Undergraduate Program
Computer science focuses on how to design, build, and effectively use the computers and systems that we interact with every day — from the smart phones in our hands to the complex databases in our banks and hospitals. Because computer technology powers the most essential functions of business, industry, government and entertainment, computer scientists have tremendous opportunities for growth and exploration.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a rigorous program that not only covers fundamental computer science subjects –such as object-oriented programming, computer architecture, and operating systems–but also provides a number of exciting avenues for specialization including:
- Cyber Security
- Digital Game Design and Development
- Computer Hardware
- Web Engineering
- Internet and Computer Networks
- Building Systems Software
- Real-Time and Embedded Systems
- Algorithms and Theory
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Graphics and Vision
- Data Management and Mining
- Management Information Systems
The Computer Science BS program is extremely flexible. NYU-Poly also offers a BS/MS Program that enables students to earn both a BS and an MS degree at the same time. For instance, a student can receive a BS in Computer Science and MS in Computer Science, a BS in Computer Engineering and MS in Computer Science, or a BS in Electrical Engineering and MS in Computer Science. Depending on the student’s preparation and objectives, they can complete both degrees in as little as four years. More information on the BS/MS program can be found on the “Undergraduate Academic Requirements and Policies ” section of the catalog.
The program provides research labs for specialized study in areas such as cyber-security, a field in which our department has a distinctive strength. In addition, the program’s close ties to our graduate division immerse students in a vibrant, intellectual atmosphere.
Once You Have the Degree
Computer science jobs are challenging and diverse, but they are also plentiful. Once a student graduates, they can explore a number of possible occupations, including applications programmer, database manager, systems administrator, or IT analyst. They will also be ready to purse advanced studies toward a master’s or doctorate degree.
Goals and Objectives
With the BS program in Computer Science, the department aims to:
- Provide a deep understanding of fundamental computer science subjects;
- Provide avenues of specialization, such as digital games, cyber security, and Internet systems;
- Achieve a proper balance between theoretical study and practical design in order to solve problems effectively;
- Supplement technical skills with courses in humanities, social science, and business; and
- Pursue independent study, as well as directed research, with faculty members who are internationally recognized in their fields.
Curriculum Overview
The Computer Science and Engineering Department has recently modified the BS in Computer Science curriculum. The new curriculum provides both a rigorous education in computer science as well as enormous flexibility, permitting specialization in a myriad of areas as well is inter-disciplinary study with other fields. The incoming class of 2012 and future classes will follow the new curriculum.
Below is an overview of the Computer Science BS curriculum. The full description of the program and its requirements can be obtained from the Computer Science and Engineering Department. A typical course schedule is located at the end of this section.
Required Computer Science Courses
Required Mathematics Courses
Required Engineering Courses
Science Requirement
Students may choose any 3 science courses from the courses offered for credit to engineering or natural science majors. For example, a student might choose to take a sequence of three physics courses, three biology courses or three chemistry courses, or they may choose to take introductory courses in physics, chemistry, and biology, or they might choose to take two courses in one science and another course in a different science.
Humanities and Social Sciences Requirement
Students are required to take eight courses in humanities and social sciences. Ideally, they will take one humanities or social science course each semester. Three of these courses are specified below; the remaining five courses are electives.
Electives
- 18 additional credits in computer science electives.
- 9 additional credits from mathematics, science, or humanities.
- 15 credits of free electives.
Concentration Areas
Students must also choose a concentration area and fulfill its requirements. Specifically, they must use their electives to take three courses from the menu of courses for their chosen concentration.
Footnotes
1 Grade of C- or better is required in CS 1114 , CS 1124 , CS 2134 , MA 1024 and MA 1124 .
2 Students who are placed by examination or by an adviser into EN 1080W subsequently register for EW 1013 .
3 Students who are placed by examination or by an adviser into MA 914 must defer registration for MA 1024 .
4 The Science electives may be chosen from any natural sciences (Physics, Biology and Chemistry).
5 Computer Science students must choose a concentration area consisting of three related courses. In addition, at least one of the CS elective must be a project course. A list of concentration areas and project courses are be available from the CSE department.
6 At least one Humanities and Social Sciences elective must be a Writing-intensive course. Writing-intensive Humanities and Social Sciences courses are designated by “W.” In addition, one Humanities and Social Sciences elective must be a 3xxx or 4xxx level. Approved Humanities and Social Sciences electives span three clusters: CAM, STS and SEG. Students are encouraged to take Humanities and Social Sciences electives across clusters and/or disciplines within a cluster.
7 At least 9 credits of electives must be chosen from Math, Science or Humanities and Social Sciences.
8 With approval of the CSE department, certain closely related courses in EE, Math or other related disciplines may be substituted for CS electives. A list of approved substitutions is be available in the CSE department.
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