In the atrium of West Village H, a student writes on a tablet with a stylus while viewing a laptop screen.

BS in Computer Science and Design

The BS in Computer Science and Design combined major (Khoury College and the College of Arts, Media and Design) will prepare you to apply design principles to computer science applications through core design courses and a strong programming foundation. You can choose to concentrate on interaction design, graphic and information design, or experience design as you learn to use human-centered design methods to develop innovative, user-centric digital interfaces and applications.

Program details

Career prospects

This program will equip you with a versatile skill set combining technical expertise and a strong understanding of design. The exciting career paths you could pursue include:

  • User experience (UX) designer
  • Graphic designer
  • Front-end developer
  • Game developer
  • Interaction designer

Co-ops and internships

During your time in this program you will have opportunities to apply your skills and build industry connections in co-ops. Some of our students’ recent co-op experiences include:

  • Experience designer at Intuit
  • Web UI innovator and graphics designer at Boston Children’s Hospital
  • UX and visual designer at OHO Interactive

Research opportunities

Gain hands-on experience and make exciting discoveries as you collaborate on research projects with dynamic, engaged professors. Some of our research areas include:

  • Data visualization
  • Games
  • Human-computer interaction

Learning outcomes

In this program, you’ll learn to:

  • Apply design principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.
  • Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for effective and secure computing practice.
  • Apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices.

Campus locations

  • Three students walk along a sidewalk at the Oakland campus. The sidewalk is lined by tall trees at equal distances.

    Oakland

    Tech companies in Oakland benefit from a diverse and creative local ecosystem with easy access to Silicon Valley resources — providing a massive opportunity for CS education and research.

  • Students walk by West Village H on the Boston campus. A large, white KHOURY sign is next to the students. West Village H rises in the background.

    Boston

    Located in the heart of Boston, Northeastern’s oldest campus is home to a vibrant community of students, researchers, and faculty working across disciplines to build a better world through CS.

Applications and admissions

Deadlines

Learn more about our undergraduate early action, early decision, and regular decision options.

Degree costs

Pursuing a world-class education is an investment in your future. It’s also one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. Visit our Undergraduate Admissions site to find current Northeastern University costs. You can also estimate the cost of your degree using our College Cost Estimator or Net Price Calculator. 

Financial aid and scholarships

Northeastern University offers a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help you fund your education. You’ll receive an initial financial aid package that outlines your options after admission. Once you enroll, Khoury College has multiple scholarship opportunities for current students to continue supporting your studies. We also encourage all students to submit the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal aid and loans.   

Have questions?

Let us know if you have any questions about the application or enrollment process. We are here to help!

Meet our faculty

Get to know the engaged, experienced professors who are here to support you every step of the way.

Visit the College of Arts, Media and Design

The BS in Computer Science and Design program is an interdisciplinary collaboration with the College of Arts, Media and Design.

Get a head start on your graduate degree

In our accelerated master’s programs, you can start earning your master’s degree while you are still pursuing your undergraduate studies.

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