Computer Forensics Minor
Advantages
Develop investigative techniques to identify and analyze data from computer devices, systems, or networks that are admissible in court.
Outcome
Information Security Analyst
Prepare for a dynamic career engaging with technology through co-op experiences, research projects, and state-of-the-art equipment.
Major & Minor
On Campus
A bachelor of science 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 specialization 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.
New, incoming students and transfer students with a few completed college credits will join the full-time, traditional undergraduate computer science or computer information system major track.
Program Details
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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Through Widener’s Accelerated Advantage program, you can earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree with only one additional year of study—saving you valuable time and money. Master's degrees can be earned in allied health education (MEd), business administration (MBA), criminal justice (MCJ), organizational development and leadership (MA), and public administration (MPA).
While Widener does not offer a master’s degree in the same field as this major, you can still select from a variety of powerhouse master’s programs that will enhance your job opportunities and prepare you for rapid career growth.
College is about exploration. At Widener, you'll complete a general education curriculum that supports just that. You'll have the flexibility and freedom to dive deep into the topics that spark curiosity, challenge your mind, and power your personal and academic growth.
Along the way, you'll cultivate critical, meaningful skills employers seek, including:
It all starts with ASC 101: Thinking Through — a selection of around 40 course topics that will encourage you to go deeper and examine complex issues that shape our world and our ways of relating to one another. When you dive into the possibilities, you're sure to find multiple courses that inspire and intrigue you, regardless of whether they align with your major! Think of it as an opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone and truly learn something new. Then, in your senior year, you'll come full circle with a capstone course that takes your Thinking Through topic to new heights strengthened by everything you've cultivated along your college journey.
Develop investigative techniques to identify and analyze data from computer devices, systems, or networks that are admissible in court.
Information Security Analyst
Deepen your foundation of mathematical skills to solve an array of complex problems by creating algorithms and data models.
Data Scientist
Explore your creative side through art and music history courses and studio art classes to complement digital design skills.
Web Designer
Study a foundation covering all fields of business to gain a skill set that's often sought after by employers.
Software Product Manager
Job outlook is projected to increase 13% by 2030 for computer and information technology occupations as all aspects of society become more digitized.
2021 median pay for software developers.
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.
You'll conduct much of your research in Freedom Hall, which 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.
Computer Science/Information Systems majors have the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations across and outside of campus to expand their network, including the Alpha Mu Gamma - International Modern Language Honor Society, the Alpha Chi Sigma, and many more.
We want to get to know you and see you succeed. Professors will pay attention to how you learn and what you want to accomplish. Your Personal Student Success Team—faculty and peer mentors and liaisons for campus resources—will make sure your first year runs smoothly.
Without skipping a beat, you’ll have what you need to make Widener your second home. And you’ll know how to invest in the greater community, from professional opportunities in Philadelphia to volunteer experiences in your new backyard.
Lean more about faculty mentorship
Explore resources for academic & career support
Find support for health & wellbeing
"My time at Widener was my very first interaction with chemical engineering and the medical side of things. I really like this and want to look into whether I can get a job in the future in this area."
"I feel like it’s my job to help someone who comes after me – women and also black people in tech. I think about myself. I didn’t have someone to look to."
"Working on different projects at Widener taught me how to think on my feet. It taught me how to not leap before I think, but to leap while also thinking."
"Widener has exposed me to opportunities that forever shaped my life. Now, as a well-traveled entrepreneur with a young but growing business, I am excited to see how Widener University is still preparing graduates toward a path of excellence."
"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."
Partnering with faculty advisors, more than 60 students participated in the annual Summer Undergraduate Research & Creative Activities (SURCA) program, applying what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-life, hands-on projects.
At Widener, students are engaged across campus in various on-campus jobs that enhance professional development and create a sense of community beyond their classroom experience.
For more than 50 years, co-ops at Widener offer the unique experience for students to get hands-on, paid experience while still graduating on time.
Our admissions and financial aid teams are here to support you every step of the way. Have a question? Ask away!
Applying to Widener is easy—and free! Simply complete our Widener Application or the Common Application. You'll also need your official high school transcript and either an admissions essay or your SAT/ACT scores. We're a test-optional school, so there's no need to submit both.
Know you're interested in applying to Widener but unsure if you're ready to zero-in on a major? You can apply as an Exploratory Studies student with an undecided major. This program will help you start your college journey on the right foot while you explore which undergraduate program is the right fit for you.
We accept applications on a rolling basis—there are no hard deadlines. Apply when you're ready and we'll take a look as soon as we receive your app.
Key dates to keep in mind:
Once we receive your application and all materials, you can expect to hear back from us quickly. Along with your application decision, you'll also find out about any merit-based scholarship awards. You're automatically considered for merit scholarships as soon as you apply—you don't need to apply separately.
If you apply before November 1, you are considered an Early Action applicant which comes with benefits like:
All applications are non-binding, so why wait? Apply today!
Our admissions team will help you make the most of college-level credits earned after high school. We maintain strong partnerships and articulation agreements with numerous local community colleges and also accept a wide range of course credits earned at accredited colleges and universities.
Curious about how many credits may transfer? Email your transcripts to transfer@widener.edu and our transfer coordinator will personally review your coursework as an unofficial credit evaluation. Applicants are given priority during busy seasons, but you don't have to apply to work with our transfer coordinator.
Transferring doesn't have to be a guessing game—share your stats and we'll take it from there!
Widener University serves as a "second home" for students from around the world. We are located just outside of Philadelphia and close to New York City and Washington, D.C.—offering many unique professional and personal opportunities to explore.
Want to know what it's like to be an international student on campus or need assistance navigating English proficiency requirements? We're here to help, and our international admissions director will support you through the application process.
This support doesn't end with admissions—our International Student Support team will serve as a valuable resource throughout your Widener journey—meeting Visa/immigration requirements, getting acclimated to campus, and much more.
Learn more about applying as an international student
Learn more about life at Widener as an international student
Because Widener is a private institution, we're able to offer financial assistance that brings an exceptional education within reach. Complete your admissions application today to determine your financial aid package, including scholarships and grants.
Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to getting you the financial assistance to make the cost of college—an investment in your future—affordable. This free, online application is the gateway to grants, loans, and other forms of financial aid. Every year, the U.S. Department of Education offers billions of dollars in financial aid to eligible students. Widener gets in on the action, too, annually awarding aid to students with need.
You and at least one parent or caregiver will need a separate FSA ID to access the Federal Student Aid's online system and serve as your legal signatures. Make sure to create your unique FSA IDs before you get started. Our school code is 003313.
Nearly 100% of new full-time undergraduate students receive significant financial aid offers that reduce out-of-pocket costs and make a Widener education not only affordable, but well worth the investment. In fact, once your total financial aid is calculated, the cost of a Widener education is often equal to if not lower than other competitive universities–but with far superior outcomes for your career and earning potential.
The first step to see how much aid you qualify for is submitting the FAFSA.
Funding you don't have to pay back after graduation? That's a win-win! Scholarships and grants are a way for the university and other organizations to honor the academic, merit, and talent-based achievements of our students.
In the Accelerated Advantage 4+1 program, you can save up to a year of tuition by pursuing a master's degree—resulting in thousands of dollars in savings. During your fifth year of study, you can also apply for graduate-level scholarships and assistantships to further reduce education costs. To learn more about graduate scholarships and assistantships, please speak with your academic advisor during the spring semester of your senior year.
Tap into our wide network of Philly-area employers and experience a full-time, paid co-op. In addition to earning an income, you do not pay tuition while on co-op. You can also choose to live on campus, at home, or even travel for your co-op.
To visit Widener is to fall in love with the place. But don't take our word—experience it for yourself. Plan a visit to connect with our students, faculty, and staff.
Have a question about Widener? Drop us a line and an admissions counselor will be in touch. We're always happy to help!
Because Widener is a private institution, we're able to offer financial assistance that brings an exceptional education within reach. Complete your admissions application today to determine your financial aid package, including scholarships and grants.
Applying online has never been easier—and it’s free! We also accept the Common Application. Take the next step toward joining the Widener Pride.
Muller Hall
University Pl
Chester, PA 19013
Freedom Hall, Room 318