Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Tufts University offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the rapidly evolving field of computing. The program combines foundational principles with cutting-edge topics, ensuring graduates develop not only technical proficiency but also critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for innovation and leadership in technology sectors. Students will engage with core subjects including programming languages, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, software engineering, and systems. Additionally, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to apply computing concepts to fields such as biology, medicine, engineering, and the social sciences. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on projects, and research opportunities, students gain practical experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating software solutions. Tufts’ strong emphasis on research and experiential learning allows students to work closely with faculty on projects that address real-world challenges, fostering skills in teamwork, communication, and independent thinking. The program also offers elective courses in advanced topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, and data science, enabling students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and a collaborative learning environment, students are equipped to thrive in dynamic technological environments and contribute meaningfully to the digital age. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers as software developers, data analysts, system architects, research scientists, or to pursue advanced degrees in computer science or related fields. Tufts’ interdisciplinary approach, combined with its commitment to innovation and ethics in computing, ensures that students are not only skilled technologists but also responsible and engaged digital citizens.

FRESHMAN YEAR

Fall semester

• ES93: Engineering Science Special Courses
• Mathematics 32: Calculus I (formerly Mathematics 11)
• Physics 11: General Physics with lab
• English (either English 1: Expository Writing or English 3: Reading, Writing, Research)

Spring semester

• Engineering Science 2: Introduction to Computing in Engineering
• Mathematics 36: Applied Calculus II (formerly Mathematics 50)
• Physics 12: General Physics with lab or Chemistry (either Chemistry 1: Chemical Fundamentals or Chemistry 16: Chemistry of Materials)
• Humanities, Arts, or Social Science elective

SOPHOMORE YEAR

Fall semester

• Computer Science 11: Introduction to Computer Science
• Mathematics 42: Calculus III (formerly Mathematics 13)
• Chemistry (Chemistry 1: Chemical Fundamentals, Chemistry 2: Chemical Principles with Lab, or Chemistry 16: Chemistry of Materials) or Physics 12: General Physics
• Engineering Science 3: Introduction to Electrical Engineering
• Humanities, Arts, or Social Science elective

Spring semester

• Computer Science 15: Data Structures
• Mathematics 61: Discrete Mathematics (formerly Mathematics 22)
• Engineering Science 4: Introduction to Digital Logic Circuits
• Natural Science elective
• Breadth elective

JUNIOR YEAR

Fall semester

• Computer Science 40: Computer Architecture
• Computer Science 160: Algorithms
• Breadth elective
• Humanities, Arts, or Social Science elective
• Free elective

Spring semester

• Computer Science 105: Programming Languages
• Computer Science 170: Theory of Computation
• Computer Science elective
• Breadth elective
• Free elective

SENIOR YEAR

Fall semester

• Computer Science 97: Senior Capstone Project I
• Computer Science elective
• Probability and Statistics
• Humanities, Arts, or Social Science elective
• Breadth elective

Spring semester

• Computer Science 98: Senior Capstone Project II
• Computer Science elective
• Computer Science elective
• Humanities, Arts, or Social Science elective
• Free elective

Computer science electives are selected from a list provided by the Department.  The selections are subject to the approval of the departmental adviser.

One of the breadth electives must be chosen from one of:

• Philosophy 24: Introduction to Ethics
• Engineering Management 54: Engineering Leadership

The remainder must be from the following list:

• Any Humanities, Social Sciences or Arts course accepted for a Humanities and Social Sciences elective
• Biomedical Engineering 50: Introduction to Biomedical Engineering
• Civil Engineering 10: Introduction to Civil Engineering
• Civil Engineering 32: Introduction to Environmental Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering 1: Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
• Any course in Engineering Psychology, Entrepreneurial Leadership, Engineering Management, or Engineering Science except ES 2, ES 11, ES 56, and ES 101
• Maximum of one course credit from the Experimental College
• Maximum of one course from Physical Education

The Probability and Statistics course must be one of:

• Mathematics 161: Probability and Mathematics 162: Statistics
• Engineering Science 56: Probability and Statistics
• Electrical Engineering 104: Probabalistic Systems Analysis
• Biology 132: Biostatistics
• Physics 153: Statistical Mechanics

1. Completed Common Application or Coalition Application
2. Completed Tufts Writing Supplement 
3. High School Transcript(s)
4. Senior Grades: All applicants will be required to send their senior grades as part of their application. Students applying Early Decision I should send first quarter or trimester grades no later than the last week in November. Students applying Early Decision II should plan for their first semester or trimester grades to arrive no later than the third week in January. Finally, Regular Decision applicants should submit their first semester or trimester grades by the middle of February. Students studying abroad (where predicted grades are common) should send those if senior grades are not available.
5. Testing:
   • For applicants to the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering or the Combined Degree Programs with the SMFA at Tufts or the NEC: SAT with two subject tests or ACT. See the standardized test requirements for information about these tests and recommendations regarding which subject tests to take.
   • For applicants to the SMFA at Tufts' BFA program: SAT or ACT. Subject tests are not required for BFA candidates applying to the SMFA at Tufts.
6. TOEFL Scores: Required only for students for whom English is not the first language or who attend a school where English is not the language of instruction.
7. Letters of Recommendation: Tufts requires one letter from a teacher in a junior or senior year major academic course (math, natural science, social science, English, or a foreign language) and one letter from a guidance counselor for all applicants. Candidates for the SMFA at Tufts' BFA or Combined Degree programs are required to submit a letter from their art teacher as well. An additional letter from all other applicants, though not encouraged, may be submitted if the student feels it can add new perspective to his or her application.
8. Extracurricular Activities: In addition to evaluating an academic fit, the admissions committee looks for ways a student may contribute to the community as a whole. They will assess the level and type of involvement in each activity and may ask questions such as: Has the student been a significant contributor or leader? How has the involvement contributed to the school or larger community? Does the student have a special talent in a particular area? We do not expect all students to be team captains, class presidents, or editors-in-chief; rather, we look for meaningful involvement in their school and/or community. The Common Application allows students to list up to ten different activities, but you don't need to fill every space. Some of the most successful applicants are heavily engaged in just a few activities. Keep in mind that the Common Application is your one chance to show your extracurricular engagements: we are not able to accept a supplemental resume of activities.
9. Art Portfolio: Required only for students applying to the Combined Degree BFA/BA or BFA/BS and BFA applicants to the SMFA at Tufts. Submit a 15-20-piece portfolio of recent work, which represents your strengths and interests, via SlideRoom.
10. $75 Application Fee or Fee Waiver - You may have the application fee waived by submitting either i) a written request from your college counselor or school official who can attest that the fee would represent a financial hardship, or ii) a College Board Request for Waiver of the Application Fee form. You may consider the waiver approved unless a member of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions notifies you otherwise. Without an application fee, or an approved fee waiver, we cannot continue to process your application to Tufts University.

Financing studies for the Computer Science program at Tufts University are designed to make higher education accessible and affordable for all qualified students. Tufts offers a comprehensive financial aid program that includes a combination of institutional funds, federal and state aid, scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and federal loan options. The university is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students who apply for aid by the appropriate deadlines. Undergraduate students can apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile, which are used to assess financial need and determine the award package.

Tufts University practices a need-blind admission policy for domestic students, ensuring that a student’s financial situation does not impact admission decisions. Once admitted, students often receive a tailored financial aid package based on their annual financial circumstances, which may include grants that do not need to be repaid, making the university a highly affordable option for many families. The university also offers merit-based scholarships that can provide additional funding regardless of financial need, encouraging talented students to pursue their studies in Computer Science.

Apart from institutional aid, students are encouraged to seek external scholarships and private loans to supplement their funding. The Tufts Office of Financial Aid provides counseling services and resources to help students and parents understand their options and navigate the application process. Work-study programs are available on campus, providing students with part-time employment opportunities that complement their academic schedules and help to reduce the overall cost of attendance. The university’s financial aid packages are reviewed annually, and students are expected to reapply each year to remain eligible for continued support.

Tufts also provides resources for planning and managing educational expenses, including payment plans and guidance on responsible borrowing. Graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in Computer Science may have access to research and teaching assistantships, fellowships, or scholarships specific to their program, which can significantly offset costs and provide valuable professional experience. Overall, the comprehensive approach to financing studies at Tufts aims to minimize financial barriers and support students in achieving their academic and career goals in the rapidly evolving field of Computer Science.

The Computer Science Program at Tufts University offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and applications of computer science. Designed to prepare students for careers in technology, research, and academia, the program emphasizes a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, data structures, software development, and systems. Students have opportunities to explore advanced topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, data science, and human-computer interaction. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical experiences, allowing students to engage in hands-on projects, internships, and research collaborations.

Tufts’ faculty members are experts in various fields of computer science, dedicated to mentoring students and fostering innovation. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, enabling students to apply computing skills in areas like biology, economics, and social sciences. Students can participate in labs, seminars, and hackathons to enhance their learning experience. The university also offers resources such as state-of-the-art computer facilities, research centers, and industry partnerships to support student development.

Graduates of the Computer Science program at Tufts are well-equipped for careers in software engineering, data analysis, research, and entrepreneurship, or they may choose to pursue further academic study in graduate programs. The program aims to produce adaptable, analytical, and creative problem-solvers capable of contributing to technological advancements and addressing complex societal challenges through computing.