Dartmouth University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines classical computer science fundamentals with interdisciplinary information‑science subjects. Core modules cover programming, data structures and algorithms, computer systems and software engineering. Information‑focused courses include databases and information retrieval, data mining and analytics, human‑computer interaction, information policy and privacy, and networked information systems.

• Foundations: introductory and intermediate programming, discrete mathematics, algorithms, and operating systems.
• Information & data: database design, information retrieval, data visualization, statistical learning and data science methods.
• Systems & security: networks, distributed systems, cybersecurity and systems programming.
• Human & societal: human–computer interaction (HCI), user experience (UX), information ethics and law, privacy and policy.
• Capstone & research: project‑based senior capstone, lab‑based research projects or an undergraduate thesis, often undertaken with faculty in computer science, engineering or interdisciplinary centres.

Students typically mix required courses with electives and can pursue minors or concentrations (for example in statistics, cognitive science, or engineering) to tailor the degree. The college's quarter‑based academic calendar (D‑Plan) permits flexible sequencing of coursework, internships and off‑campus study.

Entry requirements

Entry to undergraduate study is through the college's general admission process and is competitive. Typical academic preparation includes strong performance in mathematics (including precalculus and preferably calculus), familiarity with high‑school level problem solving, and some prior programming experience (through school courses, coding camps or personal projects).

• Academic profile: strong secondary‑school record with emphasis on mathematics and science courses.
• Programming experience: experience in one or more programming languages is recommended; evidence of coding projects, competitions or relevant extracurriculars strengthens an application.
• Standardised and international qualifications: applicants present national or international secondary qualifications; international students provide equivalent credentials and evidence of English language proficiency where required.
• Personal qualities: demonstrated curiosity about computing and information, collaborative skills, and readiness for close faculty interaction and project work.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for technical roles across industry and research. Common career paths include software engineering, data science and analytics, systems engineering, cybersecurity, product management and user‑experience design. The programme’s combined emphasis on algorithms, data and human‑centred design also prepares students for roles in information architecture, information policy, and applied research in academia or industry labs.

Many students take internships during their terms off or over the long breaks, participate in campus research groups or entrepreneurial activities, and go on to graduate study in computer science, information science, data science, or related fields.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Students benefit from small class sizes and close mentoring by faculty who are active researchers and teachers. The college emphasises undergraduate research opportunities and project‑based learning, with access to interdisciplinary centres and labs focused on computing, data and digital humanities. The flexible academic calendar supports internships and experiential learning, and dedicated career services and a strong alumni network help with recruitment into technology firms, startups, consulting and graduate programmes.

In short, the programme offers a rigorous technical base together with applied information studies and strong support for hands‑on projects, making it suitable for students aiming for both industry and research careers in computing and information domains.