Ursinus College

What you'll study

The programme emphasises applied computing within a liberal‑arts context. You will build core technical skills—programming, data structures and algorithms, software engineering, databases, operating systems and networking—while also taking courses that connect computing to other fields such as biology, business, environmental studies and the arts.

• Core programming and theory: Introductory and intermediate programming, data structures, discrete mathematics and algorithms.
• Systems and software: Software engineering and design, operating systems, computer organisation and networking.
• Data and AI: Databases, data analytics, machine learning and applied statistics for computing.
• Specialised applied topics: Mobile and web development, cybersecurity fundamentals, human‑computer interaction and embedded systems depending on elective choices.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A senior capstone project or practicum that typically involves a team‑based software project, internship, or faculty‑mentored research project with tangible deliverables.
• Liberal arts integration: Courses in ethics, communication, project management and domain electives to support interdisciplinary applications of computing.

Entry requirements

Ursinus seeks students who demonstrate academic preparation, intellectual curiosity and the potential to thrive in a close‑knit liberal‑arts environment. Typical expectations include a secondary school diploma (or equivalent) with strong preparation in mathematics.

• Academic preparation: Solid performance in high school mathematics (algebra, geometry, and preferably precalculus or calculus) and evidence of analytical skills.
• Supporting materials: High school transcripts, a personal statement or essay, and at least one teacher or guidance reference. Ursinus has a test‑optional policy for standardised tests; applicants may submit SAT/ACT scores if they wish but these are not mandatory.
• Placement and bridging: New students may take placement assessments in mathematics and computing; introductory programming experience is helpful but not always required, as the curriculum includes foundational courses.
• Transfer and international applicants: Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of completed computing courses; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of technology roles and for further study. The programme’s applied focus and capstone experience make alumni attractive to employers across sectors.

• Software developer, web or mobile application developer
• Data analyst, data engineer or roles involving data visualisation and applied statistics
• Systems administrator, network engineer or cybersecurity analyst
• Product or technical project roles, user experience (UX) and human‑computer interaction positions
• Graduate study in computer science, data science or related fields and research or teaching careers

Why study at Ursinus College

Ursinus offers a personalised undergraduate experience with small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and early opportunities for hands‑on work. The college’s liberal‑arts environment encourages cross‑disciplinary projects, so computer science students can apply technical skills in domains ranging from biology and environmental science to economics and the arts.

• Undergraduate focus: Faculty are primarily dedicated to undergraduate teaching and mentoring, including supervising research and capstone projects.
• Experiential learning: Strong support for internships, off‑campus experiences and local industry connections in the Philadelphia region and beyond.
• Facilities and collaboration: Access to computing labs, collaborative workspaces and opportunities to work alongside peers in other disciplines on applied projects.
• Flexible pathways: Options to combine computer science with minors or double majors across the liberal arts, enabling bespoke career and study trajectories.