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Computer Science, BS - Computer Science Option
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Why Choose UCM for your Computer Science BS?
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Computer Science Option) at the University of Central Missouri prepares you to analyze complex problems and design software solutions for modern technological challenges. This ABET-accredited degree balances core computing theory with hands-on practice in software development and systems design. You will train in state-of-the-art Windows and Linux laboratories and complete industry-sponsored projects, whether you choose to study full-time or part-time. Apply your skills toward careers in government agencies, startups, social media and major corporations. Take the next step to launch your career as a software professional.
UCM's Computer Science BS - Computer Science Option at a Glance
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science | Credit Hours: 120 Hours
Degree Can be Taken: Warrensburg
- A Best Computer Science Undergraduate Program by U.S. News and World Report (2027)
- A Best College for Computer Science in America by Niche.com (2027)
- Accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET under General and Computer Science Program Criteria
ContactDr. Belinda Copus |
What will you learn in the UCM's Computer Science BS program?
The curriculum delivers foundational training in computing theory, mathematical foundations and practical software creation. You'll gain hands-on experience applying algorithms, database structures and network principles across leading industry platforms.
Core Foundational Coursework:
- Computer Programming: Master fundamental programming concepts, syntax and software development practices.
- Database Applications: Learn relational database design, data management and application integration.
- Operating Systems: Explore system architecture, process management and resource allocation across Windows and Linux environments.
- Programming Languages: Analyze language paradigms, structures and implementation methodologies.
- Mathematical Foundations: Build core competencies in calculus, probability and statistics.
Specialized Electives & Topics:
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Cloud Computing and Software Security
- Game Development and Mobile App Creation
- Network Programming and Software Engineering
Hands-on Facilities & Senior Projects:
- Advanced Computing Labs: Work in specialized facilities featuring a main lab with 40 Dell workstations running dual Linux and Microsoft Windows operating systems, alongside six computer classrooms equipped with over 30 computers each.
- Senior Capstone Project: Collaborate with peers to design, implement, test and launch a development project in partnership with real-world industry partners.
Unique learning opportunities in UCM's Computer Science BS
- Senior Capstone Projects: Work in student teams during your final year to execute projects focused on software development, group dynamics, project management and professional ethics.
- Undergraduate Research: Pair with faculty to pursue research in artificial intelligence, data science, specialized 1-on-1 classes or independent studies.
- Industry Internships: Gain professional experience and college credit through UCM’s faculty networks and industry connections.
- Programming Competitions: Challenge your problem-solving skills in the International Collegiate Programming Competition (ICPC), 48-hour Code-A-Thons and campus Game Jams.
- Global Study Abroad: Complete computer science coursework while studying abroad in France, Germany or the Netherlands using UCM study abroad scholarships and grants.
- UCM Esports: Join UCM Esports — sponsored by the School of Computer Science and Cybersecurity — to compete, collaborate and network with fellow tech majors.
- Industry Standard Software Access: Learn with modern industry software resources through memberships in Azure Dev Tools for Teaching, Oracle Academy and the VMware Academic Program.
Fast facts about UCM's Computer Science BS - Computer Science Option
- ABET Accreditation: Accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET under General and Computer Science Program Criteria
- Flexible Formats: On-campus instruction in Warrensburg and Lee's Summit, select online courses, with full-time and part-time scheduling options
- Computing Facilities: Main lab equipped with 40 Dell dual-boot (Linux/Windows) computers, plus six computer classrooms with over 30 workstations each
- Collaboration Spaces: Three student common areas located near faculty offices designed for team projects and peer learning
- Industry-Standard Technologies: Platform training in Windows and Linux, supported by Azure Dev Tools for Teaching, Oracle Academy and VM-are Academic Program memberships
- Academic Support: Small lab sessions and regular hardware and software upgrades
Talk to an Admissions Representative
Financial Aid and Scholarships for UCM's Computer Science BS
As a UCM student, you’ll have a financial aid advisor as part of your six-person student support team to help you find the best way to finance your college education. UCM provides competitive tuition rates alongside university-wide and program-specific aid.
Scholarships Exclusively for Computer Science Majors:
- ACM Scholarship
- Brown Scholarship
- Computer Science Achievement Award
- Griffith Scholarship
- Harmon Scholarship
- Kennedy Scholarship
- Moore Scholarship
Check eligibility requirements through the UCM Scholarship Finder and connect with your financial aid advisor to structure your financing plan.
The next steps to your Computer Science degree:
① Request information about Computer Science at UCM.
② Schedule a visit or Connect virtually with a UCM admissions rep.
Career opportunities and outcomes for a Computer Science BS
A Bachelor of Science in Computer Science prepares you to create software solutions across public, private and non-profit sectors, including government agencies, social media platforms and technology startups.
Employers Hiring UCM Computer Science Graduates:
- Amazon
- Boeing
- Federal Reserve Bank
- Garmin
- Hallmark
- Honeywell
- Microsoft
- Mutual of Omaha
Career Fields & Applications:
- Mobile Application Development
- Web Application Engineering
- Software Security & Engineering
- Scientific Problem Solving & Computing Research
- Cloud Computing & Systems Architecture
Apply to UCM's Computer Science program
The UCM Career and Life Design Center
The UCM Career and Life Design Center is here for undergraduate students, graduate students and alumni from all majors, identities and interests. We are a hub for career exploration and career readiness. We offer resources and support for:
- exploring career options
- life design (explore and build career and life journeys, designing next steps)
- job and internship searching
- document reviews (resumes, cover letters, personal statements, etc.)
- interviews (coaching and mock interviewing)
- Professional Clothing Studio
- preparation for graduate school (application materials, exploring programs)
- and more!
Take your degree further.
Advance in computer science and become a leader in as little as two years. We offer graduate programs such as:
Make yourself more marketable.
Stand out to potential employers by adding a UCM minor or certificate, such as:
Explore programs related to computer science.
Still wondering if a different bachelor’s degree may be better suited for your professional aspirations? UCM also offers undergraduate programs in:
Frequently Asked Questions
You will study core programming languages, database applications, operating systems, algorithms, network programming and software engineering. You will also build a background in calculus, probability and statistics, with elective choices in artificial intelligence, mobile apps, game development and cloud computing.
Yes. The Computer Science BS – Computer Science Option is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET under both General Criteria and Program Criteria for Computer Science.
UCM offers courses primarily in person at the Warrensburg and Lee's Summit campuses, with select courses available online. Students can enroll on either a full-time or part-time schedule.
Yes. Students complete hands-on labs in Linux and Windows environments, take part in a team senior capstone project with industry partners and can participate in internships, faculty-led research, Code-A-Thons and programming competitions.
Yes. Computer Science majors can apply for program-specific scholarships — such as the ACM Scholarship, Brown Scholarship and Computer Science Achievement Award — as well as study abroad grants and general university financial aid.
