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College of Arts & Sciences

Computer Science

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Why pursue a computer science degree at North Central College?

Computer scientists study the theory, design and application of computers. Computer scientists are well-rounded and analytical problem solvers. Our computer science program is designed to ground you in theory and practice, offering a broad set of skills in computing including algorithms and software engineering, while leveraging modern topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, information systems and more. You will learn the communication skills necessary to be successful in the profession. At North Central, you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, whether you’re doing research with a professor, participating in co-curricular projects or interning at a company. Computer science offers graduates a competitive starting salary, rewarding team-based projects and opportunities across exciting industries in high-tech, healthcare, business or government and defense.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

  • Programming languages and becoming a software developer
  • Computing topics such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics or cybersecurity
  • Solving problems using computer algorithms and modern computing technologies

then a degree in COMPUTER SCIENCE might be for you.

Why study computer science at North Central College?

In the Classroom

Coursework topics:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Calculus
  • Computer and network security
  • Computer architecture
  • Computer networks
  • Computer systems concepts
  • Data mining and machine learning
  • Data structures and algorithms
  • Database systems
  • Discrete structures
  • Ethics
  • Game design and development
  • Human computer interaction
  • Linux programming
  • Mobile applications development
  • Operating systems
  • Parallel and concurrent programming
  • Senior capstone project
  • Software engineering
  • Statistics
  • Web programming and applications
  • Windows and .NET programming
  • Writing and communication

Wentz Science Center
Take a virtual tour of the state-of-the-art Wentz Science Center, home to the computer science program classes and faculty offices.

Virtual Tour

Beyond the Classroom

As a computer science major, you can:

  • Engage in prestigious, paid internships or co-ops, working side-by-side with professionals to kickstart your computer science career while you complete your degree.
  • Participate in co-curricular activities related to computing and engineering, where you can work on various projects related to areas of interest.
  • Work with faculty members on research projects.
  • Present research findings at North Central’s Summer Undergraduate Research Colloquium, Rall Symposium and local, regional or national undergraduate research conferences.
  • Study in state-of-the-art facilities equipped to accommodate the most sophisticated hardware, software and other sustainable technology.

More Department information

Computer Science, B.A.

Computer science offers a mix of theory of computation, software development, systems concepts, and computing applications. Our graduates are employed in a wide range of companies and research labs.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Computer Science and Engineering.

Core Courses

Electives

  • One four credit hour CSCE or INFS elective at the 200-level or above
  • One four credit hour CSCE elective at the 300-level or above *
  • One four credit hour CSCE elective at the 400-level *

Note:

*Internships may not be used to fulfill requirement.

Support Courses

Ethics

One of the following:

Communications

One of the following:

Foreign Language

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Communication Courses

  • Two additional four credit hour courses from the Communications list above, not already taken for the major.

Computer Science, B.S.

Computer science offers a mix of theory of computation, software development, systems concepts and computing applications. Our graduates are employed in a wide range of companies and research labs.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Computer Science and Engineering.

Core Courses

Electives

  • One four credit hour CSCE or INFS elective at the 200-level or above

  • One four credit hour CSCE elective at the 300-level or above *

  • One four credit hour CSCE elective at the 400-level *

Note:

*Internships may not be used to fulfill requirement.

Support Courses

Ethics

One of the following:

Communications

One of the following:

Statistics

One of the following:

Computer Science Minor

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Computer Science and Engineering.

A minimum 20 credit hours in Computer Science, including:

Note:

*Only one IFS course may be used to satisfy minor requirements. An internship cannot be used to meet minor requirements.

Computer Science Internships and Jobs

A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead. We want to support our computer science students to not only focus on coursework but to also find ways to apply their degree to real-world experiences. 

Internships

  • Co-op Software Engineer, Argonne National Laboratory, near Lemont, IL
  • Intern, Ecolab, Naperville, IL
  • Intern, Google, Kirkland, WA
  • Web designer, Websolutions, Inc., Aurora, IL
  • Security intern, Navistar, Warrenville, IL
  • Engineering and software QA, Informatica, Warrenville, IL

Careers

Recent graduates of the computer science program include:

  • Applications Engineer, Emerson Electric Co., Rosemont, IL
  • Network Engineer, Arris International, Lisle, IL
  • Software Engineer, Open Data Group, Chicago, IL
  • Software Engineer, Job Cost, Inc., Naperville
  • Associate Consultant at SWC Technology Partners, Oak Brook, IL
  • Software Developer at NextCapital, Chicago, IL
  • Consultant at West Monroe Partners, Chicago, IL
  • Software engineer, Google, New York, NY
  • Software engineer, Google, Mountain View, CA
  • Software engineer specialist, Argonne National Laboratory, near Lemont, IL
  • Software development manager, VisTracks, Lisle, IL
  • Senior product manager, Informatica, Warrenville, IL
  • Software automation tester, Interactive Intelligence Inc., Indianapolis, IN
  • Web developer, Seattle Sutton, Ottawa, IL

Many computer science students begin with a bachelor's degree before they move on to their master's degree. While not explicitly required, graduate school is a path many students who want a more specialized skill set in the computer science career- some specialties include sectors like artificial intelligence or machine learning. 

Invest in Your Future

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Don’t make it alone. North Central’s admission and financial aid team is here to help you design a financial aid solution that works best for you and your family.

Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.

Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College

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