Computational Science (BS) [CAS/CSC]

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Computational science is a field in which computational simulation and modeling of systems are used to solve problems in engineering and natural and social sciences. Administered jointly within the College of Arts and Sciences by the Department of Computer Science and Department of Mathematics and Statistics , this program is recommended for students interested in a career in mathematical and computational techniques to solve problems and the use of these methods to advance other fields that require extensive computation and data analysis. Students in this program take foundation courses in mathematics and computer science and choose application areas including biology, chemistry, computer science, economics, environmental studies, finance, mathematics, physics, psychology, and statistics based on their interests. Students may also choose to pursue a double major or minor in the application area.

Admission to the Program

Formal admission to the major requires a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) and departmental approval.

University Requirements

120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or better
Completion of college writing requirement
Completion of university mathematics requirement

General Education Requirements

A total of ten courses, consisting of two courses from each of the five foundational areas
At least one course from Area Five: The Natural and Mathematical Sciences must include a laboratory science component
No more than two courses may be taken in the same discipline

Major Requirements

50 credit hours with grades of C or better

Course Requirements

Foundation (44 credit hours)

Application Area (6 credit hours)

6 credit hours at the 300-level or above as approved in an application area, including biology, chemistry, computer science, economics, environmental studies, finance, mathematics, physics, psychology, and statistics.

Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees

American University offers students the opportunity to earn both undergraduate and graduate degrees through its combined bachelor’s/master’s programs. See Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees for more information.