Computer Science
Solve Problems Through Software
Elizabethtown College’s Computer Science program is a multidisciplinary curriculum woven with real-world experiences that prepares graduates for lucrative careers in software engineering, full-stack web and application development, artificial intelligence, and cyber security. Computer Science is perfect for anyone who likes being on the cutting edge of technology and innovation in today’s digital society.
Students learn best by doing, including working on real-world team projects using industry-relevant collaboration tools such as Scrum and GitHub, cloud computing technologies, and cyber security measures. We offer a Computer Science degree that prepares you in a variety of areas, so your career can evolve with technology.
Computer Science Concentrations
Computer Science students are encouraged to take upper-level coursework in a specific area of interest by specializing in one of our concentrations, which include: Artificial Intelligence & Data Science, Hardware, Web & Application Design, and Cybersecurity.
Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
Hardware
Web & Application Design
With a concentration in Web & Application Design, you will combine creativity and coding to produce websites and apps. You will take advanced courses in web development and design, design for social media, and graphic design. You will work on projects using HTML, XML, JavaScript, PHP, JSP, ASP.NET, Rails, and Illustrator. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national median annual wage estimate for web developers and digital designers is $78,300.
Cybersecurity
What Can I Do With a Degree in Computer Science?
A few of the many companies where our students have been hired for jobs or internships in Pennsylvania include Cargas Systems, Trifecta Technologies, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Pratt & Whitney and Phoenix Contact. On the national level, our students have secured jobs or internships at some of the most competitive companies and organizations, such as Amazon, Google, the National Security Agency (NSA), NASA and NCIS. Our department has nearly 100% job placement for our students immediately after graduation.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Opportunities for Real-World Project Experience
Computer Science majors complete hands-on projects called signature learning experiences. This includes software engineering projects where students work in agile teams to develop new applications, as well as senior capstone projects. Recent projects include:
- Virtual Etown Tour Guide: An AI tour guide using Oculus goggles and ChatGPT algorithms for an immersive virtual campus tour.
- Jay Pantry: A web-based system with handheld scanners for tracking donations, visits, and inventory at a local food bank.
- ECS Flight Deck: A system for tracking internship opportunities with an automated annual interest survey for engineering, math, and computer science students.
- Jay's Nest Robotic Delivery: A proof-of-concept system for ordering and delivering food on campus using robots.
- Real-time Simulation of Near Light Speed Travel: A program that simulates Doppler shifts and lensing effects of near-light-speed travel in space.
Putting You on a Path to Success
At Etown, we employ a full-time Industry Liaison dedicated to our Computer Science and Engineering students. She is available for 1:1 consultation and teaches a required professional development seminar that includes resume preparation, mock interview sessions, and coaching on negotiating job offers. She also hosts Meet and Greets on campus at least once a semester, with local companies. For students pursuing the most competitive tech industry internships, our Algorithms course includes dedicated practice and coaching to help you prepare for coding interviews.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The Etown Computer Science Club (CS Club) is a student-led group that meets regularly for several different activities. The CS Club hosts technical talks, practice interview sessions, and game nights in addition to providing a place for students to come together to work on their own projects. Members of the CS Club practice programming problems and send teams to compete in the annual ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest as well as regional programming competitions.
Explore a Major in Information Systems
If you prefer working with hardware and software integration and maintenance for clients or businesses over theory of developing new algorithms or products, you may be interested in our B.S. in Information Systems.
Related Minors
A minor in Computer Science can be a great complimentary program to majors from across disciplines. With the overwhelming presence of technology in nearly every career, a Computer Science minor can open doors across multiple fields.
A minor in Data Analytics offers a comprehensive introduction to the high-demand field of big data, equipping students with skills in data management, analysis, and interpretation through a diverse course selection, preparing them for successful careers in the business sector.