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Computer Science

Contact

Ramapo College Office of Admissions

McBride House 505 Ramapo Valley Road Mahwah, NJ 07430

p: (201) 684-7300
e: admissions@ramapo.edu
f: (201) 684-7964

About the Computer Science Major

Technology is woven into society and our everyday lives. The career prospects for those with a Computer Science degree are wide-ranging and bright. If you are interested in software development, robotics, big data, financial modeling, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or the like, then a Computer Science major may be the path for you.

What is Computer Science?

Computer Science is the study of the representation, storage, and transformation of information. The Computer Science program is designed for those who love working with computers and enjoy solving complex problems. Students learn programming, algorithms, data structures, and more, and will gain a fundamental understanding of hardware and software, and how computing systems work.

4+1 BS to MS

Earn Your BS and MS Degrees in 5 Years

Ramapo College gives you a unique interdisciplinary experience with exciting opportunities to combine your undergraduate degree with any of the Master’s programs offered within the Center for Data, Mathematical & Computational Sciences. The DMC 4+1 program puts you ahead in your career while it is just starting. Email Scott Frees at sfrees@ramapo.edu. for information on the 4+1 program.

Benefits

  • Earn your Master’s in Computer Science in only one extra year
  • 30% savings on your graduate tuition
  • Earn graduate credits towards your 128 credit Bachelor’s degree


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What You’ll Learn

Computer Science at Ramapo College is in a continual state of evolution, with new courses being added to the program and every course being regularly updated.

Some courses in the program include:

  • CMPS 320 – MACHINE LEARNING
  • CMPS 331 – ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
  • CMPS 342 – COMPUTER GRAPHICS
  • CMPS 369 – WEB APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT
  • CMPS 305 – CYBER SECURITY

SEE ALL COURSES AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS >

Hands-on/Experiential Learning

Computer Science majors develop professional competence, intellectual maturity and curiosity, and a long-term commitment to keep current with technologies and best practices.

  • Gain a wide range of computer science experience – including algorithms, data structures, and design patterns – and the ability to apply this knowledge in a problem-solving environment.
  • Become proficient in industry standard programming languages, with coursework in C++, Java, Python, .NET, and JavaScript.
  • Develop a fundamental understanding of the way computing systems work — specifically how operating systems are designed and interact with both hardware and software.
  • Increase your understanding of designing, implementing, and maintaining large software projects, along with the strategies used to overcome these challenges.

Sub-Disciplines

As you progress through the program, you will be exposed to different sub-disciplines – such as Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Graphics, Cybersecurity, Database Systems, Web Development, and Robotics. This will allow you to be prepared pursue specializations in these disciplines during your postgraduate-professional career.

Making an Impact

At Ramapo, you will also learn how to build a career in the software industry and how technology impacts other disciplines. You will gain an understanding of how Computer Science is a change agent in the modern world – through innovations like AI, quantum computing, and crypto currency – while also learning how those changes will impact your career as both a practitioner and citizen.

Faculty Experience

The Computer Science faculty brings a wide diversity of experience in industry and academia. Artificial intelligence, computer networking, object oriented programming, financial modeling, database design, web development, Linux, .NET and Windows programming, virtual reality, software methodologies, programming languages, and computer graphics are areas well represented by your professors.

Senior Projects

As a graduation requirement in the Computer Science major, you will be expected to design and implement a significant piece of software as your senior project. Your project will enhance your knowledge and skills and will be a good talking point for your resume.

Additionally, your professors will encourage you to actively participate in off campus learning through one of the many opportunities available through internships such as Google, Storis, Inc., PSE&G, Bergen County Technical Schools, and UPS.

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Careers & Outcomes

Technology is at the core of nearly every field, making those graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree as a Computer Science major highly sought after. Jobs in software development, cybersecurity, AI, and data science continue to grow rapidly across industries, including tech, finance, healthcare, gaming, cybersecurity, and entertainment. A high earning potential is often associated with Computer Science positions.

Ramapo College Graduates

Ramapo Computer Science graduates have established careers in many areas. These include: software development, project management, financial research, web development, cybersecurity, marketing, database development and administration, health care, systems administration, quality assurance, education, management, consulting, game development, and sales.

Alumni have found employment as software engineers and other Computer Science positions with companies such as Google, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, Apple, IBM, Q-Games (Japan), National Basketball Association, AccuWeather, US Department of Defense, Viaplay (Sweden), Sony Music, Microsoft, Verizon Wireless, Sandvik, Dunn and Bradstreet, Moody’s Analytics, Wells Fargo, Cisco Systems, Jaguar Land Rover, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, CBS, UPS, Crestron Electronics, Lockheed Martin, Storis, Unilever, Geico, Curtiss Wright, American Discount Cruises, Vontage, Amper Music and the Walt Disney Company/Marvel.

Many of our students continue on to graduate school as well and have gone to such colleges as Columbia University, Carnegie Mellon University, Pace University, Southern Methodist, Tel Aviv University, Florida State University, Emory University, University of Pittsburgh, University of Chicago, University of Tennessee, Iona College, New York University, Boston University, Rutgers, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Stevens Institute of Technology and The University of Chicago.

Read more about Careers

Career Paths

Some jobs for computer scientists:

Software Developer

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. Overall employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Computer and Information Systems Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming. Excludes “Computer Occupations.” Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Computer Systems Analysts

Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software. Employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 11 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Database Architects

Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality. Excludes “Database Administrators.” Overall employment of database administrators and architects is projected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Financial and Investment Analysts

Conduct quantitative analyses of information involving investment programs or financial data of public or private institutions, including valuation of businesses. Excludes “Budget Analysts” “Financial Risk Specialists”, and “Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents.” Overall employment of financial analysts is projected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Information Security Analysts

Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses. Excludes “Computer Network Architects.” Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 33 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.

Web Developers and Digital Designers

Web developers create and maintain websites. Digital designers develop, create, and test website or interface layout, functions, and navigation for usability. Overall employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.

Computer and Information Research Scientists

Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology. Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 26 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Game Developers**

A game developer, often referred to as a programmer, is responsible for bringing the game designer’s vision to life through coding. They focus on the technical aspects of game creation, ensuring that the game runs smoothly and is free from bugs.

 

Sources of Information:

*”Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.” United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_stru.htm.

**TASDELEN, Serhat. Understanding the Roles in Game Development: Game Developer vs. Game Designer.” Indeed, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/understanding-roles-game-development-developer-vs-serhat-tasdelen-hxx0f. Accessed 3/6/2025.

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Faculty Spotlight

Scott Frees



Scott Frees, PhD, Computer Science, first joined Ramapo as a professor in 2006. He collaborates with both faculty and students on research projects.

Scott was awarded a National Science Foundation grant, which led to the creation of a virtual reality lab at Ramapo. This allowed him and dozens of students to further research modeling and exploiting interaction context in 3D UI. Professor Frees is the Director for both the MS Computer Science and MS Data Science programs.

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Related Programs

Computer Science Minor

The subject areas of the Computer Science Minor include algorithms and data structures, programming languages, object oriented programming, web based development, operating systems, compiler design, simulation, data communication and network programming, database design, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, security, and software methodologies.

4+1 BS to MS

Ramapo College gives you a unique interdisciplinary experience with exciting opportunities to combine your undergraduate degree with any of the Master’s programs offered within the Center of DMC.

Cybersecurity Major

The bachelor of science in Cybersecurity major is interdisciplinary, with the curriculum designed for students to develop their skills in programming, computer architecture, networking and cryptography.

Data Science Major

Data Science sits at the intersection of mathematics and computer science and is applied to a boundless set of disciplines. This program requires mathematics, statistics, computer programming, ethics, and a disciplinary minor as a basis for the integrated projects required within the Data Science program.

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Contact

For questions, please email Victor Miller, Convener of Computer Science, at vmiller@ramapo.edu or Scott Frees at sfrees@ramapo.edu.

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How to Apply

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