The B.A. in Computer Science is designed to be multidisciplinary, allowing you to combine computer science with another major or minor. The B.S. in Computer Science is an ABET-accredited program focused primarily on computer science.

The B.A. requires:

• 27 core computer science credits
• 12 technical elective credits
• 12 ancillary credits
• 39 open credits (includes credits for second major or minor)
• Senior Capstone: No
• Concentrations: None
• Math Requirements: MATH 151, MATH 211, MATH 310
• Science Requirements: None

The B.S. requires:

• 52 core computer science credits
• 9 technical elective credits
• 28 ancillary credits
• 9 open credits
• Concentrations: 3:
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data Science
  • Software Engineering
• Math Requirements: MATH 200, MATH 201, one 300 or 400-level MATH course
• Science Requirements: One semester of natural science with a lab (BIOL, CHEM, PHYS)

The B.A. requires:

• MATH 151, MATH 211, and MATH 310
• No specific science requirements

The B.S. requires:

• MATH 200, MATH 201, and one 300 or 400-level MATH course
• One semester of natural science with lab (BIOL, CHEM, or PHYS)

No. While the B.S. program offers concentrations in Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Software Engineering, the B.A. program does not have specific concentrations.

No. While the B.S. program includes a senior capstone project, the B.A. program does not have this requirement.

Yes. Students in the B.A. in Computer Science must have an additional major or minor in another discipline.

The degree program is offered by the Department of Computer Science in the VCU College of Engineering.

The core content of both programs are the same. However, with the B.S. in Computer Science program, you get more computer science content and have more math and science requirements.

The change of major requirements are:

• Cumulative GPA must be at least 2.0 for courses taken at VCU
• Completion of the following courses with a "C" or better:
  • MATH 151
  • CMSC 254 or CMSC 210
  • CMSC 255

No. You can have a minor instead. If you have room in your schedule, you could have two minors if you wish.

Students may fill out a change of major form with their current major advisor, or they can contact Engineering Advising (engradvise@vcu.edu).

The requirement for changing your major are the following:

• Cumulative GPA must be at least 2.0 for courses taken at VCU
• Completion of the following courses with a "C" or better:
  • MATH 151
  • CMSC 254 or CMSC 210
  • CMSC 255

It all depends on the employer.

Some companies are looking for graduates from an ABET certified program. However, most companies want graduates with strong skills in non-technical aspects of teamwork, communication skills, and problem-solving skills. These are not directly related to your degree program in computer science, and liberal arts majors tend to have higher skills in these areas. Programs that blend technical skills with softer skills tend to produce graduates who do well in the job market.

You will be qualified for most entry level computer science jobs. However, when you blend your computer science skills with other areas of study, this could give you a competitive advantage.

The B.A. does give you more opportunity to be well rounded and to have more of the soft skills employers are looking for.

Yes, opportunities are available for you to take a minor in AI or a minor in Practical AI.

Here's a list of minors that could pair well with the B.A. in Computer Science program:

• Creative Practice
• Economics
• Entrepreneurship
• Environmental Studies
• General Business
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Mixed and Immersive Reality Studies
• Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness
• Human Resource Management
• Information Systems
• Instructional Design & Technology
• Marketing Insights
• Philosophy
• Professional Writing and Editing
• Psychology
• Sound Design
• Visual Effects

The B.A. in Computer Science makes it easier for art students to get a degree in computer science. Blending artistic skills with a computer science degree sets you up for some great opportunities in the job market such as UI/UX development.