Undergraduate Studies - Computer Science (2024)

The Department of Computer Science offers Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in computer science and in software engineering. Both programs of study are based on a solid foundation of mathematics thatincludes calculus, linear algebra, and discrete mathematics. These are designed to offer students opportunities to prepare for careers in a rapidly changing profession, whether they choose to enter industry, business or government after graduation. Students are also prepared for graduate study, an important consideration in a field in which further education is strongly recommended.

The computer science and software engineering programs have the same basis in core computer science, including modern programming methodologies, the analysis of algorithms and data structures, and the study of operating systems. The computer science program continues with courses in advanced data structures, programming languages, and automata theory, whereas the software engineering program includes courses in requirements engineering, software validation and testing, and software architecture, culminating in a challenging project course in which students must demonstrate the use of software engineering techniques. Both programs offer a rich choice of application areas, including digital systems design, computer networks, embedded systems, computer imaging, data science, interactive graphics, virtual reality, machine learning, artificial intelligence and cognitive modeling, and human-computer interaction. (Learn more about the Bachelor in Computer Science Program (pdf).)

The Bachelor of Science program in Computer Science is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of of ABET, under the General Criteria and the Computer Science Program Criteria.

The Bachelor of Science program in Software Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the General Criteria and the Software Engineering Program Criteria.

You can verify our ABET accreditation by visitingABET Accreditation.

BS Computer Science Program Educational Objectives

• Pursue lasting and successful careers in computer science or related fields including as industry professionals, educators, researchers, government professionals and/or entrepreneurs
• Be effective team contributors and/or leaders, including in multi-disciplinary environments, in professional fields related to computer science
• Serve their profession in a socially responsible, ethical, and innovative manner to meet the software engineering needs of industry, academia, and/or society
• Continue to develop and grow through lifelong learning, and successfully adapt to continuous advancements in software technology

BS Computer Science Student Outcomes

• Analyze a complex computing problem and to 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.

Learn more about the BS Computer Science in the Undergraduate Catalog.

BS Software Engineering Program Educational Objectives

• Pursue lasting and successful careers in software engineering or related fields including as industry professionals, educators, researchers, government professionals and/or entrepreneurs
• Be effective team contributors and/or leaders, including in multi-disciplinary environments, in professional fields related to software engineering
• Serve their profession in a socially responsible, ethical, and innovative manner to meet the software engineering needs of industry, academia, and/or society
• Continue to develop and grow through lifelong learning, and successfully adapt to continuous advancements in software technology.

BS Software Engineering Student Outcomes

• An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
• An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
• An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
• An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
• An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
• An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
• An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Learn more about the Software Engineering BS in the Undergraduate Catalog.

TAKING GRADUATE COURSES

Upper-division students, who are classified as seniors and have completed core curriculum requirements, may petition the undergraduate associate dean and appropriate graduate advisor/program director to take graduate courses.

If approved, these graduate courses can be applied toward satisfying bachelor’s degree requirements or can be designated for future application toward a graduate degree or certificate requirement at
UT Dallas.

Get more information abouttaking graduate-level courses.

Enrollment and graduation data (pdf)