Computer Science

About the computer science major

Computer and information science emphasizes a fundamental understanding of computing, information processing, and information communication. You'll learn basic principles of computing and data processing, including the creation, representation, storage, transformation, and transmission of information.

The computer science major exposes you to language processing, end-use applications, principles of computer hardware and software components, databases, application testing, and more. Programming and math courses are essential to the Bachelor of Science degree.

As the field of computing is constantly changing, career options will continue to emerge. Graduates work in roles such as programming, software development, database administration, research, systems analysis, management, and many others.

Skills and abilities this major develops: analytical and problem solving, project management, attention to detail, and expertise in teamwork and communication.

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IU Indianapolis’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Undergraduate research

Undergraduate research experiences help you develop important problem-solving skills and experience for your future career.

Professional work experience

Grow your skills through internships or part-time jobs. Join the School of Science Career and Internship site in Canvas for additional information and resources.

Center for Service and Learning

The IU Indianapolis Center for Service and Learning has many service-oriented programs that allow you to work with and impact your community in endless ways.

Opportunities after graduation

Employment of computer network architects is projected to grow 5% from 2020 to 2030, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 11,000 openings for computer network architects are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as retirement (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022).

According to the IU Indianapolis First Destination Survey in 2021, the average starting salary reported for School of Science graduates was $45,303, and the median was $40,000.

The national mean starting salary for computer science graduates was $85,766 for the class of May 2020, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (2022).

(This section is intended for informational purposes, not prediction of actual salary.)

Computer and information science graduates often pursue degrees in areas such as:

Business administration
Computer science
Technology

Quick facts

Sample coursework

Architecture of computers
Computing I and II
Data structures
Discrete computational structures
Explorations in applied computing
Introduction to operating systems
Server side web development

Possible careers

Business intelligence analyst
Computer programmer
Full stack web developer
Network engineer
Operations/data systems analyst
Software engineer

Where could I work?

Blackink IT
Eli Lilly and Company
KPMG
Liberty Mutual Insurance
Mobi Wireless Management
Navient

Complementary interests

IInvestigative

RRealistic

CCONVENTIONAL

Get your interest code

Where to get more information

School of Science

CompTIA

TechPoint

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Cluster

This major belongs to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cluster. The STEM cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in the sciences, technology, engineering, informatics, and computing. The STEM cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools.

Learn about the STEM cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

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