Computer Science Degree Programs
Study Computer Science at the University of Montana
Earn your degree in computer science at the University of Montana for the opportunity to enter an exciting, evolving and lucrative field after graduation. Students electing to study computer science at UM choose from four concentrations: algorithm design, data science, mathematical sciences or software engineering. Students can also pursue a 19-hour minor in computer science for a thorough understanding of the fundamentals.
Each concentration includes a unique curriculum that imparts the skills to land lucrative post-graduation careers. This includes 33 credit hours of core classes across all three concentrations. Every concentration comprises 86-97 credit hours total, all taught by experienced and professional faculty.
As a computer science major, you’ll engage with respected faculty who are invested in student outcomes and highly available to you. Hands-on learning is critical to the entire program, and you’ll also participate in research and internship opportunities that help hone your analytical and real-world skills.
of UM computer science alums are working in a field related to their program of study
Estimated average salary of UM graduates with a bachelor’s in data science
24% growth of software developer jobs in the US by 2026
Concentrations within the Computer Science Track
When you choose to major in computer science at UM, you will select one of three concentrations to specialize in. Each concentration shares similar foundational classes before branching into a specialized curriculum.
Computer Science B.S. – Algorithm Design
As an algorithm design major, you’ll specialize in algorithm theory, designing efficient data structures and creating algorithms for challenging computation problems. The degree sets students up for lucrative industry positions with a wide breadth of problem-solving skills and upper-level programming knowledge.
Computer Science B.S. – Data Science
The data science concentration of the computer science degree, one of the first in the nation, focuses on the mathematical and software skills needed for state-of-the-art statistical approaches in machine learning. These skills translate into career paths involving Big Data and touch upon all industries, including business, marketing, security, agriculture and many more.
Computer Science B.S. – Software Engineering
As a software engineering major at UM, you’ll gain the hard skills to develop and maintain large-scale software projects and make informed decisions about the suitability of existing software libraries. The curriculum stresses practice over theory, with experiential learning in software development, operation and maintenance.
Computer Science and Mathematical Sciences B.S.
As a math and computer science major at UM, you’ll be part of a program that’s small enough to get to know the faculty, but large enough to offer many opportunities. Because we also offer graduate program options in computer science and mathematics, advanced coursework is yours for the asking even as an undergraduate. This program delivers a thorough background in both disciplines and a deeper understanding of their goals and methods.
UM's 19-credit-hour Computer Science minor comprises four fundamental courses, including Introduction to Computer Science. The remainder of the minor includes two upper-level computer science classes of your choosing. The minor is an excellent accompaniment for almost any degree and a versatile addition to your resume.
What You Can Do with a Computer Science Degree?
Computer scientists are some of the most in-demand professionals in the workforce. The field is wide open for graduates from all concentrations within UM's computer science degree program. Your career may take the path of Big Data management, developing the next generation of robots, artificial intelligence programming or software engineering for big technology firms like Google, Microsoft or Meta. While the career paths of a computer science major branch in many directions, a high-paying position is a general baseline.
Jobs with a Computer Science Degree
The concentration you choose within the computer design degree at UM impacts what types of jobs you’ll be best qualified for. However, the program’s foundational courses allow maneuverability within the broader field.
Here are some sample job titles you’ll be qualified for after graduating with a Computer Science degree:
- Computer Programmer
- Software Engineer
- Software Developer
- Network Administrator
- Computer Games Developer
- Sensor Analyst
- Web Developer
- Researcher
- Data Scientist
Salaries with a Computer Science Degree
Careers in computer science can be very lucrative immediately after graduation, with increased salary expectations the longer you stay in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers like algorithm engineers are paid, on average, $121,555/year, with salaries ranging from $66,000 to $165,000. Computer and information research scientists earn an average of $126,840/year, while computer programmers earn $89,190/year.
In May 2020, the median annual wage for software developers was $110,140. The lowest 10% earned less than $65,210, and the highest 10% made more than $170,100. More specifically, software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers earned $110,140. Software and web developers, programmers and testers earned $105,310. The median annual wage for data scientists is $103,930
Experiential Learning in Computer Science
Computer science at UM focuses on hands-on experiences and application throughout all four years of its degree. Both internships and research opportunities are essential aspects of the program and a key contributor to student success after graduating. Upon graduation, all computer science majors have an accomplished body of work and experiences that help them stand out in this competitive field.
Internships for Computer Science majors
UM's computer science majors routinely receive paid internships at local and international tech firms. Some have even garnished paid contract positions within the University. At the end of the internship or contract position, you take away practical applications that can give you a jump on the competition as you pursue your career.
Undergraduate Research Experiences for Computer Science Majors
Research is a large part of UM’s legacy. Many computer science majors participate in research opportunities across UM departments and disciplines. To help in this endeavor, we provide access to a large, research-oriented computer cluster available to all research students. The faculty also maintains multiple millions of dollars of active research grants to fund student research, including funding from the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy.
Career Development in Computer Science
UM is proud of its state-of-the-art interdisciplinary computer science program and coordinates with top businesses to prepare students for the ever-evolving job field. Graduates are well-positioned for exciting careers in the technology sector and obtain the leadership skills to pursue their ambitions alongside company goals.
Our faculty have significant data science and tech industry backgrounds, and many are closely connected to the local tech community. They serve as mentors and open the door to extensive internship and employment opportunities.
Student clubs like the Computer Science Club also help build strong relationships and networks that foster future job opportunities.
Computer Science Scholarships
At UM, we want to do everything we can to make your experience with us rewarding, including helping you pay for tuition or other costs. We offer several scholarships, including the JR Scholarship for $10,000 per year. Learn more about scholarship opportunities for computer science majors.
Explore Classes in Computer Science
All concentrations within the computer science tract at UM require approximately 87 to 97 course hours. Each concentration includes 33 credit hours of computer science core classes alongside general education requirements. From there, the concentrations dive into more specific courses to provide a well-rounded education that turns students into specialists in the field.
View all classes for the bachelor’s degree in Computer Science - Data Science concentration.
View all classes for the bachelor’s degree in Computer Science - Algorithm Design concentration.
View all classes for the bachelor’s degree in Computer Science - Software Engineering concentration.
View all classes for the bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Mathematical Science.