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 outside of class?

Grab your laptop and go. At UB, you'll find countless ways to learn and have fun outside of class.

  • Internships, co-ops and experiential learning. Get real-world experience, like working on the Brain Connectivity project at a local hospital and on-campus engineering intramurals.
  • Student groups. Whether you're into hacking and tinkering or networking and making friends, check out UB's dozens of engineering student clubs, including clubs focused on computer science and engineering.
  • Research. As one student said, "I enjoy how research-oriented the professors are and how open they are to working with undergraduates."
  • Study abroad. If you're looking for a life-changing experience and international perspective, consider going abroad; UB engineering students have traveled to Australia, Costa Rica, France and many other countries during summer and winter breaks.
Hands On / Experiential Learning
Student Clubs
Research
Study Abroad

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.

Who will I learn from?

As one of our students said, "Getting to know my professors helped a lot. They're phenomenal."

At UB, you'll find faculty with an international reputation for excellence and established research ties with some of the world’s leading computing companies, including Microsoft, Google, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Oracle and Nokia. 

In addition, our faculty members have served as editorial board members of top industry journals, have earned awards from top national and international organizations, and have been named as Fellows of leading professional societies, including the ACM, IEEE, IAPR and AAAS.

Their commitment to excellence starts in the classroom. Our faculty members have received many awards for outstanding teaching, including the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Teaching Excellence, the UB Teaching Innovation Award, and other high honors for their teaching and mentoring.

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