Major: Computer Science

In countless old Star Trek episodes, a baffled captain asked the computer for help, and the computer
promptly replied with an answer. What was once science fiction is becoming reality, thanks to computer
scientists working in voice recognition.
If you study computer science, you may learn how to design computer programs that allow humans and
computers to speak to one another. Keep in mind, your work is more likely to help a vision-impaired
person than a captain navigating the universe, but you never know.

Computer science majors learn about computer systems and the way humans and computers
interact from a scientific perspective. Instruction includes programming and the theory and
design of software.

“I really enjoy the area of human-computer interaction, which combines the areas of graphic
design and computer science.”Bonnie, senior, computer science, University of Maryland, College Park
Are You Ready To...?
 Join the campus chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery
 Complete an internship designing Web pages, developing software, testing software, or building other
computer skills
 Build teamwork skills and friendships while problem solving with other students
 Regularly stay up until all hours trying to debug your computer programming
It Helps To Be...
Precise and mathematical but also able to think abstractly. In order to solve problems, you’ll need to think
like a human and like a computer at the same time. This requires creativity, imagination, and the ability to
think logically.

College Checklist
 Is the program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology?
 Will you be accepted into the college’s computer science program as a freshman or must you wait to
apply as a sophomore?
 Does the college require a minimum grade point average in your computer science classes to be
accepted into the major?
 If you’re interested in the circuitry of computers, does the college offer electrical and computer
engineering courses?
 Will you have the chance to specialize, in artificial intelligence or databases, for example?
Did You Know?
While programming is essential to studying computer science, the major can prepare you for careers that
involve no programming at all.

Course Spotlight
As a computer science major, programming courses will be a key part of your studies. These classes
cover languages such as C++ and Java, and introduce you to the precise thinking behind computer
programming. You’ll learn how to solve problems by translating a question into instructions a computer
can follow to come up with the answers. And you’ll explore what goes on inside a computer when it’s
solving a problem.

Explore this major in more depth on Roadmap to Careers

 Which colleges offer a major in Computer Science?
Find out now

DEGREE TYPE

This major often leads to the bachelor's degree.

HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL COURSES

 AP Calculus BC
 Foreign language
 Discrete mathematics
 AP Computer Science A
 AP Chemistry
 AP Statistics
 AP Physics B or Physics C

TYPICAL MAJOR COURSES

 Artificial intelligence
 Computer system organization
 Data structures and algorithms
 Digital system design
 Introduction to program design
 Mathematics for computer science
 Software engineering
 The theory of formal languages

RELATED MAJORS

 Computer Engineering, General

 Computer Forensics
 Computer Software Engineering
 Electrical Engineering
 Game and Interactive Media Design
 Information Science
 Mathematics Teacher Education
 Neuroscience

RELATED CAREERS

 Computer Programmers
 Computer Scientists
 Computer Systems Analysts
 Computer and Information Systems Managers
 Management Consultants
 Software Developers
 Major: Computer Engineering,
General
Some of us drive cars with little knowledge of how they work. Others wouldn’t dream of driving a car
without understanding exactly how it’s powered, how it gets them from point A to point B, and how to fix it
when it breaks down.

Computer engineering students have the same philosophy about computers. They want to know how
computers work and what they can do to make them smarter, faster, and more efficient.

Through the study of mathematics, physics, and computer science, computer engineering majors
learn to analyze, design, and develop computer hardware and software.

Did You Know?

The iPhone 6 has more processing power than the Apollo 11 guidance computer

Are You Ready To...?

 Collaborate on cutting edge projects that make a difference
 Intern in real world settings
 Explore the latest advances in electricity, circuitry, and electronic materials
 Use math as a tool to find creative solutions to intriguing problems
 Apply the most advanced tools and technologies in your projects
 Dream up innovative technologies of the future
It Helps To Be...
A problem solver and a team player who is able to work independently and in teams. Excited by the thrill
of devising creative solutions. Interested in doing work that shapes our future.

College Checklist
 Is the program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology?
 Does the school offer a combined bachelor’s/master’s degree program?
 Is the program offered by the computer science or the electrical engineering department? How does that
affect the program’s focus?
 What requirements will you have to fulfill to be admitted to the program?
 What internships and other hands-on learning opportunities will you have?
Did You Know?
Today’s fastest computer, the NUDT Tianhe-2A, can complete 33.86 quadrillion calculations a second.

Course Spotlight
Engineering design courses and labs are integrated into all four years of the computer engineering major.
As you advance, your design assignments will become more complex and interesting.

You may get to finish your studies with a senior design project that shows off all you’ve learned. If you’re
like many students, you’ll choose a project in a specialty such as web technology, robotics, or computer
security in which you might someday build a career.
 Which colleges offer a major in Computer Engineering, General?
Find out now

DEGREE TYPE

This major is offered at the associate's and at the bachelor's level.

HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL COURSES

 AP Calculus BC
 Electronics
 Chemistry
 AP Computer Science A
 AP Physics C

TYPICAL MAJOR COURSES

 Calculus
 Computer architecture
 Digital-logic design
 Discrete mathematics
 Introduction to data structures
 Physics
 Programming languages
 Software systems design
 Systems programming

RELATED MAJORS

 Aerospace Engineering
 Computer Science
 Computer Software Engineering
 Electrical Engineering
 Mechanical Engineering
 Robotics Technology

RELATED CAREERS

 Aerospace Engineers
 Computer Hardware Engineers
 Computer Scientists
 Computer-Repair Technicians
 Engineering Technicians
 Software Developers
 Major: Astronomy
When you look up at the night sky, what do you see? There are patterns of stars, planets, the moon, and
some sights that you may not be able to explain. Astronomy is the study of those objects in space — how
stars, planets, and galaxies form and behave — and the universe itself.

If you want to understand the mysteries of the night sky, this could be the major for you.

Astronomy students study space, the history and future of the universe, and the objects within,
such as planets, stars, and galaxies. Subjects of study include the evolution of stars, how the stars
and planets move through space, chemistry, and advanced math.

“You have to love astronomy, and you have to love looking up at the sky and be willing to stare at
it for a long time, even if you don't see anything.”Jill, junior, astrophysics and physics and philosophy,
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Are You Ready To...?
 Attend a university or observatory summer program where you might conduct research with a radio
telescope or work with astronomy software
 Join an astronomy club
 Use computers to interpret information
 Attend weekly labs
 Study advanced physics and math
It Helps To Be...
A fan of math, chemistry, and physics with an eye for detail.

College Checklist
 What research opportunities will you have?
 Does the department offer a B.A., B.S., or both?
 Is the campus or local observatory equipped with the latest technology? Will you have access to the best
telescopes?
 Does the program have a particular focus, such as astrophysics?
 Does the school have an active astronomy club?
Did You Know?
Astronomers learn about distant galaxies by peering through telescopes that “see” radio waves not visible
to the human eye.

Course Spotlight
When you take a class in astrophysics, you’ll learn how astronomers come up with theories and conduct
experiments to better understand objects in space. You’ll explore questions like these: Why do stars give
off light? Do black holes exist? If so, how will we find and study them? Get ready for a challenge: in
astrophysics, you’ll work in the language of math and physics.

Explore this major in more depth on Roadmap to Careers

Which colleges offer a major in Astronomy?

Find out now
 DEGREE TYPE

This major often leads to the bachelor's degree.

HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL COURSES

 AP Chemistry
 AP Calculus BC
 Computer science
 Biology
 AP Physics C

TYPICAL MAJOR COURSES

 Astrophysics
 Calculus
 Computer science
 Cosmology
 Electricity and magnetism
 Physics
 Planetary geology
 Star structure and evolution

RELATED MAJORS

 Aerospace Engineering
 Applied Physics
 Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
 Geology
 Mathematics
 Physics
 Science Teacher Education

RELATED CAREERS

 Aerospace Engineers
 Elementary, Middle, and High School Teachers
 Meteorologists
 Physicists and Astronomers
 Postsecondary Teachers
 Technical Writers
 Major: Planetary Astronomy and
Science

Students of planetary astronomy and science look at planets, how they form from the dust that surrounds
young stars, how they move through space, and what their interiors, surfaces, and atmospheres are like.
Additionally, students study the moons that orbit planets, learn how our solar system came to be, and
explore the workings of gravity.

Explore this major in more depth on Roadmap to Careers

Which colleges offer a major in Planetary Astronomy and Science?

Find out now

DEGREE TYPE

This major often leads to the bachelor's degree.

RELATED MAJORS

 Aerospace Engineering
 Astronomy
 Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
 Major: Physics
How does the universe work? What are atoms made of? While the first question is about the biggest of
things, the second asks about the unimaginably small. Yet both questions fall under the scope of
physics.

Physics majors seek to understand the laws that govern the universe. From gigantic stars trillions of miles
away to the subatomic particles within our own bodies, physics takes on matter and energy in all its
forms.

Physics is the scientific study of matter and energy. Topics covered include classical and modern
theories, electricity and magnetism, and relativity.

“It's rewarding to do something that really does describe the world that you can see -- you just
have to work really hard and get over a bunch of challenges to find it.”Sarah, senior, physics,
Columbia University
Are You Ready To...?
 Conduct independent research
 Experiment in the lab
 Work with other physics students on difficult assignments
 Take a lot of math -- beyond calculus
 Struggle with complex concepts
It Helps To Be...
A person who likes learning how things work, especially in the natural world. If you like math, solving
puzzles, and looking for logical solutions, this could be the major for you.

College Checklist
 Do the introductory courses include labs?
 How much access will you have to the computer labs?
 Is there a chapter of the Society of Physics Students on campus?
 Will you have the chance to complete your own research project?
 Will you get the chance to work on research projects with professors?
Did You Know?
Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity unites space, time, matter, and energy.

Course Spotlight
In an introductory physics course, you’ll learn about the basics of the science, including mechanics,
electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics (the theory of heat). Mechanics
deals with forces, energy, and the laws of motion. Quantum mechanics applies these laws to the particles
that make up atoms.

In addition to lectures, you’ll attend labs where you’ll see physics in action and discussion sections where
you’ll solve word problems with the rest of the class.

Explore this major in more depth on Roadmap to Careers

Which colleges offer a major in Physics?

Find out now
 DEGREE TYPE

This major often leads to the bachelor's degree.

HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL COURSES

 AP Calculus BC
 Computer science
 Biology
 AP Physics C
 AP Chemistry

TYPICAL MAJOR COURSES

 Classical mechanics
 Computational physics
 Electricity and magnetism
 Modern physics
 Nuclear physics
 Particle physics
 Quantum mechanics
 Thermodynamics

RELATED MAJORS

 Applied Physics
 Architectural Engineering
 Astronomy
 Civil Engineering
 Computer Science
 Mathematics
 Nuclear Engineering
 Philosophy

RELATED CAREERS

 Aerospace Engineers
 Chemists and Materials Scientists
 Elementary, Middle, and High School Teachers
 Mechanical Engineers
 Meteorologists
 Physicists and Astronomers
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 Major: Computer Software
Engineering
If you’re considering a major as a computer software engineer, be prepared for a cutting edge and
continuously evolving career. Jobs will advance rapidly and new jobs will be created often to meet ever-
changing technological needs. Just think about how much computers and the software they use have
evolved over the past four years.

The scientific and mathematical foundation you build in this major will always be fundamental to your
work. But like other computer majors, you’ll face a lifetime of learning as you strive to stay on the forefront
of innovation.

As a software engineering major, you’ll study the scientific and mathematical basis of computer
software. You’ll learn a variety of programming languages and how to design, analyze and
maintain software.

Did You Know?

Many students who end up in this major never studied computer programming in high school.

Are You Ready To...?

 Take classes in both computer science and computer engineering
 Intern off-campus at a software company
 Learn all aspects of designing, building, and revising large and complex software systems
 Join the campus chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery
It Helps To Be...
Determined, able to think abstractly, and good at solving puzzles. Designing new software is like working
with a team to put together a big puzzle. Each person adds a piece and each part depends upon the
others.

College Checklist
 Does the campus have a sophisticated computer network including appropriate software tools for
software engineering students?
 Is the program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology?
 Is the program offered by an engineering or computer science department? How will this affect your
studies?
 Examine the practical as well as academic experience of faculty. Have they built large software systems?
 What is the senior project or capstone course like?
 Does the department have strong ties to local companies where you can complete internships?
Did You Know?
If you enroll in a software engineering program based in an engineering department, you’ll learn more
about the hardware issues that affect software. If your program is in a computer science department,
you’ll study more theory and math.
 Course Spotlight
You’ll probably get to complete a final project in your senior year. The project usually involves software
development in teams. You and your classmates will put your skills into practice, using all you’ve learned
in your courses.

You may choose your project with an eye toward your future career. At some colleges, outside
companies sponsor senior projects, presenting students with real problems that they’re trying to solve.

Which colleges offer a major in Computer Software Engineering?

Find out now

DEGREE TYPE

This major often leads to the bachelor's degree.

HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL COURSES

 AP Chemistry
 Discrete math
 AP Statistics
 AP Computer Science A
 AP Calculus BC
 AP Physics B or Physics C

TYPICAL MAJOR COURSES

 Discrete math
 Fundamentals of software development
 Introduction to computer science
 Operating systems
 Programming language concepts
 Software architecture and design
 Software testing and quality assurance
 Systems analysis
 Website design

RELATED MAJORS

 Computer Engineering, General

 Computer Programming, General
 Computer Science
 Electrical Engineering
 Game and Interactive Media Design
 Management Information Systems
 Robotics Technology

RELATED CAREERS

 Computer Programmers
 Computer Scientists
 Computer Systems Analysts
 Database Administrators
 Mathematicians
 Software Developers