Informed by Silicon Valley trends and tech industry needs, the BS in computer science (CS) provides comprehensive theoretical and practical training in a range of CS subjects; they include — but are not limited to — artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, data science, operating systems and object-oriented analysis.
 

120

Units
(In-person)

12

Average units 
per semester

$330

Cost per unit
(2023-2024 rate)

75

Maximum 
transferrable units

Graduates of the bachelor’s in CS program from SFBU will be able to unite modern technology concepts with a fluency in the tools they govern to lead the Silicon Valley of today — and tomorrow.

Beyond their technical prowess, students who complete the program will achieve mastery of the following industry-aligned competencies:

  • Written and Oral Communication: Succinctly and clearly capture complex CS concepts through the written and spoken word for a range of audiences. 
  • Quantitative Reasoning and Problem Solving: Apply a deep knowledge of data management, algorithms, networks, and quantitative analysis tools to devise efficient and creative solutions.
  • Information Literacy: Search for, locate and utilize information pertaining to current computing practices and software tools to meet common industry challenges.
  • Inquiry, Analysis and Critical Thinking: Demonstrate holistic, rational thinking over the selection and application of suitable computing solutions grounded in modern CS principles.
  • Specialized Knowledge: Leverage an understanding of core CS tenets and technologies to complete real-world programming assignments.

SFBU requires a minimum of 120 units for graduation. We break them down into the following quantities and categories:

  • 40 units of general education courses
    • 12 units in English language communication and critical thinking
    • 16 units in mathematics and natural sciences
    • 6 units in arts and humanities
    • 6 units in social sciences
  • 65 units of major courses 
    • 50 of which are required
    • 15 of which are chosen from the specialization courses
       
  • 15 units of electives
     

The following required core courses cover modern CS disciplines and tools:
 

  • CS200: Discrete Logic (3)
  • CS230: Linux and Shell Scripting (3)
  • CS230L: Linux and Shell Scripting Lab (1)
  • CS250: Introduction to Programming (3)
  • CS250L: Introduction to Programming Lab (1)
  • CE305: Computer Organization (3)
  • CS350 Data Structures (3)
  • CS350L: Data Structures Lab (1)
  • CS360: Programming in C and C++ (3)
  • CS360L: Programming in C and C++ Lab (1)
  • CS380: Operating Systems (3)
  • BUS450: Professional and Technical Writing (3)
  • P450: Career Development (1)
  • CS455: Algorithms & Structured Programming (3)
  • CS457: Data Modeling and Implementation Techniques (3)
  • CS457L: Database Technologies Lab (1)
  • CS480: Java and Internet Applications (3)
  • CS480L: Java Programming Lab (1)
  • CS483: Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (3)
  • CS483L: Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Lab (1)
  • CS487: Object-oriented Design and Implementations (3)
  • CS494: Senior Capstone Project – I (3)


Students select five additional courses from the specialization pool below:

  • CE450: Fundamentals of Embedded Engineering (3)
  • CS453: Compiler Design (3)
  • CS470: Network Engineering and Management (3)
  • CS477: Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing (3)
  • CS478: Blockchain Technology and Applications (3)
  • CS481: Introduction to Data Science (3)
  • CS485: JavaScript and Internet Programming (3)

A minimum of 15 units of elective coursework promotes a breadth of knowledge, in addition to the technical depth of their degree program. Though students may select courses in any discipline, prerequisites and corequisites must be met. 

When applicable, students may take curricular practicum training (CPT) to earn credit for internship-based projects directly related to their course of study.