BS in Computer Science

UMass Lowell’s computer and information sciences program uses a bottom-up approach, where you first learn about the machine you will be using as a tool. Our programming sequence allows you to build a precise model of computation without requiring prerequisite experience in computational thinking. Through the curriculum’s required courses, you'll gain a strong foundation in both the software and hardware aspects of computing, as well as the mathematics and science that underlie the discipline. 

Electives in the later years allow you to study an area of computer and information sciences in greater depth. You can choose an option in cybersecurity, bio-cheminformatics and data science to further specialize and focus on particular paths of study. Many students also enroll in our robotics minor.

Our research labs support undergraduate and graduate students, and we have close ties with regional and national high-tech companies that employ our current students and alumni. Research is funded by the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense, the National Institutes of Health, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and other government and industry sources.

What Can You Do with a Computer Science Major?

Graduates from UMass Lowell's computer science program have the skills and flexibility necessary to thrive in a variety of fields. Computer scientists are in high demand, with employment expected to grow by 22% over the next decade.

Two students look at a laptop computer screen

Our graduates are sought after by regional, national and international companies as well as academic and research organizations, including:

  • Analog Devices
  • Cisco
  • Fidelity
  • Google
  • Microsoft
  • Raytheon 
  • Beijing University
  • Utah State
  • MIT
  • Pfizer Research

Courses You'll Take

Student standing in computer lab at UMass Lowell

The B.S. in Computer Science offers rigorous training in the design and use of computer systems. Our courses provide a strong foundation in computing's software and hardware aspects, as well as the mathematics and science that underlie the discipline. 

Focus your degree by choosing an option that fits your career goals and academic interests:

  • General Option — Customize your choices of electives based on your own interests and career goals. Courses for General Option
  • Cybersecurity Option — Gain practical techniques, theory and ethical training in attacking and defending computer systems to pursue careers in the cybersecurity industry. Courses for Cybersecurity Option
  • Data Science Option — Take courses in such topics as linear algebra, data mining, natural language processing and big data systems. You'll graduate prepared to become a data scientist with the ability to analyze and extract useful patterns from lots of data. This option also satisfies all requirements needed to receive a minor in Mathematical Sciences. Courses for Data Science Option
  • Bio-Cheminformatics Option — Combine coursework in biological sciences, chemistry and bio-cheminformatics to graduate ready to apply computer science to challenges in molecular biology, biochemistry and medicine. Courses for Bio-Cheminformatics Option

You will also complete at least one ethics course, many of which focus on the professional and ethical responsibilities within the field of computer science as well as the social impacts of technology.

Visit the Academic Catalog for a complete course listing and to learn about the Computer Science minor and Robotics minor.

Why study computer science at UMass Lowell?

Two students work with a robot and laptop in the NERVE Center at UMass Lowell.

Research Labs

Our research labs have close ties with regional and national high-tech companies that employ our current students and alumni. Research topics include: 

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Assistive technology
  • Bioinformatics
  • Cybersecurity and privacy
  • Data mining
  • Human-computer interaction
  • Machine learning
Student wearing a virtual reality headset control in a computer science classroom at UMass Lowell

Robotics Minor

Combine computer science with electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and other STEM-related disciplines to earn a Robotics minor. You'll get the in-demand education you need to work in the exciting, ever-evolving field of robotics.

Student uses a calculator while working on a laptop in a UMass Lowell computer science classroom.

Co-ops & Internships

Apply to be part of the co-op program after your first year. Students have worked as interns at regional, national and international companies, including: 

  • Dell EMC
  • Facebook
  • Google
  • iRobot
  • Raytheon Technologies
  • IBM
  • Bose
male-student-pointing-at-model-on-computer-screen

Specialized Facilities & Equipment

Our specialized laboratories support research, including ones for robotics, cybersecurity, natural language processing and computer architecture.

The New England Robotics Validation and Experimentation (NERVE) Center is a 10,000-square-foot facility supporting robotics research in manufacturing, search and rescue, exoskeletons, humanoid robots and assistive technology. The facility has motion capture systems, a split-belt treadmill and a wide variety of robot systems.

Three computer labs and a robotics teaching lab are reserved exclusively for use by students enrolled in computer and information sciences classes.

Hear from Our Faculty and Students

UMass Lowell student Qiana Curcuru works at iRobot designing and building a friction test track for prototypes of the next generation of Braava Jets, the company’s floor-mopping robots
Qiana Curcuru '18
Mechanical Engineering

Qiana Curcuru loves UMass Lowell for its opportunities. The honors student is president of the campus chapter of the Society of Women Engineers, has done a professional co-op at iRobot, has taught and interned at MIT Lincoln Laboratory and done research with two professors on campus.

My co-op at iRobot was a great experience. I like working with my hands and the physical aspects of engineering.
Read More About Qiana Curcuru 
William Boag delivers a speech at a lectern.
William Boag '16
Computer Science

Computer science alum William Boag ’16, a senior health care data lead for MassHealth, remains deeply engaged with the Honors College through leadership, mentorship and philanthropy.

The Honors College holds a special place in my heart.
Read More About William Boag 
Linh Nguyen
Linh Nguyen
Computer Science & Mathematics

Linh Nguyen developed a cloud-based market data tool — and a newfound interest in financial technology — through her data science experience with the Nasdaq Futures Internship Program.

One of the things I like about computer science is that I can leverage all those little pieces and put them together to make a product that I want.
Read More About Linh Nguyen 
Jessica Vu poses outside of Nvidia’s Silicon Valley headquarters.
Jessica Vu '26
Computer science

Computer science major Jessica Vu is gaining invaluable experience during a prestigious paid internship at chipmaker Nvidia, where she contributes to cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology.

In tech, especially in software, you have to update your knowledge every day.
Read More About Jessica Vu 
Grace Chin works at a computer on campus
Grace Chin '20
Computer Science

Great classes and research experience, a professional co-op and a cybersecurity competition are preparing Grace Chin for professional success.

I really lucked out coming to UMass Lowell. I think it’s a hidden gem for computer science.
Read More About Grace Chin