Amherst College

What you'll study

Students encounter both conceptual and practical material. Typical topical areas include programming and software development, algorithm design and analysis, discrete mathematics, computer systems and architecture, programming languages, machine learning and data-oriented methods, and ethical or societal implications of computing. Coursework balances classroom lectures, programming labs, project-based assignments and opportunities for independent study or a senior thesis.

Entry requirements

Admission to Amherst is through the college undergraduate process; prospective majors typically present a strong academic record with experience in mathematics and some prior exposure to programming. As students progress, declaring the major follows departmental guidelines and may require demonstrating preparedness through foundational coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles including software development, data analysis, systems engineering, research-oriented positions, or graduate study in computer science and related fields. The liberal-arts context also prepares students for careers that combine computing with other domains such as finance, biology, public policy, education, or entrepreneurship.

Scholarships & funding angle

Financial support is handled at the college level: need-based aid and institutional scholarships are available to admitted undergraduates, and departmental funding can sometimes support research assistants, summer projects, or travel for conferences. Prospective students should consult Amherst’s financial aid office and the computer science department for guidance on research grants, paid internships, or campus employment opportunities.