About the Program
Three students in a cybersecurity lab smiling as they look at a a computer monitor.
Computer Science students in lab classroom

Unleash Your Potential with Computer Science

Are you ready to make your mark in the fast-paced world of technology? At JWU Providence, our Computer Science program is your gateway to success in this ever-evolving field. We offer you not just a general computer science degree, but the opportunity to specialize in software engineering or network engineering.

Our coursework is designed to arm you with the skills and knowledge needed to solve real-world problems in business, science and social contexts. We focus on a practical approach to learning, beginning with discrete mathematics to give you a strong foundation of basic math concepts essential in computer science.

In addition to this robust curriculum, our computer science program prides itself on its innovative teaching approach from professors who will show you the ropes. We integrate theory and application, offering real-world problem-solving exercises that help you understand how the principles you learn in the classroom apply in the workforce. This method not only deepens your understanding of computer science but also prepares you for the challenges that await in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Curriculum

Credits
Major Courses
CSIS1101Computer Science I3
CSIS1112Computer Science II3
CSIS2018Advanced Data Structures3
CSIS2023Survey of Programming Languages3
CSIS2030Database Concepts3
CSIS2045Introduction to Operating Systems3
CSIS3200Introduction to Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning3
CSIS3250Cloud Computing at Scale3
CYB2010Computer Architecture with Assembly Language Programming3
ITEC2081Network Protocols I3
ITEC3050Information Security with Cryptography3
MATH1030Precalculus3
PRMG2010Introduction to Project Management & Project Membership3
Major Courses/Specialization
Choose additional major courses or a specialization listed below†18
Design Project I
HCI/Usable Security
Systems Modeling and Simulation
9 credits at the 2000+ level in the following subjects: BIO, CHM, CSIS, CYB, ECON, ENGN, GDES, IDES, ITEC, LEAD, MATH, MGMT, PHY, PSYC, SCI, SOC
Applied/Experiential Learning
Choose 6 credits from the following:6
College of Arts & Sciences Internship
Technical Solutions Design Project
Related Professional Studies
ENG2010Introduction to Technical Communication3
LAW2001The Legal Environment of Business I3
MATH2020Discrete Mathematics3
MGMT2020Organizational Behavior3
University Core Curriculum
Communicating9
Rhetoric & Composition I
Rhetoric & Composition II
Communication Skills
Connecting6
Two courses with the Connecting attribute (ECNG), one at the 2000 level, one at the 4000 level
Experiencing6
Ethics: A Global Perspective
Additional course with the Experiencing attribute (EEXP) in a different discipline
Measuring6
Fundamentals of Algebra (or higher, based on student’s placement)
Statistics I
Exploring4
General Physics I
and General Physics I Laboratory
Interacting6
Foundations of Leadership Studies
Additional course with the Interacting attribute (EINT) in a different discipline
A&S Electives 6
Two courses with the Arts & Sciences elective attribute (EASC)
Free Electives
3 credits selected from 1000-4999 numbered offerings within the university3
Total Credits121.0

Credits

Major Courses

CSIS1101 Computer Science I 3
CSIS1112 Computer Science II 3
CSIS2018 Advanced Data Structures 3
CSIS2023 Survey of Programming Languages 3
CSIS2030 Database Concepts 3
CSIS2045 Introduction to Operating Systems 3
CSIS3106 Software Verification, Validation, Testing and Security 3
CSIS3126 Design Project I 3
CSIS3200 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning 3
CSIS3250 Cloud Computing at Scale 3
CSIS4010 Software Engineering 3
Related Professional Studies
CYB2010 Computer Architecture with Assembly Language Programming 3
CYB3038 HCI/Usable Security 3
ITEC2081 Network Protocols I 3
ITEC3050 Information Security with Cryptography 3
PRMG2010 Introduction to Project Management & Project Membership 3
Applied/Experiential Learning
Students in this program are required to complete 600 Hours of Work Integrated Learning.
University Core Curriculum
Communicating 9
Rhetoric & Composition I
Rhetoric & Composition II
Communication Skills
Connecting 6
Two courses with the Connecting attribute (ECNG), one at the 2000 level, one at the 4000 level
Experiencing 6
Ethics: A Global Perspective
Additional course with the Experiencing attribute (EEXP) in a different discipline
Measuring 6
Fundamentals of Algebra
Statistics I
Exploring 4
General Physics I
General Physics I Laboratory
Interacting 6
Foundations of Leadership Studies
Additional course with the Interacting attribute (EINT) in a different discipline
A&S Electives 6
Introduction to Technical Communication
Discrete Mathematics
Total Credits 91.0

Choose a Three-Year or Four-Year Bachelor’s Degree

You have the option to earn your Computer Science bachelor’s degree in either three or four years. Our new career-focused degree program lets you complete your degree in just three years with 91 credits of streamlined coursework. This option allows you to enter the workforce sooner and save on tuition while still receiving the same quality education and hands-on experiences JWU is known for. If you prefer a more traditional pace, the four-year degree path is also available, offering the same rigorous preparation for your future career.

Why Choose Computer Science at JWU Providence?

  • You’ll develop a strong understanding of software design, development and analysis.
  • Courses allow you to gain a solid foundation in software used to solve various technology and business problems. Learn the fundamental skills that make up all forms of software development, including web applications, wearable devices and embedded systems, desktop tools and mobile apps.
  • This major covers the languages, frameworks, algorithms and techniques commonly employed by modern software professionals.
  • You can apply the skills gained in math, science and engineering coursework to the latest developments in software programming, networking, system design and project management.
  • You’ll have the opportunity to specialize your studies in software engineering, network engineering or tailor your program with courses from a variety of subject areas to enhance your computer science degree.

Hands-On Learning to Equip You for the Future

At JWU, we believe in the power of practical experience. That’s why we offer opportunities to test and fine-tune your computer science skills in our state-of-the-art labs to prepare you for internships. Our students have recently interned at insurance companies, summer coding camps and aerospace manufacturing corporations.

Take a Virtual Tour of Our Labs

Launch Experience

Cybersecurity Center

The Cybersecurity Center has been designated as a National Security Agency/Department of Homeland Security (NSA/DHS) Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE). Here, students can access industry-standard equipment meant to simulate real-life challenges.

Launch Experience

The Innovation Lab

The Innovation Lab is available to students of any major looking to learn the latest digital fabrication techniques. This lab is home to scanners, laser cutters, 3D printers and more

Career Possibilities

Some professions may require additional study, background checks, certifications, licenses, exams and/or experience as required qualifications for employment. Students are responsible for verifying that they can meet the employment requirements of potential employers.

  • Cloud operations engineer
  • Computer systems analyst
  • IT security specialist
  • Network architect/engineer
  • Software developer
  • Software engineer
  • Application developer
  • Systems architect
  • IT project manager
  • Information security analyst

Student Spotlight: Adam Scalzo ’24

Our hands-on computer science program goes beyond the textbooks — think intense coding sessions, cutting-edge labs, and real-world challenges. Choose from software engineering, network engineering or exciting electives such as Robotics, Video Game Design, Forensic Investigation or Data Science. With expert professors and immersive internships, your tech journey knows no bounds.

Study Computer Science in R.I.

Faculty Contact

Frank Tweedie, Ed.D.
Executive Director of Cybersecurity & Computer Science Education
401-598-2503
frank.tweedie@jwu.edu