Program: Computer Science, B.S. - Acalog ACMS™

Undergraduate Program

Computer science focuses on how to design, build, and effectively use the computers and systems that we interact with every day from the smart phones in our hands to the complex databases in our banks and hospitals. Because computer technology powers the most essential functions of business, industry, government and entertainment, computer scientists have tremendous opportunities for growth and exploration.

In addition to the BS degree in Computer Science, the Computer Science and Engineering department offers minors in Computer Science , Cybersecurity , and Game Engineering . The NYU Tandon School of Engineering also offers a BS/MS Program that enables students to earn both a BS and an MS degree at the same time. For instance, a student can receive a BS in Computer Science and MS in Computer Science, a BS in Computer Engineering and MS in Computer Science, or a BS in Electrical Engineering and MS in Computer Science. Depending on the student’s preparation and objectives, they can complete both degrees within 5 years. More information on the BS/MS program can be found on the “Undergraduate Academic Requirements and Policies ” section of the catalog.

The program provides research labs for specialized study in areas such as cybersecurity, game engineering, and big data, areas in which our department has a distinctive strength. In addition, the program’s close ties to our graduate division immerse students in a vibrant, intellectual atmosphere.

Goals and Objectives

With the BS program in Computer Science, the department aims to:

• Provide a deep understanding of fundamental computer science subjects;
• Provide avenues of specialization, such as digital games, cybersecurity, and computer systems;
• Achieve a proper balance between theoretical study and practical design in order to solve problems effectively;
• Supplement technical skills with courses in humanities, social science, and business; and
• Provide opportunities for excellent students to pursue independent study, as well as directed research, with faculty members who are internationally recognized in their fields.

Curriculum Overview

Below is an overview of the Computer Science BS curriculum. A typical course schedule is located at the end of this section.

Computer Science Introductory Sequence

• CS-UY 1114 Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving 4 Credits
• CS-UY 1134 Data Structures and Algorithms 4 Credits
• CS-UY 2124 Object Oriented Programming 4 Credits

Other Required Computer Science Courses

• CS-UY 1122 Introduction to Computer Science 2 Credits
• CS-UY 2214 Computer Architecture and Organization 4 Credits
• CS-UY 3224 Operating Systems 4 Credits
• CS-UY 2413 Design and Analysis of Algorithms 3 Credits
• CS-UY 4513 Software Engineering 3 Credits
• CS-UY 4523 Design Project 3 Credits

Required Mathematics Courses

• MA-UY 1024 Calculus I for Engineers 4 Credits
• MA-UY 1124 Calculus II for Engineers 4 Credits
• MA-UY 2314 Discrete Mathematics 4 Credits
• MA-UY 2224 Data Analysis 4 Credits

• Note: MA-UY 914 Precalculus for Engineers  does not count toward the Math requirement.

• Note: MA 2034 Linear Algebra and Differential Equations or another linear algebra course is recommended, but not required. Some CS electives have knowledge of linear algebra as a prerequisite. Students planning to take such electives should plan accordingly.

Required Engineering Courses

• EG-UY 1001 Engineering and Technology Forum 1 Credits
• EG-UY 1003 Introduction to Engineering and Design 3 Credits

Science Requirement

Students may choose any three natural science courses (each at least 3 credits) offered by the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, provided that they meet pre-requisites and co-requisites: 

• BMS-UY 1004 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology 4 Credits
• BMS-UY 2004 Introduction to Physiology 4 Credits
• CM-UY 1004 General Chemistry for Engineers 4 Credits
• CM-UY 1014 General Chemistry I 4 Credits
• CM-UY 1024 General Chemistry II 4 Credits
• PH-UY 1013 Mechanics 3 Credits
• PH-UY 2023 Electricity, Magnetism and Fluids 3 Credits and PH-UY 2121 General Physics Laboratory I  1 Credit
• PH-UY 2033 Waves, Optics and Thermodynamics 3 Credits and PH-UY 2131 General Physics Laboratory II  (1 Credit)

Humanities and Social Sciences Requirement

Students are required to take six courses in humanities and social sciences. Two of these courses are specified below; the remaining four courses are electives, one of which must be a writing-intensive course (denoted by a “W” in the course number) and one must be an ethics course.

• EXPOS-UA 1 Writing the Essay 4 Credits
• EXPOS-UA 2 The Advanced College Essay 4 Credits
• Any Ethics course 4 credits

Electives

• 18 additional credits in computer science electives 4
• 26 credits of free electives 4

Note: NYU SPS courses are not accepted as free electives.