Widener University

What you'll study

The Applied Computer Science degree combines core computer science theory with applied coursework and project-based learning. Early years focus on foundational topics such as programming, discrete mathematics and computer organisation. As you progress you study data structures and algorithms, databases, operating systems, networking and software engineering. Applied and elective modules allow you to specialise in areas such as cybersecurity, mobile and web development, machine learning and data analytics.

Typical elements of the programme include:

• Introductory programming (object-oriented design, data types and control structures)
• Data structures & algorithms (complexity, search and sort, trees and graphs)
• Systems and architecture (computer organisation, operating systems, concurrency)
• Databases & information systems (SQL, database design, data modelling)
• Software engineering (requirements, design patterns, testing and team-based development)
• Networks & security (protocols, network administration basics, cybersecurity principles)
• Applied electives (machine learning, artificial intelligence, mobile app development, cloud computing, human–computer interaction)
• Capstone project or senior design project with a substantial applied software or systems deliverable
• Cooperative education or internship opportunities to gain workplace experience with industry partners in the region

Laboratory work, collaborative projects and an emphasis on coding best practice and version control are integrated across courses to ensure graduates are prepared for development roles and engineering teams.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic expectations include strong performance in mathematics (including algebra and preferably precalculus or calculus) and a background in science. Prior programming experience is helpful but not always required; introductory bridging courses can be available for students without coding experience.

Additional application materials commonly requested include transcripts, a personal statement or essay, and one or more letters of recommendation. Standardised test requirements (SAT/ACT) and English language proficiency proofs for international applicants (such as TOEFL or IELTS) follow the university's general undergraduate admission policies and may be optional depending on admissions cycles. Mature applicants or those with college credits or industry experience should contact admissions for guidance on advanced standing and transfer credit.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc in Applied Computer Science are prepared for a wide range of technical roles in industry, government and the non-profit sector. Common entry-level job titles include software developer, web developer, systems analyst, database administrator, quality assurance engineer and IT support specialist. With elective specialisation or further study, graduates can move into roles such as data analyst, machine learning engineer, cybersecurity analyst, cloud engineer or mobile application developer.

The programme also provides a foundation for graduate study (master's degrees in computer science, data science, cybersecurity or engineering) and for entrepreneurship or product-development roles in startups. The combination of practical experience and co-op or internship placements is particularly valuable for building a job-ready portfolio and professional network.

Why study at Widener University

Widener emphasises experiential learning and small class sizes, allowing close interaction with faculty and hands-on access to labs and project resources. The university has a strong tradition of cooperative education and internship placement in the Greater Philadelphia and Delaware Valley region, connecting students with regional employers for meaningful workplace experience.

Computer science students benefit from interdisciplinary opportunities across engineering, business and health informatics, and from faculty who are active in applied research and industry collaborations. Career services, project mentorship and a capstone requirement ensure that students graduate with practical artefacts—such as software projects or deployment-ready systems—that demonstrate their abilities to employers.