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Prospective Undergraduates

Welcome, prospective undergraduate students!

The University of Utah School of Computing (SoC)’s nationally-ranked program offers its undergraduates a rigorous blend of theory and practice to prepare them for the jobs of today and the challenges of tomorrow. Our students have opportunities to work with cutting-edge SoC researchers, along with excellent access to Silicon Slopes and top-tier national tech companies. Set in a beautiful campus, SoC students enjoy recreation in the surrounding mountains as well as urban Salt Lake City.

Degree options

Students in the SoC can pursue degrees in computer science, computer engineering, data science, a special games track in Entertainment Arts and Engineering, as well as a five year combined BS/MS program.

  • The Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science prepares students to solve problems using computation through core knowledge of software development, computer architecture, computer systems, and algorithms. Students may opt to add the Entertainment Arts and Engineering Emphasis, which prescribes the electives taken to specialize in video game development.
  • The Bachelor of Science Degree in Data Science prepares students to develop and apply knowledge of basic computer science and software practice in order to build, modify, and use software tools for data analysis.
  • The Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Engineering prepares students to design, build, and program digital computers and computer-controlled electronic systems.
  • The combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Computer Science (BS/MS) allows students to complete both degrees in about five years, by taking both undergraduate- and graduate-level courses in their senior year.

    • Benefits
    Students achieving an undergraduate degree from the SoC are very successful in the job market, as 92% of students secure full-time jobs before they graduate and earn an $87,392 average salary. Many internship opportunities and job offers are a result of the SoC’s annual career fair.

    The University of Utah is the only R1 research university in Utah. What this means for undergraduate students is that many classes are taught by faculty who are active in research and experts in their fields. Additionally, there are opportunities for undergraduates to engage in cutting-edge research while at the University of Utah.

    How to apply

    Interested students should apply for admission to the University of Utah: https://admissions.utah.edu/apply/
    Early action deadline: December 1, 2022
    Merit scholarship consideration deadline: February 1, 2023
    Application deadline: April 1, 2023

    Frequently asked questions

    Q: What classes should I take in high school to prepare for majoring in CS?
    A: Take as many math courses as you can. The first CS course (CS 1030) requires Trigonometry (MATH 1060) or Precalculus (MATH 1080) as a co-requisite, so it will be beneficial to be prepared to take those math classes (or higher) when you start at the U. General science classes can also help you prepare.

    Q: I have never taken a CS class and have no programming experience, can I still pursue a computing major?
    A: Yes, absolutely. The first CS course is called Foundations of Computer Science and assumes that students have no experience with computer science concepts or programming.

    Q: How long does it take to get a degree?
    A: The average time spent to complete the computer science, data science, or computer engineering degree is 4.5 to 5 years, which is the same as for other engineering degrees.

    Q: Which AP courses and exams should I take?
    A: The detailed information about AP and transfer credit is at https://handbook.cs.utah.edu/2020-2021/Prospective_Students/Preparing_To_Major_In_Cs/credit_from_other_sources.php

    Q: How do I declare a computer science or data science major?
    A: Some students may be offered direct admission to the degree programs as entering freshmen. Other students should complete five pre-major courses and apply for full-major status. For more information, see https://handbook.cs.utah.edu/2020-2021/Prospective_Students/Preparing_To_Major_In_Cs/full_major_status.php

    Q: Can I start at a community college to get my general education classes out of the way and then transfer?
    A: Yes, but make sure you are also taking math and computer science classes. Due to the chain of prerequisite courses for the degree program, you should not wait to start taking these classes. You are strongly encouraged to speak with an SoC academic advisor early to make a plan for a smooth transfer: https://handbook.cs.utah.edu/2020-2021/Academics/advising.php

    Q: Do I need to take the ACT or SAT?
    A: While students can be admitted to the University this next year without ACT or SAT test scores, we strongly prefer that students take these standardized tests if they can. These test scores are used for direct admission to degree programs and to award merit scholarships.