Wartburg College

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational computer science topics with applied information-science coursework and a liberal-arts curriculum. Students build from core courses in programming and discrete mathematics to modules addressing systems, data and software engineering, with regular laboratory and project work.

• Core computer science: programming (introductory and advanced), data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics and computational theory.
• Systems and infrastructure: operating systems, computer architecture, networking and security fundamentals.
• Data and information: databases, data management, introductory data analytics and information retrieval.
• Software development: software engineering, software design patterns, version control and team-based project courses.
• Applied electives: web and mobile development, human–computer interaction, artificial intelligence or machine learning electives depending on availability and faculty expertise.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior capstone or year-long project, internships or field placements with industry or community partners, and opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty.
• Complementary liberal-arts requirements: coursework in communication, ethics, mathematics, natural sciences and humanities to strengthen problem-solving and written/verbal communication skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor’s in Computer and Information Sciences at Wartburg College follows the college’s undergraduate admissions processes. Typical expectations include successful completion of secondary education, with recommended preparation in mathematics (algebra, geometry, precalculus) and exposure to high-school level computer science where available.

• High-school diploma or equivalent with a reasonable academic record; specific GPA and transcripts are evaluated by the admissions office.
• Recommended prior coursework: algebra and precalculus (or equivalent); a course in programming or computer science is advantageous but not always required.
• Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered according to college policies; check the admissions office for current testing requirements or test-optional policies.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary-school credential and proof of English proficiency where required (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS or other accepted measures).
• Transfer students: evaluation of college transcripts for transfer credit; a meeting with the department helps map previous coursework to programme requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of technical and applied roles in public and private sectors, often entering the workforce directly or continuing to postgraduate study. The combination of technical skills and liberal-arts training supports adaptability in evolving technology careers.

• Software developer, application or web developer
• Systems analyst, IT specialist or systems administrator
• Database administrator, data analyst or business intelligence roles
• Quality assurance, DevOps or technical support positions
• Opportunities in cybersecurity, network engineering or cloud technologies with further study or certifications
• Graduate study in computer science, information systems, data science or related disciplines
• Teaching or educational-technology roles in schools or training organisations

Why study at Wartburg College

Wartburg College offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and a focus on undergraduate research and experiential learning. The college emphasises collaboration, ethical reasoning and clear communication alongside technical competence, preparing students for both immediate employment and further study.

• Small classes and direct access to faculty for mentoring, research supervision and project advising.
• Emphasis on hands-on learning through labs, team projects, internships and a senior capstone that demonstrate practical application of skills.
• Strong support services including academic advising, career services and internship placement assistance to help students transition to work or graduate programmes.
• Opportunities to combine computing study with other disciplines through the liberal-arts curriculum, useful for interdisciplinary careers (e.g. education, business, health informatics).