University of Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme provides a balanced curriculum of theoretical foundations and practical skills in computing and information science. Early coursework builds essential mathematical and programming skills; later study emphasises systems, data management and software engineering, together with elective options to tailor your degree.

• Core computing subjects: programming (often starting with C/C++ and progressing to Java or Python), data structures and algorithms, computer organisation and architecture, operating systems, and software engineering principles.
• Information and data topics: database design and implementation, information retrieval, data analytics, and introductory machine learning or data mining electives.
• Networks and security: computer networks, network administration fundamentals and introductory cybersecurity concepts, including secure coding and system hardening.
• Mathematics and foundations: discrete mathematics, calculus or applied calculus, linear algebra and probability/statistics as they apply to computing and information science.
• Professional and applied work: web and mobile application development, human–computer interaction, software project courses and a senior capstone or practicum that integrates development, documentation and team-based project work.
• Experiential learning: laboratory courses, internship opportunities, undergraduate research projects and chances to collaborate with local industry or campus research groups. Electives allow you to specialise in areas such as data science, cybersecurity, or systems engineering.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on completion of a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Applicants are expected to have a strong foundation in mathematics and science.

• High school diploma or equivalent with coursework in algebra, geometry and preferably pre-calculus or calculus; courses in physics or computer science are beneficial.
• Successful applicants typically demonstrate good academic performance across a broad secondary curriculum; the university considers transcripts, recommendations and any personal statement submitted with the application.
• Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be considered where submitted; check the university's admissions guidance for current testing policies.
• International applicants must present an equivalent secondary qualification and satisfy English language requirements (for example through TOEFL or IELTS) if their prior education was not conducted in English.
• Transfer students should provide college transcripts showing completion of transferable mathematics and introductory computing courses; credit transfer is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of technical and professional roles in the public and private sectors. The degree emphasises practical skills employers seek while keeping pathways open to further study.

• Common entry-level roles: software developer, systems analyst, web or mobile application developer, database administrator, network administrator and IT support engineer.
• Data-focused roles: data analyst, business intelligence developer or junior data scientist with further elective study in statistics and data management.
• Security and infrastructure: positions in IT security operations, security analysis, or cloud and systems administration with appropriate elective or certification pathways.
• Other pathways: technology consulting, product management or roles in digital project teams. Many graduates also progress to graduate study in computer science, information systems, data science or related fields.
• Students benefit from internship placements, on-campus recruitment events and the university's career services to build industry connections and practical experience.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi combines a research-active campus with a supportive undergraduate environment. Students in Computer and Information Sciences have access to teaching-focused faculty, laboratory facilities and a range of co-curricular opportunities.

• Practical learning: dedicated computing labs and project courses emphasise hands-on experience and team-based software development.
• Student organisations and clubs: computing and engineering societies, coding clubs and hackathon teams provide peer learning and leadership opportunities.
• Industry and internship links: relationships with regional employers and start-ups help students secure internships and real-world project work.
• Student support: academic advising, tutoring and career services help plan coursework, internships and post-graduation pathways.
• Opportunities for research and study abroad: students can pursue undergraduate research with faculty or select study-abroad options to broaden technical and cultural perspectives.