Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Degree

Northeastern Illinois University crafts the curriculum for the Bachelor’s in Computer Science degree for accomplished, imaginative individuals seeking a new challenge. Rather than conceptualize the program through a narrow lens, we’ve taken a broader, more integrative approach. You’ll receive a thorough introduction to programming languages, computer architecture, operating systems, and scientific and mathematical theories, have the opportunity to expand your mindset and communication skills with NEIU’s liberal arts–based core, and can tailor your degree to your career goals—be it jumping into the workforce after graduation or elevating your knowledge through a master’s program.

Through this structure, you’ll be required to complete a minimum of 36 hours of 300-level coursework.

General Education Requirements

Today’s computer science professional is someone who’s not only well-versed in programming languages and theories but can use their skills to transform the world. NEIU’s general education requirements assist you with developing this perspective and incorporate experiential learning, helping you apply the concepts introduced in the classroom.

You’ll take a total of 33 credits across fine arts, humanities, behavioral and social sciences, and natural sciences. Three Engaged Learning Experiences then open up the pathway to take the tools you’ve acquired and utilize them in a real-world setting, illustrating computer science’s practical and intersectional applications. 

Core Courses

NEIU immerses all computer science students like yourself in a rigorous, comprehensive course of study that touches on all key aspects of the field:

• the principles of computer programming, number theory, logical, algorithmic, combinatorial, and computational concepts;
• key theories and abstract concepts for software and hardware and object-oriented programming;
• implementing and manipulating data structures and applications;
• an overview of common operating systems;
• the software development process, including each stage’s individual cycle and techniques; and
• the methods for designing and analyzing algorithms.

Concentrations

You can chart your degree path through one of the three concentrations:

Computer Science General Track

Develop an advanced understanding of higher-level computer science concepts, including programming languages, database management, networks, open-source systems, human-computer interactions, cryptography, computer graphic fundamentals, natural language processing and parallel computing. This concentration is ideal if you plan to pursue further studies in a master’s program or enter the workforce in roles such as software development, systems analysis or research.

Computer Networks and Security Concentration

Dive deep into the technical and practical aspects of computer networks and cybersecurity. Develop expertise in network design, implementation and management, alongside a thorough understanding of security protocols, threat assessment and mitigation strategies. Learn to protect sensitive information through courses covering network architecture, ethical hacking and cryptography. This concentration prepares you for careers in network administration, cybersecurity analysis and IT security management.

Data Science Concentration

Data science explores capturing and maintaining data, to processing and analyzing data, and finally reporting and communicating data in an effective way. Develop analytical skills to plan and identify relevant questions, collect data from a variety of points and sources, organize and translate a multitude of information in user friendly terms, and report out analyses that will impact businesses and processes. This concentration prepares you for careers in data analysis, business intelligence and data engineering, or for further studies in data science or related fields. 

Review all requirements and course descriptions now, and see how the degree program is structured.

The opportunities available to computer science majors extend from the typical roles in Silicon Valley to local companies in Chicago looking for motivated, strategic, and persevering individuals dedicated to finding a solution. Beyond web, software, computers, and electronics, computer science is increasingly integral to the automotive industry and any entity seeking to conceptualize a new app or device that connects to the Internet of Things (IoT).

Reflecting this demand, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts positions for computer science professionals will grow 11% between 2019 and 2029. This spectrum covers computer network architects (5% or slightly above average growth) through database administrators (10% growth), software developers (22% growth), and information security analysts (31% growth). Additional career paths include:

• Software Engineer;
• Computer Security Specialist;
• Computer Networking Professional;
• IT Project Manager; and
• Web Developer.

Program Educational Objectives

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) are broad statements that describe what graduates are expected to attain within a few years after graduation. Our program of Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: General track makes it a goal that within three to five years of graduation, our graduates will:

• PEO 1: Be employed successfully in a professional position in a computing-related occupation, or have been engaged in graduate level study in computer science or a related field of interest.
• PEO 2: Be engaged professionals who have demonstrated technical leadership, teamwork and service to their business, profession or community.
• PEO 3: Have demonstrated integrity in their conduct as they make responsible, ethical and legal decisions, and are always aware of the local and global impact that advances in technology produce.
• PEO 4: Have successfully adapted to new technologies, tools and methodologies in order to remain current in their occupation.

Student Outcomes

The program has six Student Outcomes (SOs). The outcomes are the same six student outcomes as required by ABET Criterion 3, and the program does not have any additional student outcomes. Specifically, upon immediate graduation, our students are able to:

1. Analyze a complex computing problem and apply the principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
2. Design, implement and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
6. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

Considering a career as a maker and creator that requires a solid understanding of programming knowledge and computer science theory? Let NEIU guide you on your journey and unlock additional opportunities. If you’re interested in applying to the Bachelor’s in Computer Science degree program, candidates must fulfill all application requirements for freshman or transfer students.