Prepare for a dynamic career engaging with technology through co-op experiences, research projects, and state-of-the-art equipment.
A degree in computer science or computer information systems will open doors for you in industries from medicine and business to education and entertainment. At Widener, you'll gain the creative problem-solving skills and in-depth knowledge necessary to embark on any number of careers in computer science.
From a core curriculum focused on programming, problem solving, databases, and software engineering, you'll select a degree track that's right for you:
You'll then choose from among a dozen upper-level topics to advance your studies and engage in research and implementation projects that interest you. Learn state-of-the-art technologies and practices in small classes with professors who seek to know you personally.
Complete your education with a co-op or paid internship and a year-long senior project, and you'll confidently enter the computer science field continuing the work you've been doing all along.
Computer Science Major
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Computer Information Systems Major
The computer information systems major is a combination of the computer science major in the College of Arts and Sciences and the management information systems (MIS) option in the School of Business Administration. The major provides a less theoretical and more applied curriculum than the computer science major, taking advantage of some applied courses in MIS.
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Computer Science Minor
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Computer Information Systems Minor
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Computer Forensics Minor
This interdisciplinary minor integrates criminal justice and computer science to prepare students for a career in computer forensics-related fields. Students study theoretical and practical foundations of computer security, forensic methodologies and processes, digital evidence gathering and preservation, criminal investigation and examination, and criminal law related to court presentation.
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With new courses constantly being added based on industry trends and student interest—like Artificial Intelligence, Computer Security, and Mobile App Development—you'll gain a rich education in what fascinates you most, and what most employers are looking for.
What could be better than a paid work opportunity that allows you to gain real-world experience and still graduate on time? When you participate in the cooperative education (co-op) program, you'll do just that. Work at a renowned business like SAP, Vanguard, or Lockheed Martin and pay no tuition while you do so.
Apply what you learn in the lab to meaningful research projects. Our students have pursued projects in cryptology, steganalysis (detecting information hidden inside images), computational cancer research, and bioinformatics. Supported by your professors, you'll then have the chance to present your findings at the annual Student Project Day.
Freedom Hall, which opened in fall 2013, holds three student-managed computer laboratories with 66 Linux and Windows workstations, a computer forensics lab with 12 specialized FRED systems, and a high-performance computing cluster. You'll have the opportunity to work part-time as a lab manager to help administer the network.
You'll find a second family in your peers, professors, and a vibrant alumni network. An annual alumni panel provides the chance to network and learn about internship opportunities at nationally-recognized businesses and agencies. The annual May alumni banquet reunites this network with graduating seniors to celebrate achievements at all levels.
Our professors invest in your success through close mentoring and continual feedback. Get to know our computer science faculty.
"Widener’s programs provide students with the experience and knowledge to enable them to become leaders in the IT industry. Teaching with personal attention is our primary goal; classes are small."
Widener student turns personal fight against cancer into passion for interdisciplinary undergraduate research.
Through research, co-op experience, and knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, you'll have what it takes to embark on any number of innovative computer science careers. When you graduate, you won't just start your career—you'll continue the work you've been doing all along.
Freedom Hall, Room 318