Program Details
Program Details
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Bachelor of Arts
Virginia Commonwealth University
One or more Transfer Guides are available in the Resource Center for this Institution. If you are a current Virginia Community College student or are planning to start at a Virginia Community College before transferring to this institution and program, please follow the Transfer Guide to plan your courses at the community college. If there is a program-specific Transfer Guide and a general or general studies Transfer Guide, you are advised to follow the program-specific Transfer Guide. Please see your community college advisor for assistance in selecting the best pathway.
Program Details
Computer Science, Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of ArtsComputer Science, Bachelor of Arts
Virginia Commonwealth University
One or more Transfer Guides are available in the Resource Center for this Institution. If you are a current Virginia Community College student or are planning to start at a Virginia Community College before transferring to this institution and program, please follow the Transfer Guide to plan your courses at the community college. If there is a program-specific Transfer Guide and a general or general studies Transfer Guide, you are advised to follow the program-specific Transfer Guide. Please see your community college advisor for assistance in selecting the best pathway.
The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science is a multidisciplinary program that integrates a curriculum of computer science courses with other areas of study. The program provides a foundation in the computer science discipline and encourages students to integrate different perspectives in order to formulate new ideas and solutions for today’s computing challenges.
Outcomes
Upon completing this program, students will know and know how to do the following: Analyze a complex computing problem and 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 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 Respond to complex problems, issues and ideas by proposing new ideas or solutions that understand and integrate the perspectives of multiple disciplines and stakeholders
Program Overview & Guidance
Delivery Mode
In-Person
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Delivery Mode
Online
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Delivery Mode
Hybrid
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| Program Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Considerations for Selecting Degree | The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science (BA in CS) is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with both a strong foundation in computer science and the flexibility to explore diverse fields of study. This program balances rigorous technical training with a broad foundational education, fostering well-rounded graduates capable of innovative thinking and problem-solving in various technological contexts. |
| Program Requirement Notes | Program Requirement Notes The degree requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. Students are required to attain a second major or a minor in another content area. |
| Considerations When Selecting Courses |
Transfer students planning on majoring in Computer Science must complete MTH 263 and either CHM 111, BIO 101, or PHY 241 with grades of A or B and a minimum GPA of 2.7 for immediate admission. Classes like CSC 221, CSC 222, CSC 223, CSC 205, and CSC 208 are recommended. Students who complete an AS degree and/or an AS degree with a computer science specialization can expect to receive credit for most courses for earned grades of C or above.
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| Program Requirements Beyond Specific Courses | |
| Doing More With Your Degree | The Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Computer Science (CS) covers core areas of computer science with a focus on data science and cybersecurity. Computer science graduates are in high demand and enjoy excellent employment opportunities after graduation. |
| Program Successes & Highlights | Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for diverse career paths in technology, including software engineering, data analysis, and IT consulting, as well as roles in non-tech industries that increasingly rely on digital expertise. With a blend of technical skills and a broad educational background, the degree opens doors to innovative and impactful career opportunities and produces versatile professionals equipped with a unique blend of technical prowess and interdisciplinary insight. This combination is particularly valuable in today's rapidly evolving job market, where the ability to apply computer science principles across various domains is increasingly sought after. In addition to traditional roles in software engineering, data analysis, and IT consulting, graduates find opportunities in industries such as finance, healthcare, education, and media, where their ability to leverage technology for innovative solutions sets them apart. |
Program Credit Requirements
Credit and Course Requirements for the Program are expected in a future release. Please look above to see if a Transfer Guide is available for this program. If you are a current Virginia Community College student or are planning to start at a Virginia Community College before transferring to this institution and program, please follow the Transfer Guide to plan your courses at the community college.
If you wish to see how your credits may apply, you can:
If you wish to see how your credits may apply, you can:
- Contact the institution where a staff member can help you map your credits to the requirements for this program.
- View the program requirements listed in the institution's catalog.
Applicable Admissions Agreements
The table below lists admissions agreements between Virginia Commonwealth University and partner institutions that may guarantee admission to this program if you meet the required criteria. Click on the title name of the agreement to view a summary of those criteria.
You can view the full text of these Agreements in the Resource Center
What If I Have An Associate Degree Or Credit For Prior Learning?
| Transfer Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Associate Transfer Degree Completion | Students who earn an Associate of Arts, Associate of Arts & Sciences, Associate of Fine Arts, Associate of Science, General Education Certificate, or Uniform Certificate of General Studies from the Virginia Community College System, Richard Bland College, or the College of Southern Maryland may be eligible to participate in the Guaranteed Admission Agreement. Students with one of these degrees may also be eligible to have the majority of their general education requirements waived. Students who have earned an Associate of Arts, Associate of Arts & Sciences, or Associate of Science degree or the General Education Certificate before enrolling at VCU will have their General Education requirements waived. |
Completion of Associate Degree Concurrent with High School | Students who have earned an Associate of Arts, Associate of Arts & Sciences, or Associate of Science degree or the General Education Certificate before enrolling at VCU will have their General Education requirements waived. |
| Credit for Prior Learning | VCU accepts a variety of types of credit for prior learning, including but not limited to Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), military experience, Cambridge, and industry certifications that are recommended for credit by the American Council on Education or the National College Credit Recommendation Service. |
| Did You Know That... |
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College Level Information
Number of Transfer Students
1902
Percent of Accepted Transfer Students
VCU prefers transfer applicants with a cumulative college GPA of a 2.5 or higher who are in good standing with their pre...see moreVCU prefers transfer applicants with a cumulative college GPA of a 2.5 or higher who are in good standing with their previous institution. Some degree programs like Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Engineering have more competitive GPA requirements. Admission to programs in VCU Arts is also based on an evaluation of additional application materials and may be more competitive. Transfer applicants with fewer than 24 earned semester (36 quarter) hours will also be reviewed based on their high school GPA.
| College Fit Guidance | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Is This College Right For Me? | VCU is a large, research-driven institution nestled on two campuses in downtown Richmond, Virginia, offering a vast array of degree programs from arts to dental hygiene to engineering to education. VCU students have access to hundreds of student organizations, which is a great way to connect with others whether or not you choose to live in one of our many on-campus residence halls. Take advantage of VCU's location with access to the James River and its park system, internship and job opportunities, community engagement, and interstates to travel to the beach, the mountains, and Washington, D.C.. |
| Transfer Student Catalog Year | Catalog year is determined by the student's first semester of degree-seeking attendance at VCU. |
| First Year Student Catalog Year | Catalog year is determined by the student's first semester of degree-seeking attendance at VCU. |
| Applying for Guaranteed Admissions | https://admissions.vcu.edu/apply-to-vcu/undergraduate/transfer/ |
Where Can This Degree Transfer
This section displays degrees most closely related to this program
and to which you may be able to transfer. So, you can use this list to find the
next degree you can complete in your major. Please click the degree name to
visit that program page.
| Institution | Title | Degree | Award Name | Award Level | Delivery Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germanna Community College | Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Arts and Sciences | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Central Virginia Community College | AS in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person |
| J Sargeant Reynolds Community College | Associate of Applied Science Degree in Information Systems Technology | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Applied Science Degree in Information Technology | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Information Systems | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Laurel Ridge Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Laurel Ridge Community College | Associate of Applied Science Degree in Information Systems Technology | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | Hybrid |
| Laurel Ridge Community College | Associate of Applied Science Degree in Cybersecurity | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | Hybrid |
| New River Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering-Computer Sciences Major | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Northern Virginia Community College | Paralegal Studies, A.A.S. | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Paul D. Camp Community College | Associate of Sciences in Business Administration | Associate | Associate of Sciences | 2-Year | In-Person, Online |
| Piedmont Virginia Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Southwest Virginia Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | Hybrid |
| Virginia Peninsula Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science | Associate | Associated of Science | 2-Year | In-Person |
| Virginia Peninsula Community College | Associate of Science in Information Technology | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person |
| Tidewater Community College | Associate of Science - Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Tidewater Community College | Associate of Applied Science - Cyber Security | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
| Virginia Highlands Community College | Associate in Applied Science Degree in Infor Systems Tech | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Virginia Highlands Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Christopher Newport University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Foundations, Major in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Christopher Newport University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Foundations, Major in Physics | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Christopher Newport University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Foundations, Major in Cybersecurity | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Eastern Mennonite University | Bachelor of Science Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Longwood University | Computer Science BA | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Longwood University | Computer Science BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Richard Bland College | Associate of Science-Math/Computer Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Roanoke College | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Education | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Roanoke College | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Roanoke College | Bachelor of Science in Data Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| George Mason University | Applied Computer Science, BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Computer Engineering | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Computer Engineering (DNIMAS) Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Software Engineering Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Software Engineering (DNIMAS) Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - CyberSecurity (DNIMAS) Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Cybersecurity Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - (DNIMAS) Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| William & Mary | Computer Science - Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Marymount University | Computer Science (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Bridgewater College | Computer Science Major - BS (Cybersecurity Track) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Bridgewater College | Computer Science Major - BS (Full-Stack Software Development Track) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Shenandoah University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Ferrum College | B.S. in Computer Science, Cybersecurity | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Ferrum College | B.S. in Computer Science, Network | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Ferrum College | B.S. in Computer Science, Programming | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Ferrum College | B.S. in Computer Science, Web Design | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Regent University | B.S. in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | Hybrid |
| Randolph College | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Averett University | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Averett University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Emory & Henry University | Applied Computer Science (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Radford University | BS in Computer Science and Technology | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| George Washington University College of Professional Studies | BPS in Cybersecurity | Bachelor | Bachelor of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity | 4-Year | In-Person |
| The University of Virginia's College at Wise | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Major in Computer Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Careers Where This Degree Applies
| O*Net Code | Name | Description | Parent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15-1299.07 | Blockchain Engineers | Maintain and support distributed and decentralized blockchain-based networks or block-chain applications such as cryptocurrency exchange, payment processing, document sharing, and digital voting. Design and deploy secure block-chain design patterns and solutions over geographically distributed networks using advanced technologies. May assist with infrastructure setup and testing for application transparency and security. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-2051.01 | Business Intelligence Analysts | Produce financial and market intelligence by querying data repositories and generating periodic reports. Devise methods for identifying data patterns and trends in available information sources. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-2051.02 | Clinical Data Managers | Apply knowledge of health care and database management to analyze clinical data, and to identify and report trends. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1231.00 | Computer Network Support Specialists | Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.00 | Computer Occupations, All Other | All computer occupations not listed separately. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1251.00 | Computer Programmers | Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 25-1021.00 | Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
| 15-1299.08 | Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1221.00 | Computer and Information Research Scientists | Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 11-3021.00 | Computer and Information Systems Managers | Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming. | Management Occupations |
| 15-2051.00 | Data Scientists | Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1243.01 | Data Warehousing Specialists | Design, model, or implement corporate data warehousing activities. Program and configure warehouses of database information and provide support to warehouse users. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1243.00 | Database Architects | Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.06 | Digital Forensics Analysts | Conduct investigations on computer-based crimes establishing documentary or physical evidence, such as digital media and logs associated with cyber intrusion incidents. Analyze digital evidence and investigate computer security incidents to derive information in support of system and network vulnerability mitigation. Preserve and present computer-related evidence in support of criminal, fraud, counterintelligence, or law enforcement investigations. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.03 | Document Management Specialists | Implement and administer enterprise-wide document management systems and related procedures that allow organizations to capture, store, retrieve, share, and destroy electronic records and documents. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.02 | Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians | Assist scientists or related professionals in building, maintaining, modifying, or using geographic information systems (GIS) databases. May also perform some custom application development or provide user support. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1212.00 | Information Security Analysts | Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.05 | Information Security Engineers | Develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. Design and implement appropriate security controls to identify vulnerabilities and protect digital files and electronic infrastructures. Monitor and respond to computer security breaches, viruses, and intrusions, and perform forensic investigation. May oversee the assessment of information security systems. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.09 | Information Technology Project Managers | Plan, initiate, and manage information technology (IT) projects. Lead and guide the work of technical staff. Serve as liaison between business and technical aspects of projects. Plan project stages and assess business implications for each stage. Monitor progress to assure deadlines, standards, and cost targets are met. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.04 | Penetration Testers | Evaluate network system security by conducting simulated internal and external cyberattacks using adversary tools and techniques. Attempt to breach and exploit critical systems and gain access to sensitive information to assess system security. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1252.00 | Software Developers | Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1253.00 | Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1255.01 | Video Game Designers | Design core features of video games. Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies. Create and maintain design documentation. Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1299.01 | Web Administrators | Manage web environment design, deployment, development and maintenance activities. Perform testing and quality assurance of web sites and web applications. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1254.00 | Web Developers | Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
| 15-1255.00 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links. | Computer and Mathematical Occupations |
Cost To Complete