The A.B. in Computer Science gives you a substantial foundation in computing and the freedom to pair it with another major. You’ll study programming, algorithms and discrete structures, then choose at least seven more computer science courses to shape your expertise. Students have paired computer science with fields across Elon, including the performing arts, social sciences, humanities, communications and business.

Engineering and Computing Sciences, robotics class with Assistant Professor Blake Hament

What You’ll Study

Computer Science (Bachelor of Arts)

You’ll learn to write programs, analyze algorithms and use mathematics to reason through computing problems. Your electives can take you into software design, databases, interactive systems, artificial intelligence or other subjects, depending on the work you want to do.

Major Requirements & Courses

The A.B. in Computer Science is a 48 credit hour program. It includes programming, algorithms and discrete structures, an additional course in calculus or statistics, and at least seven computer science electives at the 2000 level or above.

Required courses — 12 semester hours

  • Computer Science I
  • Computer Science II
  • Algorithm Analysis
  • Senior Comprehensive Evaluation

Required Math and Statistics — 12 semester hours

  • Calculus I
  • Discrete Structures
  • Introduction to Statistical Reasoning

Elective courses — 28 semester hours

Choose seven CSC elective courses from:

The Internship in Computer Science (CSC 4985) may count for a maximum of 4 elective semester hours.

Your typical four-year plan

The recommended sequence shows how a full four-year course of study fits together.
You'll work with your advisor to find the right path for you.

Year One — 37 semester hours

Fall Semester

  • Computer Science I
  • Calculus I
  • Global Experience or Writing: Argument and Inquiry
  • World Language — Elementary I
  • Orientation

Winter Term

  • Core Curriculum — Expression: Literature

Spring Semester

  • Computer Science II
  • Introduction to Statistical Reasoning
  • Writing: Argument and Inquiry or Global Experience
  • Core Curriculum — Laboratory Science

Year Two — 36 semester hours

Fall Semester

  • Discrete Structures
  • Computer Science Elective — 2000 Level or Above
  • Core Curriculum — Civilization: History or Art History
  • Free Elective

Winter Term

  • Core Curriculum — Expression: Arts or Philosophy

Spring Semester

  • Computer Science Elective — 2000 Level or Above
  • World Language — Elementary II
  • Core Curriculum — Society
  • Free Elective

Year Three — 36 semester hours

Fall Semester

  • Algorithm Analysis
  • Computer Science Elective — 3000 or 4000 Level
  • Core Curriculum — Advanced Studies Outside the Major
  • Free Elective

Winter Term

  • Core Curriculum — Society: A Different Discipline

Spring Semester

  • Computer Science Elective — 3000 or 4000 Level
  • Computer Science Elective — 3000 or 4000 Level
  • Core Curriculum — Advanced Studies Outside the Major
  • Free Elective

Year Four — 36 semester hours

Fall Semester

  • Computer Science Elective — 3000 or 4000 Level
  • Integrative Core Capstone Seminar
  • Free Elective
  • Free Elective

Winter Term

  • Free Elective

Spring Semester

  • Computer Science Elective — 3000 or 4000 Level
  • Free Elective
  • Free Elective
  • Free Elective
  • Senior Comprehensive Evaluation
Students in Computer Science class

Is this program right for you?

Take computer science into another field.

The A.B. in Computer Science fits if you have another academic interest you want to pursue seriously alongside computing. You’ll build a foundation in programming, algorithms and mathematical reasoning, then choose at least seven more computer science courses to shape your technical work. The degree leaves room to pair that work with another major, whether in the performing arts, humanities, social sciences, communications or business.

Where a A.B. in Computer Science might lead

There are many combinations of courses that you can add to your degree path, and a wide range of professional opportunities. A few options are here, but talk with your advisor about a combination that fits the direction you're considering.

Software and interactive tools

Additional study in

  • Software Design
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Web Development
  • Multimedia Authoring

Possible role as

  • Software Engineer
  • Web Application Developer
  • UX Engineer

Security and systems

Additional study in

  • Computer Science II
  • Cloud Security
  • Software Design
  • Emerging Topics in Cybersecurity

Possible roles as

  • Cloud Security Analyst
  • Incident Response Analyst
  • Software Security Engineer

Data analysis and administration

Additional study in

  • Data Mining
  • Machine Learning
  • Web Development
  • Artificial Intelligence

Possible roles as

  • AI Analyst
  • Data Analyst
  • Database Administrator

Your Faculty

Faculty traditionally associated with the A.B. in Computer Science major.