Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (School of Engineering)
Computer science that delivers the problem solving skills to meet a fast-paced world.
Tufts Department of Computer Science gives you the theory to think deeply, the engineering skills to build confidently, and the research community to tackle problems that matter — starting from day one, wherever your experience level begins.
Program Highlights:
- Faculty-led research from Year One
- Three entry points into the major
- Two-semester senior capstone
- Interdisciplinary depth across Tufts
Program Overview
The BSCS requires 120 semester hours. Beyond your 14 CS courses, the School of Engineering asks for a broad foundation in math, science, humanities, and engineering fundamentals. Here's the big picture:
| Area | What's Required | Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Calculus sequence (Math 32, 34, 42), Linear Algebra (Math 70), and a probability or statistics course | 5 |
| Natural Science | Two Engineering-appropriate sciences, plus one science/math elective, covering at least two of the following three departments: Physics, Chemistry, or Biology. | 3 |
| Engineering Core | EN 1, EN 3 (starting for class of 2030), and CS 10 or equivalent. | 4 |
| Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences | English 1 or 3, EM 52, one Humanities course, one Social Sciences course, one Ethics course (Phil 24, EM 54, or Phil 57), plus additional Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences courses (24 SHU total). | ~8 |
View B.S. in Computer Science Degree Sheets
Computer Science Curriculum
15 courses take you from foundational programming through algorithms, theory, and systems — culminating in a two-semester capstone where you build something real. Here's how the pieces fit together.
7+ electives you choose
2 semesters of capstone
Introductory Sequence
Three ways in — depending on your experience, you start at a different point:
CS 10 covers the fundamentals that CS 11 moves through quickly. Students with prior programming experience can skip it by passing a placement exam offered each summer and during the academic year. Students with strong C++ backgrounds (including pointers and classes) may begin directly with CS 15 with instructor consent. Engineering students can also use ES 2 to satisfy the CS 11 prerequisite.
Core Courses
After the introductory sequence, every BSCS student takes these required courses:
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Logic, Proofs, and Combinatorics.
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How Programs Run on Hardware.
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Pick One: Paradigms or Language Design.
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Design and Analysis of Efficient Solutions.
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What Computers Can and Can't Do.
Choose 7+ CS Electives
At least two must be numbered above 100. At least 2 credit hours must cover the social context of computing. At least 2 courses must cover computer systems. One CS elective can optionally be fulfilled with an approved upper-level Math course. Specific elective course options can be found on the degree sheet.
This is where you specialize: AI, security, graphics, systems, HCI — explore what excites you.
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- Visit the Policies and Documentation webpage for official program requirements.
- Any course (or category of courses) marked with a * on the degree sheet must be taken for letter grade.
- Any course marked with a ** on the degree sheet must be completed with a C− or better.
- At most 3 SHU of independent study/research or 4 SHU of senior thesis may count as a CS elective.
- Internship credit (CS 99) cannot be used as a CS elective.
Ready to dig deeper?
Explore current course offerings, download your degree sheet, or get in touch with the department.