Massachusetts Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasises core principles of computing alongside practical experience. Students follow the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science undergraduate pathways and typically cover:

• Foundations: introductory programming, discrete mathematics, linear algebra and probability for computing.
• Core computer science: data structures and algorithms, computer systems (operating systems, computer architecture), programming languages and compilers, theory of computation.
• Applied areas: databases and data management, machine learning and artificial intelligence, computer graphics, human–computer interaction, computer vision, robotics and embedded systems.
• Software engineering and systems design: software engineering principles, large-scale systems, security and networks.
• Laboratory and project work: hands-on labs, team design projects and substantial project classes that emphasise implementation, testing and deployment.
• Research and electives: opportunities to join faculty research groups via the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), specialised electives in topics such as computational biology, privacy and cryptography, and interdisciplinary courses that combine computing with fields like economics and the physical sciences.

Students typically complete a mix of required core subjects and electives, culminating in advanced projects or thesis options depending on the chosen track. Practical proficiency in programming, systems development and quantitative analysis is central to the programme.

Entry requirements

Admission to MIT's undergraduate programmes is highly competitive. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics (including calculus), natural sciences and computer science or programming where available. Typical evidence of preparedness includes excellent secondary school grades, rigorous coursework (such as advanced high-school mathematics and science), coding experience or relevant personal projects, and strong letters of recommendation.

Standardised tests, portfolios of work, international secondary credentials (for example IB or national equivalents) and demonstrated engagement in extracurricular STEM activities can strengthen an application. Successful candidates show problem‑solving ability, intellectual curiosity, and the capacity to thrive in a challenging, collaborative environment.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for technical careers across industry, government and academia. Common roles include:

• Software engineer or developer in consumer, enterprise or cloud platforms
• Systems engineer or infrastructure engineer for operating systems, distributed systems and networking
• Data scientist, machine learning engineer or applied research scientist working on analytics, AI and large-scale data systems
• Product or technical lead roles in startups and established technology companies
• Research careers and postgraduate study in computer science, electrical engineering or interdisciplinary fields
• Roles in cybersecurity, robotics, computational biology, finance and consultancy that require strong algorithmic and systems skills.

Because of MIT’s industry connections and emphasis on experiential learning, many students also pursue entrepreneurial ventures or internships that lead directly to career opportunities.

Why study at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT offers a distinctive combination of rigorous coursework, extensive research opportunities and hands‑on learning. Students have access to leading research groups and centres in computing, such as the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), as well as abundant UROP placements that let undergraduates contribute to active research projects.

The Institute's collaborative culture, cross‑disciplinary programmes and strong links with industry and startups provide pathways to internships, mentorship and real-world project experience. Practical resources—well‑equipped labs, maker spaces and entrepreneurship support—complement the theoretical education, preparing graduates to build and deploy systems, conduct research or launch technology ventures.