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Analyze and Apply

From phones to cars to refrigerators, embedded computer systems are everywhere. Computer programming languages tell systems what to do—whether it's communicating with a 3D printer or making apps learn your likes and preferences. As a graduate of IUP's BS in Languages and Systems program, you will make computer systems come to life by designing computer programs. You will make the high-tech world work.

IUP's BS in Computer Science/Languages and Systems track is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. This means employers know that graduates have industry-recognized skills and are set to begin a thriving career.

Why Major in Languages and Systems at IUP?

All of your classes will be taught by experienced faculty (not graduate students). Immersed in small learning communities, you'll learn to work within teams and be introduced to like-minded peers.

Your professors will help you find internships so you're ready for the working world. You'll also get hands-on experience with faculty-supervised research projects.

IUP can help you achieve your goal of landing employment in top tech companies, government labs, and more, including:

  • Air Force Research Lab
  • Amazon
  • Apple
  • Comcast
  • Google
  • National Security Agency
  • Naval Supply System Command
  • Netflix
  • Oak Ridge National Lab
  • PNC Bank
  • U.S. Department of Defense

As an IUP computer science graduate, you can also find jobs in regional and hometown companies that are seeking in-demand programming skills.

What You'll Learn

You'll graduate with in-depth skills that will let you analyze complex problems, identify interdisciplinary solutions, and manage software implementations.

Under the ABET-accredited curriculum, you'll enter graduate school or the workforce knowing how to:

  • Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of languages, systems, and/or tools used in the field of computer science.
  • Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
  • Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
  • Be an effective member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to languages, systems, and/or tools used in the field of computer science.
  • Apply computer science theory, mathematical concepts, and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

Imagine Your Future

You'll benefit from the widely recognized ABET credential, which means you graduate with industry-recognized skills valued by employers and graduate schools.

After earning your BS in Languages and Systems, you might continue on to graduate school or work in analytical and computer-dependent areas of business, government, and industry.

Recent graduates have started their careers with positions in:

  • Business applications
  • Programming
  • Scientific and applied mathematical programming
  • Software development
  • Systems analysis

Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers

$109,020

Median Annual Salary

Growth in Computer Science Jobs:

25%

2021-2031, Higher than average

Classes and Requirements

Languages and systems classes are held in computer classrooms. This hands-on approach lets you:

  • Learn and apply theory by connecting it with supervised practice.
  • Gain workforce-ready skills by working in small learning communities.

You'll put your skills to practical use during your coursework. Depending on the program you choose, you'll be responsible for conducting team projects in a single three-credit course or taking a six- to eight-month paid internship in a relevant field.

As you progress through the languages and systems program, you'll complete a minor in mathematics, giving you in-depth skills to pursue:

  • Computational research
  • Highly technical careers
  • Graduate school

Alumni pursue graduate degrees across a wide range of institutions, including:

  • University of Notre Dame
  • Georgia State University

Full Academic Catalog Listing

The course catalog is the official reference for all our degree and course offerings. Check it out for a full listing of the classes available and requirements for this degree.

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Computer Science Fundamentals and Specializations

The computer science degree program covers computer science core fundamentals, such as:

  • Algorithms
  • Data structures
  • Database design
  • Problem solving
  • Programming
  • Software engineering

There are several tracks within the BS in Computer Science program that can add to your knowledge and skills:

  • Cyber Security
  • Languages and Systems
  • Software Engineering

Progressing through the computer science core gives you time to identify the right track for your interests and goals. The broad foundation you'll gain—along with the addition of a specialization—will help you adapt to rapidly changing trends in the computer science field.

You'll earn a minor in mathematics as part of your bachelor of science in languages and systems.

Amazingly Interactive Student Experience

From contests and competitions to internships and research with faculty, computer science at IUP is engaging and dynamic.

  • Student competitions—Our IUP Programming Team was highly successful at the PACISE competition.
  • PACISE activities—IUP is a PACISE member, so you can join in on conferences, programming contests, and security competitions, including a capture the flag event with topics spanning stack overflow, heap overflow, and kernel overflow.
  • Internships—You'll get guidance from a faculty member dedicated to mentoring students through the internship search and application process.
  • A small student cohort and a close sense of community.
  • Opportunities for publication.
  • One-on-one research with faculty—Past research projects span anomaly detection, blockchain, internet of things (IoT), development and implementation of machine learning algorithms, embedded cyber-physical systems, and cybersecurity systems.