Texas Tech University

Undergraduate Program Overview

What is Computer Science

Computer Science includes the study of the theory, design, and implementation of algorithms for processing information. Efficient implementation may include the design of software, hardware, or both. The computer science program at Texas Tech University emphasizes the integration of the software and hardware aspects of problem solving.

The principles of computer science are taught through synthesis of coursework and laboratories. The computer science curriculum includes numerous software and hardware topics, including:

  • Algorithm design, analysis, and implementation.
  • Artificial intelligence.
  • Computer architecture.
  • Computer graphics.
  • Computer science theory.
  • Cybersecurity.
  • Digital computer systems.
  • Operating systems.
  • Programming languages.
  • Software engineering.

As a computer science student, you will learn a variety of programming languages. Those of which will possibly include:

  • Assembly
  • C/C++
  • Java
  • LISP
  • Prolog
  • Python
  • Scheme

Research

In addition to the required courses, some students are able to participate in research activities in such areas as:

  • Artificial intelligence (AI).
  • Computer graphics.
  • Computer vision.
  • Cyber physical systems.
  • Cybersecurity and privacy.
  • Edge computing and Internet-of-things (IoT).
  • Machine learning and deep learning.
  • Natural language processing.
  • Networks and federated learning.
  • Network and system security.
  • Neural networks.
  • Object−oriented programming.
  • Pattern recognition.
  • Parallel and distributed systems.
  • Quantum information and computing.
  • Real−time embedded systems.
  • Scientific data visualization.
  • Software engineering.

What Systems Will I Work With?

In conjunction with their coursework, undergraduate computer science students will have the opportunity to use a variety of different computer systems. Systems currently in the department include:

  • Windows
  • Linux
  • Mac OS X

Combined Bachelor's and Master's Programs

The department offers two combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science programs. In both cases, completion of the degree requirements leads to the awarding of two degrees. In one, the degrees awarded are the Computer Science BS and the Master of Science in Computer Science; in the other, the degrees are the Computer Science BS and the Master of Science in Software and Security Engineering. Depending on the options of the master's programs, the combined programs allow dual counts of up to nine credits. Students choosing the combined degree program would be admitted initially as pursuing a Computer Science BS. The graduate component of the program would be added upon admission to the master's degree. Accepted students can begin taking their graduate courses during their senior year. Students must be admitted to the graduate program before enrolling in graduate-level courses.

Undergraduate Links

Department of Computer Science