Computer Science Degree

Computer Science Degree

Learn the highly technical training and real world experience you need to succeed in both the industrial sector and scientific lab environments.

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Computer Science majors are provided with the systems programming and problem solving skills commonly expected in technical positions at employers that require strong analytical and interpersonal skills. In addition, they obtain the necessary theoretical background required to pursue further education and advanced degrees. Majors in Computer Science should expect employment in both the industrial sector and scientific lab environments.

Why a B.S. Degree in Computer Science?

Computing is a fascinating, ever-changing field that has become a critical part of our daily lives. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is one of the most in-demand degrees in today’s increasingly high-tech world, with graduates earning above average salaries and benefitting from job security. Our Computer Science program gives you the highly technical training and real world experience you need to succeed as a system programmer, software developer, and much more.

About the Computer Science Major

Housed under the Division of Computing, the B.S. in Computer Science provides you with a strong foundation in mathematics and science and includes coursework in calculus, linear algebra, and physics. Our small class sizes ensure you receive individual guidance from experienced faculty as you develop skills in systems programming, problem solving, and analysis.

McKendree’s Computer Science program is a blend of theory and real world application, giving you a strong basis in the current programming languages and the ability to quickly pick up on emerging trends in computing.

2020-2021 Program Catalog

Minors in Computer Information Systems and Computer Science are also available.

Why McKendree?

McKendree University provides you with interactive learning opportunities through our small class sizes, experienced faculty, and unique internship experiences that move you beyond the classroom. We are committed to your success in the degree programs we offer, the internships and extracurricular activities that will set you apart, and the college experience you’ll get here. Just 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis, Missouri, McKendree University is located in historic Lebanon, Illinois, and affords students a host of enriching cultural, career, and entertainment opportunities.

Program Highlights

Dedicated faculty and in-depth coursework ensure you have the strong technical foundation you need to succeed and adapt in a growing workforce.
Upsilon Pi Epsilon and Sigma Zeta Honor Societies give you the chance to present your own research findings at national conferences.
Compete in regional programming competitions, network with computing alums, and have fun when you join the McKendree Chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery.
A wide variety of exciting internships provide Computer Science majors with important resume-building opportunities before graduation.
Gain hands-on network administration experience as a student worker in the Department of Computing’s student lab.

Internship Opportunities

Our students have interned with a number of major corporations and agencies, including:

Scottrade
Anheuser-Busch
AT&T
Centene Corporation
Monsanto
National Security Agency (NSA)

Employment Opportunities

Computer Science graduates often find jobs using their analytical and interpersonal skills in the industrial sector and scientific lab environments. They’re hired as software applications developers, computer systems analysts and engineers, database administrators, business intelligence analysts, computer programmers, web developers, and more.

Some of the companies our recent graduates are working for include:

TekSystems
Boeing
Lockheed Martin
The Defense Information Systems Agency (U.S. Air Force)
NCI Information Systems
A.G. Edwards
Anheuser-Busch
AT&T
Centene Corporation
DuPont Pioneer
Intel
Scottrade
World Wide Technology
Unisys

Our Computer Science students have also attended graduate school at:

Southern Illinois University
Washington University
Iowa State University
Purdue University
Western Illinois University

Interesting Courses

Software Engineering
Computer Graphics & User Interface Design
Artificial Intelligence
Compiler Design

Club Information / Honor Societies

Upsilon Pi Epsilon (National Computing and Information Disciplines Honor Society)
Sigma Zeta (National Science and Mathematics Honor Society) – The McKendree Beta Chapter is the oldest active chapter in Sigma Zeta and has been awarded the Founder’s Cup five times for its activity at the national and local level. Each year, students and faculty attend the National Conference, where they present their independent research and network with peers and professors from universities across the nation.
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) – This international organization of computing students, educators, and professionals gives you countless opportunities to develop your leadership skills, engage in fun activities, and grow your experience in the field of Computer Information Systems.
McKendree MathCats – Have fun and meet other students in the campus mathematics club.
Biology Club – The Biology Club plans social activities for any students interested in biology, including outings and behind-the-scenes tours at the St. Louis Zoo and the St. Louis Science Center.
Accounting Club