Most people won’t think of accredited computer science degree programs in Minnesota when they think of the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but many high quality programs exist. When most people think of Minnesota they think of the Mall of America, the Metrodome and the Mayo Clinic. Those who are looking for an excellent education in computer science, however, should be looking towards Minnesota as a place where they can get an accredited degree. With two major universities offering five different programs in the state, Minnesota might be the perfect location for those seeking out an accredited computer science degree in the Midwest.

St. Cloud State University

College of Science and Engineering

The College of Science and Engineering at St. Cloud State University is the home to a number of degree programs. Students in this program have access to world class faculty, numerous research opportunities and an opportunity for students to work with computer science professionals from around the world. The college offers students the latest technology, programs and software and has a curriculum that keeps pace with the ever changing landscape of computer science. The college has a focus on teaching their students skills like problem solving, critical thinking and more in order for them to make a positive impact when they go out into the world.

B.S. in Computer Science

The College of Science and Engineering at St. Cloud State University offers a B.S. in Computer Science to interested students. In order to be successful in this program, students will be required to maintain a GPA of 2.50 on a 4.0 scale throughout their studies. Students will also be required to complete a number of courses in both mathematics and computer science. There are also several elective classes available in students including those in physics, engineering, biology and chemistry. This interdisciplinary approach is what makes the program a success and helps to prepare students to work in a variety of capacities once they enter into the workforce. Students are also fully prepared to advance their education by entering into a graduate level program at St. Cloud State University or another institution. In addition to that, students will be given the opportunity for research at the university as well as internship opportunities in computer science.

Minor in Computer Science

St. Cloud State University also offers a minor in Computer Science. This is a program that is available to students who are majoring in another discipline, yet still looking for education in the computer science field. The minor in computer science offered by the College of Science and Engineering can be completed by taking 27 credit hours of coursework. The minor is a good option for those who are majoring in mathematics, engineering, physics or other technological disciplines. Students interested in the computer science minor will have the same opportunities as those who are majoring in the field, including the opportunity to complete research in computer science and the ability to work alongside faculty on their specific projects. Even students who minor in computer science will be prepared to enter the workforce with a strong understanding of the concepts and theories involved in computer science and similar disciplines.

Master of Science in Computer Science

The department at St. Cloud State University also offers a master’s degree in computer science for interested students. The focus of this program is research and the technology available to students is state of the art. Students in the master’s program have access to state of the art computing facilities. Some of the highlights include a Sunfire 280R that runs Solaris and a number of stations that run Linux and Windows. Students will also have access to supercomputers throughout the Twin Cities. In addition to this, students will also be able to work with computers that are running Silicon Graphics, Sun and DEC Alpha. This gives students an outstanding opportunity to get to know a number of programs. This will prepare them for a Ph.D. program or to enter into the workforce.

Accreditation

  • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET

Contact
College of Science and Engineering
145 Robert H. Wick Science Building
St. Cloud State University
720 Fourth Avenue South
St. Cloud, Minnesota 56301-4498
Phone: (320) 308-2192
Email: cose@stcloudstate.edu
Website: http://www.stcloudstate.edu/computerscience/default.asp

University of Minnesota Duluth

Swenson College of Science and Engineering

The University of Minnesota Duluth also offers accredited computer science degree programs in Minnesota. The Swenson College of Science and Engineering at the university offers a number of majors and minors for students interested in these disciplines, including programs in computer science. The college is currently in a growth spurt, and this is an exciting time to be a part of the program. Research is important in the college and students are encouraged to become involved. With new faculty coming in, new technology being introduced and a number of research opportunities available, those looking for a top notch computer science experience can find it here.

Computer Science B.S.

Students who are interested in a bachelor’s degree in computer science at the University of Minnesota Duluth will receive a strong education. The program gives students a solid background in mathematics, solving computational problems, software analysis and design, algorithms, data structures and much more. Students will also gain knowledge in other computer science disciplines. This will allow them to focus their abilities almost anywhere that computers are used. Students will learn to communicate with others effectively, will learn to work in a group and will be fully prepared to enter into the workforce or to enter into a graduate program.
In order to be successful in this program, students will be required to complete the university’s core liberal arts requirements in addition to the requirements set forth by the Swenson College of Science and Engineering for computer science. Students will also need to maintain a GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and complete a total of 120 credit hours.

Computer Science M.S.

The master’s degree in computer science that is offered by the University of Minnesota Duluth is designed to offer students a strong foundation in research and continuing knowledge of computer science. This is a two year program that is full time. The program is designed for students who have recently completed an undergraduate degree in computer science or for those who have a background in computer engineering. In order to apply for the program, students will need to submit GRE scores, information about their undergraduate experience, transcripts, application and a written statement of intent. Graduate students will have the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant or research assistant when a part of this program. This helps to ease the financial burden of their education and helps to enhance their learning experience. Students are also encouraged to work with the community when in this program.

Accreditation

  • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET

Contact
Department of Computer Science
University of Minnesota Duluth
320 Heller Hall
1114 Kirby Drive
Duluth MN 55812-2496
Telephone: 218-726-7607
Email: cs@d.umn.edu
Website: http://www.d.umn.edu/cs/

Though Minnesota might not be your first thought when it comes to computer science programs, you will be very surprised at the world class education in computer science that you can receive by attending one of these institutions. As you can see, you will find a number of accredited computer science degree programs in Minnesota.