Program details
Interested in a Computer Science Degree?
The Computer Science (B.S.) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Computer Science and Similarly Named Computing Programs.
- Curriculum (Print version PDF)
- Course descriptions (Office of Registrar)
- College undergraduate admissions
Enrollment
Fall 2023 - 2,087
Fall 2022 – 1,881
Fall 2021 – 1,628
Fall 2020 – 1,677
Fall 2019 – 1,560
Degrees awarded
2022-2023 - 334
2021-2022 - 240
2020-2021 - 241
2019-2020 - 275
2018-2019 - 233
Additional college information
Curriculum
Courses
1. University Requirements: (23 credit (cr))
- Writing, Rhetoric and American Cultures (WRA) 4 cr
- Integrative Studies in Humanities (IAH)
IAH 201-210 and IAH 211 or > 8 cr - Integrative Studies in Social Sciences (ISS) 8 cr
- ISS 2XX and ISS 3XX
- Bioscience (See 3A Below)
2. College Requirements: (25 cr) *College Admission Requirement
- *CSE 231 Introduction to Programming I 4 cr
- *EGR 100 Introduction to Engineering Design 2 cr
- *MTH 132 Calculus I 3 cr
- *MTH 133 Calculus II 4 cr
- MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 cr
- *PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 cr
- PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 cr
3. Major Requirements: (65 cr)
a. Bioscience: (4-6 cr)
Select one course from Group 1 and one course from Group 2.
Group 1
- **BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 cr
- ENT 205 Pests, Society and Environment 3 cr
- IBIO 150 Integrating Biology: From DNA to Populations 3 cr
- MMG 141 Introductory Human Genetics 3cr
- MMG 201 Fundamentals of Microbiology 3 cr
- PLB 105 Plant Biology 3 cr
- PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 cr
Group 2
- BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 cr
- **CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 cr
- CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 cr
- PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists I 1 cr
- PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists II 1 cr
- PLB 106 Plant Biology Laboratory 1 cr
b. Complete all of the following: (35 cr)
- CSE 232 Introduction to Programming II 4 cr
- CSE 260 Discrete Structures in Computer Science 4 cr
- CSE 300 Social, Ethical, and Professional Issues in Computing 1 cr
- CSE 320 Computer Organization and Architecture 3 cr
- CSE 325 Computer Systems 3 cr
- CSE 331 Algorithms and Data Structures 3 cr
- CSE 335 Object-Oriented Software Design 4 cr
- CSE 425 Introduction to Computer Security 3 cr
- CSE 498 Collaborative Design (W) 4 cr
- MTH 314 Matrix Algebra with Computational Applications 3 cr
- STT 351 Probability and Statistics for Engineering 3 cr
**These courses may have prerequisites, which are not otherwise required in the program. Students should check course descriptions to ensure they are aware of prerequisites.
c. Select five of the following courses: (15 cr)
- CSE 402 Biometrics and Pattern Recognition 3 cr
- CSE 404 Intro to Machine Learning 3 cr
- CSE 410 Operating Systems 3 cr
- CSE 415 Parallel Programming 3 cr
- CSE 420 Computer Architecture 3 cr
- CSE 422 Computer Networks 3 cr
- CSE 431 Algorithm Engineering 3 cr
- CSE 434 Autonomous Vehicles 3 cr
- CSE 435 Software Engineering 3 cr
- CSE 440 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence 3 cr
- CSE 450 Translation of Programming Languages 3 cr
- CSE 460 Computability and Formal Language Theory 3 cr
- CSE 471 Media Processing and Multimedia Computing 3 cr
- CSE 472 Computer Graphics 3 CSE 476 Mobile Application Development 3 cr
- CSE 477 Web Application Architecture and Development 3 cr
- CSE 480 Database Systems 3 cr
- CSE 482 Big Data Analysis 3 cr
- CSE 491 Selected Topics in Computer Science 1-4 cr
- MTH 451 Numerical Analysis I 3 cr
Required Cognate: (12)
Cognates in the following areas are available to students in Computer Science: business, communication arts and sciences, foreign language, mathematics, the natural sciences, philosophy, psychology, the social sciences, and telecommunication. Students may complete cognates in other areas with the approval of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering academic advisor. The cognate should enhance the student’s ability to apply analytical procedures in a specific subject area.
The cognate requires a minimum of four courses totaling 12 or more credits outside the College of Engineering selected from (1), (2), or (3) below. The academic advisor of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering must pre-approve both the cognate and the cognate courses.
Cognate 1: A minimum of four courses totaling 12 or more credits outside the College of Engineering. At least 6 of the 12 credits must be in courses at the 300-400 level.
Cognate 2: Cognate in The Eli Broad College of Business consisting of this specific set of courses: ACC 230, FI 320, GBL 323 and MKT 327.
Cognate 3: A sequence of at least three courses in a foreign language totaling at least 12 credits.
Other Electives (Variable)
Total Credits Required for Degree 120
The requirements listed above apply to students admitted to the major of Computer Science in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering beginning Fall 2023. The Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) constantly reviews program requirements and reserves the right to make changes as necessary. Consequently, each student is strongly encouraged to consult with their advisor to obtain assistance in planning an appropriate schedule of courses.
Sample
First year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Elect/Cognate | 4 | CSE 231 | 4 |
| EGR 100 | 2 | Elect/Cog | 3 |
| MTH 132 | 3 | MTH 133 | 4 |
| ISS 2XX | 4 | WRA 101 | 4 |
| Total | 13 | Total | 15 |
Sophomore year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CSE 232 | 4 | CSE 331 | 3 |
| CSE 260 | 4 | CSE 320 | 3 |
| PHY 183 | 4 | CSE 300 | 1 |
| IAH 201-210 | 4 | MTH 234 | 4 |
| PHY 184 | 4 | ||
| Total | 16 | Total | 15 |
Junior year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CSE 335 | 4 | Biosci/Lab | 4 |
| CSE 325 | 3 | Elect/Cog | 2 |
| STT 351 | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| MTH 314 | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| IAH 211 or > | 4 | ISS 3XX | 4 |
| Total | 17 | Total | 16 |
Senior year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Elect/Cog | 3 | Elect/Cog | 3 |
| Elect/Cog | 3 | Elect/Cog | 3 |
| Elect/Cog | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| CSE 425 | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| CSE 498 | 4 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| Total | 16 | Total | 15 |
Program Educational Objectives
A graduate of the MSU Computer Science Program is prepared to be
- successful in a computing-related profession, or
- successful in graduate study.
To achieve these objectives the department prepares students in the application of fundamental computing principles and software development skills. This preparation includes the design and implementation of systems that solve complex problems. Our graduates will be trained in teamwork, effective communication, professionalism, ethics, and the engagement of learning and applying new ideas and technologies as the field evolves.
Additional college information
Objectives and outcomes
Computer Science Program Objectives
The MSU Computer Science program prepares students in the application of fundamental computing principles and software development skills. This preparation includes the design and implementation of systems that solve complex problems. Our graduates are trained in teamwork, effective communication, professionalism, and ethics. They are inspired to be lifelong learners and technology practitioners.
As a result of this preparation, a graduate of the MSU Computer Science Program will be:
- A thoughtful practitioner, well versed in the theory and practice of computing.
- Successful in a computing-related profession or graduate study.
The Computer Science Program Objectives were adopted by the Department of Computer Science and Engineering Curriculum Committee in Fall, 2021 replacing the previous version, and were affirmed by the full faculty at the March 25, 2022 faculty meeting.
Computer Science Student Outcomes
Graduates of the program will have an ability to:
- 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.
The Computer Science Program Student Outcomes were adopted by the Department of Computer Science and Engineering Curriculum Committee in Fall, 2018, replacing the previous version, and were affirmed by the full faculty at the September 28, 2018 faculty meeting.
Additional college information
More info
What do Computer Scientists do?
Computers have permeated nearly all areas of human activity and there is a rapidly increasing demand for Computer Scientists to make them effective, efficient, and entertaining. There is an ever-growing range of opportunities for software engineering, hardware design, systems analysis and design, network and communications engineering, database design and development, graphics and image processing, technical consulting, and marketing. The Computer Science program prepares students for careers developing the systems of tomorrow, from embedded systems in automobiles to desktop applications to mobile devices and the World Wide Web. Virtually all aspects of the human experience are touched by the work our graduates do.
Is there a high demand for Computer Scientists?
The opportunities for Computer Scientists are vast. Starting salaries are consistently in the top ten for all Bachelor’s degrees. A diverse range of businesses are seeking qualified graduates including:
- Online companies such as Amazon.com, Hulu, Netflix, Facebook, and LinkedIn
- Computer technology companies such as Apple, Cisco, Microsoft, and Google
- Media companies such as Disney, ESPN, Time-Warner, and DirecTV
- Mobile app developers such as Uber, Slacker Radio, and Spotify
- Service businesses ranging from insurance to finance
- Product designers and manufacturers such as General Electric, Hershey, Ford, Marathon Oil, Boeing
Companies recently hiring our Computer Science graduates include:
- Microsoft
- Bloomberg
- Amazon
- General Motors
- TechSmith
- Apple
- Ford Motor Company
- Auto-Owners Insurance
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Groupon
- Barracuda Networks
- Gracenote
- Mozilla
Additional college information
Program details
Interested in a Computer Science Degree?
The Computer Science (B.S.) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Computer Science and Similarly Named Computing Programs.
- Curriculum (Print version PDF)
- Course descriptions (Office of Registrar)
- College undergraduate admissions
Enrollment
Fall 2023 - 2,087
Fall 2022 – 1,881
Fall 2021 – 1,628
Fall 2020 – 1,677
Fall 2019 – 1,560
Degrees awarded
2022-2023 - 334
2021-2022 - 240
2020-2021 - 241
2019-2020 - 275
2018-2019 - 233
Additional college information
Curriculum
Courses
1. University Requirements: (23 credit (cr))
- Writing, Rhetoric and American Cultures (WRA) 4 cr
- Integrative Studies in Humanities (IAH)
IAH 201-210 and IAH 211 or > 8 cr - Integrative Studies in Social Sciences (ISS) 8 cr
- ISS 2XX and ISS 3XX
- Bioscience (See 3A Below)
2. College Requirements: (25 cr) *College Admission Requirement
- *CSE 231 Introduction to Programming I 4 cr
- *EGR 100 Introduction to Engineering Design 2 cr
- *MTH 132 Calculus I 3 cr
- *MTH 133 Calculus II 4 cr
- MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 cr
- *PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 cr
- PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 cr
3. Major Requirements: (65 cr)
a. Bioscience: (4-6 cr)
Select one course from Group 1 and one course from Group 2.
Group 1
- **BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 cr
- ENT 205 Pests, Society and Environment 3 cr
- IBIO 150 Integrating Biology: From DNA to Populations 3 cr
- MMG 141 Introductory Human Genetics 3cr
- MMG 201 Fundamentals of Microbiology 3 cr
- PLB 105 Plant Biology 3 cr
- PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 cr
Group 2
- BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 cr
- **CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 cr
- CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 cr
- PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists I 1 cr
- PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists II 1 cr
- PLB 106 Plant Biology Laboratory 1 cr
b. Complete all of the following: (35 cr)
- CSE 232 Introduction to Programming II 4 cr
- CSE 260 Discrete Structures in Computer Science 4 cr
- CSE 300 Social, Ethical, and Professional Issues in Computing 1 cr
- CSE 320 Computer Organization and Architecture 3 cr
- CSE 325 Computer Systems 3 cr
- CSE 331 Algorithms and Data Structures 3 cr
- CSE 335 Object-Oriented Software Design 4 cr
- CSE 425 Introduction to Computer Security 3 cr
- CSE 498 Collaborative Design (W) 4 cr
- MTH 314 Matrix Algebra with Computational Applications 3 cr
- STT 351 Probability and Statistics for Engineering 3 cr
**These courses may have prerequisites, which are not otherwise required in the program. Students should check course descriptions to ensure they are aware of prerequisites.
c. Select five of the following courses: (15 cr)
- CSE 402 Biometrics and Pattern Recognition 3 cr
- CSE 404 Intro to Machine Learning 3 cr
- CSE 410 Operating Systems 3 cr
- CSE 415 Parallel Programming 3 cr
- CSE 420 Computer Architecture 3 cr
- CSE 422 Computer Networks 3 cr
- CSE 431 Algorithm Engineering 3 cr
- CSE 434 Autonomous Vehicles 3 cr
- CSE 435 Software Engineering 3 cr
- CSE 440 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence 3 cr
- CSE 450 Translation of Programming Languages 3 cr
- CSE 460 Computability and Formal Language Theory 3 cr
- CSE 471 Media Processing and Multimedia Computing 3 cr
- CSE 472 Computer Graphics 3 CSE 476 Mobile Application Development 3 cr
- CSE 477 Web Application Architecture and Development 3 cr
- CSE 480 Database Systems 3 cr
- CSE 482 Big Data Analysis 3 cr
- CSE 491 Selected Topics in Computer Science 1-4 cr
- MTH 451 Numerical Analysis I 3 cr
Required Cognate: (12)
Cognates in the following areas are available to students in Computer Science: business, communication arts and sciences, foreign language, mathematics, the natural sciences, philosophy, psychology, the social sciences, and telecommunication. Students may complete cognates in other areas with the approval of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering academic advisor. The cognate should enhance the student’s ability to apply analytical procedures in a specific subject area.
The cognate requires a minimum of four courses totaling 12 or more credits outside the College of Engineering selected from (1), (2), or (3) below. The academic advisor of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering must pre-approve both the cognate and the cognate courses.
Cognate 1: A minimum of four courses totaling 12 or more credits outside the College of Engineering. At least 6 of the 12 credits must be in courses at the 300-400 level.
Cognate 2: Cognate in The Eli Broad College of Business consisting of this specific set of courses: ACC 230, FI 320, GBL 323 and MKT 327.
Cognate 3: A sequence of at least three courses in a foreign language totaling at least 12 credits.
Other Electives (Variable)
Total Credits Required for Degree 120
The requirements listed above apply to students admitted to the major of Computer Science in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering beginning Fall 2023. The Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) constantly reviews program requirements and reserves the right to make changes as necessary. Consequently, each student is strongly encouraged to consult with their advisor to obtain assistance in planning an appropriate schedule of courses.
Sample
First year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Elect/Cognate | 4 | CSE 231 | 4 |
| EGR 100 | 2 | Elect/Cog | 3 |
| MTH 132 | 3 | MTH 133 | 4 |
| ISS 2XX | 4 | WRA 101 | 4 |
| Total | 13 | Total | 15 |
Sophomore year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CSE 232 | 4 | CSE 331 | 3 |
| CSE 260 | 4 | CSE 320 | 3 |
| PHY 183 | 4 | CSE 300 | 1 |
| IAH 201-210 | 4 | MTH 234 | 4 |
| PHY 184 | 4 | ||
| Total | 16 | Total | 15 |
Junior year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CSE 335 | 4 | Biosci/Lab | 4 |
| CSE 325 | 3 | Elect/Cog | 2 |
| STT 351 | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| MTH 314 | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| IAH 211 or > | 4 | ISS 3XX | 4 |
| Total | 17 | Total | 16 |
Senior year
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Elect/Cog | 3 | Elect/Cog | 3 |
| Elect/Cog | 3 | Elect/Cog | 3 |
| Elect/Cog | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| CSE 425 | 3 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| CSE 498 | 4 | CSE 4XX | 3 |
| Total | 16 | Total | 15 |
Program Educational Objectives
A graduate of the MSU Computer Science Program is prepared to be
- successful in a computing-related profession, or
- successful in graduate study.
To achieve these objectives the department prepares students in the application of fundamental computing principles and software development skills. This preparation includes the design and implementation of systems that solve complex problems. Our graduates will be trained in teamwork, effective communication, professionalism, ethics, and the engagement of learning and applying new ideas and technologies as the field evolves.
Additional college information
Objectives and outcomes
Computer Science Program Objectives
The MSU Computer Science program prepares students in the application of fundamental computing principles and software development skills. This preparation includes the design and implementation of systems that solve complex problems. Our graduates are trained in teamwork, effective communication, professionalism, and ethics. They are inspired to be lifelong learners and technology practitioners.
As a result of this preparation, a graduate of the MSU Computer Science Program will be:
- A thoughtful practitioner, well versed in the theory and practice of computing.
- Successful in a computing-related profession or graduate study.
The Computer Science Program Objectives were adopted by the Department of Computer Science and Engineering Curriculum Committee in Fall, 2021 replacing the previous version, and were affirmed by the full faculty at the March 25, 2022 faculty meeting.
Computer Science Student Outcomes
Graduates of the program will have an ability to:
- 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.
The Computer Science Program Student Outcomes were adopted by the Department of Computer Science and Engineering Curriculum Committee in Fall, 2018, replacing the previous version, and were affirmed by the full faculty at the September 28, 2018 faculty meeting.
Additional college information
More info
What do Computer Scientists do?
Computers have permeated nearly all areas of human activity and there is a rapidly increasing demand for Computer Scientists to make them effective, efficient, and entertaining. There is an ever-growing range of opportunities for software engineering, hardware design, systems analysis and design, network and communications engineering, database design and development, graphics and image processing, technical consulting, and marketing. The Computer Science program prepares students for careers developing the systems of tomorrow, from embedded systems in automobiles to desktop applications to mobile devices and the World Wide Web. Virtually all aspects of the human experience are touched by the work our graduates do.
Is there a high demand for Computer Scientists?
The opportunities for Computer Scientists are vast. Starting salaries are consistently in the top ten for all Bachelor’s degrees. A diverse range of businesses are seeking qualified graduates including:
- Online companies such as Amazon.com, Hulu, Netflix, Facebook, and LinkedIn
- Computer technology companies such as Apple, Cisco, Microsoft, and Google
- Media companies such as Disney, ESPN, Time-Warner, and DirecTV
- Mobile app developers such as Uber, Slacker Radio, and Spotify
- Service businesses ranging from insurance to finance
- Product designers and manufacturers such as General Electric, Hershey, Ford, Marathon Oil, Boeing
Companies recently hiring our Computer Science graduates include:
- Microsoft
- Bloomberg
- Amazon
- General Motors
- TechSmith
- Apple
- Ford Motor Company
- Auto-Owners Insurance
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Groupon
- Barracuda Networks
- Gracenote
- Mozilla