UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA CRUZ · UNITED STATES
Computer Science B.S.
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Strong concentration in core CS areas: algorithms, programming languages, and systems.Core CS Focus
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary study across various fields.Interdisciplinary Approach
- Programmatic emphasis on understanding the societal impact of technology.Societal Impact
- Develops skills in problem-solving and technical communication.Skill Development
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Computer Science is designed for students who want a strong foundation in the core areas of computer science, including algorithms, programming languages, and systems. This program offers more in-depth coursework in computer science, computer engineering, and computational media, while also allowing for some elective courses outside of science and engineering. Computer science has broad applications across many fields, such as art, music, linguistics, social sciences, economics, business, digital media, environmental and life sciences, and pure sciences. Interdisciplinary study is encouraged. For students interested in computer science but whose primary focus is in another area, a minor in computer science is also available.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Computer Science B.S. program?
- For high school applicants, four years of mathematics including advanced algebra and trigonometry, and three years of science are recommended. Transfer students must apply and be admitted as a proposed Computer Science major.
- How do tuition and fees work for international students?
- Tuition and fees for international students are determined based on residency status. International students should refer to the UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office for the most current fee information and be aware of the process for establishing residency or qualifying for exemptions.
- When is the application filing period for the Computer Science B.S. program?
- The application filing period is typically in the Fall for admission to the following academic year.
- What is the structure of the Computer Science B.S. program?
- The B.S. program offers a strong foundation in core computer science areas like algorithms, programming languages, and systems, with opportunities for interdisciplinary study across various fields.
- What career paths can a Computer Science B.S. degree lead to?
- A degree in Computer Science prepares graduates for roles in software development, system analysis, data science, and various other technology-focused positions in the tech industry and beyond.
- What is the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) and when is its deadline?
- The Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) determines your residency status for tuition purposes. The deadline to submit it is typically May 6 for freshmen and June 6 for transfers, after submitting your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR).
Entry requirements
High School MathematicsFour years of mathematics, including advanced algebra and trigonometry, are recommended for high school applicants. Comparable college-level courses are also acceptable.
High School ScienceThree years of science are recommended for high school applicants.
Students intending to major in Computer Science should begin taking major-specific courses in their first quarter at UC Santa Cruz due to the intensive and sequential nature of the program. Math placement is required for foundational courses. Transfer students must apply and be admitted to UC Santa Cruz as a proposed computer science major.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees for international students are determined based on residency status. Please refer to the official UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office for the most current fee information.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees for domestic students are determined based on residency status. Please refer to the official UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office for the most current fee information.
LivingEstimated living costs for students are available on the UC Santa Cruz website. Refer to the financial aid pages for detailed budget information.
Residency status significantly impacts tuition and fees. International students should be aware of the process for establishing residency or qualifying for exemptions. Deadlines for submitting the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) and supporting documents are critical for accurate fee assessment.
How to apply
1. Review Admission RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with UC Santa Cruz's general undergraduate admission requirements, including academic preparation and standardized testing policies (if applicable).
2. Complete the UC ApplicationSubmit the UC application online during the application filing period. Ensure you select 'Computer Science' as your intended major. Indicate your interest in the B.S. program specifically if options are provided.
3. High School PreparationEnsure you have completed the recommended high school coursework in mathematics (through advanced algebra and trigonometry) and science.
4. Transfer StudentsIf you are a transfer student, you must apply and be admitted to UC Santa Cruz as a proposed Computer Science major. Ensure you meet transfer admission screening policies and have completed equivalent coursework.
5. Submit Statement of Legal Residence (SLR)After submitting your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR), complete the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) on your MyUCSC portal by the specified deadline (May 6 for freshmen, June 6 for transfers) to determine your residency status for tuition purposes.
6. Provide Supporting DocumentsIf requested by the Residence Deputy, submit necessary documentation to support your residency classification by the deadline (June 1 for freshmen, July 1 for transfers).
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Computer Science B.S. program?
+
For high school applicants, four years of mathematics including advanced algebra and trigonometry, and three years of science are recommended. Transfer students must apply and be admitted as a proposed Computer Science major.
How do tuition and fees work for international students?
+
Tuition and fees for international students are determined based on residency status. International students should refer to the UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office for the most current fee information and be aware of the process for establishing residency or qualifying for exemptions.
When is the application filing period for the Computer Science B.S. program?
+
The application filing period is typically in the Fall for admission to the following academic year.
What is the structure of the Computer Science B.S. program?
+
The B.S. program offers a strong foundation in core computer science areas like algorithms, programming languages, and systems, with opportunities for interdisciplinary study across various fields.
What career paths can a Computer Science B.S. degree lead to?
+
A degree in Computer Science prepares graduates for roles in software development, system analysis, data science, and various other technology-focused positions in the tech industry and beyond.
What is the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) and when is its deadline?
+
The Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) determines your residency status for tuition purposes. The deadline to submit it is typically May 6 for freshmen and June 6 for transfers, after submitting your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR).