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B.S. in Computer Science at USP

B.S. in Computer Science at USP
Why USP?
Your Life in Compute Science
Your Future in Computer Science
Hands-on Learning at USP
Learn from the Best
The USP Computer Science Curriculum
Professional Connections in Computer Science
For more information...

Would you like to use your computer skills to transform the biomedical, pharmaceutical, or health science industries? Do you want to be on the edge of one of the fastest-growing occupations in the country? Would you like to conduct groundbreaking research? If so, USP will prepare you for an exciting future in the new Information Age with our Bachelor of Science degree program in computer science. 

Why USP?

USP's four-year computer science program differs from typical computer science programs, which tend to emphasize theory and techniques over application. In addition, we offer the only undergraduate program in computer science specifically geared to the health sciences. Our program will prepare you for an enriching computer career in the biomedical, pharmaceutical, life, and health science industries by equipping you with well-rounded, specialized computer skills.

  • Hands-on experience in pioneering research, such as investigating the use of artificial intelligence methods for environmental and biological systems.
  • Access to sophisticated computer software and hardware environments, including a number of different computer workstations and networking capabilities. In addition, you'll work in state-of-the-art laboratories including the West Computational Chemistry Laboratory and the Center for Advanced Pharmacy Studies.
  • An in-depth education in a health science that adds extra value to your computer degree. You'll choose your own area of concentration.
  • Opportunity to pursue a master's degree in bioinformatics with as little as one additional year of full-time study.

Your Life in Computer Science

You'll be involved in the design and development of new hardware and software systems and the implementation of new technologies. With a B.S. in computer science and concentration in a health science, you'll be able to choose from a wide range of career possibilities as computers and information systems continue to dramatically transform the life and health science field in unprecedented ways.

Important discoveries depend as much on the analysis and interpretation of data as on its collection. Physicians, pharmacists, and other health professionals rely on computers for streamlining administrative work, accessing patient records, and avoiding potentially harmful drug reactions.

In addition, you will acquire all the prerequisites necessary for admission to graduate programs in computer science.

Your Future in Computer Science

When employers such as Merck & Company, GlaxoSmithKline, Wyeth, Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Astra Zeneca, CVS Pharmacy, Rite Aid Corporation, and others are looking for talented professionals, they often look to USP first because they know our graduates are well prepared.

The information explosion in the life and health sciences requires trained professionals who possess both computer skills and knowledge of their applications. Employment for graduates with computer science degrees is expected to grow rapidly in the region and across the country. USP's location in Philadelphia puts you at the center of the highest concentration of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies found anywhere in the world.

Historically, more than 90 percent of USP students have received job offers or have been accepted to advanced study programs by the day of graduation.

You can expect a range of beginning salaries from $40,000 to $100,000 per year depending on level of degree and experience.

Hands-on Learning at USP

At USP, we believe that science is research. Our students practice science, they don't just read about it. You'll be involved in hands-on science as early as your freshman year. USP students graduate having conducted as many as three years of research with faculty members and are well prepared for a career in the health, natural, and computer sciences areas.

Learn from the Best

You will learn from a diverse group of faculty members, many of whom have won teaching awards in addition to their research endeavors. Since most classes are relatively small, you will be able to work closely with the faculty, and will not be taught by teaching assistants. You can also work on research projects with faculty members.

The USP Computer Science Curriculum

You'll acquire the computer skills needed to work in the biomedical, pharmaceutical, and health science industries. Our curriculum provides these key elements:

  • A rigorous background in quantitative sciences
  • An emphasis on practical, up-to-date computer programming skills
  • An in-depth knowledge of a life or health science field to assist students in applying the computer/modeling skills learned in a specific field

In addition to research opportunities, you'll also have the option of participating in at least one industrial internship to help you develop essential skills and build valuable contacts with possible future employers.

First Year

  • Orientation to Computer Science
  • General Biology I and II
  • Mathematical Analysis I and II
  • College Composition
  • General Chemistry/Lab I and II
  • Physical Education I and II
  • Data Structures
  • Computer Programming

Second Year

  • Mathematical Analysis III and IV
  • Physics I and II
  • Computer Programming II
  • Database Programming
  • Intellectual Heritage I and II Social Science Fundamental Requirements

Third Year

  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Core Distribution Requirement
  • Introduction to Biostatistics
  • Mathematical Modeling
  • Mathematics, Physics or Computer Science Electives
  • Computer Simulation
  • Introduction to Communications
  • Health/Science Electives
  • Core Distribution Requirement

Fourth Year

  • Core Distribution Requirement
  • Health/Science Electives
  • Research in Computational Science I and II
  • Mathematics, Physics or Computer Science Electives
  • Core Elective
  • Elective

Professional Connections in Computer Science

You'll have opportunities to expand your knowledge of the computer science field through colloquia and guest speakers. The Delaware Valley is a hotbed of computer science activity, both applied and theoretical.  Through our distinguished departmental advisory board, we have access to many of the working professionals who will bring their years of experience to our students in our regularly scheduled and special colloquia.

For more information.

To learn more about the Computer Science program, contact the Admission Office at 1-888-996-USIP (8747), e-mail admit@usip.edu, or fill out our online information request form.

Related Links
Misher College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Bioinformatics and Computer Science
Admission

 

 
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