Computer Science and Computer Information Systems (B.S.)
The University of Dayton was one of the first schools in the country to develop an undergraduate program in computer science (1961). Today, our department offers two programs, both leading to the Bachelor of Science: computer science and computer information systems. The main differences between the two programs are varying requirements in mathematics, science and applications areas.
As a computer science major, you will study data structures, software design, programming languages, and computer elements and architecture. To be prepared for the computer science curriculum, you should have strong analytical skills and be ready to take calculus and nonremedial English in your first year.
In the computer information systems program, you can combine your interest in computers with a specific application. Computer information systems majors learn about systems analysis and design, computer communications and applications to business and commercial data management. Numerous course electives round out the curriculum, allowing you to tailor the program based on your interests — and meet your individual career goals.
Regardless of which program you choose, you will take at least one course detailing the social and ethical implications of computing, as well as a variety of courses in the humanities, arts, and social and natural sciences that will help you to express yourself thoughtfully and clearly.
You can gain hands-on experience well before graduation by participating in the cooperative education program or paid industrial internships with companies such as AT&T, CompuServe, General Electric, Marathon Oil, MeadWestvaco, NASA Space Flight Center, Procter & Gamble and Wright- Patterson Air Force Base.
In addition, part-time employment opportunities are available as course assistants, lab assistants, lab monitors and research assistants. Often, positions are also available at the University of Dayton Research Institute.
Career Opportunities
All of our students have found employment prior to graduation, and many receive multiple offers. The typical starting salary for our graduates is $58,000. Some of our students also choose to continue their studies at prestigious graduate schools such as Carnegie Mellon University, Northwestern University, Purdue University, Rutgers University and Stanford University.