Student in computer class looking at her desktop monitor
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS)

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS)

 

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) degree program offered by Westcliff University is an interdisciplinary program from a holistic perspective, with an emphasis on the various disciplines within the field of Computer Science. The program is designed to provide pathways for students who want to pursue careers centered around building computer software solutions through programming and algorithmic techniques. The students pursuing this program will gain the necessary skills to solve challenges in the 21st century globalized economy by exploring a broad range of theoretical and practical knowledge, methods, processes, and skills to effectively design and develop computer-based solutions to satisfy domain-specific requirements. Successful students will graduate with the technical acumen and practical exposure needed to innovatively solve real-world problems and remain competitive in the workplace.

 

BSCS Program Learning Outcomes

BSCS Program Learning Outcomes

The mission of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program is to teach students the core foundational aspects of computer science that will prepare graduates to be successful in a variety of different computer science-related professions. The program empowers graduates with the technical acumen required to solve business problems through the use of computer science. Students will also learn how to innovate by exploring new and emerging technologies.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science encourages students to achieve the following educational outcomes:

1
Evaluate current and emerging technologies.
2
Identify and gather user requirements to design user-friendly interfaces.
3
Apply, configure, and manage computer science technologies.
4
Utilize data to help businesses gain insights to help them make better decisions.
5
Access Computer Science impact on individuals, organizations, and the environment.
6
Apply computer science concepts and strategies to solve real-world problems.
7
Conduct research in the field of computer science and related fields.

Program Requirements

  • Admissions Requirements

    For acceptance into an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Degree program, applicants must satisfy one of the following criteria:

    High school diploma from a university-recognized high school with a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA or university-recognized high school equivalency such as GED, TASC, or HiSET;

    OR

    High school diploma plus a previously earned Associate-level or higher degree from a nationally, regionally, or government-accredited college or university;

    OR

    High school diploma plus twenty-four (24) college-level credits (does not include remedial credits) from a nationally, regionally, or government-accredited college or university earned with a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA;

    OR

    Approval from the Admissions Committee following a review of factors considered essential for academic success, including previous academic progress, non-academic achievements, and any additional information requested by the Committee as they relate to standards set by the University's governing bodies.

  • Graduation Requirements

    The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) degree program requires 120 credit hours, including 45 credit hours of Core Information Technology courses, 30 credit hours of Concentration courses, 30 credit hours of Integrative Studies (General Education) courses, six (6) credit hours of Core Business courses, six (6) credit hours of Internship courses, and a three (3) credit-hour Capstone course.

    Students may complete their entire 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program by taking all 45 credit hours of Core Information Technology courses, 30 credit hours of Concentration courses, 30 credit hours of Integrative Studies (General Education) courses, six (6) credit hours of Core Business courses and three (3) credit hours of a Capstone course at Westcliff University. Alternatively, students may transfer up to 30 Integrative Studies (General Education) credit hours from another accredited school. In any option, 54 of the 60 Integrative Studies (General Education) credit hours must have academic content. Please refer to the Transfer of Credit Policy for more detailed information and requirements.

    Students must apply for graduation. Upon graduation and fulfillment of all academic requirements, students receive a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree.

  • Practical Learning Experience Requirements

    Westcliff University requires all students enrolled in Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in the College of Technology and Engineering to successfully complete Practical Learning Experiences (PLEs) as part of the completion of their degree. Practical learning at Westcliff is a key component of the university’s approach to teaching, learning, and student success as these experiences reinforce what students are learning in the classroom and promote the relevant application of this content in a real-world context. This practice reflects Westcliff’s commitment to a practical and relevant education and the value of applied, experiential learning. Students who have this experience demonstrate a more successful transition into a new career or career advancement.

    Practical learning experiences are satisfied by the completion of six (6) credits of internship course as a requirement for the program. During each internship course, students engage in direct work experience relevant to their studies in addition to participating in the assigned classroom activities. Internship opportunities exist on- and off-campus. Off-campus internships require prior university approval, and F-1 students must have Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization to participate in off-campus internships.

    Students are responsible for developing and demonstrating the skills necessary to be successful in an internship. In addition to industry knowledge, students should be prepared to demonstrate professionalism, effective communication (written, oral, and digital), and integrity while engaged in an internship. The faculty facilitating the internship courses assess these qualities and provide valuable feedback to students throughout the course.

Program Information

  • Required Courses

    Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Program Requirements - 120 Credit Hours Total

    Core Courses - 45 Credit Hours Total

    DATA 100 Introduction to Data Analytics - 3 Credit Hours
    DATA 200 Applied Statistical Analytics - 3 Credit Hours
    DATA 210 Database Design & Analytics - 3 Credit Hours
    DATA 300 Data-Driven Decision Making - 3 Credit Hours
    MTH 150 Discrete Mathematics - 3 Credit Hours
    PRG 100 System Analysis and Design - 3 Credit Hours
    PRG 200 Programming in the Cloud - 3 Credit Hours
    PRG 300 Software Quality, Architecture, and Documentation - 3 Credit Hours
    PRG 310 DevOps and Agile - 3 Credit Hours
    PRG 320 C# Programming - 3 Credit Hours
    PRG 330 Python Programming - 3 Credit Hours 
    TECH 110 Technology and Systems - 3 Credit Hours
    TECH 250 Technical Documentation and Communication - 3 Credit Hours
    TECH 300 Internet of Things (IoT) - 3 Credit Hours
    TECH 330 Emerging Technologies - 3 Credit Hours

    Core Business Courses - 6 Credit Hours Total

    LDR 325 Introduction to Leadership - 3 Credit Hours
    LDR 349 Foundations in Operations Management - 3 Credit Hours

    Capstone Course - 3 Credit Hours Total

    CAP 490 Capstone Project - 3 Credit Hours  

    Integrative Studies (General Education) Courses - 30 Credit Hours Total

    Communication - 12 Credit Hours 
    Mathematics - 6 Credit Hours 
    Humanities - 6 Credit Hours 
    Social & Behavioral Sciences - 3 Credit Hours 
    Physical & Biological Sciences -  3 Credit Hours 

    Internship Courses - 6 Credit Hours REQUIRED

    INT 361 Systems Analysis - 1 credit hour
    INT 363 Systems Integrations - 1 credit hour
    INT 365 Database Solutions - 1 credit hour
    INT 367 Systems Collaborations - 1 credit hour
    INT 369 Data Optimization - 1 credit hour
    INT 371 Process Construction - 1 credit hour

  • Program Concentrations

    Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Areas of Concentration

    Advanced Programming - The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Mobile Game Development is designed to lead students in preparation for a certification in Unity game development. Topics include simple game design concepts and structure, AI and intelligent behavior in Unity, Unity game development fundamentals, and technologies associated with augmented and virtual reality systems.

    Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Mobile Game Development - The Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Mobile Game Development concentration is designed to lead students in preparation for a certification in Unity game development. Topics include simple game design concepts and structure, AI and intelligent behavior in Unity, Unity game development fundamentals, and technologies associated with augmented and virtual reality systems.

    Cloud Computing - The Cloud Computing program is designed to provide students with a foundation in cloud computing technologies for business. This program is ideal for professionals who are interested in the field of cloud computing and who may have experience but do not have formal training. Students will learn technologies, processes, and management of systems, including virtualization and storage, APIs and scripting, AWS and Azure, cloud security and disaster recovery, and strategic cloud implementation concepts for business applications.

    Cybersecurity - The Cybersecurity Concentration is designed to advance the professional careers of technologists and computer scientists in the field of computer systems and information technology security. The certificate program is presented in a detailed and innovative approach that examines a variety of computer systems security topics, including cybersecurity essentials and network security; communications security techniques such as cryptography, computer forensics, threats and detection; information security management, and a proactive approach to designing cybersecurity for emerging technologies. Security policies on privacy and legal issues are also presented. Upon completion, graduates can design and implement cybersecurity measures and strategies across several sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, research and development, education, banking and finance, and international business.

    Data Analytics - Provides an overview of quantitative methods essential for analyzing data, with an emphasis on business applications. Topics include identification of appropriate metrics and measurement methods, descriptive and inferential statistics, experimental design, parametric and non-parametric tests, simulation, and linear and logistic regression, categorical data analysis, and select unsupervised learning techniques. Standard and open-source statistical packages are used to apply techniques to real-world problems.

     Information Technology Project Management (ITPM) - The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Information Technology Project Management (ITPM) is designed to provide students with a foundation in IT Project management based on the Project Management Book of Knowledge and Project Management Professional certification. This program is ideal for professionals who are interested in the field of project management and who may have experience but do not have formal training. Students will learn common methodologies used by project managers today focusing on project integration, scope, time, cost, leadership, schedule, risk, quality, and communications management. Graduate students will complete one additional graduate level assignment in each course.

    Web Development -The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Web Development bridges a path for students who want to pursue careers in the growing and exciting field of web development. The program focuses on creating dynamic and interactive experiences through a rigorous full stack coding curriculum. Students pursuing this program will gain the necessary skills for front-end and back-end development, all while preparing them for success in the professional world.

     

  • Course Catalog and Student Handbook

Scholarship Opportunities

  • Scholarship Application

    As a Westcliff student, you have access to a powerful network of support from staff, faculty, alumni, and many others who take pride in investing in you. Scholarships are made possible by generous benefactors who are passionate about supporting your success.

  • Scholarship Application Deadlines

    2023-2024 Academic Year Calendar

    Semester Session Scholarship Deadline Start Date End Date
    FALL Session 1 07/07/23 Start: 8/28/23 End: 10/22/23
      Session 2   Start: 10/23/23 End: 12/17/23
    SPRING Session 3 11/17/23 Start: 01/08/24 End: 03/04/24
      Session 4   Start: 03/05/24 End: 04/28/24
    SUMMER Session 5 03/16/24 Start: 05/06/24 End: 06/30/24
      Session 6   Start: 07/01/24 End: 08/25/24

     

Program Requirements