Computer Science

Your Future in Computing Starts at MSU Texas!

Major in Computer Science

Computer Science drives the digital age, shaping the way we work, connect, and innovate. Students who study computer science develop the ability to design, problem-solve, and adapt in rapidly evolving industries. From artificial intelligence to cybersecurity, computing is at the center of advancing technology, improving health, and solving challenges across society.

Students majoring in computer science are prepared for careers in research, development, entrepreneurship, industry, or government. Whether you're building foundational skills for the broader STEM world or embarking on groundbreaking innovations, computer science prepares you to meet today's technological and global challenges.

20:1

Computer Science Student to Faculty ratio

$60,000

Average starting salary of Computer Science graduates

4+2

4 Computer-Related Minors and 2 Certificates Available

Why Study Computer Science at MSU Texas?

The Computer Science program at Midwestern State University emphasizes personalized learning, practical application, and cutting-edge research opportunities. Students receive individualized guidance in small classes and labs while engaging in contemporary projects in areas such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and software engineering. A broad-based liberal arts foundation supports technical expertise, preparing graduates to excel in their careers and communities.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Program and Requirements

Each year when the Academic Catalog is published, we release an updated degree plan. You will use this plan to chart your academic course toward earning your degree. You will keep and follow this plan throughout your tenure at MSU Texas. We offer several degree options for undergraduates as well as a graduate program, and certificates, listed in more detail below.

BA in Computer Science

  • 54 hours in Computer Science
  • 9 hours in Mathematics/Statistics (College Algebra, Trigonometry, Probability & Statistics)

BS in Computer Science

  • 54 hours in Computer Science
  • 15 hours in Mathematics (Precalculus, Calculus I & II + one upper-level elective)
  • 8 hours in Physics

Master of Science in Computer Science: Program and Requirements

Each year when the Academic Catalog is published, we release an updated degree plan. You will use this plan to chart your academic course toward earning your degree. You will keep and follow this plan throughout your tenure at MSU Texas. We offer several degree options for graduate students, listed in more detail below.

Accelerated Master's Program

Allows students to begin graduate study in senior year and earn both BS and MS degrees in less time. Admission is limited to highly qualified applicants.

MS in Computer Science

  • Designed for advanced training and career expansion
  • Requires 15 graduate hour core with three completion tracks:
    • 30-hour Paper Option
    • 33-hour Non-paper Option
    • 36-hour Practical Training Option

Minors & Certificates

What can I do with a degree in Computer Science

  • Software Developer
  • Data Scientist/Analyst
  • Systems Analyst
  • Web Developer
  • Network Administrator
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Mobile App Developer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Academic Researcher
  • Entrepreneur

Academic Advising & Tutoring for Computer Science Majors

Academic Advising

Academic counselors will help you navigate tools for planning and guide you through course choices, graduate preparation, and professional opportunities.

Learn more about the McCoy College Academic Counselors

Peer-Led Support & Tutoring

  • TASP's Learning Center (TLC): Drop-in tutoring in Writing, Math, Science, and more. Located in Moffett Library, first floor.
  • TASP's Group Tutoring: Evening sessions designed for student-athletes, commuters, and others needing after-hours support.

Learn more about TASP

 

Two students happily work together in the TASP Learning Center, inside Moffett Library.
Two students pose with their robot they built and presented during EURECA, for undergraduate research, at MSU Texas.

Undergraduate & Graduate Research

Computer Science students collaborate with faculty on projects spanning high-performance computing, deep learning, quantum computing, machine learning, virtual reality, software quality, and human-computer interaction.

Faculty Research Areas

  • Dr. Eduardo Colmenares-Diaz: High performance, parallel & scientific computing; deep learning; quantum computing.
  • Dr. Terry Griffin: Machine learning projects, programming languages, facial recognition attendance system, real-time parking availability.
  • Dr. Tina Johnson: Virtual reality (Oculus Go, Unity 3D, Blender); interactive digital environments.
  • Dr. Nelson Passos: Loop transformations, wireless web caching, parallel execution, mobile networks.
  • Dr. Catherine Stringfellow: Software testing, software quality, Human Computer Interaction, accessibility, augmented reality, project-based CS education.
Team Selene members happily pose near the Midwestern State University welcome sign.

Student Organizations (Get Involved)

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)

The mission of the ACM is to advance computing as a science and profession. MSU Texas's ACM chapter sponsors speakers, networking, and the annual Game Jam competition.

Selene Research

Selene Research is a student organization dedicated to tackling NASA design challenges, giving members hands-on experience while creating innovative solutions for space exploration.

NASA S.U.I.T.S. is a national design challenge where college teams develop AR displays, voice assistants, and user interfaces for astronauts. Students collaborate with NASA experts, test their innovations in virtual lunar environments, and showcase them at Johnson Space Center to support future Artemis missions.

Scholarships

The Computer Science Department awards the Graduate Merit Scholarship ($1,000) and the Tom C. White Scholarship ($1,000-$2,000 per year). Scholarships are awarded competitively, require at least a 3.0 GPA, and are renewable for up the three years with satisfactory process.

Scholarships


McCoy College of Science, Mathematics & Engineering

Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

We are located in Bolin Hall
(Building 5 on the Campus Map)
Campus Map

Have Questions?

Emily Allen Secretary
Computer Science
(940) 397-4411