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Explore at  Marquette!

Computer Science Major

Binary NumbersComputer science is the catalyst for every evolutionary — and revolutionary — step in computer development. From mathematical theories, data structures and algorithms to the operating systems and programs that employ them, an understanding of computer science is essential if you wish to develop the next advances in computer technology and applications.

THE MARQUETTE Computer Science Major

THE POWER TO SUCCEED IN TODAY'S ENVIRONMENT — AND TOMORROW'S. While you will certainly develop plenty of expertise using current methods, theories and software, Marquette’s computer science major will provide you with a background in the principles and foundations of computer science and mathematics, enabling you to adapt to constantly evolving technologies.

As a marquette computer science major, you'll learn to:

  • 1. Construct software systems that satisfy users' computing needs
  • 2. Communicate technical ideas clearly to colleagues and clients
  • 3. Learn independently to use emerging technologies and computing concepts
  • 4. Identify matters of personal and professional ethics within typical computing scenarios
  • 5. Verify the correctness and efficiency of an algorithm, program, and/or system implementation

INTERNSHIPS. Because you’ll start your computer science courses right away, you’ll develop enough expertise to start using your major through internships, typically in your junior year, in Milwaukee and nationwide.

ALPHABET SOUP. Through its diverse courses and research laboratories, the department offers opportunities to build the software tools that undergird the Information Age. Ubiquitous and embedded systems, computer games, internetworking, A/I, O/S, PL, DB, HPC, HTC and a host of other important acronyms are all well represented.

PROGRAMMING THE FUTURE. From building Walgreens’ next generation of digital cash registers or securing Motorola’s phones to creating Microsoft’s next search engine or improving global communications at GE Healthcare, our students and graduates are building the computing systems today that we will depend on tomorrow.

WIRED (AND WIRELESS) FOR ACCESS. Between the port-per-pillow residence halls, campus-wide wireless access and department laboratories stocked with dual-head workstations loaded with the latest tools, you’ll have access to the university’s top-notch computing resources from just about everywhere.

Visit the department that offers the major in computer science.

You might like the computer science major if you:

  • Like playing with computers
  • Enjoy the logic of math
  • Are a strong problem-solver
  • Have a creative and versatile imagination

What can you do with a major in computer science?

This major is excellent preparation for careers in computer programming, systems analysis, database administration, consulting, engineering and biomedical sciences. Learn more about what you can do with a major in computer science.

Please expand to view suggested curriculum

Suggested curriculum for a computer science Major

Your major courses blue.

Freshman

  • Calculus I & II
    Introduction to Computer Programming
    Object-Oriented Software Design

    Rhetoric and Composition I & II
    Foreign Language I & II
    Growth of Western Civ. I or II or
    Social-behavioral Science Elective

Sophomore

  • Discrete Mathematics
    Linear Algebra
    Data Structures and Algorithms 1 & 2
    Hardware Systems
    Operating Systems

    Introduction to Theology
    Philosophy of Human Nature
    Literature Elective
    Individual and Social-Behavioral Elective
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Junior

  • Upper Level Math Elective
    Programming Languages
    Two Upper Level Computer Science Electives

    Theory of Ethics
    Natural Science Elective
    Science and Nature Elective
    Literature Elective
    Electives

Senior

  • Principles of Design
    Senior Design Project
    Two Upper Level Computer Science Electives

    Diverse Cultures Elective
    Theology Electives (2nd and 3rd levels)
    Upper Level Philosophy Elective
    Electives