BA and BS in Computer Science

Computer Science: Your Path To Success

It will not be surprising to anyone that career opportunities for Computer Science graduates abound. In addition to professions in programming and engineering, this major is a “springboard” for many other career choices where the basic understanding of computers and technology act as an important starting point. In the list of “Best Jobs in America for 2023”, US News and World Report list Software Developer as number one, and fully 10% of the top 50 jobs could easily begin with a degree in Computer Science.

What Will You Learn?

Graduates of Northwest University with a degree in Computer Science will gain knowledge in computer theory, software design, programming, and algorithm design, with experiences applied to web, mobile, cloud, and artificial intelligence applications. In addition, they will be trained in human-centered problem solving, using iterative design methods to analyze need and create effective solutions. Students will learn to collaborate in team-based projects to build applications, systems, and prototypes, and will develop proficiency in modern programming languages, computational thinking, and design of complex, scalable systems. This major will incorporate studies in mathematics, project management, and media studies, equipping students to apply ethical reasoning to technology development. The goal of this program will be to prepare students for a variety of careers focused on the development of complex applications and systems.

Opportunities for Graduates in Computer Science

There are literally hundreds of titles that are related to Computer Science, but major categories include:

Software Engineers and Programmers

Programmers and software engineers make up a large percentage of jobs for computer science graduates – and they can be further divided into engineering and business-related fields.

Program or Project Managers

In addition to programmers (who write the code), most software projects include Program and/or Project Managers, those individuals who are responsible for the functional design, project management, and overall project flow. 

Web and Internet Developers

Web development may be considered a form of programming, but more accurately is a mix of user interface design, simple programming, and document management.

Information Technology

Most medium to large scale organizations employ an “Information Technology” (or IT) department. Although these employees are highly technical, they typically are not programmers, and focus more on hardware or software configuration and deployment. 

Product Managers

In order to determine what projects should be pursued and further, the specific set of features and functions required to stay competitive, Product Managers do research and develop high-level project strategy. 

Test Engineers

Technology companies of almost any size employ engineers who specialize in locating and identifying problems. In fact, most software engineers work in conjunction with the test engineers from project inception to ensure that the application or service is testable, and expectations are well-defined.

Illustrated map highlighting companies including Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Northwest University.

We’re in Good Company

We are neighbors to some of the most successful companies of the 21st century, including Microsoft, Google, Boeing, and Amazon. These game-changing corporations are great places to intern or work once you graduate. It’s no wonder why our home, Kirkland, was voted by Money Magazine as the fifth best place to live in the U.S.

View Course Descriptions

You can explore program details and course descriptions for this program in our academic catalog.

Go to the Catalog