Computer Science Program Overview
Technology is an ever-changing field with new practices, new trends and new languages to learn. The world needs innovative, tech-savvy professionals who can withstand the onslaught of growth while specializing in fields like programming, software development, networks, system administration and cybersecurity. Our computer science program will prepare you to fulfill those needs. Through hands-on training and an exciting education, you will leave this program ready to step into a high-income and in-demand career in technology.
Learning Experiences
As a student of computer science, you can take advantage of an exceptionally strong programming curriculum that includes:
- Personal attention from professors, all of whom are experts in tech and computer science.
- Tangible learning experience through activities and education in small class sizes.
- Access to state-of-the-art computers that run on Linux, Solaris, MacOS and Windows. Computers are equipped with compilers, word processors, software development tools, spreadsheet and database programs, web design and programming tools and other applications to enhance your learning experience.
- Participation in national and international programming competitions where you can further build your skills.
- A capstone software development project to solve a company's real-life computer science problem.
Internships and Career Opportunities
Internship/research opportunities at local and regional companies allow you to gain real-world experience, college credit and a steady paycheck.
Recent computer science majors earned opportunities at the following:
- Ashland University Information Technology
- FirstEnergy
- J.M. Smucker Co.
- Wentworth Solutions
- Charles Rivers Laboratories
- Union Home Mortgage
- Mettler Toledo
Sample Curriculum
Learn more about the computer science curriculum by reviewing the following resources:
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
AU Dean's Scholarship
The Dean's Scholarship was created to enhance the undergraduate academic experience for new first-time and transfer students enrolled in a major within the College of Arts & Sciences. It is a merit-based, renewable scholarship of $1,500 that can be "stacked" on top of other awarded AU academic scholarships. In addition, students have the opportunity to participate in unique academic communities with a focus on career coaching and preparation.
Ashland University has been awarded a grant from the state of Ohio to provide Choose Ohio First Scholarships to outstanding students with interests in the natural and physical sciences. These scholarships support academically strong students who plan to continue to graduate school, health-related professional programs or employment in STEM industries after completing a bachelor’s degree.
A Promising Career
The median annual salary for software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers was $130,160 in 2023. The expected growth rate in employment is 17 percent through 2033, much faster than average. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
With a degree in computer science, you will be equipped to pursue any of these careers:
- Business analyst
- Database administrator
- Full-stack developer
- Information technology specialist
- Mobile application developer
- Network architect
- Software developer
- Software engineer
- System analyst
- UI designer/web developer
Employers of Recent Graduates
- Jacob Owens, ’23, associate software engineer at Realtor.com
- Clayton Atkinson, ‘22, software developer at Epic Systems
- Kyle Hall, ’21, network administrator at ArcelorMittal USA
- Rachel Traverse, ‘21, software developer at General Motors