Computer Science

Learning Format

On-Campus

Types

Bachelor's, Minor
Computer Science

Calling All Technology, Problem Solving, and Data Enthusiasts

If you're fascinated by the endless possibilities of technology, we invite you to embark on an exhilarating journey into the world of computer science with our esteemed department. At FSU you will learn how to create innovative software and information systems applications, utilize artificial intelligence for data analysis, and safeguard digital assets against cyber threats. 

Computer science spans across almost every industry, influencing fields such as transportation, entertainment, medicine, and so many more. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer science occupations are projected to grow by 10 percent from 2022 to 2032. 

You will learn from faculty who take pride in delivering an exceptional education that combines strong theoretical foundations with immersive, hands-on experiences in analyzing, designing, and implementing software and information systems.  

As a computer science student, you’ll participate in classes such as high-level programming with Java, Python, and C++, artificial intelligence, data science, computer security, network security, and web programming, among several other essential courses.  

Outside of the classroom, you’ll further your skills by participating in both regional and national programming competitions, industry visits, informational sessions and trainings by industry professionals, FSU’s Computer Science Club, and internships/co-ops.  

With a robust demand in the workforce, our graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in areas such as software development, web/user-interface development, software testing, data analytics, data science, database administration, computer systems analysis, computer network architecture, and information security analysis, among others.   

Student in a computer lab

Computer Science Learning Outcomes

  • Analyze a problem, and identify and define the appropriate computing requirements 

    Design a computer-based system, process, component or program to meet the specifications 

    Implement and test a computer-based design using current techniques, skills and tools 

    Apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles and computer science theory in the design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices 

  • Function effectively in teams to accomplish a common goal 

    Understand professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities 

    Use oral and written communication effectively 

    Recognize the need for continuing professional development

Program Requirements

Program Requirements

All students must satisfy a general education requirement consisting of ten (10) courses outside of the major department. The General Education Domain II-A (Analysis, Modeling, and Problem Solving) requirement is satisfied through the completion of the Computer Science major.

Courses may have specified conditions for enrollment, such as prior completion of less advanced courses, permission of the instructor, or appropriate placement test scores. Students should refer to course descriptions in the department listings for prerequisite requirements.

Computer Science majors must complete core requirements as well as additional requirements for the particular concentration chosen (see below).

The following eight (8) Core Requirements are mandatory of Computer Science majors in all concentrations:

Concentrations

All students majoring in Computer Science must choose one (1) of the four (4) concentrations:

Students in this concentration take courses in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP), data mining, programming, and data science. Graduates of this concentration are prepared for graduate studies or careers as ML engineers, NLP engineers, data scientists, data engineers, data analysts, AI software developers, and AI ethics and policy analysts.

Required Concentration Core courses (9):

  • CSCI 163 Discovering Artificial Intelligence: Applications, Ethics, and Beyond
  • CSCI 271 Data Structures
  • CSCI 300 Artificial Intelligence
  • CSCI 308 Python Programming
  • CSCI 326 Machine Learning
  • CSCI 367 Data Science with Python
  • CSCI 444 Natural Language Processing
  • MATH 219 Calculus I
  • MATH 226 Linear Algebra and Applications

Choose Two (2) Computer Science Electives:

  • CSCI 333 Object-Oriented Programming Using C++
  • CSCI 340 UNIX System Administration
  • CSCI 345 Computer & Network Security
  • CSCI 347 Analysis of Algorithms
  • CSCI 362 Software Engineering
  • CSCI 373 Advanced Web Technologies
  • CSCI 376 Networking Technologies
  • CSCI 386 Data Mining
  • CSCI 400 Special Topics in Computer Science
  • CSCI 490 Independent Study in Computer Science 
  • CSCI 495 Internship in Computer Science

Choose One (1) Elective from the following:

  • BIOL 218/218L Introduction to Bioinformatics with Lab
  • ENVS 202 Data Analysis for Scientists
  • ENVS 333 Digital Field Methods: Drones, Data, & Artificial Intelligence
  • GEOG 111 Visualizing Social and Environmental Justice
  • PSYC 236 Psychology of Learning
  • PSYC 263 Cognitive Psychology
  • PHIL 102 Introduction to Ethics: Why Be Moral?
  • PHIL 222 Bioethics 
  • STAT 307 Intermediate Statistics

This concentration prepares students for careers in software development.

Required Concentration Core courses (10):

Choose Three (3) Computer Science Electives:

Science Requirements:

One (1) Science Laboratory Courses:                                     
 

  • BIOL 130/130L Principles of Biology with Lab
  • CHEM 107/107L Principles of Chemistry with Lab
  • GEOL 108/108L Physical Geology with Lab
  • PHYS 201/201L Physics for Earth and Life Scientists with Lab
  • PHYS 211/211L Principles of Physics I with Lab

 

This concentration integrates two (2) full-time six-month cooperative work experiences and one (1) cooperative experience seminar with the required courses for the Concentration in Computer Science. These cooperative work experiences allow students to apply and further investigate the discipline of computer science.

Concentration Entrance Requirements:

Students must

  • Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 2.80;
  • Maintain a 3.00 GPA in all Computer Science courses;
  • Complete and submit the cooperative experience application during the semester prior to enrolling in CSCI 310 Cooperative Experience I;
  • Have junior standing at the time of the first cooperative experience; and
  • Have the approval of the cooperative experience coordinator. Transfer students must complete three (3) Computer Science courses at Framingham State University prior to participating in CSCI 310 Cooperative Experience I.

This concentration prepares students for careers in software development.

 

Required Concentration Core courses (12):

Choose Three (3) Computer Science Electives:

Science Requirements:

One (1) Science Laboratory Courses:                                     
 

  • BIOL 130/130L Principles of Biology with Lab
  • CHEM 107/107L Principles of Chemistry with Lab
  • GEOL 108/108L Physical Geology with Lab
  • PHYS 201/201L Physics for Earth and Life Scientists with Lab
  • PHYS 211/211L Principles of Physics I with Lab

This concentration trains students for technical careers in information systems such as database administration, network administration, systems analysis and design, and software quality assurance.

Required Concentration Core courses (4):

Five (5) required Business Courses:

Three (3) courses from at least two (2) of the following categories:

Network and System Administration:

Computer Graphics and Technical Writing:

General Information Systems Electives:

This concentration integrates two (2) full-time six-month cooperative work experiences and one (1) cooperative experience seminar with the required courses for the Concentration in Information Systems. These cooperative work experiences allow students to apply and further investigate the discipline of computer science.

Concentration Entrance Requirements:

Students must

  • Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 2.80;
  • Maintain a 3.00 GPA in all Computer Science courses;
  • Complete and submit the cooperative experience application during the semester prior to enrolling in CSCI 310 Cooperative Experience I;
  • Have junior standing at the time of the first cooperative experience; and
  • Have the approval of the cooperative experience coordinator. Transfer students must complete three (3) Computer Science courses at Framingham State University prior to participating in CSCI 310 Cooperative Experience I.

Required Concentration Core courses (6):

Five (5) required Business Courses:

Three (3) courses from at least two (2) of the following categories:

Network and System Administration:

Computer Graphics and Technical Writing:

General Information Systems Electives:

Career Opportunities

Computer Science majors will be prepared to pursue career opportunities across a wide range of exciting fields, including:

Students in classroom

Network Administrator

Manage networks and technical systems, conducting maintenance and upgrades. 

Web Developer

Create websites and web applications through programs like HTML, CSS and JavaScript.  

Software Engineers

Design, build and maintain software systems for end users. 

Application Developer

Creating software applications for computers, mobile devices and other technologies. 

Information Security Analyst

Protect companies from cyberattacks through developing and monitoring security measures.

UX Designer

Oversee the design, functionality and overall branding of a product.

Meet Our Faculty

Mark Morabito

Visiting Lecture, Computer Science Department and Visiting Lecturer, M.Ed. - Educational Technology
508-626-4712
mmorabito1@framingham.edu
Hemenway Hall

Cornelia Breuning

Cooperative Experience Coordinator, Associate Professor, Computer Science Department
(508) 626-4721
cbreuning@framingham.edu
Hemenway Hall

Patrick Dicks

Visiting Lecturer, Computer Science Department
pdicks@framingham.edu

Zhenguang (Jeff) Gao

Professor, Computer Science Department
(508) 626-4765
zgao@framingham.edu
Hemenway 418C
View All
Nick Ribeiro

Nick Ribeiro, Computer Science, 2022

“My time studying computer science at Framingham State University has been fantastic. The professors were incredibly supportive and always know how to address your questions and concerns in an understanding way." 

Brian Perel

Brian Perel, Computer Science, 2020, Software Engineer II, TJX Companies

“As I reflect on my time at FSU, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I've been given and the invaluable experiences that have shaped me into the professional I am today.”

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Mukil Selvaraju, Computer Science, 2023, DevOps Engineer, Aspen Technology

“The professors here are not only experts in their respective fields but also exceptionally supportive, offering guidance and encouragement at every step of the way.”

Learn More

If the Computer Science major sounds like a good fit but you would like to learn more, contact Admissions at admissions [at] framigham.edu (admissions[at]framigham[dot]edu) or 508-626-4500. 

 Apply 

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