Computer Science Major | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

Implement data structures in object-oriented programs for general-purpose software development.
Analyze algorithm correctness and complexity in problem-solving and computational tasks
Apply discrete mathematical reasoning to formal proofs, logic, and combinatorial problems in computing
Write low-level systems code in environments involving memory management, processes, and operating system interfaces
Apply linear algebra and calculus techniques to computational and engineering problems
Apply probability and statistical methods to the analysis of computational systems and stochastic processes

Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

No program pathways.

What You'll Learn

Key competencies developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom NSX Competency Framework

Mastery: proficient (Level 3)(based on Bachelor's Degree)

Comprehensive course materials including syllabi, project scaffolding, and assessment instruments — autonomously design and continuously refine for both undergraduate and graduate computer science programs.
Advanced lectures on specialized topics such as machine learning, systems architecture, or distributed computing — prepare and deliver with pedagogical sophistication to mixed undergraduate and graduate audiences.
Complex student work including research papers, capstone projects, and graduate theses — evaluate rigorously and provide substantive developmental feedback aligned with professional and scholarly standards.
Full examination cycles — independently compile, administer, statistically analyze, and use results to inform iterative improvements to course design in a postsecondary CS department.
Multiyear student academic records and longitudinal grade data — manage with precision, using institutional data systems to identify patterns and support student success interventions.
Curricula and course content across multiple CS courses — systematically evaluate and revise using evidence-based instructional strategies and alignment with accreditation standards such as ABET.
Structured advisement and mentorship — provide to undergraduate and graduate students navigating research pathways, internship opportunities, and career trajectories in computing fields.
Applied computing tools including object-oriented development environments, database interfaces, and video creation software — integrate purposefully into course delivery to model professional practice.
Non-routine pedagogical challenges such as diverse learner needs or rapidly evolving technology topics — diagnose and resolve using adaptive instructional strategies in a live university classroom.
Contributions to departmental scholarship — sustain through active participation in peer-reviewed publication, grant development, or applied research projects relevant to computer science education.

Program Details

Detailed information about this program

Progression Policies and Requirements

The department requires at least a C in every computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, and mathematics course used for the undergraduate degrees.

Progression of departmental undergraduate students to the upper-division programs of the department is competitive and is based on the space available in the department. Factors considered in the decision include overall grade point average, grades earned in courses required in the lower-division curricula of the department and Tickle College of Engineering, and seriousness of purpose and interest in departmental programs as exemplified by regular and orderly progress through the prescribed curriculum without abuse of withdrawal and course repeat privileges.

Campus: Knoxville

uTrack Requirements

Universal Tracking (uTrack) is an academic monitoring system designed to help students stay on track for timely graduation. In order to remain on track, students must complete the minimum requirements for each tracking semester, known as milestones. Milestones include successful completion of specified courses and/or attainment of a minimum GPA. uTrack requirements only affect full-time, degree-seeking students.

Notes:

Beginning students who have had high school computer science and/or who have had significant programming experience (e.g. summer institute study, special research projects, home laboratory) should apply during the summer to the head of the department for permission to take a proficiency examination for COSC 101 - Introduction to Programming, Introduction to Computer Science. If a satisfactory grade is made on the examination, credit will be allowed for COSC 101 allowing students to take COSC 102 their first term as a freshman. The Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science also gives credit in COSC 101 to students who receive a score of 3 or better on the Computer Science Advanced Placement A Examination. For students who lack this experience, they should take COSC 101 their first term, pushing back courses indicated with this footnote by one semester.
Chosen from Volunteer Core list. Students should try to select courses that satisfy approved areas and Engaged Inquiries category. Students must have a minimum of 9 credit hours in at least two subject areas for Engaged Inquiries.
Acceptable electives include any 3XX or 4XX COSC or ECE course not already used for completion of degree requirements, MATH 231, MATH 241, MATH 371, MATH 471, MATH 472. Up to three COSC 5XX or ECE 5XX courses may count as upper-division elections. COSC 422 does not count as an acceptable elective.

* Meets Volunteer Core Requirements.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

No funding information available.

Scholarships

No scholarships listed.