Computer Science Major

Students interested in the general study of computer science can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science or Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Temple University’s College of Science and Technology. Graduates of the Computer Science BA or BS are hired as computing consultants, programmers, software developers, system analysts, and system or network administrators. Some graduates start their own technology companies.

Computer science is the study of automating processes that can store, communicate and process information. Computer scientists specialize in theories such as computation and computational system design. Computer Science majors gain a broad education in the conceptual foundations of computer science, including algorithms, artificial intelligence, computer architecture, data structures, image processing, networks, operating systems and software engineering. Students learn the underlying theory, methodologies and techniques used in the development of computer systems.

After completing this program, students should have the ability to

  • apply knowledge of computer hardware and system software to design reliable and efficient software systems,
  • communicate with and lead teams,
  • design, write and test efficient software algorithms, and
  • learn, evaluate and apply new problem-solving techniques and tools.

Choosing between a BA and a BS

The Computer Science BS requires more CIS coursework than the BA, including four to five Computer Science upper-level electives and a course in computer science probability. These additional courses make BS students more employable after graduation. The BA (with fewer required credits) is a good choice for students who want broaden their education and take additional coursework outside of the major.

+1 Bachelor-Master Programs

The College of Science and Technology offers +1 Accelerated Bachelor-Master Programs. Students can earn a BA or BS and, at the end of the fifth year, an MA or MS. Coursework is completed over five years instead of taking the usual six-year course of study.

Learn more about the College of Science and Technology’s +1 Bachelor-Master programs.

3+4 Accelerated Programs

The College of Science and Technology offers 3+4 Accelerated Degree Programs in a seven-year course of study, instead of the usual eight years. Qualifying undergraduate students can obtain the Computer Science Major from CST and a

  • Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from the Kornberg School of Dentistry,
  • Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from the School of Podiatric Medicine,
  • Doctor of Medicine from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, or
  • Doctor of Pharmacy Medicine from the School of Pharmacy.

Learn more about the College of Science and Technology’s 3+4 Accelerated Degree Programs.

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $23,112.00 per year
Out-of-state: $38,160.00 per year

ST-CSCI-BS