Computer Science Major & Minor

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Being on the leading edge of computer science is more than writing code. At Luther, you'll learn about the essential problem-solving and critical/analytical skills you need to be competitive in the field.

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Why study computer science?

If you like problem-solving and want to work in an industry that affects nearly all aspects of our lives, computer science might be the right major for you. It requires critical thinking, innovation, and the ability to effectively communicate ideas. And because technology is always changing, computer scientists are by necessity lifelong learners.

In addition to being an exciting and ever-changing vocation, computer science–related careers often rank at the top of “most in-demand jobs” lists.

Why study computer science at Luther?

At Luther, you’ll get a taste of all areas of computer science: algorithm design and development, artificial intelligence and machine learning, web development, operating system design, networking, programming language design, and database systems are just some of the areas we cover.

Luther’s skills-based courses will sharpen your ability in programming, building web pages, querying databases, and using the Linux operating system.

Luther’s cross-disciplinary program will equip you with strong communication skills to help you work effectively with teams and clients. You’ll also learn analytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.

Internships

Want to work at Google? Microsoft? YouTube? Amazon? Epic? As a Luther student, you’ll have the connections! Is a startup more your speed? Connect with some great alumni working at startups that will change the world in years ahead.

Faculty with Real-World Experience

Your professors will make sure you’re prepared to enter the ever-changing fields of computer and data science.

Undergraduate Research

Want to dive into a computer science–related topic that fascinates you? Learn how to conduct research while working with an experienced professor.

What You’ll Learn

The computer science major teaches you about the changing world of computing. You’ll learn about theory and practice so you can successfully join computer professionals already working in the field.

Computer Science Major

Through a set of four core courses, you’ll learn concepts common to all areas computer science. You’ll choose from computer science electives on theory, systems, and applications. You’re also encouraged to take supporting courses from other academic areas.

Computer Science Minor

As a computer science minor, you’ll take fundamentals of web programming, data modeling and querying, introduction to computer science, algorithms and data structures, object programming with Java, and internet programming.

Both computer science majors and minors are required to take an online proficiency module that demonstrates your ability in using certain software development tools. The module introduces you to these tools and includes a test to demonstrate proficiency.

Whether you choose a computer science major or minor, you’ll develop a strong grasp of analyzing practical and ethical dilemmas, thinking critically, and working with teams.

Curriculum

Luther's computer science program challenges my knowledge and application of computational theories. It focuses my attention on people and how to facilitate their communication with machines. This helps me stand out in the employment pool as a programmer.

Michael Musa '23

COMPUTER SCIENCE MAJOR

Careers and Outcomes

Luther computer science alumni go on to successful careers in high-profile companies. Many computer science graduates also work toward advanced degrees within the discipline or in another field they want to pursue.

Employers

Accenture
Best Buy
Epic
Federated Insurance
Google
Hewlett-Packard
Lockheed Martin
Mayo Clinic

Career Fields

Computer and information systems programming
Computer/information systems sales
Technical sales
Merchandising
Marketing

Data Science

Data science is the study of how we extract meaning from data, and in a data-driven world, it’s an exciting time to seek a degree in this field. Data science is unique in that it combines techniques and theories from many fields including mathematics, computer science, probability and statistics, machine learning, pattern recognition, communication studies, art, and ethics.

Data Science Major