According to the United States Department of Education the two fastest growing careers in the state were computer engineers and computer support specialists, indicating the importance of accredited computer science degree programs in Pennsylvania. The state is a leader in manufacturing jobs, especially in the western part of the state and many of these jobs require advanced technology. With the increased use of technology comes a need for experts who are able to not only create better versions of programs, but also those who know how to address problems that may arise due to software glitches, network problems or other factors that may cause a breakdown in service. For this reason, individuals who have successfully completed an accredited computer degree programs in Pennsylvania have a better job outlook than those who have not furthered their education. To see more accredited computer science degree programs in Pennsylvania, visit Computer Science Degree Programs in Pennsylvania (A-E) and Computer Science Degree Programs in Pennsylvania (F-S).

University of Pennsylvania

School of Engineering and Applied Science

The School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Pennsylvania was founded in 1852 as the School of Mines, Arts and Manufactures. The school features a world-renowned faculty and state-of-the art research laboratories. The school was founded by Benjamin Franklin, the country’s first engineer and it is still a one-of-a-kind entity within the University of Pennsylvania.

Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Science

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Science at Penn Engineering teaches students to utilize, analyze and create information processing systems through an in-depth education in foundations of computer science. Students study complex software and hardware systems as they develop their knowledge and skills in the industry. The program combines knowledge of technology with an understanding of human and social values. The program is designed for students who do not plan to be professional engineers and want a combined liberal arts/technology education.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Penn Engineering provides students with a strong background in the conceptual foundations of computer science. Students develop an understanding of the connections between computer science and other engineering disciplines using mathematics, sciences and liberal arts. Students develop the skills to become leaders in the computer science industry.

Master’s Programs Computer and Information Science

The MSE in Computer and Information Science at Penn Engineering is ranked as one of the nation’s top programs of its kind, known for preparing students as the innovators of tomorrow. The multi-disciplinary program allows students to customize their program to meet their own needs. Students may focus on AI, robotics, databases, graphics, security, programming languages, software engineering, technology and finance along with many other industry-specific focuses. Students may also develop their own advanced study focus in such areas as: CIS and Telecommunication, CIS and Biomedical Computation, or CIS and Computational Linguistics. Applicants to the program must have a strong undergraduate training in math and computer science. Those who do not have an undergraduate major in computer science should apply to the Master of Computer and Information Technology program.

Doctoral Program

The PhD program in Computer and Information Science offers students the opportunity to explore with research opportunities that span a wide range of theoretical and application topics that include, but are not limited to:

  • Robotics
  • Vision
  • Natural language processing
  • Databases
  • Formal methods
  • Real-time systems
  • Computer architecture
  • Machine learning
  • Programming lanugages
  • Graphics
  • Network security
  • Software engineering
  • Bioinformatics

Students are also provided the opportunity for interdisciplinary collaborations such as biology, genetics, linguistics, mathematics and electrical engineering. The curriculum is designed to develop intellectual skills essential for rapidly changing methods in research as well as to meet the demands of academics. Students develop their own advanced study focus.

Accreditation

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • ABET

Contact

Penn Engineering
University of Pennsylvania
School of Engineering and Applied Science
220 South 33rd Street
107 Towne Building
Philadelphia, PA 19104-6391
Telephone: 215-898-7246
Email: apo@seas.upenn.edu
Website: http://www.cis.upenn.edu/

University of Scranton

College of Arts & Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest in the university with almost 2,000 students. The college continues the Jesuit commitment by providing students with many opportunities to pursue their interests. The college offers more than 30 undergraduate majors as well as a wide range of concentrations, minors and interdisciplinary programs. The college hosts the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and collaborates with the Kania School of Management in the University’s Program of Excellence in International Business.

Computer Science, BS

The Computer Science program at the University of Scranton’s College of Arts and Sciences is one of the oldest in Pennsylvania, having begun in 1970. The program focuses on the underlying concepts of computer science with an emphasis on software engineering. The program is supplemented by mathematics courses as well as natural sciences. Students finish the program with the Computer Projects course that requires them to undertake a project in collaboration with a faculty advisor. The program is designed for computer science and computer information systems students with a strong undergraduate record.

Accreditation

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET

Contact

The University of Scranton
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Scranton, PA 18510-4699
Telephone: 888-SCRANTON (888-727-2686) or 570-941-7540
Email: admissions@scranton.edu
Website: http://catalog.scranton.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=28&poid=5487

Villanova University

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Villanova offers students intellectual challenges along with a diverse academic experience that provides a clear path to achieve their career goals. It is the oldest and largest college at Villanova, offering 37 majors. The college is designed to foster critical thinking and encourage students to develop creative solutions to problems. The college places an emphasis on the teacher-scholar model and offers students a world-renowned faculty, many of which have on-the-job experience in the subjects they teach. Faculty provide students with expertise, guidance and mentoring at all levels of the student’s academic career.

Undergraduate Programs

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Villanova offers an undergraduate Computer Science program that provides a thorough foundation in the principals of computing. The Computer Science major provides students with a broad spectrum of computing technologies and concepts. Objectives of the program include:

  • Provide graduates with extensive knowledge of the key principles and practices of computing including an understanding of algorithms, theory of computation, operating systems, linguistics of programming language and architecture. In addition, students will develop proficiency in the development of software using problem analysis, design and the use of programming languages.
  • Provide graduates with knowledge regarding the foundations of computing, including the scientific, mathematical and engineering principles necessary to support computing disciplines. Students develop communication skills and learn to work effectively in teams. Students must successfully develop a major project and will apply concepts of discrete and continuous mathematics as well as the scientific method.
  • Develop the entire person into an individual with intellectual curiosity, mature judgment and a desire to make society a better place by helping students understand basic issues in social sciences and the humanities. Students also develop a strong code of ethics related to the computing world.
  • Prepare students to contribute to the computing profession by preparing them for employment in high-technology organizations that will allow them to use their computing education. Students are also prepared to advance to the graduate level as well as for self-directed learning designed to help them stay current with developments in the industry.

MS in Computer Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science at Villanova provides students with expertise in basic and applied computing through courses that include computer systems, theory, languages and algorithms in order to obtain careers as industry professionals. The program consists of ten three-credit courses that include a Grand Challenges course. The Grand Challenges course requires students to explore a computing topic under the direction of a faculty advisor. Required courses include:

  • Foundations of Algorithms and Data Structures
  • Design and Analysis of Algorithms
  • Linguistics of Programming Languages
  • Computer Systems
  • Theory of Computability
  • Four electives approved for the degree

Elective courses include the thesis course designed to extend independent study into a full master’s thesis, an option that often appeals to those who plan to further their graduate education. Students may choose to participate in the practicum track that adds a one credit course to the requirements and requires work experience in a related field.

Accreditation

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Computing Accreditation Commission

Contact

Department of Computing Sciences
161 Mendel Science Center
Villanova University
800 Lancaster Avenue
Villanova, PA 19085-1699
Telephone: 610-519-7307
Email: csdept@villanova.edu
Website

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest college at West Chester University. There are almost 4,600 students enrolled at the college, enrolled in 13 departments at the undergraduate and graduate level. Programs offered at the school include humanities, social sciences and sciences. The college also offers many interdisciplinary programs. The talented faculty have received recognition at the regional, national and international levels for research, publications and leadership in their field of study.

Computer Science, Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at West Chester University provides student with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in computer science or to further their studies at the graduate level. The college offers an extensive internship program in order to provide students with real-world experiences and a network that could help them in their search for employment after graduation. Students must attend eight academic semesters plus one summer session in order to complete the program. Students should choose majors with suitable schedules that meet their career goals. Students may choose to pursue a Computer Security (Information Assurance) Certificate while earning their undergraduate degree.

Master of Science

The Master of Science in Computer Science at West Chester University provides a solid foundation in the principles of computer science through core courses, upper level electives and advanced courses. Core classes required to complete the program include:

  • Foundations of Computer Science
  • Data Structures
  • Programming Languages
  • Analysis of Algorithms

Students must also choose four of the following 500-level electives:

  • Operating Systems
  • Networks and Data Communications
  • Database System Concepts
  • Software Engineering
  • Compiler Design
  • Computer Architecture
  • Graphics and User Interfaces
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Topics in Computer Science
  • Topics in Information Systems
  • Topics in Computer Security
  • Topics in Web Technology
  • User Interfaces in Java
  • System Administration and Security
  • Web Services
  • Wireless Programming and Security
  • UML and Pattern Design

Students must also successfully complete at least two advanced classes and can choose from:

  • Advanced Seminar
  • Advanced Seminar in Computer Security
  • Advanced Seminar in Web Technology
  • Internship
  • Independent Research
  • Master’s Thesis

Students who choose to write a master’s thesis must follow view the Master’s Thesis Guidelines Document for guidance.

Accreditation

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • ABET

Contact

West Chester University of Pennsylvania
UNA
25 University Avenue
Room 150
West Chester, PA 19383
Telephone: 610-436-2204
Email: jfabrey@wcupa.edu
Website: http://www.cs.wcupa.edu/

York College of Pennsylvania

Department of Physical Sciences

The Department of Physical Sciences at York College of Pennsylvania provides students with the skills necessary to succeed in today’s highly technical world. Students are prepared for careers in scientific or technological industries by gaining proficiency in problem-solving techniques, expertise in modern equipment and knowledge regarding software. The program has a strong mathematical and science focus. Students are provided the opportunity to learn in out-of-classroom experiences through co-ops and internships.

Computer Science Major

The Computer Science major at York College blends theoretical and practical applications using programming languages such as C/C++, Java, Scheme, Python and many more. Students are provided the opportunity to implement concepts through lab activities during their class period at one of the country’s best computer science colleges. The program emphasizes complex software design using engineering practices that include incremental analysis, design, implementation and testing. In addition, students are provided instruction in a wide variety of algorithms and data structures that are commonly used in the computer industry today.

Computer Science Minor

The Computer Science Minor at York College is designed to enhance the skills of students majoring in chemistry and mathematics, as well as those who are studying subjects outside the College of Physical Sciences. The Computer Science minor can greatly broaden the horizons of students who successfully complete the program, expanding their marketability in today’s competitive job market. In order to complete the minor, students must successfully complete:

  • Fundamentals of Computer Science I & II
  • Calculus I or Applied Calculus

Students must also take one of the following courses:

  • Software Engineering and Design
  • Network Applications and Protocols
  • Programming Language Design
  • Data Structures
  • Analysis of Algorithms
  • Operating Systems

In addition, students must choose one of the following courses, but the course must be different than the one selected from the previous list:

  • Software Engineering and Design
  • Network Applications and Protocols
  • Programming Language Design
  • Data Structures
  • Analysis of Algorithms
  • Parallel and Distributed Computing
  • Computer Graphics Programming
  • Advanced Graphics Programming
  • Cryptology
  • Numerical Analysis

Accreditation

  • Commission on Higher Education, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
  • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET

contact

York College of Pennsylvania
441 Country Club Road
York, PA 17403-3651
Telephone: 717-846-7788
Email: camelott@ycp.edu
Website: http://www.ycp.edu/academics/academic-departments/physical-sciences/programs-in-engineering-and-computer-science/computer-science/

Technology has become so common place in the world today that it is almost not even noticed any longer. Every industry has been touched by computers, which is why individuals who have successfully completed accredited computer science programs in Pennsylvania are having success finding positions in their field of interest.