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GVSU student in a computer lab at Grand Valley State University.

Computer Science, B.S.

The computer science major provides students with the intellectual foundations and experiences necessary to succeed professionally in the computing and information technology field.

Visit the program website for more information.

This program requires a secondary admission process.
Available as a minor.

Program Overview

Computer science students receive a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. The diverse elective courses offered within the curriculum allow students to explore specialties within their field, such as:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Computer graphics
  • Web/mobile applications
  • System/software security
  • Usability design
  • Data mining

A minor is also available.

Why Study Computer Science at Grand Valley?

Computing professionals who want to take their expertise or career to the next level can take advantage of Grand Valley's highly-credentialed and well-connected faculty.

  • Accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, abet.org.
  • The program offers a variety of electives and minors, so students can tailor their education to their interests.
  • The curriculum is a combination of theoretical foundation and applied computing, giving students a competitive edge in the job market.
  • Students gain practical experience through extensive internship opportunities available through the College of Computing.
  • Dedicated computer labs with state-of-the-art equipment ensure relevant, hands-on experience.

Career Insights

This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.

Location & Format

Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.

Format:
  • Face To Face

Coursework

The computer science program consists of core computer science classes, along with specialized applications. Some of these classes include:

  • Algorithms
  • Computer architecture
  • Database
  • Operating systems
  • Programming languages
  • Software engineering

Combined Degree Programs

Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.

Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE

Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria to be considered. However, achievement of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the major.

  • overall GPA of 2.5 or above in all GVSU coursework
  • GPA of 2.5 or above in technical core (only one repeat per course allowed)
  • completion of each course in the technical core with a grade of “C” or above

See School of Computing for details.

For More Information

College of Computing

gvsu.edu/computing
C-2-100 Mackinac Hall
(616) 331-2060

Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

 

“My students love my enthusiasm about teaching. They want to go home and code. It's what we do. They're excited about the opportunities that are out there.”

ROGER FERGUSON, PH.D.
PROFESSOR, COMPUTER SCIENCE