Computer Information Science

Why study Computer Information Science at Washburn?

If you want to build a career in programming, networking, database administration, web development, documentation, quality assurance, data science, or digital forensics, our bachelor’s degree options will give you the foundational skills to make it happen.  Work with your advisor to determine which is the best for your goals.  All bachelor’s degrees can be completed in four years.

Career Forecast Bright Outlook.on campus

What sets CIS at Washburn apart?

• Computer science majors have broad-based skills preparing them for varied career paths. You’ll learn from experts in the field, not graduate students, in small classes.
• Find your people on campus with the Student Computing Association.
• You’ll have the opportunity to complete original research with faculty mentors, and present your research at a conference.
• Scholarships are available for first-time students, transfer students, and continuing students in this program.
• Internships and cooperative experience opportunities are available for qualifying students. Work with your advisor to learn more about these 1-3 semester work-experience options.

Associate of Arts

If you want to get to work quickly in the field of computer information sciences, the associate of arts is the fastest degree path. This programming-focused degree will give you the skills you need to start at the work force.  From there you can continue to a four-year degree and beyond, or grow your skills on the job.

• AA 2 Year Plan (PDF)

• '23 AA program reqs (PDF)

• '24 AA program reqs (PDF)

Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science is designed for students who desire a traditional liberal arts degree. It requires more general education courses and completion of the second semester of a foreign language.

• BA 4 Year Plan (PDF)

• BA Major Map (PDF)

• '23 BA program reqs (PDF)

• '24 BA program reqs (PDF)

Bachelor of Arts with Concentration in Digital Forensics

The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science with a concentration in digital forensics is designed for students who want to be a digital evidence specialist.  You'll work with faculty and industry.  Washburn’s partnership with the Kansas Bureau of Investigations Forensic Science Center provides you the opportunity to understand investigations teams and how crucial computer science is in solving today’s crimes.

• BA DF 4 Year Plan (PDF)

• BA DF Major Map (PDF)

• '23 BA DF program reqs (PDF)

• '24 BA DF program reqs (PDF)

Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Science is designed for students who desire a strong mathematical or science foundation for their degree. Students planning on graduate study in computer science or a related field should choose this degree.

• BS 4 Year Plan (PDF)

• BS Major map (PDF)

• '23 BS program reqs (PDF)

• '24 BS program reqs (PDF)

Bachelor of Science with Concentration in Data Science

The rapidly growing field of big data and analytics is waiting for your contribution and this degree can get you a seat. In this program you’ll earn our flagship computer information science degree and add specialization in data science. That means, whether you choose to pursue advanced study or not, you’ll have the skills you need to work in the field of data science and/or computer science.

• BS DS 4 Year Plan (PDF)

• BS DS Major Map (PDF)

• '23 BS DS program reqs (PDF)

• '24 BS DS program reqs (PDF)

CIS Minors

Minor in CIS if you want to gain skill in computer programming or networking or digital forensics in partnership with your primary degree. Your interests lead the way here. This minor could pair with everything from biology to English.

• Minor program reqs (PDF)

Student/faculty ratio

16:1

Qualities for success

Critical-thinking

Problem-solving

Persistence and patience

Communication and collaboration 

Graduate with experience

100%

of students conduct capstone, research, or an internship prior to graduation.

Apply now

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Scholarships

Admissions scholarships

Washburn University offers generous scholarships based on your interests, career aspirations, community service and academic success.

Computer information science scholarships

The Computer Information Science department offers a variety of scholarships for new and current majors. Applications are due early in the spring each year.

• Admissions scholarships
  Admissions scholarships
• Computer information science scholarships
  Computer information science scholarships

Cost and financial aid

Tuition and fees

Courses in this program are offered at the Traditional Undergraduate Rate.

Financial aid

Washburn University offers generous undergraduate financial aid, including scholarships and grants.

Tuition waivers

If you don’t currently live in Kansas, learn about our Tuition Waiver programs that may qualify you for in-state tuition.

• Tuition and fees
  Tuition and fees
• Financial aid
  Financial aid
• Tuition waivers
  Tuition waivers

GET IN TOUCH WITH Department of Computer Information Sciences

Department of Computer Information Sciences
Stoffer, Room 304
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621

Phone & Email
Phone: 785.670.1739
cis@washburn.edu