General Computer Science Concentration

Overview

Quick Facts

  • Delivery: On campus
  • Credits: 120

CS Concentrations

Do you want to dive deeper into the core computer science knowledge areas, gaining an in-depth understanding of computer science theory, networks, operating systems, programming languages, and database design? Then this concentration is for you—students in the General Computer Science concentration are poised to continue their studies into graduate school, tackle advanced problems in computer science research, or transition into a career in many different specialty areas.

Credits

Total to Graduate: 120

  • Core Major Courses: 33-36 credits
  • Concentration Courses: 27 credits
  • University Core Courses and Electives: 57-60 credits

Courses

The core courses for all computer science majors include topics in programming fundamentals, data structures, object-oriented programming, agile development, algorithms, discrete structures, probability, software engineering, and more.

A few of the concentration courses include:

  • CS 380 Theory of Computation 1
  • CS 416 Computer Networks
  • CS 418 Database Design
  • CS 419 Operating Systems
  • CS 431 Programming Languages

 VIEW COURSE CATALOG

 Computer Requirements

Students majoring in computer science will need a laptop computer. Please view information about the department’s recommendations for laptop specifications. Freshman classes take place in departmental computer labs, but most students prefer to work on homework and projects on their own computers.

This concentration is designed to open the most possible directions for your next steps after graduation. You will learn the underlying foundations of computer science, the theory behind the practice, and the application of these to modern problems. You'll be positioned to find a job in industry or go straight into graduate school for a master’s or doctoral degree.

Both inside and outside of the classroom, you will have the opportunity to apply your developing skills to benefit real people. Our program includes numerous Immersive Learning opportunities, such as Computer Science for Muncie (and surrounding schools), working with local technology company Accutech, developing software for Minnetrista, or working with real community partners within the senior capstone sequence.

“Over the nine years of my teaching the capstone series, we have worked with 67 community partners on 117 projects. Our community partners range from local and regional businesses, startups, to non-profit organizations and different university offices and departments across colleges.”

– Dr. Lan Lin, Associate Professor of Computer Science

Computer science pairs well with other STEM majors, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. In addition, it is appealing to add a major in business, entrepreneurship, accounting, or finance. And, yes, you can pair a General Computer Science concentration with a second concentration in Computer Science, such as Cybersecurity & Secure Software Design.

  • Computer networks
  • Design and querying of complex databases
  • Operating systems function and composition
  • Foundational principles in programming language schemes
  • Higher-level theories of computation and algorithms
I’m glad I’m a CS major because of the friends and experience I have gained here. I have formed valuable connections with teachers and fellow students while learning important professional software development skills.

– Gavin Neal, ’24

Keep Exploring

Professor Icon

Courses

People Icon

Faculty

Briefcase

Careers

Tuition and Fees Icon

Tuition

Financial Aid Icon

Scholarships

Group Conversation icon

Research Groups

Take the Next Step

Do you want to learn more about our program or have questions about the application process or financial aid? We’re here to help! One of the best ways to understand why Ball State is right for you is to schedule a visit through our Office of Undergraduate Admissions to see it for yourself. Or if you’d like to speak directly to someone in our department, please feel free to call or email us.

 APPLY NOW

 VISIT CAMPUS

 CONTACT US

Spotlight

View More Articles
Related Programs
Major in Computer Science BA/BS | Cybersecurity & Secure Software Design Concentration
Major in Applied Cybersecurity | Online
Major in Computer Science BA/BS | Data Analytics & Machine Learning Concentration