University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

The programme builds from foundational mathematics and programming to specialised applied topics. Early courses focus on problem solving and programming in multiple languages, discrete mathematics, calculus and data structures. Core computer science topics include algorithms, software engineering, operating systems, computer systems and architecture, and the theory of computation.

As you progress you'll select from applied electives that typically cover databases, computer networks, machine learning and artificial intelligence, human–computer interaction, cybersecurity, compilers, distributed systems and mobile/web development. Lab work, programming projects and team-based software development are emphasised to develop practical engineering skills.

Undergraduate students are usually required to complete a capstone project or practicum that demonstrates integrated design and implementation skills. There are also opportunities for independent study and honours work, and many students take internships or cooperative placements as part of their degree.

• Fundamental programming and data structures
• Algorithms and theoretical foundations
• Computer systems, operating systems and networks
• Databases and software engineering practices
• Applied electives: machine learning, security, HCI, mobile and web
• Capstone project, labs and team-based software development

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong secondary-school record with substantive preparation in mathematics (typically including precalculus and calculus) and coursework in science. Prior experience with programming is beneficial but not always required; evidence of quantitative ability and problem-solving aptitude is important.

For domestic applicants the normal admissions process for the University applies; international applicants must provide certified academic transcripts and demonstrate English proficiency according to the University’s policies. Competitive applicants typically present strong academic credentials, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that explains interest in computer science and relevant experience such as programming projects, competitions or internships.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of technology roles in industry and public sector. Typical first destinations include software developer/engineer, systems engineer, data analyst, data scientist, site reliability engineer, cybersecurity analyst and mobile or web application developer. The programme also prepares students for roles that bridge computing and other fields, such as bioinformatics or digital humanities, or for graduate study in computer science and related disciplines.

Students benefit from internship and recruiting opportunities in the Research Triangle Park region and beyond, and can pursue entrepreneurship through campus incubators and industry partnerships.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill offers an undergraduate computer science education that combines rigorous academics with practical, project-based learning. The department provides access to research centres and interdisciplinary collaborations across the University, enabling students to apply computing to areas such as data science, health, and business.

Students can take advantage of career services, strong employer connections in the Research Triangle region, and campus activities such as student computing organisations and HackNC, a large student hackathon. Small-group instruction, undergraduate research opportunities and support for internships give students multiple pathways to build experience and employability while completing their degree.