Computer Science
Do you think in algorithms? Are you good at math? Do you enjoy solving problems? Then welcome to computer science, where you can learn how developers build billion-dollar apps, use artificial intelligence to address climate change, and protect computer systems from cyber attacks. As one student put it, UB's computer science program is for people who like logic and theory, but also want the "practicality and applicability" of being a developer or programmer.
What will I learn?
You'll typically start with some core courses in object-oriented programming, data structures and system programming, while also taking classes in math and science. (A UB grad working at YouTube said she still uses what she learned in her core classes every day.) In your junior and senior years, you’ll take more courses in programming languages, artificial intelligence, operating systems and related subjects—plus electives that let you explore networking and other interests—as you continue to strengthen your skills in communication and teamwork.
Computer Science BA vs. BS
- The BA offers more flexibility and lets you take more classes outside of CS.
- The BS is a more in-depth approach to CS.
What can I do with a computer science degree?
From Apple and YouTube to Microsoft, Samsung, Box and the National Institutes of Health, our alumni have worked at some of the world’s leading organizations. They've been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, co-founded a multi-billion dollar software company, co-invented grid computing and much, much more.
So the question is, what do you want to do? Here are a few paths to think about:
- Software developer for a health care organization.
- Security analyst for a cloud platform.
- Systems analyst for a global manufacturer.
- Professor at a world-class research university.
Because nearly every field relies on computers and software, you'll likely find opportunities working for private companies, nonprofit organizations and government agencies around the world, whether you start your career right after graduation or go to grad school.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $187,990.00 | $90.38 | Rapid Growth |
| Information Security Analysts | $127,730.00 | $61.41 | Rapid Growth |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $152,310.00 | $73.23 | Rapid Growth |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | $79,610.00 | $38.27 | |
| Database Architects | $142,620.00 | $68.57 | Rapid Growth |
| Computer Programmers | $103,640.00 | $49.83 | |
| Software Developers | $144,570.00 | $69.50 | Rapid Growth, Many Openings |
| Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | $110,260.00 | $53.01 | Rapid Growth |
| Web Developers | $98,790.00 | $47.50 | Rapid Growth |
| Web and Digital Interface Designers | $111,450.00 | $53.58 | Rapid Growth |
| Computer Occupations, All Other | $116,700.00 | $56.11 | Rapid Growth |
| Data Scientists | $124,590.00 | $59.90 | Rapid Growth |
| Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,830.00 | N/A | Rapid Growth |
Data provided by the United States Department of Labor (DOL) and O*NET. DOL data from 2024.