Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree
Solve real problems with code. In Shawnee State's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, you'll build software, dig into algorithms, and start hands-on research as early as your first year — all in small classes taught by faculty who've worked in the field.
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a degree program designed for students who love solving problems and are fascinated by how computers work. It's not just about playing games or browsing the internet; it's about understanding the core of computer systems, how software is built, and how applications are developed. If you're someone who enjoys a challenge and wants to find new ways to use computers to solve real-world issues, this program could be a great fit for you.
In this program, you dive into subjects like how computers "think" (algorithms), different programming languages, how to create reliable software (software engineering), and how computer operating systems work. You'll also learn about networking and exciting new areas like machine learning. You start getting involved in research from your very first year, which is very unique for a bachelor's degree. This means you will get hands-on experience exploring new ideas and problems in the world of computing.
What makes the Computer Science program at Shawnee State University truly stand out? For starters, you won't get lost in huge lecture halls. The class sizes are smaller, which means you'll have more chances to interact directly with your professors. These instructors aren't just academics; they have real-world experience in the computer science field, so they can offer valuable insights and guidance. Plus, the university provides state-of-the-art facilities, giving you access to the latest tools and technology to help you learn and grow.
Choosing to study Computer Science at Shawnee State University is a smart decision for several reasons. One major benefit is the cost—the tuition is among the lowest in Ohio, making a quality college education more affordable. Beyond that, the program offers flexibility in its courses and schedules, which can be a huge help if you need to balance your studies with other commitments. This combination of affordability, a strong curriculum, unique hands-on research opportunities, and supportive faculty makes it a valuable path for your future career in technology.
Career Outcomes
How to Apply
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Start your application
Free, takes about 15 minutes.
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Send transcripts
Have your high school guidance counselor send them to admissions@shawnee.edu
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File the FAFSA
School code 009942. Required for Free Tuition.
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Get your decision
Most decisions in under 7 days.
At A Glance
Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree
Degree
B.S.
Format
On Campus
Length
4 years
Class Size
12:1
Location
Advanced Technology Center, Main Campus
Why Study Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree at Shawnee University
You'll get research experience in year one — not year four. Most computer science programs save research for grad school. Here, you start exploring real problems right away, which sharpens your skills and gives you something concrete to talk about with employers.
Your classes will be small. You won't be one of 300 students in a lecture hall. You'll know your professors, and they'll know you — which makes asking questions, getting feedback, and finding mentors a lot easier.
Your professors have worked outside the classroom. The faculty here bring real industry experience to their teaching, so what you learn maps to what the field actually looks like.
Shawnee State's tuition is among the lowest in Ohio. The Shawnee Advantage Tuition Guarantee locks your rate for four years, so the price you start with is the price you finish with.
The B.S. in Computer Science covers the full stack of how modern computing works — from the math underneath to the systems on top. Beyond the General Education Program (GEP), the degree includes:
- 15 credit hours of mathematics
- 8 credit hours of natural science
- 60 credit hours of computer science core and electives
- 6 credit hours of additional electives
Coursework spans algorithms and data structures, multiple programming languages, software engineering, operating systems, computer networks, and emerging areas like machine learning.
View the full curriculum and sample schedule in the Academic CatalogYou won't just read about software — you'll build it. Starting in your first year, you'll work on research and applied projects that mirror what computer scientists actually do in industry. Group work, individual projects, and faculty-mentored research all give you a portfolio of work to show employers or graduate programs by the time you graduate.
By the time you finish the program, you'll be able to:
- Apply math, algorithmic thinking, and computer science theory to design real systems
- Analyze a problem and figure out exactly what a computing solution needs to do
- Design, build, and evaluate software and computer-based systems
- Apply core engineering principles to build reliable software
- Work effectively on a team toward a shared goal
- Communicate technical ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
The Computer Science B.S. is offered through the Department of Engineering Technology in the College of Business and Engineering Technology. Classes meet in the Advanced Technology Center on Shawnee State's Main Campus in Portsmouth, Ohio, where you'll have access to up-to-date labs and computing equipment.
Computer scientists are in demand across nearly every industry. Graduates of this program go on to roles like:
- Software development engineer
- Data scientist or data analyst
- Machine learning / AI engineer
- Computer systems engineer or architect
- Database architect
- Information research scientist
- Web and digital interface designer
Hiring sectors include technology, finance, healthcare, government, and research and development. The degree also prepares you well for a master's or doctoral program in computer science.
Free Tuition and Financial Aid
Shawnee State's tuition is among the lowest in Ohio, and the Shawnee Advantage Tuition Guarantee keeps your rate flat for four years. Scholarships including Choose Ohio First and the Pell-Eligible Free Tuition Program may also apply.
See if you Qualify for Free Tuition
Ohio students can apply to receive a $1,500 scholarship up to full-tuition when you apply and are accepted.
Learn More about Choose Ohio First$3,000 Scholarships supported by Intel are also available!
Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Frequently Asked Questions
Graduates work as software developers, data scientists, AI/ML engineers, systems analysts, database architects, research scientists, and more. The skill set transfers to almost any industry that uses software — which today is nearly all of them.
Pretty much all of them. Technology and software are the largest employers, but finance, healthcare, government, manufacturing, and research labs all hire computer scientists.
Yes. Faculty bring active industry experience into their courses, and the early research component keeps students engaged with current problems in the field. The curriculum is reviewed regularly to reflect what hiring managers are actually looking for.
No. The program is designed to take you from foundational concepts through advanced topics, regardless of how much coding you've done before.
Program handbook
For questions about program policies, learning expectations, or requirements, contact:
(740) 351-3466
Accreditation
Shawnee State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
