

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a rigorous 4-year program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of computer systems, software development, and computational theory. The program equips students with the technical skills and problem-solving abilities necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of computer science. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including algorithms, data structures, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and software engineering, giving them the tools to design, implement, and analyze computer systems and applications.
Throughout the program, students will engage in both theoretical and practical coursework, learning how to apply computational principles to solve complex problems in diverse areas such as cybersecurity, data science, game development, and network engineering. The program also emphasizes team collaboration, software design, and real-world coding experience, preparing students to work in the tech industry or continue their studies in advanced computing fields. By the end of the program, graduates will be well-prepared for careers in software development, research, and technology innovation.
Year 1 – Foundations of Computer Science
• Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
• Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science
• Introduction to Data Structures and Algorithms
• Computer Architecture and Operating Systems
• Introduction to Computer Networks and Security
Year 2 – Core Computer Science Concepts
• Object-Oriented Programming and Design
• Theory of Computation
• Algorithms and Data Structures
• Software Engineering Principles
• Database Systems and Management
Year 3 – Advanced Topics and Specialization
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Computer Graphics and Visualization
• Web Development and Distributed Systems
• Mobile Computing and Application Development
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
Year 4 – Capstone Project and Professional Development
• Advanced Software Engineering Projects
• Senior Research Project or Internship in Computer Science
• Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking
• Cloud Computing and Big Data Analytics
• Career Preparation and Graduate School Planning
Graduates of the BS in Computer Science program are well-equipped for a wide variety of roles in the technology sector and beyond. Many go on to work as software developers, systems engineers, data scientists, machine learning engineers, or network architects in industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, gaming, and government. They may also pursue careers in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, or research and development. The program’s strong emphasis on coding, problem-solving, and real-world software engineering ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue graduate studies in computer science, data science, or artificial intelligence.
This program is ideal for students who are passionate about technology and want to develop the skills necessary to drive innovation in the tech industry. The curriculum offers a strong foundation in both theoretical principles and practical programming skills, ensuring students are prepared to tackle real-world challenges. With hands-on coding projects, internship opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art labs, students will gain invaluable experience in software development and computational problem solving. The program also encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to explore areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science. By the end of the program, graduates will have the knowledge, experience, and professional skills needed to thrive in the competitive and ever-evolving field of computer science.