Computer Science Major

Chair: Daniel Joyce, Ph.D.
Office Location: Mendel Science Center Rm. 161
Telephone: (610) 519-7307
Website

About

Computer science students explore a broad spectrum of computing technologies and concepts. Our courses provide a thorough foundation in the principles and practices of computing, paving the way for successful careers and ongoing graduate studies. Our students also learn skills in communication and the scientific, mathematical, and engineering principles that support the computing disciplines.

The Department of Computing Sciences seeks to provide outstanding education, to advance scholarship, and to engage in activities that benefit society as a whole, in accordance to the University mission. The Department aims to equip students with a solid foundation in computer science, and to prepare them for lifelong independent learning and innovative thinking in a constantly changing discipline. Its faculty members strive to maintain professional currency, and to involve students and colleagues in their research investigations. These endeavors support the University mission to transmit, pursue, and discover knowledge in an atmosphere of collegiality in the university community. Supported by a liberal arts education, the Department seeks to develop the total person, sensitive to social and ethical concerns affected by the computing discipline, and committed to addressing the needs of a diverse and interconnected modern society.

PRIMARY MAJOR (122 credits)

Required Major Courses (70 credits)

Program Notes:

  • Combined BS/MS in Computer Science or Software Engineering: Five-year double degree program. See departmental website for details regarding admission, requirements, the program of study, etc.
Course
Title
Credits
Natural Science with Lab  +
8
Computer Science Electives  +
9
Sub-Total Credits
70

Core Curriculum Requirements (33 credits)

Computer Science Majors meet the following core requirements in the major and therefore are omitted from the summary below: 

  • Core Math (3 cr)
  • Natural Science (8 cr)
Course
Title
Credits
Literature and Writing Seminar (1 course)  +
3
History (1 course)   +
3
Social Sciences (2 courses)  +
6
Fine Arts (1 course)  +
3
Upper-Level Theology (1 course)  +
3
Language Requirement  +
Diversity Requirement (2 courses)  +
Sub-Total Credits
33

Free Elective Requirement (19 credits)

Students with a Computer Science primary major have nineteen (19) required free elective credits. 

Degree Credit Summary

  • Major Credits: 70 credits
  • Core Credits: 33 credits
  • Free Electives Credits: 19 credits
  • Total Required Credits: 122 Credits

Note: The above credit totals are based on the minimum number of required credits in each degree area. The minimum number of required credits in each area listed above must be met. Credits taken beyond the required minimum for one area may not be applied to another area. 

SECONDARY MAJOR

Students who declare Computer Science as a secondary major must complete the Required Major Courses to achieve this major. Students are able to count any eligible course taken in their primary major, the core curriculum, minors, concentrations, or free electives toward these requirements. 

Total Credits:
73

 

Disclaimer:
The above program requirements are applicable to students entering Summer 2024 and beyond. Please consult the appropriate archived catalog available on the homepage for years prior to these requirements. In order that programs offered by Villanova University reflect current advances and additions to knowledge and upgraded professional requirements, Villanova University reserves the right to change programs and requirements without prior notice. Students generally are bound to the requirements in effect and published online for the year in which their class begins its first year of study. Special requirements may be in effect for students who have left the University and are being readmitted. Students are advised to check with the web catalog or with their college offices regarding changes that may affect them. Additional academic information may be obtained from the various college offices and the web sites listed for the particular policies, programs and services found in this catalog. 

Overview

Program

Type

Bachelor of Science

Curriculum Guide

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