Computer Science

UMBC’s B.S. in Computer Science, an ABET accredited program, introduces students to a rich and diverse discipline. Opportunities in the exciting emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, malware analysis, mobile computing, graphics, game design, quantum computing, human-computer interaction, forensic analysis, and data science are accessible in a wide range of environments. Computing jobs are in the top of the fastest growing and highest paid jobs in the country according to Bureau of Labor Statistics. UMBC computer science graduates are employed by varied businesses*: tech industry leaders, government agencies, the defense industry, and video game design companies. Other major employers include financial technology, transportation, and a variety of other startups.

Graduates of the computer science program are well prepared for advanced studies and for problem-solving across the breadth of the discipline: theory, design, architecture, development and application of computers and computer systems.Many go on to graduate school in top Computer Science and Computer Engineering departments. Career paths include software engineers, database administrators, network architects, computer programmers, web developers and information security analysts.

UMBC has celebrated being considered both a most innovative school (#9) and best undergraduate teaching school (#12) by US News and World Report. We welcome you to join our highly diverse student body.

*Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NSA, NIST, CIA, Northrop Grunman, Lockheed Martin, Firaxis, JP Morgan, T Rowe Prices, Legg Mason, UPS, and many more …

Required Technology

The UMBC Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering requires all incoming freshmen and incoming transfer students to have a laptop computer. Technology requirements are available on this webpage:

https://www.csee.umbc.edu/undergraduate/required-technology/

Major Requirements

Students pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Computer Science must complete the Major Requirements, as well the General Education Program (GEP) Requirements set up by the University. The Computer Science degree offers four tracksArtificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML), Cybersecurity (CYBR), Data Science (DSCI) and Game Development (GDEV).

To find out more about the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning track, the Cybersecurity track or the Data Science track, please contact Dr. Jeremy Dixon at jdixon@umbc.edu. To find out more about the Game Development track, please contact Dr. Marc Olano at olano@umbc.edu.

Options for Minors

Students interested in pursuing a Minor in Computer Science must complete the Minor Requirements.

* Because of the similarities between the Computer Science and Computer Engineering programs, students cannot  major in Computer Engineering and minor in Computer Science.

Students may also pursue a Computing Minor.  More information can be found here.

Combined BS/MS Program

Students who see Graduate School in their future can choose to enroll in the combined B.S./ M.S. program, which will allow them to speedily complete a B.S. in Computer Science and an M.S. in Computer Science. For details about requirements and guidelines, go here.

Now Available at Two Locations

Meet the Students

Click on the students’ photos to hear what they have to say about life at UMBC as a Computer Science major.

Questions?

Contact the Computer Science Undergraduate Program Director, Dr. Jeremy Dixon (jdixon@umbc.edu).

How to Apply

For information about the application process, visit the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Need financial help? Visit the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships for information about financial aid and merit-based scholarships.