Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The Applied Computer Science programme is built around core computer science principles together with applied, project-based coursework. Students complete a mix of required core courses, electives that allow specialisation, and a capstone or practicum experience.

• Core topics — programming (object-oriented and functional paradigms), data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics, computer architecture and operating systems, databases, software engineering and software design.
• Applied and elective topics — web and mobile application development, cloud computing and distributed systems, computer networks and cybersecurity fundamentals, human–computer interaction, machine learning and data science, embedded systems and IoT.
• Capstone and experiential learning — a senior capstone project or practicum in which students design and deliver a substantial software or systems project, often in collaboration with industry partners, faculty research groups or campus units.
• Liberal arts and general education — coursework in communication, ethics, civic engagement and other liberal-arts subjects to develop teamwork, professional communication and ethical awareness in a technological context.

Courses emphasise hands-on labs, collaborative projects, code review, version control, and modern development workflows. Opportunities for undergraduate research and cross-disciplinary projects with engineering, business or sciences are available.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions review considers academic preparation in mathematics and science, high-school transcripts, a personal statement and recommendation(s). Prior coursework in algebra, precalculus or calculus and some exposure to programming are recommended; students without programming experience are still admitted but may be advised to take introductory programming in their first term.

Valparaiso University practices a holistic admissions review; standardised test scores may be considered if submitted but are not required for all applicants. Transfer students should submit college transcripts and will have transferable credit evaluated individually. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted examinations or other institutional measures unless exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of technical and interdisciplinary careers. Typical roles include:

• Software developer or engineer (desktop, web, mobile)
• Systems analyst, DevOps or cloud engineer
• Data analyst, data engineer or machine learning practitioner
• Cybersecurity analyst or network engineer
• Embedded systems developer or IoT engineer
• Technical consultant, product manager or IT project manager

Many students also pursue graduate study in computer science, data science, cybersecurity, or engineering fields. The programme’s focus on applied projects and internships helps graduates build portfolios and professional networks; Valparaiso’s regional connections and career services support internship and job placement in industry, government and non-profit sectors.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso offers a small-campus, undergraduate-focused environment with accessible faculty and a liberal-arts approach that emphasises ethical reasoning and communication skills alongside technical training. The Computer Science faculty are actively involved in undergraduate teaching, advising and applied research, creating frequent opportunities for close mentorship.

Students benefit from hands-on learning through lab courses, capstone projects and internship placements with regional employers. The university’s location within reach of metropolitan job markets, combined with dedicated career services, provides pathways to professional experience. The balance of technical depth, project experience and liberal-arts breadth prepares graduates to adapt in a rapidly changing technology landscape.