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| ACM Programming Team | Dr. Besmer, Winthrop's 2019 Outstanding Junior Professor with his Security class |
The demand in the U.S. for college graduates with computing degrees is very high and is expected to increase. The placement rate for graduates of this program is very good and our graduates receive excellent salaries. Nearly 100% of our Computer Science graduates have accepted full-time positions within one month of graduation. Graduates' starting salaries range from $50,000 to $75,000; based on grades, internship experience, and activities outside of class.
Graduates of this program are equally well suited for either graduate school or for entry-level positions in industry. Most graduates accept positions as programmers in business, government, or manufacturing. We have many alumni working for the large financial institutions based a few miles from our campus in Charlotte, NC. Graduates commonly accept positions with the numerous small software development companies located in our region.
Coursework for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BS in CS) degree emphasizes the understanding of a broad range of computing topics. Courses include programming skills, computational theory, algorithm analysis, understanding of hardware principles, and software engineering. Electives include database design, security, computer graphics, parallel programming, web development, networking, software project management, among others. Senior BS in CS students are required to complete a 9 month real-world group development project.
Of the 120 credits required for graduation, 46 credits are in Computer Science (CSCI) courses, 30 credits are in Math and Science, and the University's General Education requirements include approximately 30 credits. Math requirements include Calculus 1 and 2 and Statistics. BS in CS students must complete a minor of their choosing. Popular minors include Business and Math, while some students select minors such as Music or Theater.
Freshmen in the BS in CS degree typically complete two programming courses, begin their math coursework, and take General Education courses. In the Sophomore year, students take the algorithm analysis course and the computer hardware course. By the Junior year students typically complete their math and science courses and begin choosing elective CSCI courses based on their career plans. Many students complete an internship between their Junior and Senior years. The primary courses in the Senior year are the capstone project and the computer science theory course.
We want you to get THE job that you dream about, not just a job. The key is to have the right resume. Our job is provide you with opportunities to build your resume beyond your coursework. Extracurricular activities are a great way to build your resume, increase the number of jobs offered to you, and increase your starting salary.
Both the ACM and STARS computing clubs have social events and host speakers ranging from nationally known speakers to recent alumni simply talking about their new jobs. There are many contests in which to participate, ranging from local hack-a-thons to regional intercollegiate programming competitions. Summer internships and research work are great ways to earn money while building your resume.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree at Winthrop is accredited by the
Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. From the ABET web site (www.abet.org):
"We accredit college and university programs in the disciplines of applied and natural science, computing, engineering and engineering technology at the associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. With ABET accreditation, students, employers and the society we serve can be confident that a program meets the quality standards that produce graduates prepared to enter a global workforce."
For additional accreditation details click here.
