Bachelor of Science
Computer Science Degree
Get the tech skills you need to excel in one of the fastest-growing industries.
Computer Science Degree
Become a skilled professional ready to solve the toughest computing challenges, with the online computer science degree.
Dive into the world of high tech with an online computer science program tailored to your interests, goals and past experience. With flexible online classes, you can balance your life priorities while achieving your goals.
Build broad computing expertise on top of a strong foundation.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree will help you develop a strong foundation in computing principles including algorithms, data structures, programming languages, cybersecurity, and databases. These skills can be applied to develop solutions to a wide variety of computational challenges. Courses will focus on computer theory, computing problems and solutions, and the design of computer systems from a scientific perspective.
This online degree program also provides an opportunity to study computer science more broadly by choosing elective courses that will deepen your computing skills in targeted areas such as programming, data analysis and visualization, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and DevOps skills — all areas of expertise that are in high demand.
Prepare for a versatile tech career.
Our online computer science degree will prepare you for a tech career in whichever industry or path you choose. With these foundations under you, you'll be ready to put together all these concepts and skills and use to develop solutions to business and industry challenges.
Courses
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program provides a strong foundation in computing principles such as algorithms, data structures, programming languages, cybersecurity, and databases. These skills may be applied to develop solutions to a wide variety of computational challenges. The program provides an opportunity to study computer science more broadly by choosing from elective courses that will deepen your skills in areas such as programming, data analysis and visualization, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing.
- Apply knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and programming languages to solve computational challenges.
- Analyze alternative solutions to computing problems.
- Develop solutions to computational challenges that satisfy a given set of requirements.
Computer Science Degree Courses
Current students please login to BRUIN and select “Academic Progress” for your curriculum requirements.
Requirements (36 credit hours)
(Click a course name below to view course details)
Core (27 credit hours)
This course provides an introduction to computer systems and provides the foundations to Computer Science. Topics include operating systems, parallel and distributed systems, communications networks, and computer architecture. Emphasis is placed on concepts and relationships between subdisciplines of computer systems.
This course provides an introduction to problem solving and computer programming using the language Python. Students will analyze problems, design and implement solutions and assess the results. Topics include fundamental programming constructs such as variables, expressions, functions, control structures and lists. Emphasis is placed on numerical and data analysis for informed decision making. Prerequisite: None
New course description This course introduces fundamental technologies used in information systems. Students will develop a foundation in cybersecurity by learning the fundamental concepts behind cybersecurity. In addition, students will learn cybersecurity principles used in the design of systems to protect information and assets against persistent and constantly evolving threats.
This course explores the concepts underlying modern programming languages, including syntax, functions, expressions, types, polymorphism, assignment, procedures, pointers, encapsulation, classes, and inheritance. The course introduces programming paradigms, such as sequential, concurrent, object-oriented, functional, and logic programming.
The major focus of this course will be the relational, dimensional and NoSQL models. Topics include relational and dimensional modeling, business intelligence, NoSQL databases and their application, SQL, application development using databases and emerging trends. Students will prepare a small application using a commercial database management system.
This course introduces algorithms by looking at the real-world problems that motivate them. Students will use a range of design and analysis techniques for problems that arise in computing applications. The algorithm design process is emphasized as well as the role of algorithms in the broader field of computer science. The course incorporates ethics and privacy.
This course is a hands-on introduction to the design of abstract data types. Topics will include how to select and implement data structures for various problems or accomplish tasks. Fundamental data types used in computing such as lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, sets, maps, and binary trees are explored. Python language will be used for coding data structures.
This course introduces software engineering techniques that ensure development of well-designed, reliable, flexible, modular, and verified software and software systems. Development steps are examined, including software planning, specifications, coding, testing and maintenance. Additional topics include software product development, cloud-based software, microservices architecture, code management and review, agile development, and DevOps.
This course provides the theoretical basis and problem-solving experience needed to apply the techniques of descriptive and inferential statistics, to analyze quantitative data, and to improve decision making over a wide range of areas. Topics covered include descriptive statistics, linear regression, data gathering methodologies and probability, as well as confidence intervals and hypothesis testing for one and two samples. Use of technology in solving and interpreting statistical problems is emphasized. Prerequisite: MA 101 or placement via ALEKS Placement Assessment
Beyond the Core courses, choose three elective courses (9 credits). Select any three from the following courses beyond the Core requirements. Other electives may be available upon request.
This course explores the fundamental methods, techniques, and software used to design and develop artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Students gain experience with the practical application of AI and its enabling technologies. Included are such topics as the ethics of artificial intelligence, machine learning, language processing, expert systems, and automated planning.
This course provides students the opportunity to work on a realistic computer science project that involves coordinating with the course professor and a project advisor. The application of classroom knowledge and skills in computer science to solve real-world problems is a signature feature of this course.
This course introduces problem solving and computer programming using the C++ language. Students will analyze problems, design and implement solutions, debug their code, and assess the results. Topics include fundamental programming constructs such as variables, expressions, functions, pointers, and control structures. Emphasis is placed on low-level manipulation of data and the memory management features of the language.
This course provides an introduction to the fundamental components of encryption. Topics include the history of cryptography, public key and private key systems, hashing, and digital signatures. Topics also include the development of the Advanced Encryption Standard, the use and functionality of Pretty Good Privacy, and the Secure Socket Layer. Pre-requisite: CYBR 250 recommended
This course provides the student with the basic topics associated with controlling how resources are accessed in an information system. Topics include organizational access control models, security models, and hardware and software controls that can be used to support those models. Additionally, students will learn about access models, securing systems access with passwords, smart cards, and biometric devices to ensure data confidentiality, integrity and availability. This course also explores technologies like remote authentication and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). Pre-requisite: CYBR 250 recommended
In order to fully analyze data, mathematical concepts need to be applied to data. This course focuses on the common statistics, algorithms, and models required for data mining and predictive analytics. Some of these concepts will include: Bayesian statistics, Bayesian models, calculus concepts to understand probability distributions, and basic linear algebra. Students will learn how to problem solve and identify the right methods to apply during their analyses. Prerequisite: MA 215 Applied Statistics
This course prepares students for the methodologies and processes required to execute a data science project. Students will learn about the critical skills required for initiating and delivering a data science project with business value: research, project management, problem solving, decision making, requirements gathering, and data analysis. This course also prepares students for making a project operational and focuses on tasks required to deploy and automate projects.
In this course, students will use various techniques and tools to explore, visualize, and present data. Students will be exposed to R, Tableau, and PowerBI to perform initial analysis and view data. Students will use statistics and programming to ask and answer insightful questions regarding data, while also learning basic storytelling and presentation concepts. Students will learn innovative ways to communicate with different levels of leadership and stakeholders.
It is estimated that data scientists spend about 80% of their time finding and cleaning data. The data currently being produced is infinitely variable in its structure, presentation, and scale. This course prepares students for dealing with this infinite variety of data and how to interact with disparate sources of data. Students will be exposed to data structures and data management via Python, SQL, and other tools teaching them how to acquire, prepare, clean, and automate dataset creation. Prerequisite: CIS 245 Intro to Programming.
Kirkpatrick Signature Series Requirements (9 credit hours)
(In addition to the Major Requirements, all Bellevue University students must complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series)
This course focuses on the political and philosophical traditions of the American republic, especially as embedded in the ideals, values, traditions, founding documents, and institutions of the United States , and considers how these traditions relate to individual citizenship and global society. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
This course focuses on the creative tensions that exist between the forces of tradition and change as the country undergoes social, cultural, and political change. It considers the manner in which change can renew the vitality of a republic. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
This course examines civic engagement in relation to individual freedoms and responsibilities. It fosters engaged citizens, empowered to effect positive change. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
Integrative General Education Credits
Major Requirements Credits
Elective Credits
= 127 Total Credits*
General Education Courses
Take general education courses that do more than fill a requirement. At Bellevue University, these courses build foundational skills that apply to any career—critical thinking, qualitative reasoning, and ethical leadership. And, you can take courses individually or in course clusters, which connect three courses around one theme, building skills as you go.
Elective Courses
Our broad selection of electives allows you to select courses related to your major or expand your perspective in other areas of interest.
University Accreditation
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).
Whether a college, university, or program is accredited is important to students with financial aid, employers who provide tuition assistance, donors, and the federal government.
This program is considered a non-licensure degree/certificate program and is not intended for those seeking licensure or the practice of licensed profession. This program may be relevant to multiple occupations that do not require licensure and was not designed to meet educational requirements for any specific professional license or certification.
*Consult with an admissions counselor to determine your eligible credits, as well as to verify minimum graduation requirements for this degree. Transfer credits must be from a regionally accredited college or university. Bellevue University makes no promises to prospective students regarding the acceptance of credit awarded by examination, credit for prior learning, or credit for transfer until an evaluation has been conducted.
Get credit for what you’ve earned.
Accelerate your path to earning a degree.
Thanks to our generous credit transfer policy, you can avoid retaking the classes you’ve already completed, and chip away at the credit requirements you need to complete your degree.
- Already have an associate degree? You could accelerate your bachelor's degree completion. Transfer your full associate degree or even your A.A.S.*
- You may be able to get credit for your military experience and training.
Finish Faster
*Acceptance of transfer credits is always subject to official transfer credit evaluation by Bellevue University.
Format
100% Online learning that works for your life and your goals.
Our flexible online courses are designed to bring quality learning into a format that fits your schedule, without sacrificing meaningful faculty feedback and collaboration with peers across the country. Stay on track with the help of your Student Coach — with you from day one to graduation.
Tuition & Financial Aid
It’s more affordable than you think.
Earning a degree is an investment in yourself, and we want to help you make sure it’s a wise one with a generous credit transfer policy and competitive tuition rates.
2024 / 2025 Academic Year
$449 Online Cost Per Credit $250 Military Preferred Cost Per Credit
(Additional fees may apply to individual courses within your major requirements)
Only pay for the credits you need.
Talk to us about our generous credit transfer policy so you can make more of the credits you’ve already earned count toward your degree.
Get help with financial aid.
Our counselors will guide you to find a financial aid plan that works for you. Explore all the ways to help pay for your degree.
Admissions
Removing barriers to the education you deserve.
College is challenging, but getting in shouldn’t be. We have simplified our requirements for admission and we do not require entrance exam scores like the ACT or SAT—so you can get on track to achieving your goals. Here’s how it will go:
To be admitted to Bellevue University, provide proof of high school completion. We accept the following forms of documentation:
- Official high school transcript
- GED certificate
- Homeschool letter of completion
- Certificate demonstrating that the student has passed a state authorized examination recognized by the state in which it is awarded — equivalent to a high school diploma.
- Self-certification on application.
You’ll just need to complete the application and submit the following:
- Official high school transcripts or proof of high school completion
- If applicable, official transcripts from any college or university you previously attended
- A one-time $50 application fee
- Note:
- International students must provide a few extra documents. See international student bachelor admissions details.
- Students applying for a cohort-based major must possess an associate degree or 60 semester hours completed with a grade of "C-" or higher from an accredited institution of higher learning. If you do not meet this requirement, you can build your credits directly with Bellevue University.
Short on time? You can start the application and save your progress as you go. Start your application >
You'll just need to create an account and complete a pre-application to Bellevue University through Guild. Once you receive confirmation that your pre-application to Bellevue University has been approved, you'll need to complete the required steps to get fully accepted and registered. These include:
- Submitting transcripts from past institutions
- Completing the FAFSA, per your employer's benefit requirement
If you’re transferring from another institution of higher education, you must submit an official transcript from each accredited institution you previously attended. Here are a few details to note:
- A transcript can be emailed securely to [email protected] or by mail. It is required to be sent directly from the issuing institution to Bellevue University's Office of the Registrar to be considered an official document. Please check with previous institution for available sending options.
- Applicants who submit an official transcript which reflects a two-year degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution are not required to show proof of high school completion.
- Transcripts must be submitted even if credits were not earned at the previous institution or if transfer credit is not granted.
Ready to get started?
Reach out to admissions.
- Get your questions answered about the Computer Science Degree
- Understand your financial aid and scholarship options
- Map out a schedule that fits with your priorities
