Computer science is the study of computer systems and their rapidly expanding role in households, businesses, and government agencies around the world. As computers have expanded into all aspects of daily life, computer scientists are needed to improve user interfaces, digital networks, data storage, cybersecurity, and web design. We focus on understanding the diverse properties of computer systems used in medical diagnosis, scientific visualization, biological simulation, artificial intelligence, and engineering design.
Earning a computer science degree (CS degree) is a worthwhile investment for professional growth and future employment. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median annual salary for computer programmers in 2026 is $98,670.
Beyond technical know-how, modern computer science also emphasizes collaboration, ethics, and communication. Students learn to work on multidisciplinary teams, consider the social impacts of technology, and design systems that are accessible, inclusive, and secure. Whether you are interested in building mobile apps, safeguarding critical infrastructure, analyzing data at scale, or exploring emerging fields like artificial intelligence or cryptocurrency, a CS degree equips you with adaptable skills that evolve with the industry.
Computer systems analysts who manage databases and organize information
Scientists who develop algorithms and write programs that solve complex problems
Engineers who develop the hardware necessary to run businesses, government agencies, and private institutions
Comptuer science majors also pursue roles such as data scientist, cybersecurity analyst, cloud solutions architect, DevOps engineer, product manager, and AI/machine learning engineer. With experience, many move into technical leadership or launch startups. Industries hiring CS graduates range from healthcare and finance to entertainment, energy, education, and government, offering opportunities in software, research, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
Sectors with high demand for computer scientists
Financial planning
Banking
Cybersecurity
Data warehousing and mining
eCommerce
Encryption and security
Artificial intelligence
Expert systems
Robotics
Modeling and simulation
Scientific visualization
Medical diagnosis and treatment
Computer graphics
Computer-assisted design
Computer education
Opportunities for graduate studies
Many students with a computer science degree go on to attend graduate school part time with the support of their employers. Some of the companies that employ King’s graduates include Prudential Asset Management, Keane Inc., EDS, Sanchez Computer Associates, Phillip Morris, and Hughes Defense Industries.
What makes the King’s computer science program different?
The Math and Computer Science Department at King's College in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that is designed to help computer science majors develop the analytical skills and computer expertise vital to both private and public employers. Our computer science degree teaches you to understand computing as an intellectual discipline and how to use your knowledge to solve technical problems and drive innovation in a variety of fields.
As a student pursuing a computer science degree, not only will you learn how computers work and learn how to program them, you will also learn how to develop the same kind of software products that are among the most important parts of the global economy.
FAQ
Do you need to be good at math for a computer science degree?
Logic is an important component for computer science students. Algorithms are studied in the later years of the computer science program at King’s, so a strong foundation in math can only help. Cyber security courses have students explore encryption and hashing, in which foundational math skills will also be helpful to computer science majors.
How long does it take to get a computer science degree?
Most of our computer science students graduate in four years with a Bachelor of Science degree. Adding an academic minor or a second major can extend a student’s time-to-complete but can sometimes still be completed in four years with credit overloads or intersession courses.
Is a computer science degree hard to get?
Computer science as a field is challenging for many. Some students will excel when poised with solving a logical problem and others may find it frustrating. At King’s, our professors offer dedicated office hours to help students overcome hurdles that they may face when taking challenging courses.
What computer science courses are taken?
In computer science courses, students study topics centered around programming and data. At King’s, in early courses students take database management, software development, and data analytics. In advanced courses, students will study computer graphics, cyber security, artificial intelligence, compiler design, operating systems, algorithms, and computer engineering. This range of topics offers a broad perspective on computer science as a field and explores practical applications for them. Browse a full list of computer science courses here.
What are the top 3 highest paying jobs in Computer Science?
The highest paying jobs in Computer Science according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics are Computer and Information Systems Managers at $169,510 annually, Computer Hardware Engineers at $155,020 annually, and Computer and Information Research Scientists at $140,910 annually. These positions can typically require several years of experience in entry-level roles before qualifying. Progressive experience as a requirement is important to consider when researching salary information for roles in computer science.
We welcome all potential students and their families to visit our beautiful campus and get a taste of the King’s College experience. Feel free to schedule a personal visit or register for one of our upcoming admission events.