Computer Science

Program Type
Bachelor of Science
Location
Main Campus in Radford, VA
Format
In-Person

Overview

The B.S. in Computer Science at Radford prepares you for in-demand careers with core elements of software engineering, data management, computer science, and cybersecurity. ABET-accredited programs include real-world, hands-on opportunities and experiences that provide a foundation for success using cutting-edge technology and practices. 

 

Why Study Computer Science at Radford?

We have a variety of options

We offer two Bachelor of Science degrees (Computer Science or Information Systems), three minors (Computer Science, Information Systems, or Information Technology), two undergraduate certificates (cybersecurity and web development), and an online degree completion program. 

 

Students earn a Bachelor of Science degree in either Computer Science and Technology or Information Science and Systems. Both programs prepare you for a variety of careers in industry or government and for graduate study. Within the Computer Science and Technology degree program, you can choose among four Concentrations: Computer Science, Database, Networks, and Software.

Computer Science Concentration

The ABET-accredited Computer Science concentration includes a broad foundation in the core areas of computer science, including operating systems, computer organization, programming language design, and advanced study of algorithms and theoretical computer science. Technical elective courses provide specialization in two areas of your choice. 

Database Concentration

The Database concentration educates students in all aspects of data management including database design, database administration, data warehousing, data visualization, data mining, and analysis.

Networks Concentration

Computer and communications networks are now a part of our everyday lives. The Networks concentration prepares you for careers in network design and network administration. Courses expose you to a broad spectrum of networking concepts and technologies in both a theoretical classroom setting and an advanced networks lab. 

Software Engineering Concentration 

The Software Engineering concentration is designed to produce designers for large, complex software systems. These courses cover current best practices and process models of the software development life cycle, with a detailed study of all process phases—from eliciting requirements through operations and maintenance. Emphasis is on design attributes that make it possible to efficiently implement, extend, and maintain large systems. 

Transfer Degree: Secure Software Development (Online) 

The Secure Software Development concentration builds a robust foundation in computer science, emphasizing advanced programming and security; building breadth in web programming, cloud computing, software engineering and testing; database systems, and networking. The program also emphasizes ethics, communication, and other professional skills.

Careers and Internships

The School of Computing and Information Sciences has built strong relationships with employers over the years. Our students and graduates go on to have successful internships and careers.

Here are a few of the employers who have hired them:

  • 1901 Group 
  • Amazon 
  • Carilion Clinic
  • CGI 
  • Eastman 
  • Elder Research 
  • Excella 
  • Modea 
  • Peraton 
  • Virginia Tech

Looking to Stay Local? Here are some local companies our alums are at:

  • ACI
  • block.one
  • Carilion Clinic
  • Corvesta
  • FoxGuard
  • Modea
  • Moog
  • NewCity
  • Ozmo
  • Qualtrax
  • TMEIC
  • TORC Robotics

Student Employment

Student employment opportunities, including work-study and student wage positions, will be listed under the university's Handshake page.

Internships/Co-Ops

Note: A cooperative education (co-op) is different from an internship. An internship is typically completed in one semester, while a co-op will extend through a longer period as you continue your educational career.

Hands-On Opportunities

Student Organizations

The UPE, ACM, and Equality in Computing club work with computing and information technology disciplines: 

Upsilon Pi Epsilon 

Upsilon Pi Epsilon is the only national computer science honor society and has chapters across the United States. It’s for students and faculty who exhibit superior scholastic and professional achievement in the computing and information disciplines. It’s also recognized by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the IEEE Computer Society.

Association for Computing Machinery 

ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery, is an international scientific and educational organization dedicated to advancing the arts, sciences, and applications of information technology. With a worldwide membership of over 100,000, ACM unites the world's computing students, educators, researchers, and professionals to inspire dialogue, share resources, and address the field's challenges. 

Equality in Computing Club 

The Equality in Computing Club is dedicated to promoting equality among the students here within Radford University’s IT majors. ECC works in collaboration with Radford’s Career Center to organize IT-specific social events, career training workshops, and other related events to make sure everyone has the same opportunities to become successful. 

Cyber Defense Club 

The Cyber Defense Club is devoted to providing an environment for our members to expand and share their skills and experience in the cyber security field.

Technology and Computing Labs

Among the various computing facilities around campus, the College and School maintain several technologically advanced labs in Davis Hall. These are available for student use during normal operating hours, with the exception of reserved classroom times.