Two Houghton computer science students working through problem at the chalkboard.

Computer Science Major

Master today's technology and create tomorrow's.

In this program, demystify codes and algorithms and use them to explore the world. Be a part of revolutionizing technology, including Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (machine learning), computer vision and robots. Stay grounded in your faith while in the fellowship of a Christ-center community.

Build Technical Skills

Take a hands-on approach to learning in Houghton's science computer lab. Hone your technical skills by configuring the components of Single Board Computer (SBC) and debugging syntax and semantic errors from source codes.

Latest Technology

Learn about data analytical programming toolkits, construct Convolutional and Deep Learning Neural Networks, and implement embedded image recognition on edge AI devices. Be confident in knowing you'll be ready for the workforce after completing this program.

What will I learn?

Through Houghton’s computer science program,  you will

  • Develop the fundamentals of programming utilizing the python and R programming languages, including basic data structures, operators, control structures, methods, objects, classes, inheritance, polymorphism, functions, higher order functions, types, and pattern-matching.
  • Conduct research, tackle a real-world complex issue, or travel in your first year with Houghton’s Science Honors Program.
  • Spend your summer getting paid to do real, cutting-edge research. Collaborate with Christian faculty members who care about your growth academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
  • Gain practical experience in Houghton’s Technology Service Office. Support Houghton's network infrastructure and address computer hardware and software issues.
  • Publish and present your research at national conferences.

124 Credits

57-61

Required Courses

63-67

Elective Courses and General Education

Degree RequirementsCybersecurity Concentration
Computer science technology detecting fruits and vegetables with yellow outlines and red text.

Beyond Foundations

Build on classical computer science courses like data structures, computer architecture, operational systems (Linux), and networking and databases. Explore less conventional areas such as Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Big Data Analytics and Cybersecurity.

Students and Professor sitting in computer science classroom.

Research Experience

Use methods from computer technology to address problems in other topic areas such as sociology and geology. Using this cross-disciplinary model, you will then evaluate the model’s performance and analyze results by conducting relevant experiments. Write a scientific paper, with the potential of being published in peer-reviewed journals. This extensive, collaborative research between faculty and students takes a leading role in Houghton’s program.

Jetson computer science device.

Experiential Learning

Seize the opportunity to conduct summer research at Houghton University’s Shannon Summer Research Institute. You will work closely with faculty mentors on research projects for a period of six to seven weeks before you present your findings. Previous projects include:

  • data analytics for wind power ramp
  • Arduino cybersecurity
  • implementation of embedded image recognition on Jetson Nano platform
  • implementation of embedded object detection on Jetson Nano platform (CNN & DNN)

Program Outcomes

With this degree, be prepared to continue your education in graduate school or start your career as a:

Employment Expected to Grow 22%

for Software Developer
U.S. Bureau of Labor StatisticsSource

Application Requirements

1

Start Your Application

Complete the application here
Apply Now
2

Documents and Supporting Materials

You’ll be asked to provide your official high school transcript and your test scores (can be waived)
Testing Policy
3

Personal Statement

The personal statement portion of our application for admission is perhaps the best place to truly tell your story, to tell who you are and what is important to you.
Personal Statement

Have Questions?

Discover if earning your degree in Computer Science from Houghton University is right for you.