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Computer Science, B.A., B.S.

Computer science at Whitworth is a strong, innovative program in which faculty and students work collaboratively. You will first learn basic computational skills through practical computer programming problems, and then you will learn how to apply those skills to solve nearly any problem imaginable. You will have ample opportunities to put these skills into practice through hands-on experiences that will give you an advantage in graduate school or in the job market.

Why major in computer science at Whitworth?

  • Start from the beginning. You don't need a background in computer science to take the first course. Students from all skill levels are welcome to start learning computational skills, and we don't require an application process to pursue a CS degree. 
  • Get support from start to finishStudents are advised and supported by CS faculty through graduation.
  • Become skilled in multiple disciplines. Software development involves much more than writing programs. The human-computer interaction major incorporates technology, art and design.
  • Gain hands-on experience. You will gain experience outside the classroom through the required completion of an art or computer science internship. Many courses also conclude with software projects instead of exams, giving you an opportunity to apply your knowledge.
  • Connect your faith or worldview to your learning through classroom discussions of social and ethical issues.
  • Have fun and build community with peers. The mathematics & computer science department hosts several parties each year, including a faculty-hosted Christmas party and a Pi Day party.
  • Join our active, student-led ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) Club, which holds events most months and performs well in programming competitions. 
  • Draw inspiration from the vibrant Lied Arts Center. This beautiful, recently built center houses six studios, two gallery spaces and a state-of-the-art computer lab with Apple iMacs.
  • Become who you're meant to be.

Our computer science grads make a difference (and get jobs)

A Whitworth computer science degree will prepare you for careers in software development, software quality assurance and software management, among other areas. Opportunities are wide-ranging and abundant. Whitworth graduates find employment at technology companies such as Microsoft, Google, Adobe, Olive Tree Bible Software and Gravity Jack. They are also working at a wide variety of companies that need technology experts, like Nike, Liberty Mutual and Spokane Teachers Credit Union.

Recent job placements include:

  • Tristan Hildahl, software engineer, Axon
  • Lauren Barry, software engineer, Bungie
  • Kat Duarte, technical program manager, Google
  • Jose Oronia, software engineer, T-Mobile
  • Evan Edstrom, senior embedded linux platform engineer, Impinj
  • Hannah Gamiel, development director, Cyan
  • Kelsey Glynn, associate product manager, Nike

Our recent computer science grads further their studies in top programs at institutions including:

  • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
  • The Guildhall at Southern Methodist University
  • University Washington
  • University of Massachusetts
  • Washington State University
  • Eastern Washington University
  • Arizona State University
  • Portland State University
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Opportunities outside the classroom

You will have a number of opportunities to serve the community with your skills. Many nonprofit organizations need software, and you can choose to work with them as part of class projects. Also, many local high schools offer computer science, and you will have the opportunity to serve in those classrooms as an expert and mentor.

Pack your bags!

Computer science faculty lead study abroad programs every other Jan Term. In previous trips, destinations have included Ireland, Wales, India, China, Malaysia and Singapore. In January 2020, students traveled to Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. They visited different universities and interacted with students and professors. Besides visiting amazing historical sites, such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and the like, they participated in service activities with an orphanage and a school for low-income children.

Tracks

Computer science encompasses many areas, and students in this field have varied interests. Whitworth offers multiple tracks to help you find your best way in the field. Students with an interest in business can combine courses in computer science and business toward the computer science/business degree. Other students with interests in multicultural experiences can combine courses toward the international project management degree. Still others with an interest in information technology can pursue the network systems degree track. Students also have the option to design an area of concentration. Wherever your interests lie, we have a computer science degree to help you achieve your goals.

Ask our faculty

Ask Pete

Professor Pete Tucker's areas of expertise are computer science education and software development.

Scott Griffith

Ask Scott

Assistant Professor Scott Griffith specializes in electrical and computer engineering.

Kent Jones

Ask Kent

Professor Kent Jones' areas of expertise are bioinformatics and computer engineering.

Ask Qian

Assistant Professor Qian Mao specializes in deep learning, cyber security and wireless networks.

What related majors can I explore?