: 9% growth, $100,240 average salary
• Computer Science Teacher, Postsecondary: 13% growth, $72,470 average salary
• Computer Systems Analyst: 21% growth, $85,800 average salary
• Database Administrator: 11% growth, $81,710 average salary
• Information Security Analyst: 18% growth, $90,120 average salary
• Software Developer: 17% growth, $100,690 average salary

Internships

UNH Manchester's location provides unlimited internship opportunities, with partnerships with local businesses to give students real-world experience. Computing majors have interned at high-profile organizations, including Oracle, Dyn, BAE Systems, SilverTech, and 2KR Systems.

Minors

Adding a computer information systems minor to a degree builds both a resume and the foundation for highly desirable technical skills. Computing drives innovation in all industries, making this minor a valuable addition to any major.

Pathways Program for NH Community College Students

UNH Manchester has partnered with NHTI to develop a pathway showing how community college courses will transfer into the computer science program.

Computing Technology Industry Advisory Board

The CT-IAB advises and supports the computing technology program, providing counsel and support in curriculum design, lab infrastructure, partnerships, and developing educational pathways to computing education and careers. The board includes computing professionals, researchers, and leaders from local industry, business, government, education, and nonprofit organizations.