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With ongoing breakthroughs in computer technology — from cloud computing to gesture recognition and more — the information age continues to present new challenges and opportunities for computer scientists. To facilitate these breakthroughs, scientists must learn how to design and implement complex and efficient algorithms, sophisticated data structures, and cohesive software solutions to problems both new and old.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science teaches you the foundational theories common to all forms of software engineering. From data compression and compilers to distributed computing and artificial intelligence, you’ll study a wide range of important topics and their real-world applications. How you apply your breadth of knowledge is up to you!

Those who successfully complete the BS in Computer Science program will have the tools to analyze complex problems and implement efficient solutions through code.


Who Should Pursue This Degree?

The BS in Computer Science program can be a great option for students who want to plunge even deeper into some of the most fundamental — and challenging — areas of modern computer science. Maybe games aren’t your primary interest, but you still want to reap the benefits of DigiPen’s hands-on, multidisciplinary approach to computer science education. Maybe you’re very interested in games but looking to maximize your career options by focusing on the skills and topics that have a broader range of application across the technology industries. In either case, the BS in Computer Science program could be a good fit.

As a student in this program, you will:

  • Become a Proficient Software Engineer

    Dive deep into core programming languages as you tackle coursework in data structures, graphics rendering, computer networks, and more.

  • Study a Broad Spectrum of Advanced Computer Science Topics

    Concentrate on the areas of study that most interest you while still learning the fundamentals necessary to carry you through your entire career.

  • Gain Experience in a Collaborative Studio Environment

    Learn how to collaborate with others on a shared codebase as you solve problems and tackle the challenges of software development.


Academic Roadmap

As a BS in Computer Science student, you’ll balance computer science and math coursework with project classes that challenge you to build advanced tools and software applications in a team-based environment. Over the course of the program, you’ll learn how to gather, store, and analyze real-world data, connect and harness the power of distributed computing devices, and create digital interfaces that are natural and intuitive. This background prepares you with the knowledge to not only understand the technologies of today, but to find solutions to problems that seem unsolvable and collaboratively build the technologies of tomorrow.

View a sample course sequence

Admissions Requirements

In order to apply for the BS in Computer Science program, you should have a strong foundation in math, science, and problem-solving. You’ll need to have completed precalculus (or its equivalent) prior to attending DigiPen.

View all requirements

Topics Covered

Students in the BS in Computer Science program will learn how to:

  • Program a variety of software technology, including web applications, databases, networking tools, and even operating systems, in core languages like C++.
  • Apply concepts such as computer networks to aid in the scheduling and organizational aspects of game production.
  • Collaborate with other team members to design, build, test, and refine their applications.
  • Implement complex graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that allow users to quickly and efficiently navigate their applications.
  • Draft design documents to aid in the scheduling and organizational aspects of software development.

Event Schedule

Undergraduate Preview Day

Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Deep Dive: CS Programs

Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Undergraduate Preview Day

Saturday, July 6, 2024 - 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Student Projects

Team projects make up a core component of the BS in Computer Science curriculum. As a student in the program, you will work with your classmates to develop a series of advanced software applications or tools with the goal of implementing certain technical features or solutions. Students have the option to work on non-game software applications or multidisciplinary game projects. These are just a few examples of what students in the program have helped create.

Meet the Faculty

Our faculty bring decades of knowledge in computer science and professional software development to the BS in Computer Science program. These are just a few of the faculty who teach core courses in the program.


Career Outlook

BS in Computer Science graduates can pursue a variety of entry- and intermediate-level positions in software development and engineering.

Potential Careers

Software Architect

The software architect is responsible for designing the high-level structure for a development project and making decisions related to technical standards. Essentially, the software architect creates the “blueprints” for the project’s codebase.

Network Programmer

A network programmer helps build the client-server systems that can be found in games, applications, and online services. Network programmers rely on specialized knowledge involving network protocols, information security, and more.

Software Development Engineer

Software development engineer (SDE) positions can be found in any number of industries. The role of an SDE is typically to design and build computer systems and software — either from scratch or by modifying existing systems and code base.

Entry-Level Job Titles

  • Computer Scientist

  • Software Engineer

  • Software Development Engineer in Test

  • Computer Programmer

  • Artificial Intelligence Programmer

  • User Interface Programmer

  • Audio Programmer

  • Tools Programmer

  • Web Developer

  • Software Designer

  • Solutions Architect

  • Compatibility Tester

  • Application Analyst

  • Quality Assurance Engineer

  • Quality Assurance Supervisor

Senior-Level Job Titles

  • Lead Engineer

  • Lead Developer

  • Development Manager

  • Principal Engineer

  • Technical Director

  • Chief Technology Officer

Other Job Titles

  • Producer

  • Program Manager

  • Technical Program Manager

  • Technical Designer

  • Technical Writer

Check Out the 2023 Student Game Showcase

The Dragon community got a glimpse of the many inventive game projects created by students over the past year during our annual game showcase event.

Teams Develop 48-Hour Games at DigiPen for 2023 Global Game Jam

Using DigiPen as a hub, 18 student and community teams spent the weekend crafting games around this year’s theme, “Roots.”

DigiPen’s 9th Annual Internship Fair Unites Companies With Talented Dragons

Held virtually on Handshake, the event connected 257 Dragons with 19 game and tech companies.

Take the Next Step

Get connected with DigiPen and stay in the loop!

Sign up to get in touch with a personal representative at DigiPen, and we’ll also send you a digital viewbook detailing our degree programs.

Request Information

Start Your Application

Ready to take your education further? Head to our secure application portal and submit an application for admission.

Apply Online