Earn Your Bachelor’s in Computer Science (BS) from Simmons University

Students that complete their Computer Science degree at Simmons University are at the forefront of technology.

Student sitting at a computer

Technically speaking, our Computer Science major students know their stuff

The Computer Science major will help you learn to think critically, logically, and abstractly. You will gain both an understanding of the underlying theory and concepts of computing, as well as the facility to integrate theory with practice. Simmons students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science write software that improves quality of life, create incredibly powerful websites, design and implement systems, and develop new technology.

Our Bachelor of Computer Science students explore a wide range of courses focused on systems and technology development. As a Computer Science major, you will develop and adapt new methods for solving highly technical problems at the forefront of technology.

Simmons University also offers an accelerated Computer Science + Library and Information Science (3+1) degree program, and an online Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science for adult learners.

What can you do with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science?

The demand for computer scientists in the workplace remains strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Computer Science degree holders is projected to grow 11 percent from 2019 to 2029.

Graduates with a Bachelors in Computer Science go on to build rewarding careers in programming, web development, system support, network administration, database design, computer and network security, applications development, software engineering and other high-tech fields.

With a competitive Computer Science degree, you will make a difference in the world by helping to solve problems in areas as diverse as global communications, health care, public policy, scientific discovery and exploration, and climate change.

Learning Objectives of the Computer Science Major

  • Understand the fundamental concepts and theory of computing and their application to solving real world problems.
  • Express ideas orally, in writing, and the “languages” of the discipline.
  • Master current and cutting edge technologies including programming languages, algorithms, databases, systems analysis, web based technologies, networks, security and hardware.
  • Think abstractly, logically, clearly, and critically.
  • Work in groups both as a participant and as a leader.
  • Relate theory to practice.
  • Be lifelong learners and able to teach yourself.
  • Understand the ethical, legal, and social implications of technology.
  • Become gainfully employed in technology related jobs and/or prepared for graduate study.

Learn more about our Computer Science Program

A major in Computer Science requires the following courses:

CS110 Foundations of Information Technology 4
CS112 Introduction to Computer Science 4
CS221 Database Management Systems 4
CS232 Data Structures 4
CS245 Computing Systems 4
CS330 Structure and Organization of Programming Language 4
CS332 Algorithms 4
CS335 Software Engineering 4
MATH210 Discrete Mathematics 4
One mathematics course numbered MATH118 or STAT 118 or above (4 credits.)

Electives (choice of two):

CS214 Data Interoperability 4
CS227 Computer Networks 4
CS321 Web-Centric Programming 4
CS327 Cybersecurity 4
CS334 Special Topics in Computer Science 4
CS350 Independent Study 4
CS370 Internship 1

Web Development

This option provides a strong technical background for anyone wishing to develop web-based applications.

Students will learn HTML, JavaScript/ES6+, Node.js, and database design and implementation, as well as the network infrastructure upon which web applications are built, including security considerations.


CS110 Foundations of Information Technology 4
CS112 Introduction to Computer Science 4
CS221 Database Management Systems 4
CS227 Computer Networks 4
CS321 Web-Centric Programming 4

Software Development

This option provides an introduction to software development and programming. It is appropriate for anyone who is considering a major in Computer Science or who is interested in application programming.

The curriculum includes:


CS112 Introduction to Computer Science 4
CS221 Database Management Systems 4
CS232 Data Structures 4
CS330 Structure and Organization of Programming Language 4
CS335 Software Engineering 4

Open

A custom-designed minor consisting of five courses may be proposed by students to achieve their specific goals. Faculty members are available to help students design this minor. The Computer Science and Information Technology faculty must approve the final proposal.

Customize Your BS Computer Science Degree

You'll work with a faculty advisor to tailor your program to your interests and career goals. The Computer Science and Informatics Program offers many closely-related programs — such as health informatics, web design & development and information technology — as well as the 3+1 Computer Science/M.S. in Library and Information Science.

Online BS in Computer Science

The computer science major is also available to students in our online program. Join tomorrow’s innovators on our digital campus to learn how to develop the future of tech—from anywhere

Internships and Research Opportunities

Hands-on research experience is a key part of a Simmons science education. Research opportunities are open to students as early as the freshman year. Many students also complete internships. Students have been placed at  industry, government, nonprofits, and academic institutions. Quite often an internship will lead to a job upon graduation.

Students are offered networking opportunities by connecting them to professionals and organizations dedicated to their chosen field. Simmons University is a member of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Academic Alliance.

Spotlight on Computer Science Students and Alums

Nanette and Raneem

Accelerated Degree Student Presents Poster on ChatGPT at Technical Symposium

Raneem Emad Amer Mousa ’25 is pursuing the Dual-Degree in Engineering Simmons offers in collaboration with Columbia University. Her research project, “Is ChatGPT the Academic Catalyst We’ve All Been Waiting For?” was accepted for inclusion in the SIGCSE Technical Symposium 2024.


Adriana Lizeth (“Liz”) Campuzano Martinez ’24

“Taking up Space” with Coding, Advocacy, and Community

Computer Science major Adriana Lizeth (“Liz”) Campuzano Martinez ’24 shares a bit about all of the ways she was involved on campus — from hackathons to being a Resident Assistant to hosting a radio show. She also shares what it was like for her as a first-generation international student.


Abigail Bloom, Aria Cooper, and Adriana Lizeth Campuzano Martinez

Simmons Welcomes Passionate Leaders Project Scholars for Spring 2024

The Passionate Leaders Project (PLP) supports Simmons undergraduates by enriching their academic and professional interests beyond the boundaries of a conventional classroom. Students may request up to $4,000 to support their research, internships, and creative endeavors. This semester’s cohort comprises student-scholars producing original research on healthcare for seniors, fashion sustainability, and the intersection of the arts, social justice, and gender-expansive agency.


Headshots of the 2024 Senior Scholar Award winners

Congratulations to the 2024 Senior Scholars

The annual Senior Scholar Award is sponsored by the Provost's Office and the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. The award recognizes six graduating seniors for their outstanding scholarship and contribution to a field of study.


A photo composite of the nine students in the Passionate Leaders Project 2023 cohort

Simmons Announces Passionate Leaders Project Scholars for Fall 2023

The Passionate Leaders Project supports Simmons undergraduates by enriching their academic & professional interests beyond the classroom. Students may request up to $4,000 to support their research, internships, and creative endeavors. This semester’s students produced research related to human rights, documentary film, healthcare access, therapeutic care databases, the neurodevelopment of fruit flies, Muslims’ experiences with healthcare in Boston, and software that supports Simmons’ food pantry.


Passionate Leaders Project Students Spring 2023

Passionate Leaders Project: Spring 2023 Cohort

The Passionate Leaders Project (PLP) supports Simmons undergraduates by enriching their academic and professional interests beyond the confines of the classroom. Students may request up to $4,000 to support their research, internships, and creative endeavors. This semester's cohort is producing...


Simmons MCB in Fall

Passionate Leaders Project: Fall 2022 Cohort

The Passionate Leaders Project (PLP) supports undergraduate students by funding research opportunities that transcend traditional coursework. Participants of the PLP develop research and critical thinking skills and bring the insights of academia to real world issues. This year’s cohort addresses mental health, neuroscience, environmental science, the foster care system, and technology.


2022 Orientation Leaders

Meet Your Orientation Leaders: Emily Marder '23, Katelyn Fox '25, Kiki Regan '23, Sophie Bredensteiner '23, and Tess Federico-Maietta '23

Emily Marder '23 is a Nursing major from Lynnfield, Massachusetts. Emily explains why she became an Orientation Leader: "I had fond memories of my orientation and liked how the Orientation Leaders were able to foster a community feeling and connect...