Learn Marketable Skills

[View framed by a monitor and computer tower of student working on a program] At Longwood, you will learn at least two programming languages and become comfortable developing software using a Linux command line environment. You will gain valuable hands-on experience working in our Advanced Computing Lab. You will learn to use tools like git and Docker for managing and building software. More importantly, you will learn principles of computer science, such as algorithmic design, computational complexity, computer architecture and software engineering methods.

In the computer science major, you will be able to choose from a variety of electives in areas such as Computer Graphics, Cryptography, Networking, Cyber Security, Machine Learning, and Web Programming. As you progress through the major, you will continue to build and develop skills that employers want or prepare for opportunities for graduate learning.

Engage in Scholarship

Every student in the Computer Science program is required to complete a practical learning experience. This usually takes the form of an internship or a directed study with a professor. Recent internships have included experiences at Capital One, Northrup Grumman, the Federal Reserve, and the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Directed study projects have ranged from machine learning research to building Internet of Things devices to practical experiences creating web sites for community groups and campus organizations. Opportunities for funded research include Longwood's PRISM program, external grants, and programs through Longwood's Office of Sponsored Programs.

Be Part of a Team

[Students and faculty working with electronics] The computer science program is a tight-knit community. Our small size means that your professors will know your name and you will get to know the other students in the program. Professors have regular office hours and interact directly with students in the Advanced Computing lab and through campus activities. Students at all levels of experience participate in several active student organizations, such as our student ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) chapter, our cybersecurity club, the game development club, the chess team, and the math club.

Our Advanced Computing Lab and Collaborative Academic Space are open 24/7 and you can find students in the lab at all hours of the night and day working on projects, or just hanging out.

Serve Your Community

Computer Science isn't just about getting a great job -- it also provides ways to serve the community. Our chapter of Upsilon Pi Epsilon, the computer science honor society, recognizes students for academic achievement, but also actively engages in service projects. Students and faculty also engage the community through other service opportunities, including the Waterworks Theater, community churches, youth sports organizations, and other volunteer/service groups.

Apply!