About the Department
As society becomes increasingly driven by technology, the demand for skilled computer scientists and software engineers continues to rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034, with about 317,700 openings each year on average. Among all occupations, software developers are projected to have the second-largest number of new jobs, with a growth rate of 16%.
Students who major in computer science or software engineering are well positioned for rewarding career opportunities. According to the Winter 2025 Salary Survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), graduates in these fields are projected to command the highest starting salaries at both the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. By studying computer science and software engineering, students develop the skills to shape the future, innovate with emerging technologies, and pursue high-demand, fast-growing, top-paying careers.
We Offer Multiple Degree Options at Various Levels
- Our comprehensive undergraduate curriculum prepares students to be industry leaders in computing or software engineering through ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts programs. Please see our Programs of Study page for more details about our three undergraduate majors.
- For students who prefer to blend computing and/or technology with a non-computing major, the department also offers four minors: Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, and Cybersecurity. The Data Science minor and the IT minor—one of the largest minor programs on campus—are designed to provide students from all majors with essential data analytics skills and technical literacy across disciplines.
- Our growing graduate curriculum offers four programs with multiple degree options (including 5-year undergraduate/graduate degrees). These programs include the Master of Science in Software Engineering, Master of Science in Computer Science, Master of Science in Information Systems, and Master of Science in Data Science.
Please explore our department website to discover more information about the activities of our diverse, talented faculty, staff, and students, and the numerous educational opportunities available in our department. We also welcome prospective students to visit our beautiful campus and engage with current students and faculty in person.
Department of CSSE Happenings
Monmouth News

Ling Zheng, Ph.D.
Associate Professor;
Chair
Computer Science and Software Engineering
James and Marlene Howard Hall, 221



