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Bachelor of Science in Computer Science  | Undergraduate Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Ottawa's accelerated, online bachelor's degree in Computer Science provides a path for students from diverse backgrounds to rapidly transition to computing and information system career paths by providing them with foundation and advanced undergraduate level courses in computing and information science. Our online Computer Science program focuses on the science of computers, computing problems and programming solutions, and the design of computer systems and user interfaces from a technology perspective. The program includes instruction in computational science principles, computing theory; computer hardware design; computer technology development and programming; software engineering; and applications to graphic user interface situations.

Growth of Computer Science

The last 25 years have seen dramatic growth in the demand for professionals trained in computer information and communication technologies. This growth was partly driven by tremendous technological advances, such as the emergence of computer networking, database management, graphical user interfaces, data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and their applications. But the growth in demand was also driven by a much greater realization on the part of many organizations and individuals of the importance of advanced computer technologies for their well-being and the more widespread use of these technologies (Denning, 2001a; 2001b).

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If you are interested in gaining new insights on business needs and technology trendsplease visit our OU Online Blog Spot.

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For more information about earning your degree at Ottawa University, contact us today!

Computer Science is offered at the following locations.

  • Ottawa, KS (Residential Campus)
  • Overland Park, Kansas
  • Phoenix, Arizona
  • Brookfield, Wisconsin
  • Online

Education and Qualifications for Computer Science

Ottawa University's online Computer Science degree prepares students to enter the workforce as computer programmers. The concentrations available: Cybersecurity, Game Design and Development, and Information Technology Systems; provide unique opportunities for specialization and thus additional career pathways in the computer science and technology industry. 

Most computer science positions require at least a bachelor’s degree. However, many of our students continue their education with a Masters in Business. Ottawa University’s online MBA program conveniently offers a concentration in Business Data Analytics.

Download a Computer Science program overview.

Computer Science Careers

Graduates of our online Computer Science program will gain the foundation, proficiency, and confidence in processes that handle and manipulate large amounts of information with applications in business, education, game theory, modeling, health, information security, life sciences, manufacturing, and other related careers. The future business environment will be characterized by rapid technological changes, intense global competition, faster product life cycles, and more complex, specialized markets. As such, the computing and information needs of organizations are increasingly complex and rapidly changing. Computer programmers and systems analysis's can design and develop computer and information technology products, design and build information systems, manage sophisticated information resources, work on interdisciplinary teams, and communicate effectively within the organization and other end-users. 

Career Outlook for Computer Science

Employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13% from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than the occupational average. An estimated 667,600 new jobs are projected to open in cloud computing, the collection and storage of big data, and information security.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer and information research scientists was $126,830 in May 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $72,210, and the highest 10% earned more than $194,430.

Careers in Computer Science 

  • Applications Software Developers 
  • Computer And Information Research Scientists
  • Full-Stack Developers
  • Quality Assurance Analysts
  • Robotics Specialists
  • Software Engineers 
  • Software Testers
  • Systems Analysts
  • Systems Software Developers

Computer Science Foundation Courses

Calculus I | MAT 21044 (4 credits)
First in a series of three courses that offers an intuitive approach to the major concepts and techniques of single-variable calculus.  Topics include limits, continuity, derivatives of elementary functions and their application, extrema, optimization, elementary integration applications, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, and l’Hospital’s rule. Prerequisite:  Score of 16 on math-track initial placement OR a “C” or better in MAT 11143 Precalculus.

Calculus II | MAT 21144 (4 credits)
Second course in a series of three courses that offers an intuitive approach to the major concepts and techniques of single-variable calculus. Topics covered include techniques of integration, integration applications, first-order linear and first-order separable differential equations, sequences, series, convergence tests, power series, and the calculus of parametric and polar equations. Prerequisite:  A “C” or better in MAT 21044 Calculus I (or equivalent).

Introduction to Computer Science | CST 20363 (4 credits)
This course is a survey of Computer Science’s discipline and its interaction with other disciplines, incorporating historical development, theories, and computer science tools (algorithm design and programming). Topics include mechanical computers, digital computers, bioinformatics, microcontrollers, robotics, security, scientific computing, simulation, and web technologies. 

Introduction to Networking | ITS 20263 (3 credits)
Basic knowledge of how to collect, organize, and analyze data. An introduction to the concepts of querying, updating, and administration of databases. Topics covered include normalization, table structures, table relationships, and data integrity.

Introduction to Database | ITS 20163 (3 credits)
Identify basic networking concepts, distinguish between network transmission types and connectivity devices, understand TCP/IP components, demonstrate knowledge of network hardware, cabling, and operating systems.

Introduction to Computer Programming | CST 16163  (3 credits)
This course introduces the fundamentals of computer programming, which is the foundation of Computer Science. Students design, write and debug code by using Python programming language.

Required Computer Science Major Courses

Cloud Computing Architecture | CST 30004 (4 credits)
This course is an introduction to the core concepts of Cloud Computing. The students will gain the foundational knowledge required to understand cloud computing from a technical, business perspective and become a Cloud practitioner. The most critical APIs used in the Amazon and Microsoft Cloud environments, including the techniques for building, deploying, and maintaining machine images and applications, will be examined. The students will learn about the various Cloud Service models (laaS, PaaS, SaaS) and deployment models (Public, Private, Hybrid) and the critical components of Cloud infrastructure (VMs, Networking, Storage - File, Block, Object, CDN).  
Prerequisite: ITS 20263 Introduction to Networking. 

Microprocessors | CST 30003 (3 credits)
An introduction to the architecture, operation, and application of microprocessors. Topics include assembly language programming, addressing, system clock and timing, serial and parallel ports, input/output devices, and interrupts. Cross-listed with EGR 30003 Microprocessors. Prerequisites for EGR: EGR 10000 Intro to Engineering, EGR 20003 Circuits, and MAT 20043 Discrete Math.  Prerequisites for CST: CST 20363 Introduction to Computer Science  

System Analysis and Design CST 48163 (4 credits)
This course is an in-depth study of the systems development life cycle. The purpose of the course is to utilize a blend of traditional development and current techniques. Systems Analyst planning includes the methodology, economic analysis, and project management.  Cross-listed with MIS 48163 Systems Analysis and Design. 

Intermediate Programming Techniques CST 35566 (4 credits)
This course provides the transition from Introduction to Computer Programming to the object-oriented paradigm. Proper formulation and abstraction of the problem domain in the programming process to build robust, flexible and extensible programs are emphasized. The student learns how design patterns help formulate and implement abstractions in an effective and sophisticated manner. The course covers data structures and algorithms to manipulate them from essential to programming, such as lists, stacks, queues, trees, and tables.  Prerequisite: ITS/CST 16163 Introduction to Computer Programming. Cross-listed with ITS 35566 Intermediate Programming Techniques. 

Special Topics Information Technology Systems | CST 35500 (4 credits)
Designed around particular theories, practices, or interests of an individual or group of students. 
Cross-listed with ITS 35500 Special Topics Information Technology Systems. 

Advanced Programming Techniques | CST 45566 (4 credits)
This course aims to study the required concepts and techniques to write high-quality code using the object-oriented programming environment approach. The course covers GUI development, coding, decision-making, control structures, and modular design. Advanced topics include class creation and usage, exception handling, accessing databases, and creating web and console applications. Prerequisite: ITS 35566 Intermediate Programming Techniques.  
Cross-listed with ITS 45566 Advanced Programming Techniques.

Senior Research CAPSTONE Design | CST 49090 (2 credits)
This course prepares students for the individual Senior Capstone Project. Students will work in a multidisciplinary environment on approved design projects, the practice design methodology, conducting a complete project feasibility study and preliminary design, including optimization, product reliability, and the application of informatics. A final report and presentation are required. 

Senior CAPSTONE Project | CST 49100 (4 credits)
In this Senior Completion Project Course, students will execute their Senior Research Capstone Design project. This course is the opportunity to integrate students’ knowledge that they have gained across the Computer Science curriculum. Students choosing applied projects engage in the identification of a problem, develop a project proposal outlining an approach to the problem’s solution, implement the proposed solution, and test or evaluate the result. Students choosing a theory project conduct original research and assess its strengths and limitations. Students document their work in the form of written reports and oral presentations. Prerequisite: CST 49090 Senior Research CAPSTONE Design This course is required to graduate.

Download a Computer Science program overview.

University Accreditation

Ottawa University, as a whole, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Specific degree programs within our institution have also been accredited by relevant bodies within the field:

We are proudly recognized for our commitment to student excellence by the following designations:

Why Choose Ottawa
Almost all courses in Ottawa University’s programs are available online and accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. We make it easy for you to transfer credits in order to help keep tuition costs down. We also offer courses in accelerated 8-week terms in order to reduce your time to completion. These are just a few of the reasons why we are proud to be the best, fastest, and most affordable option locally in the Kansas City, Milwaukee, and Phoenix areas, as well as serving students nationally through our online degrees.

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