Computer Science & Engineering
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The following short descriptions and FAQ provide initial guidance for prospective students in choosing their computing-related degree at Lehigh University. Prospective students are advised to follow-up with the departmental contacts if they have further questions.

In a nutshell we offer four degrees: BS in Computer Science, BA in Computer Science, and BS in Computer Science and Business. Here are the descriptions and below find an FAQ about these programs:

  • BS in Computer Science. This degree is ideal for students interested in the deep study of foundational and practical aspects of computation and information processing. Computer science is a broad field that includes the study of techniques for designing and building large software systems, developing algorithmic solutions for high performance computing (e.g., grid computing), building software controlling robots, processing and displaying images, automated storage, maintenance, and analysis of large volumes of data, searching and processing highly distributed and dynamic data (e.g., web applications), building autonomous systems (e.g., Artificial Intelligence programming), organizing distributed computing devices (e.g., network programming) among many others.

The BS in Computer Science is offered by the P. C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science program and by the Arts and Sciences College. The two programs are identical in the fundamental requirements in mathematics and computer science, and the programs are appropriate for entry into management or industrial positions. The two programs differ in their non-computer science content in that the students enrolled in the P. C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science program will emphasize engineering aspects whereas students enrolled in the Arts and Sciences program will emphasize arts and sciences aspects.

For further details please visit the BS in Computer Science (P. C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science) and the BS in Computer Science (Arts and Sciences College)

  • BA in Computer Science. This degree is ideal for students interested in the study of foundational and practical aspects of computation and information processing while having additional flexibility to pursue other academic interests. In previous years students enrolled in our BA in Computer Science program have simultaneously pursued another program in the Arts and Sciences College. This includes double-majors that combine a BA in Computer Science with a BA in modern languages or BA in design arts, among others.

For further details please visit BA in Computer Science.

  • BS in Computer Science and Business. This degree is ideal for students interested in the balanced study of deep foundational and practical aspects of computation and information processing and business and economics. The Computer Science and Business program integrates computing technologies and business topics at an unprecedented level, providing the skills and training needed to understand business functions and business related problems, to analyze business-user information needs, to design computer based information systems, and to implement systems solutions within business organizations. Graduates of the program are ideal candidates for placement within large consulting firms, small consulting teams, and startup companies.

For further details please visit BS in Computer Science and Business

For further details please visit BS in Computer Engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lehigh’s undergraduate computing programs:

I am interested in computer science, but I'm unsure which curriculum aligns best with my interests. Is there a method for comparing the degrees?

Yes! Follow the link below:

Comparison of Lehigh University’s Computer Science Degrees

I am interested in becoming a computer science “buff”, take many elective course in advance computer science topics. Which degree is the right for me?

BS in computer science

I am interested in a deep study of computer science but I am also very interested in a deep study of business and economics. Which degree is the right for me?

BS in computer science and business

I am interested in computer science but I will like to take a lot of courses in Journalism and English literature, possible also get a second degree in one of those fields. I want to become a journalist with a deep know-how about computing...

B.A. in computer science. You could from the first semester take journalism and English courses and explore the possibility of completing a dual-degree.

I know I want a computing degree but I am unsure if I want a computer science degree or a computer engineering degree. What can I do?

You could enroll as a freshman engineer in the Engineering College. The first year engineering is the same for all engineering degrees. This would allow you to declare BS in computer science and engineering or the computer engineering degree (or other engineering degrees) at the end of your freshman year here at Lehigh.

I hear that some employers care about programs being accredited. Which of your programs have accreditation?

The BS in Computer Science and the BS in Computer Engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. The BS in Computer Science and Business is accredited by AACSB International, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.

After graduation, I want to continue studying computer science in graduate school. What degree should I get?

Take the BS in Computer Science