Cost & earnings at University of Massachusetts Amherst What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor in Computer and Information Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is an undergraduate programme that builds core computing skills — programming, systems, data and human-centred aspects of information — while offering flexibility to specialise through electives and projects. It suits students who want a rigorous technical foundation with opportunities for hands-on labs, undergraduate research and internships leading to careers in software, data, security and related fields.
The programme is organised around a core of computing fundamentals and a range of elective topics that let you shape a specialism. Core subjects typically include programming and software development, discrete mathematics, data structures and algorithms, computer systems and architecture, operating systems, databases, and computer networking. Additional modules cover software engineering, machine learning and data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human–computer interaction, information retrieval, and theoretical computer science.
Instruction combines lectures with programming labs, team-based software projects and opportunities for individual supervised research. Students commonly complete a capstone or honours project in their final year that integrates design, implementation and evaluation. The curriculum also supports interdisciplinary study with electives from statistics, cognitive science, business and engineering, and offers pathways for minors or combined majors.
Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification with strong preparation in mathematics. Typical successful applicants demonstrate proficiency in algebra and calculus and a background in physics or computing is advantageous. Admissions consider overall academic record, motivation and fit; personal statements and recommendation letters strengthen applications. For transfer students, satisfactory completion of college-level calculus, programming and general education courses is usually required, and articulation agreements exist with some community colleges.
While prior programming experience is helpful, it is not always mandatory; the programme provides introductory courses for students who need to build foundational skills. International applicants should meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.
Graduates move into a broad range of roles across industry, public sector and research. Common entry positions include software engineer/developer, data analyst or data scientist, systems engineer, cybersecurity analyst, database administrator, DevOps or cloud engineer, and UX or interaction designer. With additional experience or graduate study, alumni progress to specialised roles in machine learning, AI research, network architecture, product management and technical leadership.
The degree also provides solid preparation for further study at master’s or doctoral level in computer science, information science, data science and related disciplines, as well as for entrepreneurial ventures and technology consultancy.
The programme is delivered by the College of Information and Computer Sciences, a large research-active school with faculty working across software, systems, data science, HCI and security — offering numerous chances for undergraduates to join research labs. Hands-on learning is supported by well-equipped computing facilities, teaching labs and project courses that emphasise real-world software development and teamwork.
UMass Amherst maintains strong links with industry through internships, career fairs and employer recruiting, helping students secure practical experience and graduate roles. The campus also offers a broad student community with computing clubs, hackathons and mentoring networks that support diversity and professional development. Together, the academic depth, research opportunities and career support make it a suitable choice for students seeking a rigorous and versatile computing education.
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