Computer Science and Engineering

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

On this page:

Why Choose Computer Science?

Apply your knowledge of software and programming to your passion.

Our Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science degree gives you the flexibility to incorporate a wide range of interests. You will still focus on software and software systems and also learn how to apply that knowledge.

 

Rankings

"Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs," U.S. News & World Report, 2022

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Wright State's undergraduate engineering programs as No. 150 among hundreds of engineering programs across the nation. The program faculty are dedicated to student success and offer one-on-one support to all students. The university is also located in Dayton, Ohio, a hub of technical expertise in industrial engineering, human factors engineering, aerospace, unmanned aerial systems, engineering innovation, and more for internships and future career advancement.

 

Recommended High School Classes

High school classes that will help with your undergraduate degree include:

  • Mathematics: College algebra/trigonometry, probability/statistics, geometric proofs
  • Science: Biology, chemistry, physics, and other subjects utilizing the scientific method
  • English: Formal argumentation, critical thinking, clear communication of intent
  • Computer Programming

You can also check out College Credit Plus options.

Careers

This degree in computer science will allow you to work in many industries. Computer systems analysis and design, programming, network administration, and website development are a few areas you can explore.

The program allows for the greatest flexibility of course study. You will develop a broad understanding of many disciplines. Including the application of technology and computers in these fields. Our graduates can pursue a wide array of careers. The average starting salary for Computer Science 2016 graduates was $67,233. (NACE, April 2017)

Job Spotlight from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Computer Systems Analysts

  • 2021 median pay: $99,270 per year
  • Entry level education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Jobs in 2020: 607,800
  • Projected jobs in 2030: 650,600

Web Developer

  • 2020 median pay: $77,200 per year
  • Entry level education: Associate degree
  • Jobs in 2020: 199,400
  • Projected jobs in 2030: 224,900

Computer and Information Systems Managers

  • 2021 median pay: $159,010 per year
  • Entry level education: Bachelor's degree
  • Jobs in 2020: 482,000
  • Projected jobs in 2030: 534,600

Our graduates are employed by:

  • Air Force Institute of Technology
  • Air Force Research Laboratory
  • CACI
  • CDO Technologies
  • Dayton Freight
  • Edaptive Computing Inc.
  • Emerson Climate Technologies
  • Globe Motors
  • InfoSciTex
  • Intelligrated
  • L3 Technologies
  • Lex Tech
  • LexisNexis
  • Marxent
  • National Air and Space Intelligence Center
  • NextGen Federal Systems
  • Omnispear Inc.
  • PQ Systems
  • Redwall Technologies, LLC
  • Reynolds and Reynolds
  • The Design Knowledge Company

Our graduates work as:

  • Applications developer
  • Computer programmer
  • Cyber security analyst
  • Digital design engineer specialist
  • IT infrastructure engineer
  • Java developer
  • Mobile developer
  • Programmer analyst
  • Security analyst
  • Software developer
  • Systems analyst
  • Web developer

It's never too earlyor too late to start managing your career in engineering. Learn more about the Brandeberry Career Development Center.

Real-World Experience

We encourage you to apply skills learned in the classroom through study abroad, undergraduate research, co-op/internships, and/or service learning. You will learn from qualified professionals who actively work in the field of computer science and work on computer science projects, allowing you to apply your classroom education to real-world situations.

Success Stories

Video: Wright State computer science major Jesse Williams finds a creative outlet through coding and rapping as J-Williams.
Derek Desentz, a junior computer science and computer engineering major at Wright State, hones his coding skills as an intern at the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Academics and Curriculum

Example of student work in CEG 4410, Spring Semester 2019. Student names: Xavian Ogletree, Isaac Hartzell, Kyle Ryan and Ryan Zink

View the Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science program information, degree requirements, and graduation planning strategy in the Academic Catalog.

Program Guides

We will revise our programs to keep them as current as possible. Your advisor will go over your options if there is a change.

Admission and Aid

Review the admission requirements and complete the admission application. Identify your desired major on the application. If you meet university admission requirements you are admitted to the college. 

If you are a current student and wish to change majors, go to the WINGS Express major/minor change request form and change your major. Talk to your advisor about majoring in computer science.

There are many ways to offset the cost of your degree. With our program, you will be eligible for paid internships starting your sophomore year. There are also scholarships and other financial aid options. For more information check out the university's financial aid section.

Program Objectives and Outcomes

Annual Student Enrollment: 89 Fall 2021

Graduation Data: 26 (Summer 2020 - Spring 2021)

Objectives

Program educational objectives describe what graduates are expected to attain within a few years after graduation.  Three to five years after matriculation, graduates of our Bachelors of Arts in Computer Science program will be:

  • Expert: Graduates of the computer science program are employable as computing professionals and will be recognized by their employers as well-prepared for their career in computing.
  • Adaptive: Graduates understand that education is a lifelong process and are well prepared for continuing studies.
  • Engaged: Graduates demonstrate an appreciation for the professional, social, ethical, and leadership roles of computing professionals.
  • Applied: Graduates can apply computing and software development principles to a diverse range of domains, such as analytics, data science, informatics, management, etc.

Outcomes

Students who complete the Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science will have an ability to:

  • Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
  • Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
  • Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
  • Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
  • Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions

Take the Next Step

Finding the right college means finding the right fit. See all that the College of Engineering and Computer Science has to offer by visiting campus.