Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

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Studying Computer Science at USF

Computer science is the backbone of today鈥檚 technology 鈥 from the apps on your phone to the systems that power hospitals, businesses and even space exploration. At USF, computer science students learn how to design and build the software that changes how we live, work and communicate.

With access to USF鈥檚 research labs, internships in Tampa Bay鈥檚 growing tech scene and electives in exciting areas like artificial intelligence, you鈥檒l graduate ready to make an impact in fields such as software development, cybersecurity, data science and more.

Did you know? The Computer Science program is accredited by the , ensuring your degree meets the highest standards recognized by employers, graduate schools and professional licensure bodies worldwide. 

What Students Learn

In the foreground on the right, a young man with glasses and a short beard is smiling while using a mouse and looking at his screen. Next to him, centered in the image, another young man with medium-length dark hair pulled back is focused on a laptop, holding a mouse and appearing engaged with his work. Both are seated upright and appear attentive and comfortable. In the background to the left, a third person sits at another computer workstation, slightly out of focus, facing forward and working independently. The room has a clean, modern appearance with light-colored walls and a large digital display mounted on the wall showing a map or data visualization. Overlay text at the bottom of the image reads: 鈥淲hat You鈥檒l Learn,鈥 accompanied by a small icon of a head with gears inside, suggesting education or skill development.

As a computer science major at USF, you鈥檒l build a strong foundation in programming, software design, algorithms and computer systems. Once you鈥檝e mastered the fundamentals, you can tailor your degree to your interests with electivesin the most exciting areas in technology today 鈥 from AI and virtual reality to robotics and quantum computing.

Did you know? USF has a BS to MS pathway that allows students to earn a master鈥檚 degree on an accelerated schedule by completing undergraduate and graduate-level coursework simultaneously. Talk to an advisor about how to apply.

Career Outlook 

Tampa Bay鈥檚 tech sector has grown 28.5% over the past five years, with companies like Apple, Lockheed Martin, Meta, Jabil, Reliaquest and Rapid7 recruiting from USF鈥檚 talent pool. Computer science graduates excel in roles such as: 

  • Software Engineer 
  • Cybersecurity Analyst 
  • Data Scientist 
  • Systems Architect 
  • Research Scientist 

Job market highlights (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics): 

  • 26% job growth projected for computer and information research scientists (2023鈥2033) 
  • $103,135 median national salary 
  • 2.3 jobs per graduate in Florida 

Beyond the Classroom

Gain real-world experience and build your resume through opportunities such as: 

  • Internships: Many students take part in internships starting as early as their sophomore year. With Tampa Bay鈥檚 growing tech community and connections to major national companies, you鈥檒l have the chance to work on real projects, build professional skills and network with future employers. Learn more about internships in the college.
  • Cooperative Education (Co-Op): Through the USF Center for Career and Professional Development, co-op integrates paid career-related work experience with your academic program on a part- or full-time basis. 
  • Undergraduate Research: From artificial intelligence to cybersecurity, students can get involved in faculty-led research projects that tackle real-world challenges. Research experiences can appear on your official transcript and give you a competitive edge for graduate school or industry careers.