Computer Science B.S.
Degree: B.S.
Location(s): Rhode Island
Length: 3 or 4 years
Internship: 600 hours of Work Integrated Learning (3-year program); 6 credits internship or project (4-year program)
Credits: 91 or 121



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 | ||
| 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 |
| CSIS3200 | Introduction to Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning | 3 |
| CSIS3250 | Cloud Computing at Scale | 3 |
| CYB2010 | Computer Architecture with Assembly Language Programming | 3 |
| ITEC2081 | Network Protocols I | 3 |
| ITEC3050 | Information Security with Cryptography | 3 |
| MATH1030 | Precalculus | 3 |
| PRMG2010 | Introduction to Project Management & Project Membership | 3 |
| 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 | ||
| ENG2010 | Introduction to Technical Communication | 3 |
| LAW2001 | The Legal Environment of Business I | 3 |
| MATH2020 | Discrete Mathematics | 3 |
| MGMT2020 | Organizational Behavior | 3 |
| 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 (or higher, based on student’s placement) | ||
| Statistics I | ||
| Exploring | 4 | |
| General Physics I and 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 | |
Two courses with the Arts & Sciences elective attribute (EASC) | ||
| Free Electives | ||
| 3 credits selected from 1000-4999 numbered offerings within the university | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 121.0 | |
|
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
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.
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