John Hopkins University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme covers foundational computer science together with applied information science subjects. Early coursework establishes programming, discrete mathematics, data structures and algorithms, and computer systems. Core and elective modules typically include:

• Programming and software development — introductory and advanced courses in multiple languages, software design and testing, and software engineering practices.
• Data structures & algorithms — algorithm design, complexity analysis and optimisation techniques.
• Computer systems & networking — computer architecture, operating systems, distributed systems and network protocols.
• Databases & information retrieval — relational and NoSQL databases, query languages and search systems.
• Data science & machine learning — statistics for computing, data mining, supervised and unsupervised learning methods and applied analytics.
• Cybersecurity & privacy — principles of secure computing, cryptography fundamentals and practical security lab work.
• Human–computer interaction & user experience — design, usability testing and interaction technologies.
• Ethics, law and societal impacts — responsible computing, privacy law and the social implications of information systems.
• Capstone & research opportunities — team-based capstone projects or faculty-supervised research placements linking theory to real-world problems.

The programme emphasises laboratory work, project-based learning and opportunities to undertake interdisciplinary electives with departments such as statistics, biology, public health and business. Undergraduates can also take advantage of research centres and applied labs for hands-on experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to Johns Hopkins is competitive. Successful applicants typically present a strong secondary-school record with high achievement in mathematics and science subjects. Recommended background includes calculus, algebra, and an introduction to programming where available. Admissions decisions consider academic transcripts, personal statements, teacher recommendations and extracurricular activities showing sustained interest in computing or analytical work.

International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements. Applicants with Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or other recognised qualifications may receive credit or advanced standing according to the university's policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Computer and Information Sciences move into a wide range of technical and interdisciplinary roles. Typical career paths include:

• Software engineer or developer in web, mobile and systems applications.
• Data scientist, data analyst or machine learning engineer working with large-scale data.
• Cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester or information security specialist.
• Systems engineer, cloud engineer or network architect.
• User experience (UX) designer, product designer or human–computer interaction specialist.
• Technical consultant, IT project manager or roles at the intersection of computing and another domain (e.g., bioinformatics, digital humanities, health informatics).

Many graduates also pursue graduate study in computer science, information science, data science or related fields. The university's research links and industry partnerships support internship placement and job recruitment across technology sectors, government and research organisations.

Why study at John Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins offers a research-intensive environment with strong emphasis on applied and interdisciplinary work. Undergraduates benefit from access to faculty actively engaged in cutting-edge research, specialised institutes and applied laboratories where students can join projects in cybersecurity, data science, imaging and biomedical informatics.

The programme provides close faculty interaction through seminars, research assistantships and capstone projects, and it fosters collaborations with industry partners and local technology employers for internships and experiential learning. The university's location and reputation support networking and career development opportunities in both the public and private sectors.