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What is the difference between Computer Science in the College of Arts and Sciences and Computer Engineering or Computer Science & Engineering in the College of Engineering?

Computer Science Department degree programs:

The three degree programs offered by our department follow the philosophy of “principles before technologies,” which has been praised by our alumni for enabling them to adapt quickly to the rapidly evolving environments in computing. Our degree programs share a significant common core of computer science and mathematics and prepare students equally well to pursue advanced degrees and entry-level positions in industry. The three degree programs focus on fundamentals of programming languages and software systems, design of software solutions, and application of their learning with culminating design experiences wherein software is a major part of the solution.

Computer Science and Engineering.

Offered by the Department of Computer Science through the College of Engineering, this major is ABET EAC and CAC-accredited. This more vertical degree program is traditionally chosen by students who are interested in going deep into the intersection of computing within an engineering context. In addition to a carefully designed course sequence, Computer Science and Engineering features a total of 11 electives, 5 general education, 3 technical, and 3 “free” (any course). 34 credits are required to graduate.

Computer Science.

Offered by the Department of Computer Science, through the College of Arts and Sciences, our B.S in computer science is ABET CAC-accredited. Additionally, we offer a B.A. in computer science. These majors offer significant freedom to students interested in exploring the range of options available in Bucknell’s liberal arts context. The B.S. requires more science and math than the B.A., which gives students the most flexibility of choice over our three degree programs. The B.S. in computer science allows 15 electives, while the B.A. allows 20 electives. 32 credits are required to graduate.



Electrical & Computer Engineering Department degree programs:

Electrical Engineering is an ABET accredited degree that focuses on electronic devices and systems from large scale sustainable energy grids to the tiny circuits at the heart of computing. The program integrates design throughout the four years and culminates with a year-long team design project for external clients. Electrical Engineering features a total of 14 electives, 5 general education, 5 technical, and 4 “free” (any course) enabling students to minor in another subject. 34 credits are required to graduate.

Computer Engineering is an ABET-accredited major has a focus on the integration of computing software and hardware and has design throughout the curricular design. Seniors conduct a culminating senior design team project, often with an external client. In addition to a carefully designed course sequence, Computer Engineering features a total of 15 electives, 5 general education, 6 technical, and 4 “free” (any course) enabling students to minor in another subject. 34 credits are required to graduate.. 34 credits are required to graduate.

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