FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What undergraduate degrees in computing are offered by Texas Tech University?

The following undergraduate degrees in computing are offered by Texas Tech University:

• Computer Science BS (Department of Computer Science)
• Computer Engineering BS (Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering)

What is Computer Science?

Computer Science is a field that takes a broad approach to computing. Computer Science students acquire deep theoretical and technical knowledge concerning computing hardware and software. They learn to use a variety of operating systems, compilers, and computing languages and they learn to apply these tools in scientific, engineering, and business applications. Computer Science students take courses ranging from computer architecture through software project management. This includes courses in basic programming, data structures, operating systems, artificial intelligence, programming language theory, algorithms, digital systems, networking, graphics, software engineering, and database theory.

What kind of jobs are Computer Science majors qualified for?

The kinds of jobs our students get in the computing field are as diverse as the applications on which computers are focused. Student's can work for companies as diverse as Amazon, Microsoft, Google, L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, Dell, Wal-Mart, Cisco Systems, Intel, Tyler, and Intuit. These companies are engaged in advanced computer utilization, large-scale commercial, retail, & database applications, networking, integrated circuit manufacturing, and process control. You will find our students working for any firm in which computing or networking are essential activities. Examples of such firms are Phillips Petroleum, Exxon Mobil, Nortel, Toshiba, Dow Chemical, Sprint, and Raytheon. These are just a few examples of the companies and fields of work in which our graduates are employed.

What preparation is required to enter the computer science program at Texas Tech University?

High School seniors need to have a good science and math background including chemistry, physics, and pre−calculus. All incoming freshman take placement exams in mathematics and chemistry to determine if they are ready for the first courses in these areas: Calculus I and Principles of Chemistry I. Students who do not demonstrate a mastery of high school−level mathematics and chemistry may be placed in preparatory courses. These courses do not count towards the computer science degree. There is no placement exam in physics. The only requirement is successful completion of a Physics course in high school.

What programming experience is expected?

Students planning to enter the Computer Science program at Texas Tech University should take a programming course if it is available at their high school. Before a computer science student can take the first Computer Science course, that student must be eligible to enroll in Calculus I and must be familiar with the basics of a least one programming language. If a student has no programming skills, an introductory programming course is offered. This course is not part of the computer science degree plan.

What fraction of the degree plan consists of computer science courses?

Upon graduation a computer science student will have taken 60 semester hours of computer science courses. One university course is usually 3 semester hours. A total of 126 semester hours is required for graduation from the computer science program. See the University catalog for a complete description of the degree plan.

What about Transfer Credits?

Many of our students attend junior college before transferring to Texas Tech. The typical junior college transfer student comes to Tech with all or some of the English, history, political science, humanities, chemistry and mathematics requirements completed. Students should be aware that upon graduation, only credits earned at TTU count in the GPA.

What is the Computer Engineering program?

If you would like to see the Objectives & Outcomes of the Computer Engineering program, please click here. If you have any further questions regarding this degree plan, please contact the Electrical and Computer Engineering department.

What is the Information Technology program?

If you would like to know more about Bachelors of Business in IT or certificate programs in IT, please click here to view the updated information.

Where can I get more information?

You should contact one of the undergraduate advisors. Their contact information is located on the advising page.