Technology today is a dynamic field for study and students interested in math and computers may find several accredited computer science degree programs in Missouri from which to choose. A student who decides to enroll in a computer science program will have many opportunities for employment within industries that cover the gamut from government agencies to private companies and non-profit institutions. Computer science is a constantly changing area of the job market and may offer financial and job success to students interested in fascinating topics like gaming and app development.

Missouri State University

College of Natural and Applied Sciences

Located in Springfield, Missouri State University was founded in 1905. As the state’s second largest university, the college has around 21,000 students enrolled for classes and has students representing all 50 states, as well as 83 different countries around the world. The school was labeled as a university with high research activity by the Carnegie Foundation and was ranked 68th by “U.S. News & World Report” in its ranking of Midwestern regional universities. The university also maintains a respected fruit research station in Mountain Grove and features an official Department of Defense and Strategic Studies program located in Fairfax, Virginia.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The faculty at Missouri State University know that technology and computer science is an ever-changing realm within business today and helps keep the curriculum updated so that students are prepared for advanced study in the work world after they graduate. Students experience a variety of classes devoted to science and mathematics and eventually delve into complex algorithms and coding. In addition to learning modern trends in computer science, students also gain skills outside of computer science, like communication, which are important life skills for success in any business environment. The faculty at MSU are constantly involved in research of the industry and offer students the opportunity to learn about many facets about computer science. Finally, students also gain significant exposure to standard problem-solving techniques required for success in any computer science venue.

Minor in Computer Science

Completing a minor at Missouri State University requires that students complete at least 12 or 15 credit hours related to the minor, depending on the course route the student takes. The minor features applied mathematics, design, management, algorithms, and processing on various computer science topics. Students may choose to obtain their minor as a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science. Students who enjoy the creative approach to solving problems will thrive in this minor with interesting projects like building models, investigating popular theories, and learning about modern applications of computer science. Computer science is a field that pairs well with just about any degree whether it’s in the arts, sciences, or humanities. Nearly every industry today is impacted by computers, and computer science knowledge offers any student an edge in the workforce.

Master of Natural and Applied Science with an Emphasis in Computer Science

One of the best features of the graduate program at Missouri State is the opportunity for students to create a personal path to graduation that piques their own interests and offers the best support for their career goals. Not only does computer science knowledge provide a terrific addition to any resume, but it also offers tangible value to a job applicant’s skill set. An advanced degree in this area is a true value to any student. The university describes the degree as a challenging degree, but which is also a rewarding experience. Computer science knowledge is vital for today’s careers in mathematics, science, and technology. The number of different careers open to students of computer science expands each year and stretches far beyond standard programming, computer design, and software creation jobs.

Accreditations

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET)
  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Contact

Missouri State University
Computer Science
901 S. National Ave
Springfield, MO 65897
Phone: 417.836.4157
computerscience@missouristate.edu
http://computerscience.missouristate.edu/

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Computer Science Department

Established in 1870, Missouri University of Science and Technology was once known as the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy. The school has gained national recognition as a school that produces regular winners of national engineering design competitions. When the school was built, it was the first technology school constructed west of the Mississippi River. Although the school’s early curriculum focused upon mining and metallurgy, the school soon expanded into other areas including technology and agriculture. Around 8,100 students attend Missouri S&T and have access to almost 500 faculty. Today, the school also has majors in the arts, social sciences, and humanities.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Computer science experts find work in many different industries because computers influence so many aspects of modern life. Graduates may enter jobs that require work with computers and the ability to solve problems with algorithms and advanced mathematics, as well as work at companies that deal with software development or computer hardware. The curriculum at Missouri S&T offers students challenging classes that help ensure students will be able to understand and solve the problems present in real-life computer applications. Some of the subjects studied during the bachelor’s degree program include object-oriented software design, architecture, operating systems, and programming. In addition, students will also take advanced courses in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and multimedia information systems. As an ABET certified program, the computer science department is a leader in research at the university and works diligently to provide students with an updated and relevant curriculum.

Master of Science in Computer Science

The faculty at Missouri S&T boast high research activity and offer a broad range of experiences to share with students. Some of the subjects students get to study while enrolled include embedded computing, algorithms and complexity, and graphical user interfaces, in addition to many other fascinating areas within computer science. Students work with faculty and students from a variety of departments at the college which helps provide an expansive curriculum on software engineering, bioinformatics, and critical infrastructure protection. To complete the degree’s class requirements, students may choose a thesis or non-thesis option. In addition, students may also choose to study via the distance option which allows for study from anywhere in the country. Students participate in classes via the computer while calling into the class via phone so as to effectively communicate during the lesson.

Ph.D. in Computer Science

The Ph.D. program usually requires students to have a graduate degree, but exceptions may be made with special application. Prospective students will submit a letter that describes what type of research in which they wish to engage. In addition, students must provide transcripts and test scores as part of their application. Students who have a bachelor of science may be admitted into the Ph.D. program at the discretion of the faculty, but students will need to be able to meet all requirements of the master’s and Ph.D. programs during enrollment. Characteristics of appropriate applicants to the program include strong math skills, knowledge of programming languages, and experience in standard core areas of computer science like discrete mathematics, software engineering, and operating systems. Students have access to several federally funded fellowships when they enter the program.

Accreditations

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET)
  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Contact

Missouri University of Science and Technology
Computer Science
500 West 15th Street
325 Computer Science Bldg.
Rolla, MO 65409
Phone: 573.341.4491
csdept@mst.edu
http://cs.mst.edu/

Southeast Missouri State University

College of Science, Technology, and Agriculture

Established in 1873, Southeast Missouri State University was a “normal” school at the start of its tenure and the first buildings were completed in 1875. Over the years, the university was known under at least five different school names. In modern times, the university has expanded to offer instruction in over 200 areas of study including a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Around 12,000 students attend classes at Southeast Missouri State, and take classes in areas like liberal arts, nursing, and business. By the 1970s, the school was large enough to obtain the university designation. The school continued efforts at expansion throughout the next several decades.

B.S. in Computer Science

Billions of people use computers every single day and as a result, the need for people who are experts in computer science is very high. Therefore, a bachelor’s degree in computer science is extremely valuable. Students who graduate with a degree in computer science may work with popular programs and software like video games, music, smart phone apps, and standard software for desktop or laptop applications. Computer science not only analyze and develop software for clients, but they also have a role in the design and implementation of those programs. Students are meant to understand a thorough understanding of computing and mathematics through their study of computer science, as well as the ability to demonstrate fundamental software engineering knowledge. Also, students must be able to use modern programming languages efficiently and accurately.

Computer Science – Minor

Students must complete 15 hours of study to obtain a minor in computer science including Computer Science I and Computer Science II. Each of these computer science classes has prerequisites in math and basic computer science. In addition, students must choose a total of 7 hours from courses at the 300 and 500 level to complete study of the minor. A minor in computer science is particularly useful for a variety of different professions. Students don’t need to be a major in a technological science in order to see a benefit from a computer science major. For example, students in business will find a computer science major particularly useful because of the prevalence of computers in all aspects of business today. However, art and social science students will also find advanced computer skills of use during the job hunt.

Accreditations

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET)
  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Contact

Southeast Missouri State University
One University Plaza
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Phone: 573.651.2000
contact@semo.edu
http://www.semo.edu/csdept/

University of Missouri – Kansas City

School of Computing and Engineering

A public research university in Kansas City, the University of Missouri in Kansas City has a large student population of almost 16,000. The university is part of the University of Missouri system and “U.S. News & World Report” ranked it 201st in a ranking of universities nationwide. The school was originally affiliated with the Methodist Church and was initially conceived as an institution that would honor Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee. The school’s name would be Lincoln and Lee University, and a monument would be built that would honor a great battle of the Civil War.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The BSCS degree is designed to prepare students for a job dealing with computer infrastructure and the development of technology as it relates to computers. Some of the areas of technology of which students would find employment after graduation include work with operating systems, software, networking, and applications. The university describes computer science as a subject that provides a foundation for algorithmic thinking. Because computers and technology are in a significant state of growth in the modern era, individuals with computer science degrees are highly sought after in workplace. Students who wish to apply to the program are encouraged to take a significant number of classes in mathematics before applying so as to create a solid base of math knowledge before entry into college. First-time college students must also achieve at least a 25 on the ACT.

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

A bachelor of arts degree in computer science differs from a bachelor of science degree in that students are expected to enter into jobs outside of the traditional areas of computer science. Students who seek a double major often decide to go the path of the bachelor of arts as the degree pairs well with a variety of other study areas. Students who major in math and want to double major in computer science will often choose the bachelor of arts route since many of the classes between the majors overlap. Admission to the program is competitive, and students attending college for the first time are expected to sit within their graduating class in the upper 25 percent of graduates. Applicants who don’t meet this qualification may be admitted on a probationary basis.

Computer Science (CS) Master’s Program

The University of Missouri describes its program as “exciting” and “unique” for studying computer science. The program is designed with a continuously updated curriculum that takes into account the significant changes that have impacted computer science and technology in the last few years. Graduate students have access to state-of-the-art facilities in a constantly-changing academic environment. Students find challenges professionally and educationally while enrolled in the graduate program. Students who want to apply to the program are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or in a closely related type of degree. Students must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 for all coursework, and all students must also take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) in order to apply for study in the graduate program at UMKC.

Computer Science (CS) Doctoral Program

Entering the doctoral program at the University of Missouri will introduce students to study of the fundamentals of computer science, as well as the broad application of those fundamentals in real-world applications. Students have access to several research areas during their study for the Ph.D. including programming, security, gaming, and networking. In addition, students may study telecommunications, software architecture, operating systems, or database systems. Students study a variety of topics in the doctoral program like algorithms, bioinformatics, security, and databases. The university has connections with the National Science Foundation, which supports research activities at the college. Some of the areas of research that current faculty are researching include cloud computing, parallel computation, cryptosystem design, and data mining. The university offers an exceptionally well-rounded and advanced set of faculty for students to study with while studying for their doctorate.

Accreditations

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET)
  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Contact

School of Computing and Engineering
Flarsheim Hall, Room 534
5110 Rockhill Road
Kansas City, MO 64110
Phone: 816.235.2399
sce@umkc.edu
http://sce.umkc.edu/

University of Missouri – Columbia

College of Engineering

Established in 1839, the University of Missouri in Columbia was the first public institution of higher learning built west of the Mississippi River. As the largest university in the state, the school counts around 35,000 students enrolled for classes. The school is the flagship of the state’s university system and also has campuses in Rolla and St. Louis. The school is part of the nation’s top-tier colleges and is also a part of the Association of American Universities. The school counts hundreds of thousands of living alumni around the world and also landed at a rank of 97 on the “U.S. News & World Report” listing of the best colleges around the nation.

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

A bachelor of arts degree in computer science has become a popular area for study for students who are interested in majoring in mathematics and want a complementary area of study. Students who study for a BA in computer science at Mizzou will delve into the various areas of business as they relate to computer science, as well as courses in areas like logic, operating systems, and database management. The program is also a flexible one that allows students to pursue a variety of other specializations. The university recommends that students choose a minor that fits well with computer science and which will help advance a student’s future career plans after graduation. Students also have the opportunity to join competitive teams at the university so as to start putting the theories and information learned into practice.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The university describes its degrees as one that emphasizes the study of graphics, computational theory, and algorithms. Students also study software systems, networking, and computer organization. The degree is a challenging one with an interesting curriculum but is also described by the university as an entertaining degree. Students who obtain a degree in computer science may seek degrees in a variety of sectors including private industry, government agencies, and academic institutions. The university offers 51,000 square feet of space built as classrooms, laboratories, and learning facilities. Students are encouraged to choose an emphasis when they arrive for study at the university and will eventually need to complete 126 hours to graduate. Students will take a combination of computer science, math, and science courses, as well as general classes required of all students at the university.

Master’s of Science in Computer Science (MS CS)

The graduate degree program is open to students who have obtained a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. To earn a master’s degree, students must earn at least 30 credits with half of those classes in upper division graduate courses. Students must also maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete a thesis or independent project. The university also suggests that students who take courses in other areas do so in subjects that are complementary to computer science. The thesis project is an important step toward earning a degree and requires consultation with an advisor. Whether a student chooses to complete an independent project or thesis, the student must defend the project or thesis. Students may also seek out financial assistance through fellowships and assistantships available. There are also scholarships available for students who demonstrate superior academic work.

Doctoral Degree in Philosophy in Computer Science

The Ph.D. program at the University of Missouri is designed to ensure students have the ability to enter positions of leadership and teaching after graduation and make meaningful impacts in a variety of industries, as well as in government and non-profit organizations. To obtain a Ph.D., students must complete the prerequisites and course requirements of a master’s degree in computer science at Missouri or they must already have a master’s degree in CS from another university. Before a student is accepted into the program, he or she must have been able to maintain a 3.4 overall GPA in graduate level coursework. In addition, students must pass a comprehensive exam which covers a specific area of expertise in which a student has decided to study. Students must also defend their dissertation at the end of study for their doctorate in a final oral examination.

Accreditations

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET)
  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Contact

University of Missouri
College of Engineering
W1024 Lafferre Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: 573.882.4375
walkermw@missouri.edu
http://engineering.missouri.edu/cs/

The field of computer science has been on a period of growth for several years and, most experts suggest that technology and computers will carry much of the economy into the future for the next several decades. Students who wish to obtain a degree in a vital area today could choose no better area than computer science. Studying computer science is also a terrific option for women and minorities who enjoy mathematics as there is a significant need for diversity within computer science. For any type of student, there are several terrific accredited computer science degree programs in Missouri.